Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Seven-Time Convicted Felon Sentenced to Seven YearsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge Timothy Corrigan has sentenced Anthony Tyrone Mackey (41, Jacksonville) to seven years in federal prison for possessing firearms as a convicted felon. A federal jury found Mackey guilty on August 27, 2024.
According to court documents and trial testimony, on March 29, 2023, officers with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office stopped Mackey for a traffic infraction when he was driving on the wrong side of the road. At the time, Mackey was the sole occupant of the vehicle. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers located cocaine and methamphetamine in the front passenger seat, a 12-gauge shotgun on the back passenger-side floorboard, and a .25 caliber pistol in a backpack sitting on the back passenger seat.
DNA analysis later showed that Mackey’s DNA was found on the shotgun and the shotgun’s magazine. Mackey was previously convicted of seven felonies, including possession of a short-barreled shotgun, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, aggravated assault, and aggravated fleeing or attempted to elude a law enforcement officer. As a convicted felon he 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 Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John Cannizzaro and Brenna Falzetta.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Romanian National Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison in Connection with NetWalker Ransomware Attacks Resulting in the Payment of Millions of Dollars in RansomsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - A Romanian man was sentenced today for his role in the NetWalker ransomware attacks to 20 years in prison and ordered to forfeit $21,500,000 and his interests in an Indonesian limited liability company and associated luxury resort property under construction in Bali, Indonesia — a business venture he financed with proceeds from the attacks. He was also ordered to pay $14,991,580.01 in restitution.
Daniel Christian Hulea, 30, of Jucu de Mijloc, Cluj, Romania, pleaded guilty in the Middle District of Florida to computer fraud conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy on June 20. According to court documents, Hulea admitted to participating in a conspiracy to use a sophisticated form of ransomware known as NetWalker. NetWalker ransomware has been used to target hundreds of victims all over the world, including companies, municipalities, hospitals, law enforcement, emergency services, school districts, colleges, and universities. NetWalker attacks specifically targeted the healthcare sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, taking advantage of the global crisis to extort victims. As part of his plea agreement, Hulea admitted to using NetWalker to obtain approximately 1,595 bitcoin in ransom payments for himself and a co-conspirator, valued at approximately $21,500,000 at the time of the payments.
Romanian law enforcement officers arrested Hulea in Cluj, on July 11, 2023, pursuant to a request submitted by U.S. authorities. Hulea was subsequently extradited to the United States pursuant to the extradition treaty between the United States and Romania.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida; and Special Agent in Charge Matthew W. Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Tampa Field Office investigated the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Hulea’s arrest and extradition. The U.S. Marshals Service transported Hulea from Romania to the United States.
Trial Attorney Sonia V. Jimenez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlton C. Gammons and Suzanne Nebesky for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
Romanian National Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison in Connection with NetWalker Ransomware Attacks Resulting in the Payment of Millions of Dollars in RansomsRead the Press Release
A Romanian man was sentenced today for his role in the NetWalker ransomware attacks to 20 years in prison and ordered to forfeit $21,500,000 and his interests in an Indonesian limited liability company and associated luxury resort property under construction in Bali, Indonesia — a business venture he financed with proceeds from the attacks. He was also ordered to pay $14,991,580.01 in restitution.
Daniel Christian Hulea, 30, of Jucu de Mijloc, Cluj, Romania, pleaded guilty in the Middle District of Florida to computer fraud conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy on June 20. According to court documents, Hulea admitted to participating in a conspiracy to use a sophisticated form of ransomware known as NetWalker. NetWalker ransomware has been used to target hundreds of victims all over the world, including companies, municipalities, hospitals, law enforcement, emergency services, school districts, colleges, and universities. NetWalker attacks specifically targeted the healthcare sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, taking advantage of the global crisis to extort victims. As part of his plea agreement, Hulea admitted to using NetWalker to obtain approximately 1,595 bitcoin in ransom payments for himself and a co-conspirator, valued at approximately $21,500,000 at the time of the payments.
Romanian law enforcement officers arrested Hulea in Cluj, on July 11, 2023, pursuant to a request submitted by U.S. authorities. Hulea was subsequently extradited to the United States pursuant to the extradition treaty between the United States and Romania.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida; and Special Agent in Charge Matthew W. Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Tampa Field Office investigated the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Hulea’s arrest and extradition. The U.S. Marshals Service transported Hulea from Romania to the United States.
Trial Attorney Sonia V. Jimenez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlton C. Gammons and Suzanne Nebesky for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
Four Plead Guilty in Drug Conspiracy Involving More Than 80 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that four Orlando-area residents have pleaded guilty for their roles in a drug distribution conspiracy involving an estimated 89 kilograms of cocaine. Israel Miranda (36, Kissimmee), Abiezer Laboy-Lozada (36, Orlando), Jorge Antonio Gonzalez de la Fuente (31, St. Cloud), and Carlos Antonio Garcia Garcia (35, Kissimmee) have each pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute kilograms of cocaine. Miranda and Laboy-Lozada each face a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Gonzalez de la Fuente and Garcia Garcia each face a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. The conspirators also forfeited $464,031 in cash seized during the case.
According to the plea agreements, the Drug Enforcement Administration identified a group of individuals working to distribute kilogram quantities of cocaine and the proceeds of those sales during 2022. On May 1, 2023, Miranda distributed drugs to Laboy-Lozada in a parking lot. In this and similar meetings during the conspiracy, Laboy-Lozada obtained 20 - 30 kilograms of cocaine from Miranda. On October 4, 2023, Miranda delivered a shoebox to Gonzalez de la Fuente, who then delivered it to Garcia Garcia. When law enforcement stopped his vehicle, Garcia Garcia was found to be carrying the shoebox containing a kilogram of cocaine:
During the course of the conspiracy, Gonzalez de la Fuente met with his conspirators two or three times a month and was involved in distributing 15 - 50 kilograms of cocaine. Gonzalez de la Fuente continued to engage in drug distribution after being charged and was detained when this was discovered.
On October 13, 2023, Miranda delivered drug proceeds to an individual who was found to be transporting $262,257 in a brown paper bag. At the same time, Miranda texted a conspirator an image of the stacks of cash he was distributing with the message “should be 110k.”
Similar enforcement actions resulted in the seizure of $51,989 from Miranda on November 7, 2023, and $149,785 from Miranda on March 6, 2024. Over the course of the conspiracy, Miranda distributed drugs or drug proceeds reflecting distribution of more than 89 kilograms of cocaine. Miranda has agreed to forfeit of all the cash seized in the case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Florida Highway Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Transporting Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that William Kameron Ellis Taylor (29, Chula Vista, CA) today pleaded guilty to transportation of child sex abuse materials. Taylor faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Taylor was stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents at Cape Canaveral after returning from an international cruise to the Bahamas. Agents discovered that Taylor had a cellphone and an SD card containing videos and images of child sexual abuse material. Taylor was previously convicted of possession of child sexual abuse material in 2017 in the Southern District of California and has certain sex offender registration requirements under federal law. He failed to inform his registering agency of his plans to leave the country as required by that law.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, and the United States Marshals Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaley Austin-Aronson.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Bradenton Felon Convicted of Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Javier Mares (44, Bradenton) guilty of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Mares faces minimum of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been set.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bradenton Police Department began investigating Mares and his brother in 2023. Mares was believed to be supplying large amounts of narcotics from his auto shop business in Bradenton. Investigators dispatched a confidential informant to make several purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Mares’ brother. His brother was observed leaving the auto shop prior to the controlled purchases and returning to the location after the transactions.
On June 27, 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at the auto body shop. Mares and a juvenile were in the shop at the time of the search warrant execution. Investigators located a safe filled with packaged methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana along with drug distribution paraphernalia under the Mares’ desk. Mares’ fingerprint was later discovered on a baggie with 380 grams of methamphetamine found in the safe. A DEA forensic chemist later determined that the methamphetamine was 96% pure. Agents also found a loaded firearm next to several collectible $2 bills in the desk drawer near the floor safe.
During an interview, Mares told agents that the office was his, but he had no idea who the safe belonged to, and he did not have a key or code. He also admitted that the $2 bills found in the desk drawer belonged to him, but that he had never seen the loaded gun sitting next to them.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bradenton Police Department, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Apopka Man Sentenced to 12 Months for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced James Fabius King, a/k/a Douglas Mesadieu, to 12 months’ confinement for tax evasion, including 6 months in federal prison and 6 months of home incarceration. The court also ordered King to pay restitution in the amount of $546,479, which represents the losses to the United States as the result of King’s conduct. King entered a guilty plea on June 17, 2024.
According to court documents, King earned income of $1,758,307 in 2013, for which he had federal income tax due and owed $546,479. Between 2014 and 2017, King used nominee businesses to pay personal expenses and car payments on his $151,890 Audi R8 sports car. He also transferred title of three luxury cars that he owned—an Aston Martin, Rolls Royce, and Bentley—into the name of a nominee business. King took these actions to evade the seizure of his assets to pay the tax debt.
“The dishonesty exhibited by the defendant is a clear violation of the laws we all abide by,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Tampa Field Office. “While we may not always like it, we each have a responsibility to our country and ultimately to each other. We will not ignore attempts to cheat the tax system for personal gain.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt.
Sarasota Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Engage in Sexual Activity with A MinorRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Javier Chavez (34, Sarasota) today pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. Chavez faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
According to court documents, on May 15 and 16, 2024, Chavez communicated with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing as both the mother of a 14-year-old girl and her 14-year-old daughter. After learning of the girl’s age, Chavez engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the girl and sent her explicit videos of himself. Chavez was apprehended by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office when he arrived at a home in Lee County with the intention of engaging in sexual activity with the girl. Chavez later admitted to deputies that his intentions with the girl were sexual.
This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
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.
Mississippi Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison on Firearm and Counterfeiting ChargeRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Bryan Lyndell Chapman (27, Mississippi) to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Chapman to forfeit a Bushmaster pistol, ammunition, a printer, and make restitution to the victims that he defrauded. Chapman was arrested on February 26, 2024, and ordered detained.
According to court documents, in late 2023 into January 2024, Chapman traveled from Tennessee to Florida. During his trip, he manufactured counterfeit Federal Reserve notes and passed them at various businesses. On January 17, 2024, a deputy from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) investigated a vehicle in which Chapman was a passenger. During the investigation, the CCSO located inside the vehicle a loaded firearm, ammunition, equipment for manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes, 78 counterfeit $20 bills, and 35 incomplete counterfeit pages with only the front of a $20 bill printed on it. The CCSO subsequently determined that Chapman was out on bond on a felony firearm charge pending in Mississippi and had previously been convicted in Tennessee of felony aggravated assault. As a convicted felon, Chapman is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office, and the United States Secret Service – Jacksonville Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Indian National Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Meet A 13-Year-Old to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Kirtan Patel (24, India) has pleaded guilty to attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Patel faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, between May 22 and 24, 2024, Patel communicated online with someone whom he believed was a 13-year-old girl. The child, however, was an undercover Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent. Patel engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the undercover agent. Ultimately, Patel was arrested when he traveled to a location in Marion County to engage in sexual activity with the child.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 57 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Giovanny Rivera-Sanchez (38, Kissimmee) to 57 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Rivera-Sanchez to forfeit a Glock 22 .40 caliber pistol, which was involved in his offense. Rivera-Sanchez entered a guilty plea on August 21, 2024.
Rivera-Sanchez was convicted of felony offenses in 2004, 2007, and 2008, and was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition as a result. On March 25, 2022, when Rivera-Sanchez was serving a term of federal supervised release, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at his residence. During the search, law enforcement officers discovered a firearm loaded with twelve rounds of ammunition. Officers interviewed Rivera-Sanchez, who stated that he was aware that the firearm was inside his residence.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Nate.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on the following core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sanford Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearms and Distributing Narcotics Near A PlaygroundRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that San’Drevious Jerome Lane (23, Sanford) has pleaded guilty to carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and distributing narcotics near a playground. Lane faces a minimum penalty of six years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 13, 2025.
According to court records, Lane was convicted of felony offenses in 2022 and was released from the Florida Department of Corrections on April 3, 2024. On May 21, 2024, Lane distributed cocaine in Sanford. During the transaction, he possessed a firearm. Officers located two fingerprints on the firearm, one belonging to Lane. As a convicted felon, Lane is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. In addition, on June 3, 2024, Lane sold approximately 28 grams of cocaine. The transaction took place approximately 800 feet from a playground.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Nate.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Ocala Man Indicted for Double RobberyRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Danny Anzardo (45, Ocala) with two counts of interference with commerce by robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. If convicted of the robbery offenses, Felix faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each robbery. The firearm offense carries a minimum sentence of seven years, up to life, in federal prison, which must be served consecutively to any prison term imposed for the robberies.
According to court documents, Anzardo robbed two establishments—a general retail store and a jewelry store—on October 29, 2024. During the first robbery, Anzardo pointed a firearm at the cashier, demanding money from the cash register. Anzardo took approximately $88 from the cash register and fled. A few hours later, Anzardo robbed the jewelry store. Anzardo implied to the victim that he had a firearm inside his backpack and threatened to kill the victim. Anzardo stole approximately $13,000 worth of jewelry from the store. Anzardo was arrested the following day and confessed to both robberies. He admitted that he used a firearm during the first robbery and that he disposed of it in a lake before he robbed the jewelry store.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Ocala Police Department, and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Jacksonville Woman Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Supervising Armed Drug Trafficking Operation and Laundering More Than $1 MillionRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Harvey Schlesinger has sentenced Yaquasia Delcarmen (28, Jacksonville) to eight years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The court also entered an order of forfeiture of $1,760,210, the proceeds of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Delcarmen pleaded guilty on June 27, 2024.
According to court documents, between October 2022 and her arrest in April 2024, Delcarmen served as a manager and supervisor of an armed drug trafficking organization (DTO), led by her boyfriend, Nathaniel Hatcher, III. The DTO acquired bulk quantities of marijuana from various grow operations in northern California, where they used one of Hatcher’s residences to weigh and package the marijuana. From there, DTO members, including Delcarmen, smuggled the marijuana in suitcases they flew commercially back to Jacksonville. Once the marijuana arrived back in Jacksonville, Delcarmen and her co-conspirators distributed the marijuana from various short-term rental homes throughout Jacksonville, primarily in the Riverside and San Marco neighborhoods. Delcarmen and other DTO members possessed and carried firearms at these residences to protect their drugs, their drug proceeds, and themselves during drug sales. Delcarmen specifically was responsible for collecting drug proceeds from the DTO’s various dealers and laundering the proceeds back into bank accounts controlled by her and Hatcher. During the conspiracy, Delcarmen and others used sham business accounts that were formed for the purpose of laundering illicit proceeds. Hatcher and Delcarmen spent the drug proceeds on lavish lifestyle items, including luxury vehicles and rental homes, and vacations to Miami, Hawaii, and California.
After federal agents arrested Hatcher in February 2024, Delcarmen conducted drug trafficking activities on Hatcher’s behalf while he was incarcerated. At Hatcher’s direction, Delcarmen coordinated additional drug sales and attempted to obstruct the federal investigation. Specifically, at Hatcher’s direction, Delcarmen posted the identity of a witness in the investigation publicly on social media with the intent of intimidating the witness and preventing their testimony. After her arrest, Delcarmen violated her bond conditions more than 1,000 times by maintaining direct and indirect contact with Hatcher, who she had been ordered to have no contact with while on bond. During the drug trafficking conspiracy, Delcarmen was responsible for trafficking between 100 and 400 kilograms of marijuana. During the money laundering conspiracy, Delcarmen was responsible for laundering at least $1.7 million in drug proceeds.
In related court proceedings, Delcarmen’s co-conspirators pled guilty to their roles in the Hatcher DTO. Specifically, Desmond Maxwell pled guilty to straw-purchasing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces up to 25 years in federal prison. Al’Donta Easterling pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He faces a minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. James Toney pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, a drive-by shooting in furtherance of a major drug offense and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He faces a minimum of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. Nathaniel Hatcher has been charged by indictment and is scheduled for trial next year.
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 is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Aakash Singh and Kirwinn Mike.
Jacksonville Felon Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison After Setting Off Explosives and Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced William Earl Union, Jr. (32, Jacksonville) to seven years in federal prison for possession of firearms by a convicted felon. The court also ordered Union to forfeit a Mossberg shotgun, a Smith and Wesson revolver, and all related ammunition. Union entered a guilty plea on August 22, 2024.
According to court documents, on November 25, 2023, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD), and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) responded to a 911 call of shots fired at a residence along Rugby Road in Jacksonville. Upon their arrival, JFRD and EMTs encountered Union, who had sustained what appeared to be penetration wounds near his chest and multiple injuries to his hands, including burns. EMTs transported Union to the hospital for medical treatment.
JSO officers observed blood drops on the front porch of the home and a blood trail leading toward the center of the backyard. Officers entered the backyard to conduct a protective sweep of the area and followed the blood trail to what appeared to be a blast site near a stone fire pit. The JSO Hazardous Devices Unit examined the blast site and observed a single drywall screw partially submerged in the dirt. Officers also found two live 12-gauge shotgun shells on the ground. JSO detectives secured a search warrant for the residence for explosives, firearms, and ammunition. Inside the residence, JSO located three firearms, including a Taurus International pistol, a Smith and Wesson revolver, and a Mossberg shotgun.
Prior to November 25, 2023, Union had been convicted of several felony offenses, including aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, dealing in stolen property, burglary, grand theft auto, and possession of cocaine. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Chadwick Lemaine (26, Ocoee) to eight years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Lemaine to forfeit a Glock 19 9mm semiautomatic pistol, which was involved in his offense. Lemaine entered a guilty plea on July 25, 2024.
According to court records, Lemaine was convicted of felony offenses in Florida in 2018 and 2019 and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms. On May 26, 2023, the Orlando Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Lemaine. During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a pistol. Lemaine’s DNA was on the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Nate.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on the following core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Chinese National Pleads Guilty to Access Device FraudRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Donghui Liao (32, China) has pleaded guilty to possession of 15 or more unauthorized access devices (gift cards). Liao faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement, a large-scale retail store has been the victim of an ongoing organized gift card fraud scheme. The structure of the scheme involved individuals stealing gift cards from the store, obtaining the account information from the back of the cards, resealing the cards in their original packaging, and placing the gift cards back onto the shelves of a different store location for customers to purchase. Once a customer purchased the gift card and loaded a monetary amount onto it, the fraudsters had access to the funds without the customer’s knowledge.
On October 17, 2023, an officer with the Ocala Police Department observed Liao retrieving numerous gift cards from a black shoulder bag he was wearing and placing those gift cards on the retailer’s gift card display. Liao was also observed taking gift cards off the shelves and concealing them inside his bag before leaving the store. Seventy-one of the gift cards that Liao had placed on the shelves showed signs of alteration and forgery. A search of Liao’s vehicle revealed 6,032 additional stolen gift cards. The combined value of the gift cards in Liao’s vehicle, if purchased and activated by customers, would have been $1.886 million. Store surveillance identified Liao performing this same scheme on multiple occasions at different stores in Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, and Florida.
This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Ten-Time Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Loranzia Outin, III (48, Middleburg) has pleaded guilty to possessing two firearms as a convicted felon. Outin faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
According to court documents, on March 22, 2024, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and their SWAT team executed a search warrant at Outin’s residence. During the search of Outin’s room, law enforcement officers located a 9mm pistol and a .22 caliber revolver. Outin had 10 prior felony convictions, including selling methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, and possession of a weapon or ammunition by a convicted felon. As a convicted felon, Outin is prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Jury Finds Tampa Man Guilty of Threatening to Plant A Bomb in Member of U.S. House of Representative’s District OfficeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Rigoberto Albizar Martinez (57, Tampa) guilty of threatening to destroy a building using an explosive. Martinez faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on May 1, 2024, Martinez called the Tampa district office of a member of the United States House of Representatives and left a vulgar, racist, obscenity-laden voicemail. In the voicemail, he threatened to plant a bomb in the Representative’s office.
This case was investigated by the United States Capitol Police – Threat Assessment Section. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Karyna Valdes and Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Wheeler III.
Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Odometer Tampering ChargesRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – Drew Mitchell Schreiber, of Orlando, Florida, pleaded guilty yesterday in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida to three counts of odometer tampering.
Schreiber, owner of Central Florida Automotive Group (now-named Southeastern Credit Union Solutions), in Winter Garden, Florida, purchased high-mileage used vehicles from wholesale automobile auctions throughout Florida. The vehicles’ odometers were then rolled back as much as 428,000 miles and resold to unsuspecting used-vehicle dealers via auto auctions or by online direct sales. The rolled-back vehicles were then sold to victims throughout the United States enriching Schreiber with fraudulent gains. In all, Schreiber sold rolled-back vehicles. Because many of these vehicles were more than 10 years old, Schreiber obtained so-called “exempt” titles that did not reveal the actual mileage of the vehicles.
“Just because a motor vehicle may be exempt from mileage recording on a title does not give a dealer the right to roll back odometers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “With vehicles remaining in use for longer periods of time, many Americans rely on older vehicles as their primary mode of transportation. Used car buyers deserve peace of mind knowing that the odometer reading in their vehicle is correct.”
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation investigated this case.
Trial Attorney David Sullivan of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kara Wick for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch.
plea_agreement.pdfFlorida Man Pleads Guilty to Odometer Tampering ChargesRead the Press Release
Drew Mitchell Schreiber, of Orlando, Florida, pleaded guilty yesterday in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida to three counts of odometer tampering.
Schreiber, owner of Central Florida Automotive Group (now-named Southeastern Credit Union Solutions), in Winter Garden, Florida, purchased high-mileage used vehicles from wholesale automobile auctions throughout Florida. The vehicles’ odometers were then rolled back as much as 428,000 miles and resold to unsuspecting used-vehicle dealers via auto auctions or by online direct sales. The rolled-back vehicles were then sold to victims throughout the United States enriching Schreiber with fraudulent gains. In all, Schreiber sold rolled-back vehicles. Because many of these vehicles were more than 10 years old, Schreiber obtained so-called “exempt” titles that did not reveal the actual mileage of the vehicles.
“Just because a motor vehicle may be exempt from mileage recording on a title does not give a dealer the right to roll back odometers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “With vehicles remaining in use for longer periods of time, many Americans rely on older vehicles as their primary mode of transportation. Used car buyers deserve peace of mind knowing that the odometer reading in their vehicle is correct.”
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation investigated this case.
Trial Attorney David Sullivan of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kara Wick for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch.
DeLand Felon Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearms on Two OccasionsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge John Antoon II has sentenced Loveking Kitching (22, DeLand) to three years and five months in federal prison for possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Kitching to forfeit the firearms and ammunition. Kitching entered a guilty plea on August 21, 2024.
According to court documents, on May 13, 2023, Kitching was involved in a shooting while riding as a passenger in car near a gas station in DeLand. Within minutes of the shooting, gas station security camera footage captured Kitching exiting the car and walking into the gas station’s convenience store while holding a loaded 9mm pistol. Law enforcement officers responded to the scene and recovered the pistol and other evidence, which indicated that Kitching had exchanged gunfire with someone outside the car. During the shooting, Kitching was shot in the mouth and hand. Shell casings found inside the vehicle where Kitching had been seated indicated that he had also fired the 9mm pistol from inside vehicle.
On December 12, 2023, law enforcement officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a vehicle Kitching was driving. Kitching failed to stop and instead led police on a vehicle chase into an industrial park that ended when Kitching reached a dead end. On the ground along the path of the chase, officers located Kitching’s cellphone and a loaded .40 caliber pistol. Kitching’s DNA and fingerprints were found on the pistol.
Kitching had previously been convicted (2022) of multiple felonies and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the DeLand Police Department, and the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Del Mastro.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Atlanta Woman Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Coretta Bates (31, Atlanta, GA) has pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft. Bates faces a mandatory term of two years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on April 18, 2023, Bates opened an account at a credit union in the name of “SLD.” She used a counterfeit North Carolina driver license with her photo and “SLD’s” identifying information to open that account. The credit union approved the application and issued a credit card to “SLD” with a $20,000 credit limit.
Between May 9 and July 7, 2023, “SLD” completed 22 cash withdrawals via ITM (interactive teller machine) from those checking and savings accounts at the credit union totaling $75,700. “SLD” had taken those funds from the credit union under false pretenses and representations by using the identity of another without authorization.
A joint U.S. Secret Service and Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office investigation revealed that there were numerous accounts in different names that the same individual depicted in the “SLD” driver license had opened during the same time. They contacted the real “SLD” and confirmed that she had not contacted the credit union or opened any accounts there. The bank fraud activity from the “SLD” and other related accounts caused the credit union to suffer actual losses of approximately $165,117.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.
Undocumented Jamaican Citizen Sentenced to Federal Prison for Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Alandrae David Brown (30, Jamaica) to seven months in federal prison for identity theft. Brown entered a guilty plea on August 27, 2024.
According to court documents, in September 2017, Brown obtained a Florida driver license in the name of another person. When he applied for the license, Brown represented that he was a United States citizen and that he was born in the U.S. Virgin Islands. In support of the application, he provided a purported U.S. Virgin Islands birth certificate and a valid Social Security number.
In April 2024, Brown was arrested by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, at which time he identified himself as, and presented the driver license in the name of, the other person. Suspecting that Brown was not who he said he was, immigration authorities interviewed him about his identity and citizenship, but he insisted that he was in fact the person in whose name he had obtained the license. Federal agents obtained passport records and U.S. Virgin Islands driver license records for the person whose identity Brown had adopted and the photographs in the records were not of Brown. Virgin Islands authorities confirmed that the birth certificate Brown used to obtain the license was a forgery.
After conducting this investigation, agents interviewed Brown and confronted him with the evidence they had collected, but he insisted that he really was the person whose identity he had stolen. After being charged, Brown admitted that his name was Alandrae David Brown, that he was from Jamaica, and that he was illegally present in the United States. Agents confirmed his identity with the Jamaican government.
“This recidivist criminal’s pattern of disregard for the law and identity theft is a betrayal of conscience and a direct assault on the victim’s life,” said Tim Hemker, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville assistant special agent in charge. “Identity theft is never a victimless crime as it devastates people emotionally and financially. HSI, alongside our law enforcement partners, are dedicated to uncovering the truth, no matter how criminals try to conceal it.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
Tallahassee Brothers Who Drove to Tampa to Commit Robberies IndictedRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Alonzo Deanthony Tucker-Wyche (27, Tallahassee) and De’quan Davion Wyche (24, Riverview) with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, robbery, and use of a firearm during the commission of the robberies. If convicted on all counts, each faces a minimum penalty of 20 years, up to life, in federal prison.
According to court documents, on October 27, 2024, at approximately 5:30 a.m., a silver vehicle entered the parking lot of a convenience store in Tampa. Tucker-Wyche exited the vehicle and entered the store while his brother, Wyche, remained in the car. Tucker-Wyche approached the counter, produced an AR-15 firearm from his pants, and pointed it at the clerk. The clerk immediately fled out the back door. Tucker-Wyche chased the clerk momentarily but was unable to catch him. After returning to the front of the store, Tucker-Wyche walked behind the counter and removed the cash register drawer from its wires, and fled to the waiting vehicle, which Wyche was driving.
During the course of the investigation, detectives and agents learned that the silver vehicle had also visited a gas station approximately two miles from the previous convenience store. A review of surveillance video revealed that, as in the previous store robbery, the silver vehicle backed into a parking spot. Tucker-Wyche exited the car and attempted to enter the gas station. The front door was locked, and the suspects left shortly after.
On November 5, 2024, at approximately 8 p.m., a silver vehicle matching the one driven during the first robbery pulled into the parking lot of a retail store in Tampa. Tucker-Wyche exited from the passenger side and entered the store, pointed a firearm at the clerk, and demanded she open the cash register. The clerk was on her phone at the time and did not immediately react, at which time Tucker-Wyche came around the counter, grabbed the clerk’s phone from her hand, and threw it to the ground. Tucker-Wyche grabbed the entire cash drawer and fled back to the silver vehicle that was waiting for him.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Florida Highway Patrol. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sarasota Man Indicted for Distributing, Receiving, and Accessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Sean Anthony Christie (42, Sarasota) with distribution, receipt, and access with intent to view child sexual abuse material. If convicted on all counts, Christie faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, between November 17 and 19, 2024, Christie distributed and received child sex abuse material. Christie also accessed with intent to view child sex abuse material which involved a child under the age of 12.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Louisiana Fugitive Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Sammie Ray Sewell, Jr. (43, Alexandria, LA) to five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Sewell to forfeit the firearm and ammunition, which were possessed during the offense. Sewell entered a guilty plea on September 16, 2024.
According to court documents, a detective from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office located Sewell at a Fort Myers hotel with a chamber loaded pistol with an extended magazine. At the time, Sewell had extraditable warrants out of Louisiana and was a convicted felon. As a convicted felon, Sewell is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Myers Felon Sentenced for Possessing A Loaded Firearm During A Traffic StopRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Marquis Lamar Kitchen (38, Fort Myers) to two years and three months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Kitchen to forfeit a firearm and ammunition, which were possessed during the offense. Kitchen pleaded guilty on September 18, 2024.
According to court documents, on March 21, 2024, officers from the Fort Myers Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle after observing it moving side to side. The vehicle slow rolled for a few blocks before coming to a stop. Officers gave loud commands for the driver to roll down all off the vehicle’s windows. An officer watched a male jump from the driver’s seat to the passenger seat, and a female jump from the passenger seat to the driver’s seat. When officers asked the occupants to get out of the vehicle, they found Kitchen in the passenger seat.
As the occupants were exiting the vehicle, an officer spotted a pistol on the driver’s side floorboard protruding from underneath the driver’s seat. DNA analysis linked Kitchen to the trigger, rough areas, and loading port of the pistol. At the time, Kitchen was a previously convicted felon making him prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Fort Myers Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Federal Jury Convicts Man of Enticement to Meet A Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Jordan Franklin Trexler (30, Casselberry) guilty of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and two counts of production of child sexual abuse material. Trexler faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 12, 2025.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Trexler groomed the minor victim to engage in sexual activity when she was 14 years old and reached out to her via social media and offered her marijuana. After they met in person, Trexler got the victim heavily intoxicated then sexually abused her. Over the course of approximately two weeks, Trexler and the victim exchanged messages on a social media application discussing plans to meet and the type of sexual activity that Trexler wanted the 14-year-old to engage in with him. During that time, Trexler and the victim met nearly every night and engaged in sexual activity. During one of those nights, Trexler video recorded his sexual abuse of the victim. Additionally, Trexler produced a sexually explicit image of the victim when she was asleep and partially nude in his car.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Tampa Division - Orlando Resident Agency, the Oviedo Police Department, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kaley Austin-Aronson and Stephanie McNeff.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Conspirator in Multi-Million Dollar International Money Laundering Conspiracy Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza has sentenced Gabriel Aldemar Velez Torres (32, Orlando) to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering and structuring. Velez Torres entered a guilty plea on September 17, 2024.
According to court documents, in late February 2021, Cristian Rodriguez Labour recruited Velez Torres into this scheme and used his personal identifiers to incorporate a fake business, “Gabes Go Getter, Inc.” Between March 9 and 12, 2021, Velez Torres opened four different bank accounts at local banks in the name of this fake business. Thereafter, other conspirators working with Labour hacked into businesses throughout the country, causing those businesses to wire large amounts of funds to accounts held by “Gabes Go Getter, Inc.” Once received, Velez Torres transferred the bulk of the fraudulent proceeds to offshore accounts held by businesses in Weifang, China, then withdrew a portion of the fraud proceeds as payment for the laundering conspirators, often structuring those withdrawals to avoid law enforcement and regulatory scrutiny. During this conspiracy, conspirators directed $2,183,086.70 of fraud proceeds to and through business accounts for “Gabes Go Getter, Inc,” $741,043.11 of which was successfully laundered to Chinese offshore accounts.
Overall, members of the conspiracy successfully laundered $3,323,941 to offshore accounts in China and unsuccessfully attempted to launder another $5,057,777, all of which were the proceeds or attempted proceeds of computer fraud and cyber intrusions on small businesses and other entities throughout the United States and Canada. Other conspirators received the following sentences:
NamePlea DateCount(s) in Indictment to Which Defendant Pleaded GuiltySentencing DateSentence ImposedCristian Rodriguez Labour2/21/241 (conspiracy)6/21/247 years
Jihad William Morales5/2/241 (conspiracy)
2-8 (money laundering)
9-11 (structuring)
8/22/245 years, 10 monthsMichael Gabriel Robles Vazquez4/9/241 (conspiracy)
12-14 (money laundering)
8/22/242 years, 10 monthsAramys Gonzalez Rodriguez3/25/241 (conspiracy)
15-23 (money laundering)
24-29 (structuring)
9/18/244 years, 3 monthsJorge Ivan Ortiz Buil4/9/241 (conspiracy)
30-34 (money laundering)
35 (structuring)
8/22/245 years, 3 monthsThis case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.
Administrator of Online Criminal Marketplace Arrested in KosovoRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the indictment and arrest of Liridon Masurica (33, Gjilan, Kosovo), a Kosovo national also known as “@blackdb.” Masurica was taken into custody today by authorities in Kosovo. U.S. authorities are pursuing Masurica’s extradition to the United States, pursuant to the extradition treaty between the United States and the Republic of Kosovo.
On December 3, 2024, a grand jury in the Middle District of Florida returned an indictment charging Masurica with one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and five substantive counts of fraudulent use of 15 or more unauthorized access devices. If convicted on all counts, Masurica faces a maximum penalty of 55 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, Masurica was the lead administrator of BlackDB.cc—an online criminal marketplace in operation from 2018 until present. BlackDB.cc illegally offered for sale compromised account and server credentials, credit card information, and other personally identifiable information of individuals primarily located in the United States, including those located within the Middle District of Florida. Once purchased, cybercriminals used the items purchased on BlackDB.cc to facilitate a wide range of illegal activity, including tax fraud, credit card fraud, and identity theft.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS-Criminal Investigation and in cooperation with Kosovo Police’s Cybercrime Investigation Directorate. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlton C. Gammons. Substantial assistance was provided by the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Sofia, Bulgaria and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs. Additionally, Special Prosecution of the Republic of Kosova and Kosovo Police’s Cybercrime Investigation Directorate provided substantial assistance in the arrest of Masurica.
St. Cloud Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years for Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron today sentenced James Edward Cox, Jr. (80, St. Cloud) to eight years and one month in federal prison for receipt and possession of child sexual abuse materials. Cox entered a guilty plea on August 14, 2024.
According to court documents, on January 19, 2024, officers from the St. Cloud Police Department conducted a search of Cox’s home. Images discovered during the examination of devices at Cox’s home led to a subsequent search warrant and arrest of Cox on March 5, 2024. Hundreds of images and multiple videos on one of the devices located at that residence was determined to be used by Cox. Those images and videos showed sexual abuse of infant and young girls, including one that had been uploaded by Cox to a website in his effort to look for similar materials. Cox later characterized his conduct in a recorded and monitored jail call as looking for “little girls.”
“Actively scouring the dark web to find and collect sexual abuse content of children perpetuates the suffering of innocent victims around the world,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Orlando David Pezzutti. “This sentencing reflects the gravity of this predator’s crimes, as well as HSI’s commitment to shedding a light on the dark web to protect children from harm.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the St. Cloud Police Department and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.
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.
Saint James City Man Sentenced to Five Years for Possessing and Accessing Child Sexual Abuse Images and VideosRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Douglas Alan Vander Laan (68, Saint James City) to five years in federal prison for possessing and accessing with intent to view images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Vander Laan was also sentenced to a 15-year term of supervised release and ordered to register as a sex offender. Vander Laan entered a guilty plea on August 20, 2024.
According to court documents, between June and August 2023, the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received four cybertips from an Electronic Service Provider reporting that Vander Laan had uploaded filed depicting child sexual abuse material onto an online visual search service to search for similar images.
On November 28, 2023, agents made contact with Vander Laan at his place of employment, and he agreed to speak with the agents. Vander Laan admitted that he had used the visual search service and viewed images of children that were unclothed.
On November 28, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Vander Laan’s residence and seized Vander Laan’s laptop. A subsequent forensic examination of the laptop revealed images and videos of child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fort Myers Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Ocala Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Attempting to Meet A 13-Year-Old to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Devin Joseph Rivera (24, Ocala) to 10 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Rivera entered a guilty plea on September 20, 2024.
According to court documents, on July 24, 2024, Rivera communicated online with someone whom he believed was a 13-year-old girl. The child, however, was an undercover Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent. Rivera engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the undercover agent. Ultimately, Rivera was arrested when he rode his bicycle to a pre-determined meeting location in Marion County to engage in sexual activity with the “child.” Rivera also brought a blanket and a condom with him to the location.
"Actively scouring the dark web to find and collect sexual abuse content of children perpetuates the suffering of innocent victims around the world,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Orlando David Pezzutti. “This sentencing reflects the gravity of this predator’s crimes, as well as HSI’s commitment to shedding a light on the dark web to protect children from harm.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Chiefland Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
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.
United States Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Stealing MailRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jesse L. Anderson (43, St. Petersburg) has pleaded guilty to theft by a postal employee. Anderson faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in May 2023, the United States Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) received a complaint regarding stolen mail, which included a credit card and Social Security card. In October 2023, USPS-OIG received another complaint from the same individual regarding a second credit card missing from the mail. Through investigation, it was determined that Anderson used the individual’s credit card after stealing it on his assigned postal route.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Claire Favorit and Abigail K. King.
Orange County Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Joshua Grant Cobb (34, Orlando) to 25 years in federal prison for possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute them and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Cobb pled guilty on July 31, 2024.
According to court documents, law enforcement identified Cobb as a distributor of methamphetamine and heroin/fentanyl who used his residence to facilitate his drug deals. A confidential source was then used to arrange a controlled purchase of fentanyl at Cobb’s residence. Cobb was detained leaving his residence for the deal. He had a loaded firearm and 55 grams of a fentanyl mixture on his person. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Cobb’s residence. Inside, agents located over 700 grams of methamphetamine, nearly 350 grams of fentanyl mixtures, $4,000 in cash, drug processing materials and equipment, and six additional loaded firearms.
Cobb was ordered to forfeit the firearms and ammunition he possessed.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Brevard County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Labelle Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Coercion and Enticement of A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Daniel Carson Miller (30, Labelle) to 30 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, receipt of child sexual abuse material, possessing and accessing with intent to view images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, and transferring obscene matter to a minor. Miller was also sentenced to a lifetime of supervised release and ordered to register as a sex offender. Miller entered a guilty plea on August 20, 2024.
According to court documents, from June through December 19, 2023, Miller sought out and chatted with minors over the internet through the use of a social media application. In June 2023, a parent notified law enforcement that Miller, claiming to be 16 years old, had been chatting with a 13-year-old child using a social media application and soliciting sexually explicit images of the minor. At Miller’s urging and direction, the teen sent sexually explicit photos and videos to Miller.
In November 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant for Miller’s social media account. The account records revealed numerous conversations that Miller had with minors in which Miller asked the minors for explicit images of themselves. Miller also sent photos of his genitals to minors.
In December 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Miller’s residence. Miller agreed to speak with agents and admitted to using a social media application to request child sexual abuse material from minors. He estimated that he had requested the material from approximately 100 minors and admitted to sending a photo of his genitals to approximately 200 minors. Miller admitted that at times he would threaten self-harm in order to receive sexually explicit images from minors. A forensic examination of Miller’s cellphones and laptop revealed images and videos of child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fort Myers Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Naval Weapons Instructor Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing Silencers and A Short-Barrel RifleRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Rocco Joseph Frakes (50, Middleburg) has pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing unregistered silencers and an unregistered short-barrel rifle. Frakes 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 25, 2024, federal agents executed a search warrant at Frakes’s home and located a .22 caliber rifle with a threaded barrel, three silencers, a rifle with a 7 ½ inch long barrel, and a .45 caliber machinegun in Frakes’s bedroom. Contrary to federal law, none of these devices were registered to Frakes in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record—a database maintained by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Frakes is retired from the United States Navy, where his primary duty was as a weapons instructor for Atlantic Fleet squadrons.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to Prison for Trying to Illegally Buy A PistolRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Jason Harris (43, Palm Coast) to two years and four months in federal prison for making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm. Harris entered a guilty plea on April 10, 2024.
According to court documents and records, on May 22, 2023, Harris attempted to purchase a .22 caliber pistol from a gun store in Bunnell. At the time, Harris had multiple prior felony convictions, including robbery, felony battery and sale of cocaine. During the attempted purchase, Harris made a false statement on an ATF Form 4473, indicating that he was not a convicted felon. Because of his prior convictions, Harris is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This is another case identified through the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). All NICS denials are reported to federal law enforcement and are reviewed daily for potential criminal prosecution. Federal law makes it a felony offense to make a false statement to a firearms dealer when trying to buy a gun.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Talbot.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Clewiston Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell today sentenced Felix Alberto Quinones (26, Clewiston) to six years in federal prison for distributing cocaine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense. Quinones pleaded guilty on August 28, 2024.
According to court documents Quinones pleaded guilty to selling cocaine and a firearm to an undercover ATF agent on October 3, 2023. Quinones also pleaded guilty to selling cocaine to an undercover ATF agent on October 11, 2023.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Tarpon Springs Felon Previously Convicted for Attempted Murder of A Police Officer Convicted for Possessing Ammunition Loaded into Ar-15 Ghost GunRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found James Patrick Sychowski (48, Tarpon Springs) guilty of possessing ammunition by a convicted felon. Sychowski faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. Sychowski was indicted on May 17, 2023.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on February 7, 2023, at his mother’s residence in Tarpon Springs, Sychowski armed himself with a loaded AR-15 “ghost gun” he built himself over the course of several months, threatened to kill his mother and her husband, and threatened to shoot at any police officers responding to the scene. When officers from the Tarpon Springs Police Department arrived, Sychowski fled and was later arrested in Clearwater. Officers discovered the AR-15 ghost gun on Sychowski’s bed in his room and discovered the construction materials and accessories Sychowski used to build the AR-15. Further investigation revealed that Sychowski had purchased the AR-15 components online and shipped them to the Tarpon Springs residence.
Bank statements and financial documents presented at trial corroborated Sychowski’s purchase of the ghost gun components and his purchase of PMC 5.56mm ammunition and a magazine from a local firearms store in Holiday, Florida. Evidence presented to the jury obtained from Sychowski’s cell phone corroborated the firearm and accessories purchases and featured a photograph of the same AR-15 ghost gun.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Tarpon Springs Police Department, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David W.A. Chee and David J. Pardo.
Miami Man Sentenced to More Than 20 Years for Producing and Attempting to Produce Child Sexual Abuse Materials Using Hidden CamerasRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Gray Edward Rivera (46, Miami) to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison for production and attempted production of child sexual abuse materials. Once Rivera is released from prison, he will be required to serve a 10-year period of supervised release. Gray Edward Rivera was found guilty by a jury on September 5, 2024.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Rivera gifted three items – a Bluetooth speaker, calendar/clock, and a USB charging tower – containing hidden cameras to a child and set them up in the child’s bedroom. In addition, a hidden camera smoke detector was discovered in the living room area. Those cameras were later discovered by the child’s mother, and she contacted the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). Rivera was out of the country at the time.
The CCSO partnered with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and obtained Rivera’s cell phones when he re-entered the United States via a border search. A review of Rivera’s cell phones resulted in the discovery of 14 files containing child sexual abuse material of the child, as well as phone activity related to the use of the app for controlling the hidden cameras. Records obtained by law enforcement showed that Rivera had purchased three of the hidden cameras online.
“This predator’s use of hidden cameras to spy on a child in intimate areas in her own home is a heinous violation of trust and privacy,” said Tim Hemker, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge. “Thanks to the diligent efforts of the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, and the protective nature of the victim’s mother, this predator will now spend more than two decades behind bars for his appalling actions. This investigation underscores our commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and pursuing justice for those who seek to exploit and harm children.”
This case was investigated by the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, to include Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, , and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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.
Jacksonville Felon Sentenced to More Than Seven Years for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Emanuel Toney Cuff (24, Jacksonville) to seven years and three months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Cuff entered a guilty plea in September 2024.
According to court documents, on February 20, 2024, officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office were on patrol when they observed Cuff commit multiple traffic violations on a bicycle. While conducting a records search, an officer found an arrest warrant for Cuff and placed him under arrest. During a search of Cuff, officers found a loaded .40 caliber pistol with a large-capacity magazine hidden in Cuff’s waistband, five small bags of dipentylone, a small bag of marijuana, and $185 cash in varying denominations. Cuff was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including armed carjacking, carjacking, and robbery by sudden snatching. Therefore, he 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 was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Deltona Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Images and VideosRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Christian Alberto Arango (33, Deltona) to 8 years and 1 month in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material. The Court also ordered Arango to register as a sex offender and forfeit a computer and cell phone, which were used to commit the offenses. Arango had entered a guilty plea on June 11, 2024.
According to court documents, Arango was identified as a purchaser of child sexual abuse material during an FBI investigation into an individual who had been producing and selling that material on the internet. On November 13, 2023, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Arango’s Deltona residence and seized his computer and cell phone. A subsequent forensic examination of those devices revealed over 500 images and over 600 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including children as young as toddlers.
On February 13, 2024, during an interview with agents, Arango admitted that he had purchased and downloaded hundreds of child sexual abuse images since approximately 2018.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Del Mastro.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
California Man Indicted for CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Girish Subburaman (24, California) with one count of cyberstalking. If convicted, Subburaman faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A federal grand jury indicted Subburaman on October 22, 2024.
According to the indictment, from at least September 2023, to at least October 2023, Subburaman used the internet, a social media application, and cellular telephone networks to engage in a course of conduct that caused, attempted to cause, and would be reasonably expected to cause substantial emotional distress to the victim, while the victim was residing in Lake County, Florida. Subburaman’s actions were intended to injure, harass, and intimidate the victim.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Leesburg Police Department, and the San Diego Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos.
Second Member of Multi-State Gas Pump Skimming Device and Fuel Theft Ring Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft and Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Luis Edel Trujillo Pena (29, Miami) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Pena faces up to 20 years in prison on the wire fraud count, up to 5 years’ imprisonment on the conspiracy count and a minimum penalty of 2 years in prison on the aggravated identity theft count, and payment of restitution to the victims he and his co-defendants defrauded. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Pena and his co-conspirators worked together to install skimmers on gas pumps at gas stations in Alabama, Louisiana, and Northern Florida, including the Florida Panhandle. The conspirators used the skimmers to illegally obtain credit and debit card account numbers connected with the purchase of fuel by customers at the gas pump. Using the account numbers stolen by the skimmers, Pena and his co-conspirators made counterfeit credit and debit cards. Pena then distributed the counterfeit credit and debit cards to his co-conspirators to purchase large amount of diesel fuel.
During the conspiracy, Pena and others drove vehicles that contained a fuel bladder system. This system allowed the conspirators to fake pumping gas into the vehicle’s gas tank when in fact the diesel fuel was being pumped into the fuel bladder system. Analysis by law enforcement of fuel purchases, vehicle tracker data, gas station video surveillance, and real time surveillance of the conspirators determined that Pena and other conspirators drove to multiple gas stations throughout Northern Florida. After obtaining the gas, Pena directed the conspirators to offload the stolen fuel into 9,500-gallon tanker trucks at a fuel yard. The stolen fuel was then sold to a gas station associated with one of the co-conspirators.
Deonelky Tabares Cid (36, Tampa) previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy, four counts of wire fraud, six counts of access device fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft for his role in this case. He is pending sentencing.
Deyvis Hernandez (37, Miami), Luis Ernesto Vigil Ochoa (32, Miami), and Isvaldo Guerra Perdomo (38, Jacksonville) are set for trial in January 2025.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, U.S. General Services Administration - Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Secret Service – Jacksonville Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Oldsmar Man Pleads Guilty to Producing and Distributing Child Sexual Abuse and AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Justin Ryan Culmo (40, Oldsmar) has pleaded guilty to three counts of production of child sexual abuse material, one count of distribution of child sexual abuse material, one count of possession of child sexual abuse material, and one count of production of child sexual abuse material that is an adapted or modified depiction of a minor. Culmo faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Culmo produced child sexual abuse imagery involving children as young as infants and toddlers, and produced thousands of images of child sexual abuse using generative artificial intelligence (AI). Culmo possessed approximately 85,00 images of child sexual abuse material, 845 videos of child sexual abuse material, and 8,500 AI-generated images of child sexual abuses.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abigail K. King.
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.
Marion County Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years for Attempting to Entice A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Joseph Raymond Morin (51, Ocala) to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison, followed by a life term of supervised release, for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Morin entered a guilty plea on September 5, 2024.
According to documents and evidence presented in court, between May 3 and June 26, 2024, Morin communicated online with someone whom he believed was a 13-year-old girl. The child, however, was an undercover Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent. Morin engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the undercover agent. Ultimately, Morin was arrested when he traveled to a pre-determined location in Marion County to meet with the fictitious minor to engage in sexual activity. Morin has a lengthy criminal history, including a prior federal conviction for a firearm offense.
“Today’s sentence serves as a stark reminder that Homeland Security Investigations is committed to protecting children from online predators,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “HSI, alongside our law enforcement partners at all levels, are dedicated to working tirelessly to rescue children.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
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.
Clinic Owner and Doctor Indicted for Scheme to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Tampa residents Bridget Luzod (42) and Victor Silva, MD (79) with one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, 19 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances, and 19 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances using a registration number issued to another person. If convicted on all counts, Luzod and Silva each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Luzod and Silva that the United States intends to forfeit any money or asset traceable to proceeds of the offenses.
According to the indictment, Luzod was the owner and primary operator of Thrive Medical Clinic, an alternative medicine clinic in South Tampa that she opened in September 2018. Although Luzod portrayed herself as a doctor or nurse to her patients, she had only a Florida basic x-ray machine operator license, which expired in 2018 and which Luzod did not renew until March 2024. She was not licensed to practice medicine in Florida and did not have a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number to prescribe controlled substances.
Around March 2020, Luzod hired Dr. Silva to serve as Thrive’s medical director. Silva did not examine Thrive’s patients, diagnose them, prescribe treatments, or review their medical files. Instead, from 2020 to 2024, Luzod paid Silva a monthly stipend, and in return, Silva allowed Luzod to use Silva’s credentials and DEA registration number to treat her patients, friends, and family members with controlled substances – including Adderall, testosterone, hydrocodone, and phentermine. Luzod regularly forged Silva’s signature or used a rubber stamp to affix it to prescriptions.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Health, the Tampa Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael M. Gordon.
Marion County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Terrance Maurice Washington (42, Marion County) to 14 years in federal prison for possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine and fentanyl) with intent to distribute it. Washington entered a guilty plea on June 26, 2024.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions between October 2023 and January 2024, Washington distributed methamphetamine and/or fentanyl to a confidential source who was working with law enforcement. The drugs provided by Washington during the transactions ranged from gram quantities to upwards of a pound or more of methamphetamine. Washington bragged that the type of fentanyl he distributed was “dropping people.” After law enforcement arrested Washington, a search of his residence revealed another two pounds of methamphetamine intended for distribution.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team (UDEST). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.