Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Brandon Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Credit Card Takeover and Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell has sentenced Junior Jean-Noel (21, Brandon) to five years and one month in federal prison for credit card fraud and identity theft. The court also entered a money judgment in the amount of $292,291.05, which constitute the proceeds of the fraud.
He pleaded guilty on February 23, 2018.
According to court documents, between March and October 2017, Jean-Noel, a.k.a. Jay Mulla, alone and with others, obtained stolen Capital One credit card account information. Jean-Noel then called Capital One, posing as the true account holders, and requested that replacement credit cards be sent to addresses under his control. Once he received the replacement cards, he and others acting at his direction used them to purchase gift cards and merchandise. In total, Jean-Noel engaged in the takeover and unauthorized use of 13 different Capital One credit card accounts, all without the knowledge or permission of the account holders’, many of whom were elderly. As part of the account takeover and as an attempt to defeat the bank’s fraud detection efforts, Jean-Noel called Capital One from “spoofed” telephone numbers that made it appear as if the true account holders were calling. He also made fabricated payments to the accounts in order to increase the credit limits and his access to the funds. Jean-Noel and others working at his direction made purchases with these unauthorized credit cards totaling $292,291.05. They attempted an additional $52,307.58 worth of transactions that were declined.
This case was investigated by United States Secret Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel.
United States Settles False Claims Act Allegations Against Riverside Spine & Pain Physicians for More Than $1.2 MillionRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Riverside Spine & Pain Physicians, LLC (RSPP), a pain management practice principally located in Jacksonville, Florida, has agreed to pay the United States $1,204,415.60 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly billing the government for medically unnecessary urine drug tests.
The settlement relates to RSPP’s use of quantitative drug tests, which identify and assess the amount of drugs in a patient’s urine. Quantitative drug tests are very specific, very expensive, and necessary only if an individualized patient assessment supports further testing. Routine quantitative testing for all patients in a practice is unnecessary. Similarly, testing every patient for the same physician-defined panel of drugs is unnecessary. The United States contends that RSPP performed quantitative testing on all of their patients for the same panel of drugs regardless of individual patient history and risk.
“A primary mission of the United States Attorney’s Office is protecting Medicare, TRICARE, and other federal health care programs from fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “Our Civil Division works tirelessly in the pursuit of providers who perform tests indiscriminately and regardless of patient need.”
“This settlement demonstrates the effectiveness of investigations by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and our law enforcement partners to ensure that medical service providers do not unjustly enrich themselves by diverting precious taxpayer dollars from where they are needed most. DCIS protects the integrity of the Department of Defense enterprise by rooting out fraud, waste, and abuse that negatively impacts critical programs such as TRICARE,” said Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin, Southeast Field Office.
“This settlement highlights our commitment to hold accountable providers who place profits over patients,” said Shimon Richmond, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Paying medically unnecessary claims or those stemming from improper referrals is an injustice to the Medicare program and the beneficiaries it serves.”
The settlement concludes a lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida by a former employee of RSPP, Dr. Carissa Stone. She sued under the qui tam, or whistleblower, 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 Act also allows the United States to intervene and prosecute the action. Dr. Stone will receive roughly $240,000 of the proceeds from the settlement with RSPP.
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).
This settlement resulted from a coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; the Defense Criminal Investigative Service; and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Lindsay Saxe Griffin led the investigation.
The case is captioned United States ex rel Carissa Stone vs. Riverside Spine & Pain Physicians, LLC, dba Riverside Spine & Pain Physicians PL, Case No. 8:16-cv-945-T36EAJ. The settlement resolves the United States’ claims in that case. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Orlando Woman Convicted of Social Security and Medicaid FraudRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – A federal jury today found Sundardai Jadnauth (67, Orlando) guilty of two counts of theft of government property. She faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 15, 2018. Jadnauth was indicted on October 26, 2016.
According to evidence presented at trial, Jadnauth received Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) and Medicaid benefits between 2011 and 2015, because she lied to the Social Security Administration. Jadnauth told the agency that she lived alone, had no assets, and earned no income. In fact, Jadnauth and her husband lived together in a house they had purchased for $67,000 in cash, in 2010.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan W. Hill.
Ocala Woman Charged in Federal Court with Snap Fraud and Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Lateasha Monique Perry (34, Ocala) with seven counts of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) fraud and two counts of theft of government funds. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison on each of the fraud counts, and up to 10 years on each of the theft counts.
SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is a national program established to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among lower income families. According to evidence presented in federal court, from June 2013 through February 2016, Perry received federally funded SNAP benefits via a debit card. Although these benefits only can be redeemed for certain basic food items, she repeatedly cashed out hundreds of dollars of her benefits by purchasing little or no merchandise and, instead, received large amounts of cash from store personnel. This practice is strictly prohibited under the program’s rules and federal law. By analyzing SNAP redemption data from the store, agents identified Perry as the person with the highest number of fraudulent transactions. The estimated loss to the federal government exceeds $30,000, including more than 97 suspected transactions.
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 Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.
Five 69’er Motorcycle Club Members Indicted on Federal Racketeering ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Christopher Brian Cosimano, a/k/a “Durty,” (30, Gibsonton), Michael Dominick Mencher, a/k/a “Pumpkin,” (51, Tarpon Springs), Allan Burt Guinto, a/k/a “Big Beefy,” (27, Brandon), Erick Richard Robinson, a/k/a “Big E,” (45, Zephyrhills), and Cody James Wesling, a/k/a “Little Savage,” (27, Riverview) with multiple violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity, including conspiracy, murder, and assault with a dangerous weapon. They have also been charged with firearms offenses and narcotics trafficking. If convicted of all charges, Cosimano, Mencher, Guinto, and Wesling each face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. If convicted of all charges, Robinson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Robinson and Wesling were arrested yesterday and will make their initial appearances today at 2:00 p.m. before United States Magistrate Judge Anthony Porcelli. Cosimano, Mencher, and Guinto are currently in state custody and will make their initial appearances on a later date.
According to the indictment, Cosimano, Mencher, Guinto, Wesling, and Robinson were members of the 69’ers Motorcycle Club, a criminal organization whose members and associates engaged in acts of violence and narcotics distribution. On December 21, 2017, Cosimano, Mencher, Guinto, and Wesling shot and killed Paul Anderson, the president of the Cross Bayou Chapter of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club. Cosimano also shot and wounded James Costa, the president of the St. Petersburg Chapter of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, on July 25, 2017.
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, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Tampa Police Department, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the State Attorney’s Office for the Sixth Judicial Circuit. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Carlton C. Gammons and Natalie Hirt Adams.
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.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to More Than 17 Years for Drug Dealing and Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Chauncey Gregory (33, St. Petersburg) to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine with the intent to distribute it, and for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Gregory pleaded guilty on February 6, 2018.
According to court documents, Gregory was an illegal narcotics dealer in a residential neighborhood in St. Petersburg, Florida. On August 24, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Gregory’s residence. As they arrived, one of Gregory’s “customers” was at the home to make a purchase from him. During the search, law enforcement recovered approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine, 8.5 ounces of ecstasy, 15.5 grams of crack cocaine, 743 grams of marijuana; a cocaine press, a narcotics scale, drug baggies, cash ,and a loaded .38 caliber revolver, which was next to Gregory’s passport.
As a previously convicted felon, Gregory is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
While on pretrial release, Gregory attempted to retaliate against the law enforcement officers who investigated the case against him. His bond was then revoked. The court granted the government’s motion for a substantial upward variance from the advisory Sentencing Guidelines, an additional 7 ½ years, to reflect the seriousness of his offense and his post-arrest retaliation attempt.
“Putting this major local drug supplier behind bars for 17 plus years significantly reduces the drug supply on the street,” said St. Petersburg Chief of Police Anthony Holloway. "It also sends a message to criminals that retaliation against law enforcement officers who dedicate their lives to ensure the quality of life for our residents will not be tolerated.”
"We will continue to adapt to the challenges that today’s technology can pose when fighting violent crime,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Daryl McCrary, “particularly when it pertains to retaliation against another law enforcement partner.”
This case was investigated by the St. Petersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas N. Palermo and Diego F. Novaes.
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.
Ocala Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore today sentenced Tirso Hernandez-Astudillo (35, Ocala) to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. A federal jury found him guilty on February 21, 2018. Also, co-conspirator Simon Rodriguez-Flores (48, Ocala) was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams of more of methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty on February 7, 2018.
According to court documents, on May 24, 2017, in a parking lot in Ocala, Rodriguez-Flores sold approximately 4 ounces of crystal methamphetamine to a cooperating witness. On June 2, 2017, at the same location, Rodriguez-Flores delivered 2 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine to the same individual and was arrested by DEA agents. At the time of the incident, Hernandez-Astudillo was a passenger in Rodriguez-Flores’s car.
Immediately after the arrest, a search warrant was executed at the residence Hernandez-Astudillo shared with his cousin and co-defendant, Gilberto Astudillo-Carbajal (34, Ocala), during which agents recovered items used in the manufacture and packaging of crystal methamphetamine. From another trailer across the street, where Hernandez-Astudillo had been earlier in the day, agents recovered a suspicious package containing approximately 1 kilogram of an undetermined powdery substance. Subsequent analysis of the substance revealed that it contained fentanyl. The sentencing hearing for Astudillo-Carbajal has not yet been set.
This case was investigated by the Gainesville Resident Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by task force officers from the Gainesville Police Department, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Levy County Sheriff’s Office, and the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team assisted in the execution of the search warrant and the arrests. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dale R. Campion.
Former Fugitive Pleads Guilty to Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Jose Ojeda Vera (28, formerly of Tampa) has pleaded guilty to committing aggravated identity theft and conspiring to commit credit card fraud and identity theft. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge, followed by two years in federal prison for the aggravated identity theft charge. Vera, who was indicted on August 27, 2015, was first arrested on these charges on October 13, 2015, and thereafter released on bond. He violated his pretrial release in January 2016 and was a fugitive until his arrest on March 2, 2018.
According to court documents, Vera and his co-defendant, Yannier Arias, used a total of 45 counterfeit and unauthorized credit cards encoded and embossed with account information that had been obtained by, among other things, “skimming” credit cards at local gas stations. They used this stolen information to purchase merchandise at local merchants. Many of the victims were unaware their information had been stolen until they were notified by law enforcement.
On February 24, 2015, Vera and Arias had 18 counterfeit credit cards in their possession, all in the name “Angel Garcia,” along with two fraudulent Florida identification cards in the same name. One ID card had Vera’s photograph on it, and the other depicted Arias. The pair had made more than $6,300 in fraudulent charges two days prior. Agents also later recovered two more counterfeit credit cards from Vera’s home, along with receipts for purchases made with those cards.
On September 6, 2016, Arias was sentenced to eight years and six months in federal prison. He later unsuccessfully appealed that sentence.
This case was investigated by the Financial Crimes Task Force, which includes the United States Secret Service, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelley C. Howard-Allen.
Felon Sentenced to More Than 8 Years for Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced Xavier D. Stewart (39, Temple Terrace) to eight years and four months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He pleaded guilty on February 12, 2018.
According to court documents, over the course of several days in August and September 2016, Stewart sold undercover agents cocaine and several firearms, including a semi-automatic pistol and a .357 caliber rifle. He sold the firearms to the agents knowing or having reason to believe that they would be unlawfully resold.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In 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.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to More Than Four Years for Illegal Reentry and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. has sentenced Aniceto Aguirre-Cardenas (57) to four years and three months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, for possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, and for illegally reentering the United States following deportation. He pleaded guilty on March 8, 2018.
According to court documents, Aguirre-Cardenas was convicted in 1993 for conspiracy to distribute marijuana, distribution of marijuana, and using/carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced to 12 years and 6 months’ imprisonment and was removed from the United States in 2003. On June 25, 2017, Aguirre-Cardenas was found to be back in the United States without permission after the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which he was a passenger. Law enforcement officers recovered a revolver from underneath Aguirre-Cardenas’s seat. Numerous rounds of ammunition, baggies containing more than 24 grams of cocaine, and drug trafficking paraphernalia were also recovered from the vehicle.
“This criminal alien thought he could ignore the laws of our nation,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent In Charge James C. Spero. “Our HSI special agents, along with our Volusia County Sheriff’s Office partners, have made our communities a safer place with this criminal behind bars.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Christina Downes and Brandon Bayliss.
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.
Two Florida Residents Sentenced for Their Role in Mortgage Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew has sentenced Alejandro Tobon (35, Orlando) and Carlos Escarria (61, Largo) to 37 months and 18 months in federal prison, respectively, for conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. They pleaded guilty on June 9, 2017.
According to court documents, from as early as October 2007 through May 2008, Tobon, Escarria, and others conspired to execute a bank and wire fraud scheme. The goal of the fraud scheme was to sell condominium units at The Preserve at Temple Terrace, a 392-unit condominium complex in Tampa. To entice buyers to purchase the units, the conspirators offered cash payments to buyers, either before or after closing. The mortgage lenders were not made aware of these payments. The conspirators used several entities to conceal from the mortgage lenders the cash payments to buyers.
The conspirators made false statements on loan documents, such as purchase and sale agreements and loan applications, and on HUD-1 settlement statements, to induce mortgage lenders to approve loans for otherwise unqualified borrowers for the condo unit purchases.
Tobon was the manager of Transcontinental Lending Group’s branch in Tampa and he was also the President of Tobon Marketing and Consultant. His role in the conspiracy included submitting false and fraudulent loan applications to financial institutions to induce them to provide funding for buyers to purchase Preserve units. He also marketed units to buyers with undisclosed incentives and transferred funds he had received from the developer through Tobon Marketing and Consultant to borrowers’ bank accounts who needed money to close on the purchases. The money was then used to provide the down payment and cash to close requirements.
Escarria worked as a loan officer at Transcontinental Lending Group’s branch in Tampa. He signed false and fraudulent loan applications to induce financial institutions into providing funding for buyers to purchase condo units. The false representations submitted to and relied upon by the mortgage lenders included occupancy, income, source of funds, and assets.
The mortgage lenders’ total losses resulting from Tobon’s and Escarria’s role in the mortgage fraud conspiracy are approximately $5.8 million.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor and Assistant United States Attorney Jay Hoffer.
Colombian Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years for Transporting CocaineRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday has sentenced Luis Moreno-Valencia (45, Colombia, South America) to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for conspiring with others to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine on vessels subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and for conspiring with others to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine intending that it be unlawfully imported into the United States. He pleaded guilty on February 15, 2018.
According to court documents, Moreno-Valencia was the organizational head of a Colombian-based drug trafficking organization. He was responsible for arranging the transportation of several maritime smuggling ventures in international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean. In November 2014 and December 2015, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted over 800 kilograms of cocaine aboard vessels commonly referred to as “go fast boats.”
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.
Leesburg Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for CarjackingRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. today sentenced Avery Tumer (24, Leesburg) to 14 years and 2 months in federal prison for carjacking, conspiracy to commit carjacking, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court records, on December 23, 2016, Tumer, along with his co-conspirators Timotheus Reed, Jonathan Lanier, and Amy Scott conspired to rob an individual of his money, other personal items, and his car by arranging a meeting at a gas station in Leesburg between the victim and Scott. The victim believed that he was going to meet the woman only. However, shortly after the victim arrived, Tumer, Reed, and Lanier pulled the victim from his car and stole his wallet and other personal property. During the robbery, the three men wore masks and pointed firearms at the victim. Tumer later pistol-whipped the victim and took his car. All four individuals were arrested a short time later by officers from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Leesburg Police Department.
On November 30, 2017, a federal jury found Tumer and Reed guilty for their roles in the crimes. Reed was previously sentenced to 12 years in federal prison. On November 15, 2017, a separate jury found Lanier guilty for his role and he was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison. Scott pleaded guilty for her involvement and was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the FBI (Daytona Resident Agency), the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the Leesburg Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dale Campion.
Jacksonville Felon Pleads Guilty to Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Daryl D. Shack (28, Jacksonville) yesterday pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on July 17, 2017, officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a car in which Shack was a passenger. At the time, Shack possessed a loaded Beretta pistol, which had previously been reported stolen, between his feet. He also had a baggie of cocaine in his pocket. Officers later recovered a baggie of marijuana, a knife, and an axe from the vehicle. Shack has a previous felony conviction for armed robbery and, therefore, is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.
Inmate Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Attacking Corrections OfficerRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. today sentenced Miguel Angel Rodriguez-Lopez (47) to more than 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for forcibly assaulting a federal officer resulting in bodily injury. He pleaded guilty to the offense on December 13, 2017.
According to court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Rodriguez-Lopez was an inmate at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex, United States Penitentiary 2, in Sumter County, Florida. On June 23, 2013, while serving a sentence for assaulting another inmate, Rodriguez-Lopez attacked a federal corrections officer who was making rounds at the prison. He repeatedly punched and kicked the officer until subdued by other staff members. Rodriguez-Lopez, an illegal alien from Mexico, will be deported from the United States upon completion of this latest prison sentence.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Prisons. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.
Felon Convicted in Connection with Firearms SalesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found Johnnie Charles Grimsley, Jr. (28, Clearwater) guilty of possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. He faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing has been set for August 14, 2018. Grimsley was indicted on May 18, 2017.
According to evidence presented at trial, on two separate occasions in November 2016, Grimsley and an accomplice sold firearms and ammunition to an undercover detective in Pinellas County. Grimsley did not physically handle the firearms and ammunition during the deals; he had his accomplice handle them. However, during both transactions, Grimsley stated that he had obtained the firearms and ammunition, and he personally accepted the payment from the undercover detective during the second sale. At the time, Grimsley was a convicted felon and, therefore, is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Taylor G. Stout.
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.
Federal Jury Finds Man Who Planned Attack on Jacksonville Mosque Guilty of Illegal Possession of Unregistered Firearm SilencerRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal jury has found Bernandino G. Bolatete (69, Jacksonville) guilty of possessing an unregistered firearm silencer. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has been set for July 25, 2018. Bolatete was indicted on December 7, 2017.
According to evidence presented at trial, Bolatete came to the attention of law enforcement when a confidential source reported to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) that Bolatete had a plan to conduct a mass shooting at a local mosque if he learned, as he expected to, that his remaining kidney failed and he would have to undergo dialysis. In response, JSO 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.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura Cofer Taylor and Michael J. Coolican.
Jacksonville Man Indicted for Forcible Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Richard Anthony Moffett (30, Jacksonville), also known as “Mook,” with three counts of sex trafficking by force and threats of force. If convicted, he faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison on each count.
According to court documents, between late 2016 and mid-2017, Moffett forcibly trafficked three victims in the commercial sex industry in Jacksonville. Moffett was identified on May 17, 2017, by officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office after one of his victims was arrested on a prostitution charge. The victim told the arresting officers that Moffett would come looking for her and that she had first met him through her husband, who had purchased drugs from him. The victim was told that she could stay with Moffett, and he provided her with food and shelter. The next day, Moffett told her that she would have to engage in sex for money if she wanted to stay.
Moffett’s victim later observed him repeatedly beat another victim for withholding money from him and for failing to promptly repost her advertisements for commercial sex. Moffett also coerced his victims, who at the time were drug users, by withholding drugs if they did not engage in enough commercial sex “dates.” Moffett threatened to kill the children of at least one of his victims if she tried to leave him. He also pointed a handgun at a third victim when he believed the woman was withholding money from him and then hit her in the back of the head with the gun.
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 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the State Attorney’s Office (Fourth Judicial Circuit). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor and Special Assistant United States Attorney Erin Wolfson.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Maria Chapa Lopez recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week and remembered those law enforcement officers killed and assaulted in 2017. The MDFL is home to more than 160 law enforcement agencies. During May 2018, communities throughout the MDFL will hold public memorial services honoring fallen officers and showing support for their families. In addition, multiple agencies will embark upon various media campaigns to strengthen connections between officers and citizens and show appreciation for the officers’ continued service.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“Each day, somewhere in America, a man or woman puts on a uniform and steps into the unknown to answer a call for help,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “These brave men and women voluntarily leave the comfort of their families to assist and protect others. Too often, some do not return. This month, we pause to show our appreciation for their service and stand in honor of their sacrifices.”
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 – a 21 percent decrease from 2016, when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents. Additionally, in 2017, there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts – a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed in the line-of-duty. For the full comprehensive report about these incidents and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released this week. To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
Five Middle District of Florida officers were added to the memorial this year: Deputy Julie Ann England Bridges, Hardee County Sheriff’s Office; Officer Matthew Scott Baxter, Kissimmee Police Department; Sergeant Richard Samuel Howard, III, Kissimmee Police Department; Deputy First Class Norman Cecil Lewis, Orange County Sheriff’s Office; Lieutenant Debra Lucinda Clayton, Orlando Police Department.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice. During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Two Honduran Citizens Indicted for Scheme to Facilitate Employment of Undocumented Aliens in Construction Industry and Evasion of Payroll Taxes and Workers’ Compensation LawsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Fanny Melina Zelaya-Mendez (39, Jacksonville) with three counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez (33, Jacksonville) with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of illegally re-entering the United States after a prior deportation. Each wire fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and the illegal re-entry count carries a maximum penalty of 2 years’ imprisonment. The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States intends to seek forfeiture of $1,075,180, the approximate amount of proceeds obtained as a result of the wire fraud offenses, as well as $286,135 and a pick-up truck that were seized from Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez on April 6, 2018.
According to the indictment, Fanny Melina and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez facilitated the employment of undocumented aliens living and working in the United States illegally, by establishing shell companies that provided workers to construction contractors and subcontractors. By obtaining and paying the workers through the defendants’ shell companies, the contractors and subcontractors avoided responsibility for ensuring that (1) the workers were legally authorized to work in the United States, (2) required state and federal payroll taxes were paid, and (3) adequate workers’ compensation insurance was provided.
Florida law requires any business that engages in construction work to secure and maintain workers’ compensation insurance. The Zelaya-Mendezes applied for workers’ compensation insurance policies to cover estimated payrolls of a set amount at the shell companies. They then “rented” those insurance policies to numerous construction contractors and subcontractors who employed hundreds of workers.
The contractors and subcontractors wrote payroll checks to defendants’ shell companies for the work performed by the undocumented alien workers. The Zelaya-Mendezes then cashed those payroll checks and distributed the cash to the construction crew leaders, who in turn paid the workers in cash. The defendants kept 4% of the amount of each payroll check as a “rental” fee for the workers’ compensation insurance policies.
The Zelaya-Mendezes cashed payroll checks totaling $26,979,514, and their “rental fees” totaled $1,075,180. Had a workers’ compensation policy been purchased for a payroll of $26,979,514, the policy would have cost $6,683,481. The policies that the defendants purchased and then “rented” out were for estimated payrolls of between $85,800 and $120,800, and the insurance company issued those policies for annual premiums ranging from $16,787 to $27,581.
Fanny Melina Zelaya-Mendez and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez are Honduran citizens who are illegally present in the United States. Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez was previously deported from this country on February 13, 2009, and on July 20, 2012.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of the federal criminal laws, 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 the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
Lake Wales Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years on Tax Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew has sentenced Tedderick Fields to four years and three months in federal prison for filing false claims with the Internal Revenue Service. He was also ordered to pay $7,775 in restitution to the IRS. Fields pleaded guilty on February 1, 2018.
According to court documents, Fields admitted to filing false tax returns in his name from 2011 through 2013. He reported wages that he had not earned from a business that he had incorporated, Dew’s T-Shirts and Accessories, and falsely claimed that he withheld federal income tax. In 2011, Fields filed a false tax return in his name, claiming that he had earned over $50,000 in wages and had withheld more than $14,000. The false claims resulted in a fraudulent tax refund of $7,775. In 2012, he filed another false tax return in his name, claiming that he had earned $1 million in wages and had withheld $400,000. This false claim resulted in the issuance of a fraudulent tax refund check in excess of $400,000.
This case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the St. Lucie County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelley Howard-Allen.
Seven Manatee County Men Charged in Federal Racketeering Case Involving Six MurdersRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of a 12-count indictment charging seven individuals, all of Manatee County, for their roles in a racketeering conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, arson, robbery, drug trafficking, and other crimes. The attached summary chart identifies the individuals, charged offenses, and potential penalties. Anyone with information relevant to this case is encouraged to call 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or email [email protected].
According to the indictment, Jordan Rodriguez (24), Andrew Thompson (23), Alfonzo Churchwell (31), Juan Ortiz (24), Raymy Escoto (23), Phillip Uscanga (24), and Jesse Rodriguez (20) were part of an ongoing criminal enterprise in Manatee County that furthered their illegal activities by, among other things, using and threatening to use various levels of violence, ranging from simple assault to murder, and by concealing and destroying evidence of, and tampering with witnesses to, their illegal activities.
The indictment alleges that on January 1, 2016, Thompson shot and killed Demetrius Robinson and Florence Randall. On the same day, Jordan Rodriguez, Ortiz, Escoto, and Uscanga committed a drive-by shooting, killing Julio Tellez. On September 11, 2017, Churchwell shot and killed Earnestine Gardner. On January 13, 2017, Thompson shot and killed LaShawna Stevenson-Weeks and Berry Joseph.
The indictment also alleges that Jesse Rodriguez, Jordan Rodriguez, Andrew Thompson, and Alfonzo Churchwell used and maintained a drug premises.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and the State Attorney’s Office for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Natalie Hirt Adams and Christopher F. Murray.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In 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.
Name
Charge/Count
Maximum Penalty
Jordan Rodriguez
Andrew Thompson
Alfonzo Churchwell
Juan Ortiz
Raymy Escoto
Phillip Uscanga
Jesse Rodriguez
(Count One)
RICO Conspiracy
Life in federal prison.
Jordan Rodriguez
Andrew Thompson
Alfonzo Churchwell
Jesse Rodriguez
(Count Two)
Drug Trafficking Conspiracy
20 years in federal prison.
Raymy Escoto
Phillip Uscanga
(Count Three)
Arson Conspiracy
Minimum mandatory term of 5 years, and up to 20 years, in federal prison.
Raymy Escoto
Phillip Uscanga
(Count Four)
Arson
Minimum mandatory term of 5 years, and up to 20 years, in federal prison.
Andrew Thompson
(Count Five)
Possession with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine
20 years in federal prison.
Alfonzo Churchwell
(Count Six)
Discharge of a firearm resulting in death of Earnestine Gardner, during and in relation to a drug trafficking conspiracy
Minimum mandatory term of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison (to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment), or death.
Alfonzo Churchwell
(Count Seven)
Felon in possession of ammunition
10 years in federal prison.
Andrew Thompson
(Count Eight)
Attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine
20 years in federal prison.
Andrew Thompson
(Count Nine)
Discharge of a firearm resulting in death of Lashawna Stevenson-Weeks, during and in relation to drug trafficking crimes
Minimum mandatory term of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison (to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment), or death.
Andrew Thompson
(Count Ten)
Discharge of a firearm resulting in death of Berry Joseph, during and in relation to drug trafficking crimes
Minimum mandatory term of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison (to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment), or death.
Andrew Thompson
(Count Eleven)
Possession of firearms and ammunition while subject to a restraining order
10 years in federal prison.
Jordan Rodriguez
Andrew Thompson
Alfonzo Churchwell
Jesse Rodriguez
(Count Twelve)
Using or maintaining a drug premises
20 years in federal prison.
UNF Student Arrested and Charged with Distributing Child Sex Abuse Videos over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Anthony Davis Stagnitta (21, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by a federal criminal complaint with knowingly distributing child pornography using the internet. He faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, and up to 20 years, in federal prison and a potential life term of supervised release. Stagnitta was detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for May 24, 2018.
According to the complaint, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted an undercover child exploitation investigation and determined that an individual using a messaging application had distributed two videos depicting the sexual abuse of infant children. The user was traced to Stagnitta’s home. On April 30, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence. During an interview, Stagnitta stated that he was a member of multiple group chats that discussed child pornography on this particular app, that he had sent videos containing child pornography to other app users via private messaging or posted them in the group chats, and that he had received approximately 150 files containing child pornography. An onsite forensic examination of Stagnitta’s smart phone revealed at least 25 images depicting young girls and boys being sexually abused.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations 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.
Sexual Predator Arrested and Charged with Solicitation of Child Pornography over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Paul Edward Lee, Jr. (38, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by a federal criminal complaint with soliciting child pornography using the internet. In 2011, Lee was convicted of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child in Duval County Circuit Court and is required to register as a sexual predator. Because of this prior conviction, Lee faces an enhanced minimum mandatory penalty of 25 years, and up to 50 years, in federal prison and a potential life term of supervision. He is currently in federal custody pending his detention hearing on May 7, 2018.
According to the complaint, a law enforcement officer in Illinois discovered that a child was having online contact with a 38-year-old male in Florida through a smart phone application designed for children. The messages exchanged between the child and the adult, later identified as Lee, were sexual in nature.
On April 25, 2018, an FBI agent in Jacksonville, posing as the child, continued to communicate with Lee through text messaging. During these communications, Lee told the “child,” in graphic terms, how he wanted to have sex with “her,’’ and sent “her” several images and videos of his genitalia. On April 27, 2018, Lee repeatedly solicited the “child” to produce and send him graphic images and a video of “her” genitalia. On May 2, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Lee’s home and placed him under arrest.
This case was investigated by the FBI 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.
Putnam County Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Downloading Child Sex Abuse VideosRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Ryan Elton Devore (31, Satsuma) to seven years in federal prison for receiving child sexual abuse videos over the internet. He was also ordered to serve a 15-year term of supervised release, register as a sex offender, and pay $3,000 in restitution to child victims.
According to court documents, on July 18, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Devore’s home in connection with an online child exploitation investigation. When the agents asked Devore if he had come across pornography involving children under the age of 12, he responded affirmatively. Forensic analyses from Devore’s custom-built computer tower and cellphone revealed that the devices contained numerous depictions of child pornography, including at least 400 videos of children being sexually abused.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Gainesville Police Department, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Colombian Narco Trafficker Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Jorge Eliecer Cifuentes-Cuero (54, Colombia, South America) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine while aboard a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, in violation of the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act. He faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Cifuentes-Cuero was a principal member of a Colombian and Ecuadorean-based drug trafficking organization. He initially worked as a mechanic and mariner onboard vessels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, and later, as he accumulated wealth, became an organizer of multi-ton cocaine loads transported by vessel from Colombia and Ecuador to locations in Central and Latin America. Cifuentes-Cuero is responsible for several maritime smuggling ventures in the international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean. In January 2013 and July 2014, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted loads of cocaine, totaling over 1,000 kilograms, that were being smuggled aboard vessels (commonly referred to as “go-fast boats”).
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 United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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 Rebecca L. Castaneda.
Brazilian National Sentenced to 57 Months for Debit Card Fraud and Identity Theft in ATM Skimmer CaseRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton has sentenced Romany Cutolo Bonente (33, São Paulo, Brazil) to four years and nine months in federal prison for conspiring to produce and use counterfeit debit cards and for aggravated identity theft. He pleaded guilty on December 1, 2017.
According to court documents, between December 2016 and July 2017, Bonente and his co-conspirators fraudulently obtained debit card numbers by attaching skimming devices to various ATMs in the Orlando area, including Longwood, Kissimmee, and Apopka. They also illegally obtained personal identification numbers (PINs) by attaching small video recording devices to the ATMs. The stolen card numbers were then encoded onto counterfeit cards, which they used together with the stolen PINs, to make fraudulent cash withdrawals from the victims’ bank accounts. Investigators recovered more than 2,500 stolen card numbers from Bonente’s laptop computer.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, Orlando Field Office, the Apopka Police Department, and the U.S. Secret Service Brazil Resident Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt.
Palm Bay Man Sentenced for Defrauding the Department of Veterans AffairsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Gregory A. Presnell today sentenced Armando Lafuente (56, Palm Bay) to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for theft of government money. As part of his sentence, the court also entered a money judgment for $157,471.57, the proceeds of the offense. Lafuente pleaded guilty on November 27, 2017.
According to court documents, between December 2009 and January 2017, Lafuente obtained various disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by claiming that he had completely lost the use of both of his feet due to a prior, service-connected injury. An investigation conducted by the VA Office of Inspector General confirmed that Lafuente had not completely lost the use of his feet; on the contrary, he could perform a wide range of normal activities—including walking, driving, climbing ladders, and mowing his lawn. The disability benefits Lafuente had received included special monthly compensation payments, transportation services, and an automobile grant.
This case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily C. L. Chang.
Nassau County Repeat Offender Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard today sentenced Vincent J. Jones, Jr. (47, Fernandina Beach) to eight years and four months in federal prison for distributing cocaine. He pleaded guilty on January 23, 2018.
According to court documents, Jones sold cocaine to a confidential informant on three separate occasions in October 2017. When law enforcement officers witnessed him driving and attempted to arrest him pursuant to a warrant, he refused to pull over. The officers witnessed him throw a bag of crack cocaine out of the window before he eventually stopped his car. At the time of this incident, Jones had 10 prior felony drug convictions.
This case was investigated by the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Manufacturing and Possessing Counterfeit Federal Reserve NotesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Maria Morales Howard has sentenced James Edward Langford, IV (30, Jacksonville) to 33 months in federal prison for manufacturing and possessing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes.
According to court documents, in late July 2017, law enforcement officers received information that Langford was manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes at a hotel in Jacksonville. On July 25, 2017, U.S. Secret Service agents surveilled the hotel room and observed Langford and two others leave the room. Langford and one of the individuals discarded full trash bags by the hotel’s trash area. A search of the bags revealed several uncut sheets of wadded paper with printed images of counterfeit $20 bills.
Later that day, agents observed Langford leave the room and exit the hotel parking lot. Surveillance teams observed him driving erratically, cutting across three lanes of traffic, speeding, and entering an intersection and then making a sudden U-turn. Law enforcement initiated a traffic stop and, during a search of Langford, multiple counterfeit $20 Federal Reserve notes were recovered from Langford’s wallet. A subsequent search of Langford’s hotel room revealed numerous counterfeit notes and the computer media used to manufacture them, along with chemicals commonly used to remove the ink from genuine bills during the counterfeiting process.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Armed Robbers Sentenced in OrlandoRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Bakari McCant (26, Orlando) to 32 years in federal prison for committing armed robberies at two Orlando-area Walmart Neighborhood Markets, for conspiring and attempting to commit a third armed robbery at a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Kissimmee, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and for brandishing and possessing firearms during crimes of violence. He was found guilty on January 29, 2018, following a bench trial. In addition, Jarvis Wingster (28, Ocoee) and DeAndre Brewer (26, Orlando) were sentenced to 8 years’ imprisonment and 7 years and 1 month in federal prison, respectively, for their participation in the attempted armed robbery in Kissimmee and for possessing firearms in furtherance of that crime. They pleaded guilty on January 5, 2018.
According to court documents, shortly after midnight on June 2, 2017, McCant and two accomplices robbed the Walmart Neighborhood Market on Clarcona Ocoee Road in Orlando. On July 31, 2017, at approximately 3 a.m., McCant and two accomplices robbed the Walmart Neighborhood Market on South Orange Avenue in Orlando. During each of the robberies, McCant and one accomplice forced one or two employees into the cashier room at gunpoint and stole cash from the safe while another accomplice held the customers and remaining employees at gunpoint at the front of the store. During the first robbery, McCant fired a shot in the direction of an employee. He and his accomplices also displayed firearms and wore masks and gloves to conceal their identities during each of the robberies. In total, McCant and his accomplices stole more than $98,000 during these robberies.
In addition, shortly before midnight on August 16, 2017, law enforcement officers intercepted McCant, Wingster, and Brewer as they attempted to carry out an armed robbery at the Walmart Neighborhood Market on East Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee. At that time, they were each in possession of a firearm, mask, and gloves, which they intended to use to complete the robbery.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl Analogue Resulting in the Death of A 24-Year-Old Orlando WomanRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul Byron today sentenced Jeremy Achey (43, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania) to life in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and distribution of controlled substance analogues. A federal jury found Achey guilty of the offenses on January 25, 2018.
“Today’s sentence underscores the severity of these crimes, and their lethal consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “Combating such crimes remain a top priority of our office. We will continue to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The sentence delivered today illustrates the dangers of illicit drugs mixed with fentanyl,” said Adolphus P. Wright, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA, Miami Field Division. “Let me be clear to all those who feel safe hiding behind the dark web to dispense lethal drugs, you will eventually pay a high price for your actions.”
According to testimony presented at trial, Achey, operating under the name “EtiKing,” was one of the largest synthetic drug distributors on Alphabay Market, a “Darknet” marketplace for illicit substances. Achey used the U.S. Mail to distribute thousands of packages containing numerous synthetic drugs to hundreds of customers throughout the United States. On February 27, 2017, he sold one gram of Tetrahydrofuran fentanyl (a synthetic analogue of fentanyl) that killed a 24-year-old woman in Orlando.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Troopers, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Loudoun County (Virginia) Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan W. Hill.
Former Brevard County Pastor Sentenced to Seven Years for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Daniel Dale Barton, Sr. (57, Brevard County) to seven years in federal prison for receipt of child pornography. The court also ordered him to serve a 10-year term of supervised release and to forfeit a laptop computer, which was used in committing the offense. Barton pleaded guilty on February 7, 2018.
According to court documents, on March 2, 2017, an FBI Task Force Agent identified an Internet Protocol (IP) address that was being used to distribute images of child pornography. The agent downloaded child pornography images directly from the suspect’s computer and traced the IP address to a church located in Brevard County, Florida. On April 24, 2017, the agent executed a search warrant at the church, where she encountered Barton. Barton stated that he worked as a pastor for the church. He also admitted that he had used the church’s internet and his personal computer to search for and view child pornography.
Specifically, Barton used peer-to-peer software to download images of child pornography and masturbated to those images. Barton stated that he had been viewing child pornography since he was a kid, felt guilty about viewing these images, and indicated that he had recently deleted them. A forensic analysis of Barton’s laptop computer revealed over 2,000 images of prepubescent girls engaged in the lascivious exhibition of genitals, which Barton had deleted from his computer.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilianys Rivera Miranda.
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.
Bank Robbers Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – John Lowell Goff, Jr. (46, Ruskin) today pleaded guilty to four counts of bank robbery. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. His co-defendant, Lemuel Tony Davis (43, Eufala, Alabama), previously pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not yet been set.
According to court documents, Goff robbed the BB&T bank located at 5331 Spring Hill Drive (Spring Hill) on August 29, 2017 and again on September 20, 2017; the Fifth Third bank located at 16509 Fishhawk Boulevard (Lithia) on September 5, 2017; and the BB&T bank located at 180 North Suncoast Boulevard (Crystal River) on September 6, 2017. During each of these robberies, Goff intimidated the bank tellers by implying that he would hurt them and threatening that he had a gun on at least one occasion. Consequently, all of the tellers gave Goff money from their banks’ cash drawers. When Goff robbed the Spring Hill BB&T bank the second time, he fled the scene in a car driven by Davis. Shortly thereafter, responding law enforcement officers pulled the car over and arrested both men.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Taylor G. Stout.
Owner of Florida Pharmacy Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for $100 Million Compounding Pharmacy Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The president and owner of a Florida pharmacy that was at the center of a massive compounding pharmacy fraud scheme, which impacted private insurance companies, Medicare and TRICARE, was sentenced today to 180 months in prison and ordered to pay $54 million in restitution for his role in the scheme. Six other individuals have previously been sentenced in connection to the scheme, and another is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday, April 30. Various real properties, cars and a 50-foot boat were forfeited as part of the sentencings.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez of the Middle District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Eric W. Sporre of the FBI’s Tampa Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Robert F. Lasky of the FBI’s Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Shimon Richmond of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office and Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin of the U.S. Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) Southeast Field Office made the announcement.
Nicholas A. Borgesano Jr., 45, of New Port Richey, Florida, the president and owner of A to Z Pharmacy of New Port Richey, pleaded guilty on Nov. 6, 2017, in the Middle District of Florida to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions involving criminally derived property. His sentencing was before Senior U.S. District Judge James S. Moody Jr of the Middle District of Florida.
According to admissions made as part of his plea agreement, Borgesano owned and operated numerous pharmacies and shell companies that he and his co-conspirators used to execute a fraud scheme involving prescription compounded medications. The scheme generated over $100 million in fraud proceeds, he admitted. Borgesano acquired and controlled A to Z Pharmacy in New Port Richey, Havana Pharmacy, Medplus/New Life Pharmacy and Metropolitan Pharmacy, all of Miami; and Jaimy Pharmacy and Prestige Pharmacy, both of Hialeah, Florida. He admitted using these pharmacies to cause the submission of false and fraudulent reimbursement claims for prescription compounded medications, chiefly pain creams and scar creams, to private insurance companies, Medicare and TRICARE. Borgesano admitted that he and his co-conspirators manipulated billing codes in the reimbursement claims and submitted reimbursement claims for pharmaceutical ingredients they did not have. Borgesano and his co-conspirators also paid kickbacks and bribes in exchange for prescriptions and patient identifying information used to further the scheme, including to a physician in exchange for the physician signing prescriptions for patients he never saw. Borgesano admitted using A to Z Pharmacy as the hub of his operation on behalf of all his pharmacies. He disbursed proceeds of the fraud scheme through a variety of methods, including by check and wire transfer to co-conspirators’ shell companies and through the purchase of assets, he admitted.
In addition to Borgesano, the following defendants have previously been sentenced for their roles in the scheme:
- Scott P. Piccininni, 49, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, sentenced to 51 months in prison;
- Bradley Sirkin, 55, of Boca Raton, Florida, sentenced to 46 months in prison;
- Peter B. Williams, 57, of New Port Richey, sentenced to 26 months in prison, to be served consecutively to a 60-month sentence of imprisonment he is serving as a result of his guilty plea to a separate indictment returned in the Southern District of Florida;
- Joseph Degregorio, 71, of New Port Richey, sentenced to one year and one day in prison;
- Matthew N. Sterner, 48, of New Port Richey, sentenced to 36 months in prison; and
- Edwin Patrick Young, 49, of New Port Richey, sentenced to 66 months in prison.
Wayne M. Kreisberg, 40, of Parkland, Florida, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 30.
Among the items forfeited were several cars, including a 1936 Ford Deluxe, a 1964 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, a 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a 2008 Lamborghini convertible. Several boats were forfeited, including a 2009 50’7” Cigarette racing boat. The combined equity in the real properties, cars and boat that were forfeited is over $7.6 million. The real properties, cars and boat had been purchased with proceeds from the fraud scheme.
This case was investigated by the FBI with support from HHS-OIG and DCIS and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Timothy P. Loper of the Fraud Section. The case was previously handled by Senior Trial Attorney Christopher Hunter, previously of the Fraud Section.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations nationwide. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged over 3,500 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $12.5 billion.
Owner of Florida Pharmacy Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for $100 Million Compounding Pharmacy Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – The president and owner of a Florida pharmacy that was at the center of a massive compounding pharmacy fraud scheme, which impacted private insurance companies, Medicare and TRICARE, was sentenced today to 180 months in prison and ordered to pay $54 million in restitution for his role in the scheme. Six other individuals have previously been sentenced in connection to the scheme, and another is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday, April 30. Various real properties, cars and a 50-foot boat were forfeited as part of the sentencings.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez of the Middle District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Eric W. Sporre of the FBI’s Tampa Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Robert F. Lasky of the FBI’s Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Shimon Richmond of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office and Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin of the U.S. Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) Southeast Field Office made the announcement.
Nicholas A. Borgesano Jr., 45, of New Port Richey, Florida, the president and owner of A to Z Pharmacy of New Port Richey, pleaded guilty on Nov. 6, 2017, in the Middle District of Florida to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions involving criminally derived property. His sentencing was before Senior U.S. District Judge James S. Moody Jr of the Middle District of Florida.
According to admissions made as part of his plea agreement, Borgesano owned and operated numerous pharmacies and shell companies that he and his co-conspirators used to execute a fraud scheme involving prescription compounded medications. The scheme generated over $100 million in fraud proceeds, he admitted. Borgesano acquired and controlled A to Z Pharmacy in New Port Richey, Havana Pharmacy, Medplus/New Life Pharmacy and Metropolitan Pharmacy, all of Miami; and Jaimy Pharmacy and Prestige Pharmacy, both of Hialeah, Florida. He admitted using these pharmacies to cause the submission of false and fraudulent reimbursement claims for prescription compounded medications, chiefly pain creams and scar creams, to private insurance companies, Medicare and TRICARE. Borgesano admitted that he and his co-conspirators manipulated billing codes in the reimbursement claims and submitted reimbursement claims for pharmaceutical ingredients they did not have. Borgesano and his co-conspirators also paid kickbacks and bribes in exchange for prescriptions and patient identifying information used to further the scheme, including to a physician in exchange for the physician signing prescriptions for patients he never saw. Borgesano admitted using A to Z Pharmacy as the hub of his operation on behalf of all his pharmacies. He disbursed proceeds of the fraud scheme through a variety of methods, including by check and wire transfer to co-conspirators’ shell companies and through the purchase of assets, he admitted.
In addition to Borgesano, the following defendants have previously been sentenced for their roles in the scheme:
- Scott P. Piccininni, 49, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, sentenced to 51 months in prison;
- Bradley Sirkin, 55, of Boca Raton, Florida, sentenced to 46 months in prison;
- Peter B. Williams, 57, of New Port Richey, sentenced to 26 months in prison, to be served consecutively to a 60-month sentence of imprisonment he is serving as a result of his guilty plea to a separate indictment returned in the Southern District of Florida;
- Joseph Degregorio, 71, of New Port Richey, sentenced to one year and one day in prison;
- Matthew N. Sterner, 48, of New Port Richey, sentenced to 36 months in prison; and
- Edwin Patrick Young, 49, of New Port Richey, sentenced to 66 months in prison.
Wayne M. Kreisberg, 40, of Parkland, Florida, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 30.
Among the items forfeited were several cars, including a 1936 Ford Deluxe, a 1964 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, a 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a 2008 Lamborghini convertible. Several boats were forfeited, including a 2009 50’7” Cigarette racing boat. The combined equity in the real properties, cars and boat that were forfeited is over $7.6 million. The real properties, cars and boat had been purchased with proceeds from the fraud scheme.
This case was investigated by the FBI with support from HHS-OIG and DCIS and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Timothy P. Loper of the Fraud Section. The case was previously handled by Senior Trial Attorney Christopher Hunter, previously of the Fraud Section.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations nationwide. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged over 3,500 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $12.5 billion.
Brevard County Man Indicted for Distributing Heroin Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Ronald Wiley (36, Melbourne) with distributing heroin and cocaine that resulted in the death of another, distributing oxycodone, distributing heroin, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and two counts of carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on all counts, he faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Wiley that the United States intends to forfeit numerous firearms and ammunition, which are alleged to be traceable to the offenses.
According to the indictment, Wiley distributed heroin and cocaine to an individual identified as S.J. on January 26, 2018. S.J. overdosed and died after ingesting the heroin and cocaine that Wiley had provided. In addition, on two other occasions in February 2018, Wiley distributed oxycodone and heroin to another individual while armed with a firearm. He also possessed four firearms on March 7, 2018. As a previously convicted felon, Wiley is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.
Armed Drug Traffickers Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Joshua Christian Cantrell (24, Dade City) pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and to carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. He faces a mandatory minimum term of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. His co-conspirator, Tracy Lee Williams, a/k/a Tracy Lee Spann, (38, Tampa), previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. She faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not yet been set.
According to the plea agreements, on three separate occasions, in April and May 2017, Williams sold methamphetamine to an undercover detective in Brandon. During the first transaction, Williams sold the undercover detective approximately one ounce of methamphetamine. On the second occasion, she sold the detective approximately two ounces of methamphetamine. Cantrell drove Williams to conduct the third sale which involved approximately eight ounces of methamphetamine. They were both subsequently arrested. Law enforcement found a loaded pistol in Cantrell’s waistband and a search of his vehicle revealed another pistol, additional weapons, ammunition, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Taylor G. Stout.
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.
Seventh Member of “Manche Boy Mafia” Gang Sentenced to Six Years in Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge James S. Moody, Jr. today sentenced Johnnie Earl Ross (24, Tampa) to six years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit credit card fraud and aggravated identity theft. He pleaded guilty on February 8, 2018.
According to court documents and statements made in open court, from at least January 2015, through November 2016, Ross and others affiliated with the “Manche Boy Mafia” or “MBM” organization conspired to commit credit card fraud and identity theft in the Tampa Bay area. To facilitate the scheme, the conspirators purchased stolen credit and debit card account numbers online from various websites, some of which used bitcoins as their currency. They then purchased or stole reloadable gift cards and used machines to emboss the stolen account numbers and their own names onto the front of these altered gift cards, thereby producing counterfeit credit cards. The conspirators then used these counterfeit cards at various retailers around the Tampa Bay area to purchase gift cards and electronics, which they either kept or sold for cash.
Investigators determined that these individuals had engaged in hundreds of successful transactions with counterfeit credit cards, and had possessed and used thousands of stolen account numbers from individuals across the United States. In total, Ross was held responsible for more than $540,000 in intended or attempted purchases with counterfeit credit cards and stolen account information.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel.
Federal Jury Convicts Twin Brothers for Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft in Gas Pump Skimmer CaseRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found identical twin brothers Noel Graveran-Palacios (37, Tampa) and Yoel Graveran-Palacios (37, Tampa) guilty of conspiracy, credit card fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Each faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison for the conspiracy count, 10 years’ imprisonment for each credit card fraud count, and a consecutive 2 years’ imprisonment for each aggravated identity theft count. The sentencing hearings have been scheduled for July 20, 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 at area retailers, including gas, toys, clothes, and gift cards. The twins 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. While the jurors were deliberating, the brothers fled the area together, but were later re-arrested in Texas, near the Mexican border.
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.
Tampa Woman Sentenced to Prison for Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich has sentenced Arritta Spence (48, Haines City) to one year and three months in federal prison for theft of government funds. As part of her sentence, the court also entered a money judgment of $117,234.40, the proceeds of the offense. Spence pleaded guilty on December 4, 2017.
According to court documents, Spence received Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and served as the representative payee for five of her minor children. In addition, she also received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid benefits through the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).
Spence failed to notify the SSA and the DCF about changes in her household composition and her available resources, which resulted in overpayment to Spence and her children. Specifically, she failed to report significant income from her casino winnings. On March 4, 2010, Spence won $20,568.78 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa. Between January 2011 and March 2014, she won an additional $108,776.90 at that casino. Because Spence failed to report her casino winnings and other changes in resources and household composition to the SSA and the DCF, she and her children were over paid approximately $100,000 in SSI, SNAP, and Medicaid benefits.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, the Florida Department of Financial Services Division of Public Assistance Fraud, and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel K. Jones.
Tampa Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for Using Counterfeit Credit CardsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington has sentenced Michael Washington (34, Tampa) to four years and three months in federal prison for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The court also entered a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $143,532, the total proceeds of the fraud. Washington pleaded guilty on February 2, 2018.
According to court documents, on July 2, 2016, Washington was arrested at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa with nine counterfeit credit cards, encoded with account numbers from Canadian Imperial National Bank (CIBC) in his possession. He fraudulently used the CIBC account numbers to encode and emboss the credit cards that he then used to purchase goods, including cartons of cigarettes from the Tribal Smoke Shop, and gift cards from retail stores in Florida. Washington sold the gift cards for cash, for approximately 60% of their face value.
Washington sold more than 490 gift cards that he had purchased with counterfeit CIBC cards, with a value exceeding $44,000. The total loss for the nine counterfeit credit cards and the fraudulent purchases, including the cigarettes, was $143,532.47.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Seminole Tribe Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelley C. Howard-Allen.
St. Augustine Resident Indicted for FEMA FraudRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Deltra Long (66, St. Augustine) with theft of government funds and false claims against the government. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison on the theft count, and up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the false claims count. The indictment also notifies Long that the United States intends to forfeit $10,022.36, which is alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.
According to the indictment, between November 5, 2016, and April 21, 2017, Long made a false application for Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA) funds after a house that she owned in St. Augustine was damaged by Hurricane Matthew. Qualified recipients of FEMA funds for disaster assistance are limited to the primary residence of a homeowner who lives in the premises at the time of the qualifying event. Long allegedly sought funds to restore rental property, which she did not occupy when Hurricane Matthew made landfall in Florida on October 3, 2016.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay Taylor.
Members of the public who suspect fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, or believe they have been the victim of fraud from a person or organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of disaster victims, should contact the National Disaster Fraud Hotline toll free at (866) 720-5721. A live operator 24 hours a day, 7 days a week staffs the telephone line. You can also fax information to the Center at (225) 334-4707, or email it to [email protected]. You may also visit www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl.
Orange County Deputy Sheriff Charged with Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – A federal criminal complaint has been filed charging Kevin Michael Hutchinson (36, Orlando) with receipt of child pornography. If convicted, he faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, and up to 20 years, in federal prison. Hutchinson made his initial appearance in court earlier today and has been detained pending the outcome of the case.
According to the
complaint , Hutchinson initially distributed child pornography via a mobile messaging application. Then, hours before a federal search warrant was executed at his home yesterday, he received multiple images and videos of child pornography via the internet.A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of the federal criminal laws, 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, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It will be 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.
Lead Singer of Band Pleads Guilty to FraudRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – Julia S. Kouragian (60, Sebring), also known as “Julia Newell” and “Jewels,” today pleaded guilty to four counts of mail fraud and four counts of wire fraud. She faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Kouragian was employed by the U.S. Postal Service beginning in 1980. In 1996, she claimed that she was injured while working and subsequently began receiving federal workers’ compensation benefits, including full pay. In order to continue receiving benefits, she was required to report any improvements in her medical condition or her ability to work or maintain a level of employment.
It was later discovered that even though Kouragian claimed that she was physically unable to perform activities associated with walking, sitting, and standing for more than 15 minutes at a time, she had, from at least 2012 through July 2017, performed as the lead singer in a band and also handled the bookings and merchandise sales for the group. She failed to disclose these changes to her treating physicians. As a result of the fraud, she received more than $166,000 in federal workers’ compensation benefits.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.
Jacksonville Man Indicted for Submitting False Claim for FEMA Benefits Related to Hurricane IrmaRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Erick Williams (31, Jacksonville) with making a false claim against the United States related to Hurricane Irma. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison, plus payment of restitution to the United States. Williams was arrested yesterday by agents from the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General; he made his initial appearance in court and a trial date has been set for June 4, 2018.
According to the indictment, in September 2017, Williams used a false address when submitting an application for assistance to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) Individuals and Households Program for Hurricane Irma. In the application, Williams lied about the address of his primary residence.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is part of the United States Attorney’s Disaster Fraud Task Force, which was announced in September 2017. This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Members of the public who suspect fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, or believe they have been the victim of fraud from a person or organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of disaster victims, should contact the National Disaster Fraud Hotline toll free at (866) 720-5721. A live operator 24 hours a day, 7 days a week staffs the telephone line. You can also fax information to the Center at (225) 334-4707, or email it to [email protected]. You may also visit www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl.
Five Individuals Charged with Conspiring to Distribute Thousands of Doses of Heroin and Fentanyl in TampaRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging five individuals with conspiring to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin, 400 grams of fentanyl, and 100 grams of a fentanyl analogue. If convicted, Anthony Jerome Lang (60, Tampa); Travell Kinkay Jones (40, West Palm Beach); Vanzini Nicholas Hansell (37, Tampa); Amber Miller (32, Tampa); and Carlton Reid Mallard (61, Tampa) each face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison.
According to the indictment, from at least June 2017 through February 2018, Lang, Jones, Hansell, Miller, and Mallard participated in a conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and fentanyl analogues in the Middle District of Florida.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task force investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Tampa Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and money laundering organizations, and those organizations primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Fifteen Individuals Charged with Trafficking Cocaine and HeroinRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of two indictments charging 15 individuals with federal drug trafficking violations. In one indictment, Jesus Manuel Rodriguez, a/k/a “Caltu,” (30, Brandon); Bryan Gomez Nevarez (30, Avon Park); Hector Jose Carrasquillo Perez, a/k/a “Tito” (25, Catano, Puerto Rico); Henry Coira (30, Avon Park); Luis Enrique Hernandez Quinones, a/k/a “Gordo” (28, Davenport); Avisys Lee Jackson (27, Tampa); Javier Albaladejo Lopez, a/k/a “the Barber” (23, Tampa); Jose Angel Mendoza, Jr. (28, Tampa); Pedro Luis Ramos Burgos (25, Kissimmee); William Leverne Norton, a/k/a “Cool” (40, Tampa); Edgar Hernandez, a/k/a “Chuck” (27, Tampa); and Ismael Pagan Marrero (42, Orlando) are charged with conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. In a separate indictment, Roberto Torres Gracia, a/k/a “el Silencio” (40, Pinellas Park); Eddie Alberto Pagan Santiago, a/k/a “Primo” (37, San Juan, Puerto Rico); and David Santiago, a/k/a “Flaco” (33, Tampa) are charged with conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute heroin. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment and information presented in court, between May 2017 and April 2018, the defendants conspired to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin and more than 20 kilograms of cocaine.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has violated one or more of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
These cases were investigated by a multi-agency task force through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. Agencies involved in this OCDETF operation include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlton C. Gammons.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 15 Years for Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge James S. Moody, Jr. today sentenced Arvester Lamonica Anderson (47, Tampa) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered him to forfeit the firearm and ammunition used in the offense. Anderson pleaded guilty on February 1, 2018.
According to court documents, on June 22, 2017, Anderson and his roommate became involved in an altercation and the roommate, believing that Anderson had threatened him with a firearm, called the police. Officers from the Tampa Police Department responded and found a loaded pistol in Anderson’s closet. Anderson subsequently admitted to possessing the firearm. Due to his several prior felony convictions, Anderson is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.
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.
Bradenton Man Sentenced for Trafficking CarfentanilRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich today sentenced Kevon Melendez (22, Bradenton) to five years and three months in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute carfentanil and cocaine. He pleaded guilty on January 12, 2018.
According to court documents, on February 14, 2017, law enforcement officers with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office were searching for a fugitive when they observed the fugitive riding in the backseat of a car Melendez was driving. As the officers approached the vehicle, they smelled the odor of marijuana coming from inside the car. The officers observed Melendez with a scale between his legs. As an officer was removing Melendez from the car, he observed Melendez drop a plastic bag containing several substances. Those substances later tested positive for cocaine (27.99 grams) and carfentanil (approximately 11 grams). Melendez also had $580 on his person.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.
This case is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation dubbed “Hot Batch.” 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.