Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jacksonville Man Who Planned Attack on Mosque Sentenced to Five Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Harvey E. Schlesinger has sentenced Bernandino G. Bolatete (69, Jacksonville) to five years in federal prison for possession of an unregistered firearms silencer. A federal jury found Bolatete guilty on May 11, 2018.
According to court documents, Bolatete came to the attention of law enforcement when a confidential source reported to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office that Bolatete had a plan to conduct a mass shooting at a local mosque if he learned, as he expected to, that his only kidney had failed and he would have to undergo dialysis. In response, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation that included introducing Bolatete to an undercover detective (UC), with whom Bolatete shared his plan to attack the mosque. The investigation revealed that Bolatete had a collection of firearms and was nearly always armed. Bolatete also suggested to the UC that he had visited the mosque in the past. He also shared which of his firearms he would use for the attack and repeatedly bragged about having shot someone with a silencer-equipped firearm. Bolatete advised the UC on the best ways to put a hit on an adversary.
When the UC told Bolatete that he had a source with access to silencers, Bolatete asked to buy one and insisted that it not be registered with the government (registration is required by federal law). Bolatete also sent a text message to the UC suggesting that he could use the silencer to take out the UC’s adversary.
Bolatete was arrested on December 1, 2017, after the UC sold him an unregistered silencer for $100. After his arrest, Bolatete admitted that he had possessed the unregistered silencer but claimed that he had purchased it for hunting. When FBI agents searched his home and car, they found a significant collection of firearms and ammunition, including the specific firearms that Bolatete had told the UC that he would use to conduct the mass shooting at the mosque.
“The FBI will not stand for threats of violence in our community against any group,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division, “and we will work to uphold the civil rights and liberties outlined in the U.S. Constitution for all Americans including the right to practice religion in peace. The Jacksonville community is safer today thanks to the vigilance of community members who saw something out of the ordinary and reported those concerns, as well as the cooperation of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners. We also commend the outstanding work of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office which was vital to the success of this case.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Daryl McCrary said, “As subject matter experts in violent crime, firearms and explosives, we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to keep illegal firearms out of our communities.”
“I thank our FDLE agents and law enforcement partners for swiftly investigating this threat ensuring no one was hurt,” said FDLE Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge John Burke. “I urge all Floridians to report suspicious activity. If you see something, say something, call 855-FLA-Safe or 911.”
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura Cofer Taylor and Michael J. Coolican.
Clearwater Doctor Pleads Guilty to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Dr. Jayam Krishna Iyer (66, Clearwater) today pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud. She faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, or 20 years, if her offense involves serious bodily injury. As part of the plea, Iyer has agreed to surrender both her DEA registration number that she used to prescribe controlled substances and her Florida medical license, and to a permanent exclusion from the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
According to the plea agreement, Iyer owned and operated Creative Medical Center located on Druid Road East in Clearwater. The center functioned as a pain management clinic. Iyer billed Medicare and Medicaid for office visits, tests, and services provided to patients using her National Provider Identification (NPI) number, and wrote prescriptions for controlled substances, including oxycodone. She used Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code 99213, which was used to bill for office visits for the evaluation and management of established patients, and required an in-person examination with the actual patient. As an approved Medicare provider, Iyer also agreed to provide truthful information and to not make any materially false statements or representations in connection with the delivery of or payment for health care benefits.
Beginning at least as early as July 2011, and continuing through December 2017, Iyer executed and carried out a scheme to defraud Medicare by billing for face-to-face office visits with Medicare beneficiaries, when, in fact, certain patients did not go to Iyer’s office and were not examined by her on the claimed dates; instead, family members of the patients went to Iyer’s office with notes requesting that Iyer issue and provide prescriptions, including for Schedule II controlled substances like oxycodone, to the family members, and in the beneficiaries’ names—and Iyer issued those prescriptions. Iyer thereby violated a Florida law requiring doctors to perform an in-person office visit and examination of each patient before issuing Schedule II controlled substance prescriptions. Iyer also falsified her electronic medical records, including vital statistics, to make it appear that the actual patient was present in her office for an office visit, when the patient was not. Iyer submitted at least $51,500 in these types of false and fraudulent Medicare claims.
This case was investigated by the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit. On August 2, 2017, Attorney General Jeff Session announced the formation of the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, a Department of Justice pilot program to utilize data to help combat the devastating opioid crisis that is ravaging families and communities across America. The unit focuses specifically on opioid-related health care fraud using data to identify and prosecute individuals that are contributing to the prescription opioid epidemic. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Florida Office of Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelley Howard-Allen.
Sarasota Felon Pleads Guilty to Largest Explosives Seizure in FloridaRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Marc Jason Levene (57, Sarasota) has pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of explosives by a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has been set for December 12, 2018.
According to the plea agreement, in 2016, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating Levene for selling explosives without a federal license or permit. Based on Levene’s multiple prior felony drug convictions, he was prohibited from possessing or selling any explosive materials. In January 2016, the ATF and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office seized various explosive fuses from a shed behind Levene’s home in Sarasota.
In late 2017, ATF learned that Levene was selling explosive fuses online, notwithstanding the prior seizure and prohibition. The ATF initiated an undercover investigation that confirmed Levene was selling the fuses online through a website called ThePyroPro.com. Agents also learned that Levene was maintaining a storage unit at a self-storage facility in Sarasota. An explosives detection K-9 alerted to the presence of explosives in the storage unit.
In February 2018, special agents and explosives specialists with ATF, bomb technicians and detectives with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, and hazardous devices technicians with the Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations executed multiple search warrants at Levene’s residence and his storage unit. During the searches, law enforcement personnel seized thousands of pounds of explosive fuses and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. In total, during this investigation, the ATF, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations seized approximately 7,733 pounds of explosive fuses from Levene.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Simon Gaugush.
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.
Husband and Wife Convenience Store Owners Indicted for Fraud Involving Food Stamp ProgramRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Russell Leroy Dotson, Jr. (61) and Maria Luisa Dotson (64), both of Jacksonville, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Russell and Maria Dotson that the United States is seeking a money judgment in the amount of $886,130, the proceeds of the alleged conspiracy. The couple made their initial appearance in federal court today and was released on a $5,000 bond. Their arraignment is set for Monday, September 24, 2018.
According to the indictment, the Dotsons owned and operated Asmarina Food Mart with two locations in Jacksonville. Upon opening the convenience stores, they applied for and received approval from the Food and Nutrition Service, an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture, to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. After receiving this approval, the Dotsons trained their employees on ways to conduct fraudulent transactions with SNAP recipients using their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The Dotsons instructed their employees to ring up fraudulent transactions to make it appear that SNAP recipients had purchased eligible food products from the store using their EBT cards. The employees then gave the SNAP recipients cash representing approximately one-half of the amount of the fraudulent transaction, while the Dotsons received the remainder of the money. Over approximately 27 months, Russell and Maria Dotson defrauded the United States out of $886,130.
This indictment is part of a long-term investigation into SNAP fraud occurring at the two Asmarina Food Mart locations. To date, 10 others have pleaded guilty and have been sentenced, or are pending sentencing, for their roles in this scheme. Shelly Rowe Sullivan, Teighlor Michelle Wicker, Tracy Lynn Hammock, Shannon Marie Whaley, Denise Diane Taylor, and Ormetre Patterson were previously sentenced to supervised release and ordered to pay a total of $37,420.34 in restitution to the United States. Cierra Elizabeth White, Laura Lockwood, Shanelle Bryant, and Felicia Meadows are pending sentencing and have agreed to pay a total of $168,294.87 in restitution to the United States.
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 Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Sanford Man Found Guilty of Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – A federal jury has found Jurden Rogers (29, Sanford) guilty of bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during the bank robbery. Rogers faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is set for November 29, 2018.
Rogers was indicted in February 2018, along with his co-defendant Jerad Hanks (26, Daytona Beach). Hanks previously pleaded guilty to the same offenses for his involvement in the robbery.
According to evidence presented at trial, on January 18, 2018, Rogers and Hanks robbed a Seacoast Bank in Sanford. Rogers backed 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 more than $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.
Port Charlotte Doctor Sentenced to Five Months in Prison for Obstruction of an AuditRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven Merrday has sentenced Dr. John Janick (73, Port Charlotte) to five months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for obstructing a Medicare audit. As part of his sentence, Janick is required to pay $118,831.62 in restitution to the Medicare program.
According to the plea agreement, Janick lied to a Medicare program integrity contractor who was auditing Janick Medical Group. Specifically, Janick falsely claimed that a third-party employer was paying rent for office space utilized by his wife, Lisa McLaren Janick. The office space, located within the Janick Medical Group practice, was used by Lisa McLaren Janick to improperly access sensitive patient data that was then used to generate referrals from Dr. Janick to her third- party employer without regard for medical necessity.
Lisa McLaren Janick previously pleaded guilty to health care fraud charges in a related case. In her plea agreement, McLaren Janick acknowledged her role in falsifying Janick Medical Group patient records as part of a scheme to create bogus patient referrals to her third-party employer. McLaren Janick will be sentenced on October 10, 2018.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel Jones and Gregory Pizzo.
Tampa Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Jamelah Y. Martinez (23, Tampa) today pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. She faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in 2016 and 2017, while working for Suncoast Credit Union, Martinez used her access to Suncoast customer accounts to steal account information. She then sold the information to a co-conspirator. Martinez’s co-conspirators used the stolen account information to fraudulently takeover the bank accounts. The conspirators deposited fraudulent checks into the victim accounts and then immediately transferred the fraudulently obtained funds to other co-conspirators, who maintained accounts at Suncoast. Once the fraudulent funds were received into the co-conspirators’ accounts, they were extracted via ATM withdrawals and debit card transactions. The co-conspirators shared in the proceeds.
The loss to Suncoast related to Martinez’s involvement in this scheme was $115,487.75. The investigation into Martinez’s co-conspirators is ongoing. One co-conspirator, Devin Williams, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on December 4, 2018.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Housing Finance Agency. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel and Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Baker County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge of Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Joshua Dale Whitt (25, Macclenny) has pleaded guilty to failing to register as a sex offender. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. Whitt has been detained since his arrest on May 2, 2018.
According to court documents, on January 2, 2013, Whitt was convicted of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor in Clermont County, Ohio. In early 2018, Whitt traveled from Ohio to Florida, where he resided at a motel in Macclenny. In doing so, he failed to register as a sex offender with authorities in both Ohio and Florida as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (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 case was investigated by the Baker County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. 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.
Tampa Woman Indicted for Workers’ Compensation FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Elizabeth Correa (60, Tampa) with three counts of wire fraud, three counts of false statement or fraud to obtain federal employees’ compensation, one count of theft of government funds, and one count of making a false statement to a federal agency. If convicted, Correa faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment on each wire fraud count, up to 10 years in prison for the theft of government funds count, and 5 years’ imprisonment on each count of making a false statement. The indictment also notifies Correa that the United States is seeking a money judgment in the amount of $212,923, the alleged proceeds of the wire fraud and theft of government funds.
According to the indictment, Correa concealed her physical capabilities, emotional state, and employment activities from the Office of Workers’ Compensation in order to continue receiving federal workers’ compensation benefits. She also made material false statements about her employment activities on forms that she submitted to the Office of Workers’ Compensation and to the Social Security Administration. In addition, Correa received Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits to which she was not entitled.
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 U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and the Social Security Administration Cooperative Disability Investigations Unit. It will be prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.
Tampa Real Estate Agent Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Fannie MaeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL –David Lyle Morgan (53, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to one count of bankruptcy fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Morgan was a licensed realtor who entered into a contract with a homeowner to sell a property in foreclosure. In order to prevent the Federal National Mortgage Association (commonly known as Fannie Mae) from lawfully foreclosing on the homeowner’s property, Morgan devised and executed a bankruptcy fraud scheme wherein he filed a fraudulent bankruptcy petition in the name of the homeowner, without the homeowner’s knowledge or consent, just prior to the scheduled foreclosure sale date. The fraudulent bankruptcy invoked the automatic stay provision of the bankruptcy code, which prevented Fannie Mae from conducting the foreclosure sale and obtaining title to the property.
The fraudulent bankruptcy petition filed by Morgan allowed him to continue efforts to sell the property in order to obtain ill-gotten real estate commissions.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Fort Myers Pimp Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – Oliver Rocher (33, Alva, FL) has pleaded guilty to five counts of a federal indictment alleging drug and firearms offenses. Rocher entered his plea on the morning that his jury trial was set to begin. He faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. A sentencing hearing has been set for December 10, 2018.
According to court records, Rocher worked as a pimp and drug dealer out of hotels and motels in Fort Myers during 2017. In May 2017, on two occasions, Rocher sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. During the course of the transactions, Rocher tried to ensure that the informant was not secretly recording him, and he conducted the actual hand-offs of heroin in locations that could not be easily watched by law enforcement.
Further investigation led to a search warrant on Rocher’s motel room in the early morning hours of August 3, 2017. Two days prior to execution of the warrant, law enforcement observed Rocher walk in and out the motel room, conducting suspected drug deals, and collecting money from women walking the nearby streets.
Upon execution of the warrant, inside Rocher’s motel room, law enforcement encountered Rocher, as well as two women who were trying to flush items down the toilet. Law enforcement also found, in an open safe, heroin, cocaine, cocaine base, a loaded firearm, Rocher’s state-issued identification card and thousands of dollars in cash.
This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael V. Leeman.
Federal Jury Finds Apopka Man Guilty of Attempted Possession of Furanyl FentanylRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – A federal jury today found Devin Lashawn Jefferson, II (22, Apopka) guilty of attempted possession with intent to distribute of furanyl fentanyl. Jefferson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 2018.
Jefferson was indicted on March 21, 2018.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, between February and December 2017, Jefferson sent tens of thousands of dollars to recipients in China. In April 2017, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents in New York intercepted a package from China that was addressed to an Apopka residence that had been associated with Jefferson. The package contained approximately 1 kilogram of furanyl fentanyl. On February 27, 2018, agents conducted a controlled delivery of the package, and Jefferson retrieved it from the residence. When agents attempted to stop Jefferson, he fled in his car at a high rate of speed thru a school zone and escaped. He was apprehended approximately two weeks later.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Embry J. Kidd and Dana E. Hill.
Florida Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years for Attempting to Entice A Minor for SexRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Thomas Dean Peron (30, Sanford) to 17 years and 5 months in federal prison. Peron pleaded guilty on June 25, 2018.
According to court documents, between February 21 and February 22, 2018, Peron communicated with an undercover FBI agent who was posing as the father of a nine-year-old child. During those communications, Peron made plans to meet and have sex with the “child.” When Peron arrived to meet the “child,” he was arrested.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alejandro J. Salicrup.
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 Attorneys’ 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.
Convicted Sex Offender Ordered to Pay More Than $13,000 in Restitution to Child Victim of Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States District Judge Brian J. Davis has ordered Stanley Hagan, Jr. (34, Jacksonville) to pay $13,619.52 in restitution to the custodian of a child who was molested in 2015 by Darren Dozier, a convicted sex offender from Philadelphia. According to court records, in late 2015, Dozier sent images over the internet depicting his sexual abuse of the 8-year-old child to Hagan. After being identified by the FBI, Hagan admitted to his participation in the ongoing sexual exploitation of the child and pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography.
On May 31, 2018, Hagan was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, ordered to serve a 10-year term of supervised release, and required to register as a sex offender. Dozier was prosecuted in Philadelphia and sentenced to 35 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI (Jacksonville and Philadelphia). It was 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.
Brevard County Doctor Sentenced to over Nineteen Years for Illegally Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza today sentenced John M. Gayden, Jr. (64,West Melbourne) to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for dispensing oxycodone outside the usual course of professional practice and for no legitimate medical reason. A federal jury found Gayden guilty on June 22, 2018.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, between 2009, and continuing through 2011, Gayden ran a cash-only pain management clinic in Indialantic, Florida. He charged $200-$400 per visit for appointment, during which patients received prescriptions for high doses of oxycodone with little to no medical evaluation. Gayden issued these prescriptions bi-monthly or monthly for years, without consulting with the patients about their health or properly verifying these patients’ needs for long-term high dosage oxycodone. Patients traveled from other counties and lined up outside Gayden’s office in the early mornings to receive the prescriptions. Many of the individuals who received the prescriptions then abused the oxycodone themselves or sold the pills.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Melbourne Police Department, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Health. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vincent S. Chiu.
Mayport Navy Lieutenant Charged with Using the Internet to Entice and Meet A Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Michael Douglas McNeil (30, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by federal criminal complaint with using the internet to attempt to entice a child to engage in sexual activity. He faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. McNeil is currently detained pending a detention hearing.
According to the
complaint , on August 27, 2018, a detective with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, who was posing online as a family member of a 12-year-old deaf child, received a message on a social media application from McNeil, who identified himself as “Mark.” McNeil expressed interest in having sex with the “child” and was advised that the “child” was 12 years old. Between August 27 and August 30, 2018, McNeil and the undercover detective discussed plans for McNeil to meet the “child” for sex. McNeil asked for several photos of the “child,” sent the undercover detective an explicit photo of himself, and asked specific questions about the “child’s” sexual experience and abilities. On August 30, 2018, McNeil drove to a coffee shop in Orange Park to meet the “child” for sex and was arrested.This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. 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.
Groveland Man Indicted for Assaulting Customs and Border Protection Officer at Orlando International AirportRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging John Craig Myrick (67, Groveland) with forcible assault of a federal officer. Myrick faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
According to the criminal complaint, on August 11, 2018, Myrick arrived at the Orlando International Airport from Bogota, Colombia. While passing through customs, a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO) referred Myrick into the baggage control seating area. While in the seating area, after a brief interaction, Myrick moved towards another CBPO, who attempted to control Myrick by grabbing Myrick’s arm. Myrick resisted, striking the CBPO in the back of the head or neck. Myrick then fell on top of the CBPO, striking him in the back of the head several times. The CBPO suffered a fractured ankle in the process.
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. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It will be prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Bayliss.
Department of Defense Employee Charged with Attempting to Entice A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Mohammad Abdul Malek (67, St. Marys, GA) has been arrested and charged by federal criminal complaint with attempted enticement and coercion of a minor. If convicted, he faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison.
According to the
complaint , between August 23 and August 26, 2018, Malek engaged in email and text communications with an undercover agent acting as a 13 year-old girl. Malek asked for photos of the “child” and told her that he wanted to teach her about “making love.” Malek was advised and acknowledged that the “child” was a minor and suggested that he and the girl 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.A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has violated one or more federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
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.
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 Attorneys’ 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 Nine Years for Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft in Gas Pump Skimmer CaseRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell today sentenced Yoel Graveran-Palacios (37, Tampa) to nine years in federal prison for conspiracy, credit card fraud, and identity theft. A federal jury found Yoel Graveran-Palacios and his twin brother, Noel Graveran-Palacios, guilty on April 24, 2018. Noel Graveran-Palacios is scheduled to be sentenced on September 19, 2018.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Noel and Yoel Graveran-Palacios worked together, and with others, to place skimmers on gas pumps in the Tampa Bay area. Using the account numbers stolen from the skimmers, they made counterfeit credit cards and then used them to purchase merchandise including gas, toys, clothes, and gift cards, at area retailers. They then used the gift cards to purchase merchandise at home improvement stores, and later returned the items for cash. Trial evidence included hundreds of recovered stolen account numbers, as well as dozens of store surveillance videos featuring the conspirators using the counterfeit credit cards.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the Tampa Police Department, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel.
Maryland Man Sentenced to Prison in Bank Scam That Defrauded Victims Out of over $560,000Read the Press Release
A Maryland resident was sentenced today to 33 months in prison for defrauding victims into paying for falsified bank documents from a bank in the Dominican Republic.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez for the Middle District of Florida, and Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office made the announcement.
Mohammed Mohajer, 63, of Silver Spring, Maryland, previously pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida to one count of wire fraud. U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell presided over the sentencing and also ordered Mohajer to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence, forfeit $194,000, and pay restitution in the amount of $565,000 to two victims.
According to the defendant’s admissions, Mohajer falsely told victims that he had a relationship with a bank in the Dominican Republic. He represented to the victims that in exchange for an up-front payment, he could help them access credit at the bank, and that the bank would issue SWIFT interbank messages to the victims’ designated banks showing that the victims had access to those funds. In fact, Mohajer had no relationship with the Dominican bank and provided the victims with fake documents that falsely showed that their promised bank documentation had been transmitted. In total, Mohajer defrauded the victims out of $565,000.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. Trial Attorney Blake Goebel of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesus Casas of the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
If you believe that you have been a victim of this or a similar fraud scheme, please contact the FBI Washington Field Office at (202) 278-2000.
Florida Resident Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Government Funds and Obstructing the IRSRead the Press Release
A Ft. Myers, Florida man was sentenced to 18 months in prison for stealing government funds and corruptly endeavoring to obstruct the internal revenue laws, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez of the Middle District of Florida.
According to documents filed with the court, Attila Kalmar filed 2007 through 2009 trust returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the name of First AK-Open Sec Trust, a nominee entity, seeking more than $480,000 in fraudulent refunds. Kalmar deposited a refund check he received as a result of these filings into a bank account, and then used the proceeds to purchase real property, acquire thousands of dollars in gold coins, and wire money overseas. Moreover, Kalmar attempted to impede the internal revenue laws by transferring funds between nominee bank accounts and falsely representing to the IRS that an IRS revenue officer was the trustee for First AK-Open Sec Trust.
In addition to the term of prison imposed, U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell ordered Kalmar to serve three years of supervised release, forfeit $274,019 and a piece of real estate to the United States, and pay $274,019 in restitution to the IRS.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez commended special agents of IRS–Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys William M. Montague and Grace E. Albinson of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Florida Resident Pleads Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Government Funds and Obstructing the IRSRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, FL - A Ft. Myers, Florida man was sentenced to 18 months in prison for stealing government funds and corruptly endeavoring to obstruct the internal revenue laws, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez of the Middle District of Florida.
According to documents filed with the court, Attila Kalmar filed 2007 through 2009 trust returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the name of First AK-Open Sec Trust, a nominee entity, seeking more than $480,000 in fraudulent refunds. Kalmar deposited a refund check he received as a result of these filings into a bank account, and then used the proceeds to purchase real property, acquire thousands of dollars in gold coins, and wire money overseas. Moreover, Kalmar attempted to impede the internal revenue laws by transferring funds between nominee bank accounts and falsely representing to the IRS that an IRS revenue officer was the trustee for First AK-Open Sec Trust.
In addition to the term of prison imposed, U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell ordered Kalmar to serve three years of supervised release, forfeit $274,019 and a piece of real estate to the United States, and pay $274,019 in restitution to the IRS.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez commended special agents of IRS–Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys William M. Montague and Grace E. Albinson of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Jacksonville Man Indicted for Possessing Short Barreled Rifle While Under A Repeat Violence InjunctionRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Joshua Lee Hill (32, Jacksonville) with possessing a short-barreled rifle that was not registered to him and with possessing a firearm while he was subject to a state order of protection against repeat violence. If convicted on all counts, Hill faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on August 28, 2018, Hill possessed a Smith & Wesson rifle with a barrel less than 16 inches in length, which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Rifles with barrels of less than 16 inches in length are required by federal law to be registered. The indictment also charges that, at the time Hill possessed the short-barreled rifle, he was subject to an injunction for protection against repeat violence that had been issued in 2015 and that prohibited Hill from stalking or threatening an intimate partner. Individuals who are subject to such an order are prohibited from possessing any firearms.
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. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.
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.
Flagler County Couple Indicted on Counterfeit Currency ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Christopher Brent Heath (36) and Christine Marie Beaulieub (37), both of Bunnell, with manufacturing, passing, and possessing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. Each faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. Heath and Beaulieu made their initial appearance in federal court on August 27, 2018, and have been detained. Their trial is set for October 1, 2018.
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 United States Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office, the Ormond Beach Police Department, and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Orlando Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Possessing Ammunition as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza today sentenced Troy Alex Freeman to seven years in federal prison for possessing ammunition as a conviction felon. Freeman pleaded guilty on June 12, 2018.
According to court documents, on October 29, 2017, Freeman held a loaded firearm to his girlfriend’s face and threatened to kill her. This offense occurred in the home that Freeman shared with his girlfriend and their minor children, who were in the residence at the time. When police responded to the girlfriend’s 911 call, all five minor children were hiding in a bedroom. During a search, police found the loaded firearm located under the bed belonging to Freeman’s six-year-old child.
As a previously convicted felon, Freeman is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Freeman was charged in this case only with possession of the ammunition, because the firearm did not travel in interstate commerce as required by federal law. At the time of the incident, Freeman was on federal supervised release for a prior federal firearms conviction.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Sanford Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kara M. Wick.
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 NASCAR Driver Convicted of Attempted Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that a federal jury today found Richard H. Crawford, Jr. (60) guilty of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Crawford faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 26, 2018.
Crawford had been indicted on March 30, 2018.
According to the evidence presented at trial, from February 10 to February 28, 2018, Crawford engaged in email and text communications, with a person he believed to be the father of a 12-year-old girl, about the possibility of engaging the child in sexual activity. Crawford agreed to pay between $50 and $75 to engage the girl in oral sex and intercourse. Crawford also indicated that he wanted the child to be nude or wearing something with “easy access” at the time of the meeting.
On February 28, 2018, when Crawford arrived at the agreed location to have sex with the girl, he was arrested by federal agents. During a search of Crawford, agents found that he was carrying $80 and had a condom in his pants pocket. The agents also searched Crawford’s truck, finding an emergency contraceptive pill, massage oil, a phallic device, a sexual performance enhancement pill, adult pornography, a DVD player, and condoms. In addition, the agents found Crawford’s cellphone, which was searched. The cellphone contained the emails and text messages between Crawford and the undercover officer acting as the father of a 12-year-old child.
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 Attorneys’ 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.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilianys Rivera Miranda.
Two Florida Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Walgreens RobberyRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL –U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Windesthon Junior Pierre (22, Winter Garden) to 12 years and 3 months in federal prison for robbery. Judge Mendoza also sentenced Stephon Tevonta Johnson (22, Kissimmee) to 11 years and 9 months’ imprisonment for the same offense. Another individual, Sly Shaniel De Los Santos (23, Kissimmee), is awaiting sentencing for his role in this case. All three pleaded guilty earlier this year.
According to court documents, on September 21, 2017, Pierre, Johnson, and De Los Santos robbed a Walgreens store in Orlando. During the robbery, the men wore Halloween masks and latex gloves, and carried firearms. They corralled pharmacy employees into an office and demanded that they open two safes. They then attempted to gain access to the pharmacy by firing a gun into the pharmacy door, but were unsuccessful. However, they were able to steal $4,850 in cash.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alejandro J. Salicrup.
Former Pasco County Schools Transportation Manager Pleads Guilty to Child Enticement and Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that William Matthew Napolitano (35, New Port Richey) today pleaded guilty to enticing and coercing a minor to engage in sexual activity and to possessing child pornography. Napolitano faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the
plea agreement , beginning in 2014, Napolitano, while employed by Pasco County Schools as a Transportation Manager, knowingly enticed a 15-year-old student from a local school to engage in sex acts. Napolitano had met the teen on the mobile application “Grindr.” Napolitano then engaged the student in an ongoing sexual relationship for several years. During that time, 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 minors. Napolitano also produced and distributed child pornography of the student.Napolitano’s electronic devices contained conversations that addressed Napolitano’s interest in enticing and having sex with minors and detailed his pattern of targeting and achieving those sexual encounters. Napolitano also had amassed a large collection of child pornography and sexually explicit material, which included young children and sadistic and masochistic conduct.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
Atlantic Mobile Imaging Services, Inc. Agrees to Pay More Than $320,000 to Settle False Claims Act Allegations of Operating Without A LicenseRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Atlantic Mobile Imaging Services, Inc. has agreed to pay the United States $321,388.50 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly billing the government for services while it was unlicensed.
The settlement relates to the expiration of Atlantic Mobile’s license with the State of Florida in 2015. Atlantic Mobile allegedly billed federal healthcare programs for mobile x-ray services it had provided at various locations without a valid license. According to the settlement agreement, from June 9, 2015, through December 28, 2015, Atlantic Mobile billed over $160,000 for services it was not licensed to provide, in order to receive payment from the United States.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office seeks to protect Medicare, TRICARE, and other federal health care programs from unlicensed providers,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “We will continue to protect the people in our district from providers who do not follow the law.”
“Medicare licensure requirements help to ensure that patients receive services from competent providers,” said Special Agent in Charge Shimon R. Richmond of HHS OIG. “On behalf of patients and taxpayers, we will hold violators accountable who fail to meet those requirements.”
This settlement resulted from an investigation coordinated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Bloor, with assistance from the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The settlement resolves the United States’ claims. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The government’s action in this matter illustrates the emphasis on combating health care fraud, and one of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Three Ocala Men Found Guilty in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – A federal jury has found Juan Pablo Malagon-Alvarez (40), Jose Lucio Mendoza-Servin (35), and Aurelio Gomez-Andrade (40), all of Ocala, guilty of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Each faces a minimum mandatory of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison for that charge. In addition, the jury found Malagon-Alvarez guilty of possession with the intent to distribute heroin; the charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The sentencing hearings are scheduled for November 14, 2018.
Malagon-Alvarez, Mendoza-Servin, and Gomez-Andrade had been indicted on January 11, 2018.
According to testimony and other evidence presented at trial, between June 2015 and December 14, 2017, Malagon-Alvarez distributed multiple ounces of heroin on a weekly or bi-monthly basis to two Ocala drug dealers. During several transactions, Malagon-Alvarez was assisted by Mendoza-Servin and Gomez-Antrade. The drug deals typically occurred on horse farms in Ocala. One cooperating witness obtained 49 grams of heroin from Malagon-Alvarez on June 16, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Gainesville resident office of the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Ocala Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dale Campion.
Tampa Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Attempted Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew today sentenced Richard Plummer (37, Tampa) to 10 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor. Plummer was also ordered to serve 25 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender. He pleaded guilty on May 25, 2018.
According to court documents, in March 2018, Plummer exchanged over 160 text messages with an individual whom he believed was 14 years old. During the conversations, Plummer attempted to induce the child to meet him for a casual sexual encounter. Plummer also sent the child explicit photographs and video of himself. The 14-year-old boy, in reality, was an undercover officer from the Tampa Police Department. Officers arrested Plummer after he showed up to a residence to have sex with the child.
This case was jointly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen A. Fiore.
This represents 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.
Former Federal Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements to InvestigatorsRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Heather Lee Kussoff (31, Cape Coral) today pleaded guilty to making a false statement to a federal law enforcement agency. She faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Kussoff worked as a correctional officer at the Coleman Federal Correctional Center. In 2014, she developed an improper personal and romantic relationship with an inmate at that facility. In direct violation of her job responsibilities and training, Kussoff romantically corresponded with the inmate, shared extensive details of her personal life, and communicated directly with members of the inmate’s family. When confronted by federal authorities on March 18, 2015, Kussoff lied under oath about the existence of the romantic relationship and then abruptly resigned from the Bureau of Prisons.
This case was investigated by the Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.
Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to StalkingRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Tommie Raymond Thomas (50, Sumter County, Florida) today pleaded guilty to one count of stalking. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing hearing has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, while Thomas was an inmate at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex, he anonymously sent a series of five threatening and disturbing letters to a female member of the prison staff. Those letters contained detailed threats involving kidnapping and sexually abusing the staffer and others. The letters included photographic collages with cutout pictures of children pasted onto images of adult pornography.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Ocala Resident Agency. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
Dermatology Healthcare Agrees to Pay $4 Million in False Claims Act SettlementRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces a $4 million settlement with Dermatology Healthcare, LLC; Robert A. Norman, D.O, P.A.; Robert A. Norman, D.O.; and Carol Norman (collectively, Dermatology Healthcare).
As part of the settlement, the parties resolve allegations that Dermatology Healthcare violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to obtain millions of dollars in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer with superficial radiation therapy.
According to the settlement agreement, from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2016, the United States contended that Dermatology Healthcare: (1) failed to adequately supervise the administration of superficial radiation therapy, (2) up-coded claims for procedures related to superficial radiation therapy, and (3) over-utilized radiation simulations.
“Health care providers will be held accountable for the claims they submit to federal health care programs,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “As this settlement makes clear, our civil division continues to make healthcare fraud enforcement a core part of the mission of our office.”
“The rules are simple: bill government health programs only for services actually needed and provided. No more, no less,” said Shimon R. Richmond, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will continue to protect federal health care programs and beneficiaries by holding providers accountable.”
“The FBI is committed to working closely with our federal, state, and local partners to protect federally funded healthcare programs from abuse by providers,” said Eric W. Sporre Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Tampa Division. “Protection of these important programs is a shared responsibility which can best be accomplished with the support of an engaged community willing to bring these abuses to the attention of authorities.”
This settlement resulted from a coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the Florida Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Emden led the investigation.
This settlement concludes a lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida by Theodore, A. Schiff, M.D, a dermatologist from Palm Beach County, Florida. Dr. Schiff filed under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act permitting a private citizen to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in the recovery. The Case is captioned United States of America and the State of Florida ex rel. Theodore A. Schiff, M.D. v. Robert A. Norman, D.O., et al., Case No. 8:15-cv-1506-T-23AEP (M.D. Fla.). The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The government’s action in this matter illustrates the emphasis on combating health care fraud, and one of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Crack Dealer Sentenced to Six Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Henry L. Adams today sentenced Darrick “Block” Stafford (41, Jacksonville) to six years in federal prison for selling crack cocaine and for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Stafford had pleaded guilty on May 30, 2018.
According to court documents, Stafford participated in a series of firearms sales to an undercover special agent and a confidential informant working for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The weapons included a stolen firearm and assault-style rifles with high-capacity magazines. Stafford also sold the undercover agent powder cocaine and crack cocaine.
When Stafford was arrested by detectives from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, they located a loaded .45-caliber pistol hidden under the hood of the car that he had been driving. As a previously convicted felon for offenses including robbery and firearms violations, Stafford is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Jacksonville Sheriff’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 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.
Armed Crack Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to over Six Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Henry Lee Adams today sentenced Maurice Sanders (27, Jacksonville) to six years and one day in federal prison for possessing with the intent to sell crack cocaine and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Sanders had pleaded guilty on May 18, 2018.
According to court documents, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) conducted a citywide buy-bust operation on September 21, 2017. During the operation, a JSO detective observed Sanders pull a pill bottle from his pocket and give three different individuals crack cocaine in exchange for money. When Sanders was searched following his arrest, a JSO officer found a loaded .38 revolver in his pocket.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It was 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 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.
Scientist Sentenced to Three Years for Defrauding NASA, U.S. Navy, and Missile Defense AgencyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington has sentenced Akbar Fard (54, formerly of Tampa) to three years in federal prison for wire fraud. The court also ordered Fard to forfeit $ 1,472,082, proceeds which are traceable to of the offense.
A federal jury found him guilty on February 9, 2018.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Fard defrauded the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the U.S. Navy. He diverted for his personal benefit $1,472,082 that should have been used to research critical national research priorities related to spacecraft, satellites, and the protection of naval assets from fires. With the money, Fard went on an international vacation, paid for a car, funded his retirement, and purchased retail items and groceries.
This case was investigated by NASA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas N. Palermo.
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child Sex Abuse Videos and Images over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Christopher Michael Picher (26, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to receiving over the internet videos and images depicting child sexual abuse. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years, and up to 20 years, in federal prison, and a potential life term of supervised release. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. Picher has been detained since his arrest on March 22, 2018.
According to court documents, in early 2018, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the FBI conducted an undercover child exploitation investigation and 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. These accounts were traced to email addresses used by Picher and residences where Picher had lived in 2017 and 2018.
On March 22, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Picher’s last known residence in Jacksonville. Picher had moved out of this home the day before and had taken his smart phone with him. Further investigation revealed that Picher had relocated to a different residence in Jacksonville. Agents traveled to that residence, where they encountered Picher asleep on the couch. His smart phone was located and recovered.
During an interview, Picher stated that he had been using his smart phone for at least one year, that he had viewed child pornography using the particular mobile messaging app, and that he knew that pictures of child pornography could be posted within the group or that users could send private messages. Subsequent forensic analyses of Picher’s phone revealed that it contained at least 15 videos and at least 1,486 images of child pornography.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. 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 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.
Federal Jury Convicts Colombian International Cocaine SmugglerRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – A federal jury has found Carlos Arturo Cuerro Borja (51), a Colombian national, guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine while onboard a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and one count of possession with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine on that vessel. Cuerro Borja faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2018.
According to evidence presented at trial, Cuerro Borja was part of an international maritime drug smuggling operation involving approximately 240 kilograms of cocaine bound for the United States. Cuerro Borja was the load guard for a Manta, Ecuador-based cocaine smuggling crew. While in international waters, hundreds of miles off the coast of Mexico, Cuerro Borja and his crew offloaded eight bales of cocaine to a Sinaloa, Mexico-based smuggling go-fast vessel. They then joined the Mexican crew for the run to Sinaloa, after scuttling their vessel in the Pacific Ocean.
On October 10, 2017, a U.S. Navy maritime patrol aircraft spotted the go-fast vessel speeding towards Mexico. The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter ASPEN and its crew launched two over-the-horizon boats to catch the go-fast smuggling vessel crewed by Cuerro Borja and his five co-conspirators. The ASPEN crew seized cartel cocaine smuggling equipment and approximately 102 kilograms of jettisoned cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Panama Express Strike Force, an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of agents and analysts from the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force South. 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. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Palermo and Special Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas DeRenzo.
Two Duval County Men Indicted on Counterfeit Currency ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Steven Timothy Jolly (40) and Eric Mark Hamilton (34), both of Jacksonville, with manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes and possessing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. If convicted, Jolly and Hamilton each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count.
Jolly made his initial appearance on August 15, 2018, and was detained on August 21, 2018. His trial is set for October 1, 2018. Hamilton will make his initial appearance in federal court on August 28, 2018.
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. Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Producer of Child Pornography Sentenced to More Than Nineteen Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced William Harvey Gulkis (30, Jacksonville) to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for producing child pornography. The court also ordered Gulkis to pay $8,000 in restitution to the victims of his offenses, register as a sex offender, and serve a life term of supervised release.
Gulkis pleaded guilty on November 3, 2017.
According to court documents, in January 2017, law enforcement began an investigation after learning about the prolific sharing of child pornography files linked to Gulkis’s residence. Agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations also learned that an individual at Gulkis’s residence was sharing self-produced child erotica files on a photo-sharing website.
During the execution of a search warrant at Gulkis’s residence, agents discovered that Gulkis had produced and shared child erotica and child pornography files and had produced photographs of himself masturbating with young children in the background of the images. Gulkis also produced child pornography depicting sleeping children whose clothing he had removed to display their genitals.
In addition to the files he produced, Gulkis had collected more than 6,000 files of child pornography.
“This predator took advantage of these young children at their most vulnerable moments,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “Our greatest hope is that today’s sentencing will bring some small measure of closure to the innocent victims.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Karase.
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 Attorneys’ 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.
Orlando Man Convicted, Two More Plead Guilty for Scheme Involving Impersonation of Homeland Security AgentsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – A federal jury has found Jean David Jules (33, citizen of Haiti) guilty of two counts of aiding and abetting wire fraud. Three co-defendants, Donte Sherrick Harris (30, Kissimmee), Jason Tyiwuan Green (22, Orlando), and Jonathan Wayne Thorne (27, Kissimmee), previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting wire fraud. In addition, six others have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud related to the same fraud scheme.
According to court documents, from at least August 2015 through June 2017, Jules and others participated in a criminal organization that gained money from victims by impersonating agents with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and/or the Cyber Crimes Center (C3). The scheme began with the defendants placing fraudulent posts on adult dating websites, claiming to be a “nerdy girl seeking nerdy guy.” When a victim responded to a fraudulent ad, a defendant continued to pretend he was a female seeking companionship. Days later, a defendant would contact the victim and pretend to be a federal agent assigned to the “C3 Child Exploitation Division” or other components of DHS. The defendant then would accuse the victim of soliciting a minor on the internet and falsely claim that there were outstanding warrants for the victim’s arrest.
The defendants used fraudulent email addresses that appeared to be from law enforcement agencies, or phone applications disguised as law enforcement phone numbers. They told their victims that they could pay a “fine” or “fees” so that the purported warrants could be “purged” or “cleared.” Victims were directed to wire funds, in the names of the defendants or their aliases, to the purported “agents” using a money service business. Many sent multiple extortion payments, ranging from $200 to $1,900 each. Law enforcement estimates that the scheme resulted in at least $311,000 in profits.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Office of Professional Responsibility, and Homeland Security Investigations (San Diego), with assistance from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (San Diego), and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Bayliss, on assignment from the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, ICE. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Chang assisted with the prosecution.
Virginia Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years for Transporting and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. has sentenced Michael Paige Palmer (41, Virginia) to eight years and one month in federal prison for transportation and possession of child pornography. Palmer was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release and register as a sex offender.
Palmer was charged by a criminal complaint on December 24, 2017. He pleaded guilty on April 17, 2018.
According to court documents and evidence presented during the sentencing hearing, Palmer initially came to the attention of Canadian law enforcement officials when they identified him during an investigation as someone who had shared child pornography with others. As a result, Palmer was identified when he disembarked a cruise ship in Port Canaveral (Florida). During a routine border search of Palmer’s electronic devices, law enforcement located five videos containing child pornography. In total, Palmer possessed 84 images and 254 videos of child pornography, some of which included the sexual abuse of young children.
“HSI’s border search authority allowed us to stop this child predator in his tracks,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “This significant sentencing underscores the severity of this crime and should serve as a warning to anyone who thinks they can harm children and get away with it.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Bayliss, on assignment from the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, ICE.
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 Attorneys’ 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.
Former Orange County Deputy Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. has sentenced Kevin Michael Hutchinson (36, Orlando) to 10 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography. Hutchinson was also ordered to serve a 7-year term of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.
Hutchinson was charged by criminal complaint on April 20, 2018. He pleaded guilty on May 29, 2018.
According to court documents and evidence presented at the sentencing hearing, Hutchinson initially came to the attention of law enforcement when he distributed child pornography via a mobile application. Then, just hours before a federal search warrant was executed at his home, Hutchinson received multiple images and videos of child pornography via the internet. One of the items downloaded by Hutchinson was a “guide” on how to prepare young children for sex with adults. In total, Hutchinson possessed 5,872 images and 1,625 videos of child pornography. Of those, 630 of the images and 160 of the videos depicted infants or toddlers being sexually abused.
At the time of his arrest, Hutchinson was a deputy with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. He was immediately placed on administrative leave and later terminated as a result of this case.
“The re-victimization of a child is always tragic,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “But it is particularly disturbing when the predator is someone in a position of trust and respect.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.
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 Attorneys’ 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.
Owner of Jacksonville Tax Preparation Business Sentenced to Federal Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis today sentenced Elizabeth M. Jordan to 21 months in federal prison for aiding and assisting others with the filing of fraudulent tax returns. The court also sentenced Jordan’s daughter, Dolores A. Youmans, to 5 years’ probation for the same offense. In addition, each was also ordered to pay restitution to the IRS – totaling $176,379 for Jordan and $96,769 for Youmans.
According to court documents, Jordan was the owner and operator of a tax return preparation business in Jacksonville, which she started in 2011. At the business, Jordan, Youmans, and others prepared individual income tax returns on behalf of clients. In doing so, they reported false information, including false deductions, false claims for education and other credits, and false claims of business expenses. These false representations reduced the amount owed by, or increased the amount refunded to, the taxpayers.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
North Fort Myers Man Charged with FEMA FraudRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Tommy N. Tracy (71, North Fort Myers) with fraud in connection with a major disaster. If convicted, Tracy faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on September 13, 2017, Tracy applied for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance for a residence located at 18301 Slater Road in North Fort Myers. He claimed that this was his primary residence, that he was living there at the time of the disaster, and that he did not own a rental property affected by the disaster. In fact, the property on Slater Road was not his primary residence, he was not residing there at the time of the disaster, and it was a rental property owned by Tracy.
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 U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Chief Assistant United States Attorney Jesus M. Casas.
Marion County Woman Pleads Guilty to SNAP Fraud and Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Lateasha Monique Perry (34, Ocala) today pleaded guilty to three counts of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) fraud and two counts of theft of government funds. Perry faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison on each of the fraud charges and up to 10 years’ imprisonment for each of the theft counts. She has agreed to make full restitution to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the federal agency overseeing the benefit program. SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is a national program established to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among lower income families.
According to the plea agreement and evidence presented in court, between June 2013 and February 2016, Perry received SNAP benefits via a debit card. Though these benefits only can be redeemed for certain basic food items, Perry repeatedly cashed out hundreds of dollars of her benefits at a local meat and poultry market in Marion County. This practice is strictly prohibited under both the program’s rules and federal law.
Federal agents analyzed SNAP redemption data and identified Perry as the person with the highest number of fraudulent transactions from the store. Subsequently obtained video surveillance images from the business showed Perry accessing her SNAP account at the counter, receiving large amounts of cash from store personnel, and then leaving with little or no merchandise. The estimated loss to the federal government exceeds $30,000 over 97 transactions.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of the Inspector General and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.
Two Sentenced to Federal Prison for Investment FraudRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge John Antoon, II today sentenced Leone Alfano La Cava (59, Orlando) and Viktoriya Johnson (36, Orlando) to 8 years and 1 month in federal prison, and 3 years and 10 months’ imprisonment, respectively, for wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The Court also ordered La Cava and Johnson to forfeit four properties and two luxury vehicles, which are traceable to proceeds of the offenses.
Johnson was found guilty by a federal jury on April 13, 2018. La Cava had pleaded guilty on March 30, 2018.
According to court documents, La Cava and Johnson orchestrated an international real estate investment scheme that defrauded at least 85 Italian investors out of over $5 million. La Cava solicited individuals, in Italy, to purchase real estate in Orange County that he claimed would generate guaranteed rental income. Johnson and La Cava then used falsified deeds and loan documents to convince investors that they were purchasing property owned by La Cava or Golden Investment, Inc., a real estate investment company incorporated by Johnson in 2010. In fact, those properties either did not exist, were never owned by La Cava, Johnson, or Golden Investment, or had already been sold to another investor.
La Cava and Johnson used portions of the funds sent by investors for their own personal use instead of purchasing the real estate promised to investors. Johnson received over $1.3 million in investor funds, that she used to purchase four properties and two luxury vehicles for herself.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nathan W. Hill, Chauncey A. Bratt, and Roger B. Handberg.
Justice Department, DEA Propose Significant Opioid Manufacturing Reduction in 2019Read the Press Release
Tampa, FL -- The Department of Justice and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have proposed a reduction for controlled substances that may be manufactured in the U.S. next year. Consistent with President Trump’s “Safe Prescribing Plan” that seeks to “cut nationwide opioid prescription fills by one-third within three years,” the proposal decreases manufacturing quotas for the most six frequently misused opioids for 2019 by an average ten percent as compared to the 2018 amount. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) marks the third straight year of proposed reductions, which help reduce the amount of drugs potentially diverted for trafficking and used to facilitate addiction.
On July 11, 2018, the Justice Department announced that DEA was issuing a final rule amending its regulations to improve the agency’s ability consider the likelihood of whether a drug can be diverted for abuse when it sets annual opioid production limits. The final rule also promotes greater involvement from state attorneys general, and today’s proposed reduction will be sent to those offices.
In setting the aggregate production quote (APQ), DEA considers data from many sources, including estimates of the legitimate medical need from the Food and Drug Administration; estimates of retail consumption based on prescriptions dispensed; manufacturers’ disposition history and forecasts; data from DEA’s own internal system for tracking controlled substance transactions; and past quota histories.
The DEA has proposed to reduce more commonly prescribed schedule II opioids, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, morphine, and fentanyl.
Ultimately, revised limits will encourage vigilance on the part of opioid manufacturers, help DEA respond to the changing drug threat environment, and protect the American people from potential addictive drugs while ensuring that the country has enough opioids for legitimate medical, scientific, research, and industrial needs.
"The opioid epidemic that we are facing today is the worst drug crisis in American history," Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. "President Trump has set the ambitious goal of reducing opioid prescription rates by one-third in three years. We embrace that goal and are resolutely committed to reaching it. According to the National Prescription Audit, we have already made significant progress in reducing prescription rates over the past year. Cutting opioid production quotas by an average of ten percent next year will help us continue that progress and make it harder to divert these drugs for abuse. The American people can be confident that federal law enforcement and the Trump administration are taking action to protect them from dangerous drugs. These smarter limits bring us one big step closer to President Trump's goal of finally ending this unprecedented crisis. I congratulate Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon and his team for taking action.”
“The misuse and abuse of opioids in our communities has reached epidemic proportions,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “We intend to work with our partners to use every tool in our arsenal, including prevention, education, and prosecution where necessary, to stem the flow of this devastating scourge.”
“We’ve lost too many lives to the opioid epidemic and families and communities suffer tragic consequences every day,” said DEA Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon. “This significant drop in prescriptions by doctors and DEA’s production quota adjustment will continue to reduce the amount of drugs available for illicit diversion and abuse while ensuring that patients will continue to have access to proper medicine.”
Once the aggregate quota is set, DEA allocates individual manufacturing and procurement quotas to those manufacturers that apply for them. DEA may revise a company’s quota at any time during the year if change is warranted due to increased or decreased sales or exports, new manufacturers entering the market, new product development, or product recalls.
When Congress passed the Controlled Substances Act, the quota system was intended to reduce or eliminate diversion from “legitimate channels of trade” by controlling the quantities of the basic ingredients needed for the manufacture of controlled substances.
The Proposed Aggregate Production Quotas for schedule I and II controlled substances published in the Federal Register reflects the total amount of controlled substances necessary to meet the country’s medical, scientific, research, industrial, and export needs for the year and for the establishment and maintenance of reserve stocks. DEA establishes an APQ for more than 250 schedule I and II controlled substances annually.
In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidelines to practitioners recommending a reduction in the prescribing of opioid medications for chronic pain. DEA and its federal partners have increased efforts in the last several years to educate practitioners, pharmacists, manufacturers, distributors, and the public about the dangers associated with the misuse of opioid medications and the importance of proper prescribing.
Sixteen Individuals, Including Several Members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, Charged for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of three indictments charging the following individuals with the listed federal criminal violations:
Indictment One
Name
Age/City
Charge
Barbara Caylor-Hernandez, a/k/a Barb, a/k/a Barbie
47, Ormond Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Ramiro Fraire-Chavarria
44, Dalton, GA
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Michael Babin
47, Daytona Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Melanie Kerr
28, Daytona Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Keith Simmons
41, Oak Hill, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
and distribution of 50 or more grams of methamphetamine
Carla Ray
51, Oak Hill, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Spencer Burkard
49, New Smyrna Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and distribution of 50 or more grams of methamphetamine
Robert Foster
37, St. Augustine, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and distribution of 50 or more grams of methamphetamine
Daniel Barbarino
54, Daytona Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Andrew Shettler, a/k/a “Yeti”
33, Palm Coast, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Brian Burt, a/k/a “Sledge”
47, Port Orange, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Lawrence Sann
55, Bunnell, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine
Indictment Two
Name
Age/City
Charge
Keith Kirchoff
40, Key West, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; use and carry of a firearm in relation to, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crime
Andrew Shettler, a/k/a “Yeti”
33, Palm Coast, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Michael Andrews, a/k/a “Clutch”
33, Palm Coast, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Indictment Three
Name
Age/City
Charge
Cindy Bledsoe
30, Daytona Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and distribution of more than five grams of methamphetamine
Jason Stringer
38, Daytona Beach, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine; and distribution of more than five grams of methamphetamine
Michael Andrews, a/k/a “Clutch”
33, Palm Coast, FL
Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
If convicted on all counts, Kirchoff, Andrews, Shettler, Bledsoe, Caylor-Hernandez, Fraire-Chavarria, Babin, Kerr, Simmons, Ray, Burkard, Foster, Barbarino, and Burt each face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. Sann and Stringer each face a maximum penalty of 40 years’ imprisonment.
According to the indictments, the defendants conspired to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine to individuals and groups in the Middle District of Florida, including to members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, an outlaw motorcycle gang.
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 Volusia Bureau of Investigation, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Daytona Beach Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean P. Shecter.