Middle District of Florida

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Gee Seymour (31, Opa-Locka) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing a stolen firearm. Seymour faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison for each offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to the court documents, on December 13, 2023, Seymour entered a pawn shop in Clearwater and stole a Ruger LC9 9mm pistol from a display case.  The next day, the store owner called the ATF Tampa office and the Clearwater Police Department to report the stolen firearm. Just after midnight, Seymour’s vehicle was stopped by officers from the St. Petersburg Police Department due to the vehicle having no operable lights. During the traffic stop, officers smelled the odor of marijuana and searched Seymour’s vehicle. The officers located the firearm he had stolen from the pawn shop the day before. On December 21, 2023, ATF agents interviewed Seymour who admitted that he had stolen the firearm and was a convicted felon at the time. As a convicted felon, Seymour is prohibited from possessing a firearm of ammunition under federal law.

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.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Clearwater Police Department, and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David W.A. Chee.

Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Jhon Astudillo (45, Ocala) with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, Astudillo faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.

According to court documents, on July 24, 2024, an undercover detective with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) posed as a 15-year-old girl on an online messaging application. Astudillo contacted the undercover detective’s account, and after learning the fictitious minor was 15 years old, Astudillo responded, “I like young girls like you.” Astudillo then sent multiple sexually explicit messages to the
“child.” Astudillo told her that he likes young girls because they are “perverted;” he described what he has done sexually with girls her age; he inquired about what she has done sexually with older men; and he asked to see her breasts so he could “rate” them. Astudillo arranged to meet the “child” that night at a predetermined location in Marion County. When Astudillo arrived at the location, he was arrested by law enforcement.

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 Homeland Security Investigations, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos.

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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Joseph Marion (41, St. Petersburg) to life in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine; distributing fentanyl; distributing a mixture of fentanyl and heroin that resulted in serious bodily injury; and possessing fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine with the intent to distribute it. As part of his sentence, the court also ordered Marion to forfeit the $13,190 that was recovered from his pocket at the time of his arrest, which represented proceeds from his criminal conduct.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, Marion imported fentanyl and fentanyl analogues from China via the U.S. mail. Marion blended and packaged the fentanyl himself and then sold fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine to multiple street dealers, each of whom further distributed those drugs to users. During the trial, one of those street dealers testified that she bought 40-100 bags of fentanyl from Marion each day, every day, for several years. Marion sold between 7.1 and 17.8 kilograms of fentanyl, enough to kill over 70,000 people, to just this one street dealer.

In November 2019, a woman who was with Marion in his apartment snorted Marion’s fentanyl, thinking it was heroin, and nearly died. Paramedics arrived at the apartment and saved her life, though she was hospitalized for days afterward.

In addition to importing and selling drugs, Marion also trafficked women for sex. He often recruited women who were addicted to his drugs and then advertised and “managed” them as prostitutes.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Secret Service, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Clearwater Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael M. Gordon.

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.

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest of Jessie Wooden (36, Miami) on a two-count indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of contraband by a federal prisoner. If convicted, Wooden faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A federal grand jury had returned the indictment on Wooden on May 28, 2024. 

According to the indictment, on March 10, 2024, Wooden was a federal inmate at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex. He possessed at least 50 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. He also was in possession of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (a Schedule I controlled substance), and buprenorphine (a Schedule III controlled substance).

An indictment is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

This case is being prosecuted as part of a United States Department of Justice task force aimed at rooting out contraband and misconduct in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The task force was led by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the DOJ Office of the Inspector General, with support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that James Edward Snider, Jr., (25, Deltona) has pleaded guilty to transferring unregistered firearms. Snider faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, and sentencing is set for December 11, 2024.

According to court documents, Snider transferred one or more machinegun conversion devices that were not lawfully registered. A search of Snider’s residence located additional machinegun conversion devices and firearm silencers.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  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.

Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Byron Louder (34, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Louder faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. Sentencing is set for November 6, 2024.

According to court records, on December 25, 2022, officers from the Orlando Police Department observed Louder make several hand-to-hand transactions while possessing a firearm in his waistband. After arresting Louder, he admitted to possessing the firearm and knowing that he was prohibited from doing so. Prior to this incident, Louder was convicted of multiple felonies including delivery of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver. As a convicted felon 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 Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie McNeff.

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.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Bradenton residents Clemente Betancourt (28), Estevan Betancourt (19), Larry Lee Woodard, Jr. (29), Adonis Bonilla (29), Omar Mejia (29), Jesse Leahy (48), and Alexander Perez (30) have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.  Each faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not yet been set.

According to court documents, between March 2022 and May 2023, the above-named individuals were involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in Bradenton and throughout Manatee County. In addition to the conspiracy charges, the individuals have also pleaded guilty to substantive charges on specific dates.

At the time of the arrests, a search warrant was executed at Clemente and Estevan Betancourt’s house in Bradenton. As a result of that search, three firearms, approximately one pound of methamphetamine, 22 cellphones, cocaine, and marijuana were seized. 

The United States intends to forfeit any and all property, which is alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offenses.

This case was investigated by a joint Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) which includes Homeland Security Investigations Tampa (HSI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Central Florida Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug trafficking Area (HIDTA) which includes the Bradenton Police Department, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the North Port Police Department, the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Palmetto Police Department, the Sarasota Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assisted with the investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Guzman, David Sullivan, and Suzanne Nebesky.

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.

Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Markee Washington (33, Jacksonville) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Washington faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. As part of his plea, Washington has agreed to forfeit a Glock pistol, machinegun conversion device, and ammunition involved in the case.

According to the plea agreement, on February 11, 2023, at approximately 10:45 p.m., a trooper from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) conducted a traffic stop of a car that Washington was driving. The trooper was quickly joined at the scene by two officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO). Based on Washington’s statements that he had been smoking marijuana, as well as the smell of the drug emanating from him and the car, officers searched the car. Inside the gap between the car’s ceiling and roof (which was accessible by removing the overhead sunglasses compartment), an officer located a bundle of cash and a 9mm Glock pistol.

The pistol was loaded with 31 rounds of ammunition in an extended magazine. It also was outfitted with a so-called Glock-switch, that is, a device installed on the pistol that converted it into a fully automatic machinegun.  Washington surrendered to the officers a small bag of marijuana that he had hidden down his pants. He also had a stack of cash in his pants’ pocket. In total, $2,447 was in the car and on Washington.

An investigator later obtained a search warrant authorizing law enforcement to obtain a DNA sample from Washington. Laboratory testing determined that his DNA was both on the exterior of the Glock pistol and on ammunition loaded inside the pistol’s magazine.

At the time, Washington had previously been convicted of various felonies, including multiple drug-trafficking offenses. As a convicted felon, he was prohibited by law from possessing firearms and ammunition.

This case was investigated by the Florida Highway Patrol, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael J. Coolican and Kelly S. Milliron.

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, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest of Nicholes Scott Newman (42, Hilliard) on an indictment charging him with distribution of child sexual abuse materials. If convicted, Newman faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison.

According to court records, in June 2024, an undercover detective from a Texas law enforcement agency visited an online messaging application and posed as a 28-year female with an 8-year-old daughter. Newman introduced himself to the undercover by saying, “42 year old male, looking to breed.” Newman engaged in sexually explicit conversations regarding children and sent the undercover detective multiple videos of child exploitation material. Newman is a convicted sex offender out of Pinellas County, where he was sentenced to more than six years in Florida State Prison after he was convicted on 20 counts of possession of child pornography.    

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 being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.

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 Attorney’s 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, Florida – United States District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Cunwen Zhu (45, China) to 17 months in federal prison for money laundering. Zhu entered a guilty plea on April 8, 2024.

According to court documents, Zhu received a $470,000 wire transfer which came from a victim of a financial investment scam. The victim was one of many that believed that their money was funding an online brokerage account, when in reality the funds were going to bad actors that were using it for their personal gain. Zhu took the money, converted it to cryptocurrency, and sent it to his associate in China. Zhu was paid a percentage of the money that he transferred to the Chinese national. As part of Zhu’s sentence, he was ordered to pay $470,000 to the victim.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service North Florida Cyber Fraud Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.  

Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell today sentenced Latrel Jackson aka “Kobe” (27, Chicago, IL) to life in federal prison for conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire and murder-for-hire. Jackson’s co-defendant, Marvin Harris, Jr. aka “Mesh” (25, Fort Myers), was sentenced to 45 years in prison earlier this year.

According to court documents, Harris, Jr. hired Jackson and an unindicted co-conspirator, D.S. (deceased), to travel from Chicago to Fort Myers to commit murder in exchange for $10,000 in November 2019. Harris, Jr.’s motive was to retaliate against individuals who he believed had previously robbed a Fort Myers residence from which he and others associated with him sold drugs. The individuals Harris, Jr. suspected of committing the robbery and shooting belonged to a Fort Myers gang known to law enforcement as “Bucktown.”

With the agreement to retaliate against Bucktown in place, Jackson and D.S. flew to Fort Myers from Chicago on October 28, 2019. Upon arrival, Harris, Jr. picked Jackson and D.S. up from the Southwest Florida International Airport and provided them with partial payment for the planned murder, as well as firearms to accomplish their task. 

Initially, Jackson and D.S. stayed at Harris, Jr.’s “trap house” (a residence used primarily to distribute drugs from) in Fort Myers, but later moved to a local motel on Palm Beach Boulevard. During that time, Jackson, D.S., and others attempted to find members of Bucktown to murder in the retaliatory scheme.

On November 2, 2019, Harris, Jr. obtained a vehicle for Jackson and D.S. to use during the commission of a murder. Jackson and D.S. proceeded to a known Bucktown hangout in Fort Myers and observed the victim, K.U., standing in front of the residence near the curb. Jackson and D.S. quickly circled the block and returned and, at close range, opened fire on K.U., killing him in front of the home via a gunshot wound to the head.

After the shooting, Harris, Jr. paid Jackson and D.S. the remaining sum of money owed for completing the murder-for-hire scheme. Jackson and D.S. were also left in possession of the firearms used to commit the murder. Jackson and D.S. then returned to the Chicago via commercial bus on November 3, 2019.

During a search of Jackson’s Chicago-area home on November 21, 2019, law enforcement recovered two firearms from an attic space in Jackson’s room. Testing and examination of the firearms by an examiner with the ATF confirmed that both matched shell casings recovered from the murder scene and the murder vehicle, and that one of the firearms had fired the bullet which had been recovered from K.U.’s head during his autopsy.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Myers Police Department, with assistance from the Joliet (Illinois) Police Department, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael V. Leeman.

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.

Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Brian Hamilton (43, Orlando) to 50 years in federal prison for production and receipt of child sexual abuse material. Hamilton pleaded guilty on March 27, 2024.

According to court documents, tips about a user distributing child sexual abuse material online led the FBI to Hamilton. After the FBI executed a search warrant at Hamilton’s residence on October 11, 2023, they located numerous videos of child sexual abuse material on Hamilton’s laptop, some of which had been produced by Hamilton. Hamilton admitted that he had sexually abused one of the child victims in the videos and stated that he had done so to “get even” with the child’s parent. Hamilton also admitted to sexually abusing the child victim on multiple occasions, including in a public restroom.

“Compassion for the victims is what drives our agents to work these incredibly disturbing cases. While today’s sentencing ensures the end of this defendant’s despicable crime, the FBI continues its effort to expose those preying on the innocent and make certain justice is served,” said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor.        

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie McNeff.

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 Attorney’s 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, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest of Scott Alan Colson (59, Ocala) on an indictment charging him with attempted enticement of a minor. If convicted, Colson faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A federal grand jury indicted Colson on August 6, 2024. His case is set for trial in October 2024 before U.S. District Judge Thomas Patrick Barber. 

According to court records, on July 24, 2024, a Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) undercover detective posed as a 15-year-old girl on an online messaging application. Colson contacted the undercover detective’s account and inquired as to whether the fictional minor had ever been with older men and asked to meet her. He told her, “You keep secrets if we meet up.” Colson then engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the undercover detective. During the conversation, Colson asked the fictional minor to “make it easy to get down ur pantys.” The following day, they agreed to meet at a predetermined location in Marion County. When Colson drove to the location, he was arrested by law enforcement. An examination of Colson’s cellphone revealed child sexual exploitation materials.

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 being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Hannah Nowalk.

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 Attorney’s 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, Florida – Senior United States District Judge John Antoon II has sentenced Clinton Darnelle Kaham (24, Ocala) to 20 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Kaham pleaded guilty in February 2024.

According to court records, on July 6, 2022, officers from the Ocala Police Department discovered Kaham, a gang member, in possession of a loaded firearm. The firearm had previously been reported stolen in Marion County. A subsequent FBI forensic analysis found very strong support that Kaham was the source of the DNA profile developed from the trigger, grip, frame, and trigger guard of the firearm. At the time he possessed the firearm, Kaham was a convicted felon for possession of heroin (2021). As a convicted felon, Kaham is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.

 This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.

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, Florida – Senior United States District Judge John Antoon II has sentenced Walter Lamar Jackson (43, Georgia) to six years for assault within the special maritime or territorial jurisdiction of the United States (a federal prison) resulting in serious bodily harm. A federal jury found Jackson guilty on January 30, 2024.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Jackson was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Complex Coleman in Sumter County, Florida. On July 15, 2021, he was housed in a cell with another inmate inside the facility’s special housing unit. At approximately 5:50 p.m., correctional officers responded to an emergency alarm and discovered Jackson’s cellmate lying on the floor unconscious. Jackson was standing over his cellmate and slamming the man’s head into the concrete floor, which resulted in severe injuries. The officers immediately stopped the assault and restrained Jackson in handcuffs. Jackson subsequently stated to medical personnel that he had attacked his cellmate after giving him three warnings to be quiet.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah Nowalk and William S. Hamilton.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Antoine Johnson (45, Indialantic) guilty of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Johnson faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 10, 2024. Johnson was indicted on July 26, 2023.

 According to the evidence presented at trial, after being stopped for violating a Florida traffic law on May 9, 2023, Johnson was found with a loaded firearm in his waistband. Johnson admitted to law enforcement that he knew he was a convicted felon and should not have been carrying a firearm. In a special finding, the jury found that before being stopped by the police, Johnson had been convicted three different times in the State of Florida, including robbery and two the sale of cocaine.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Palm Bay Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie McNeff.

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.

Bradenton, Florida– U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Jamal Trevorah (31, Bradenton) to 20 years and 8 months in federal prison for possessing various controlled substances with the intent to distribute them and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Trevorah entered a guilty plea on June 30, 2022.

According to court documents, on the morning of on May 4, 2021, agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) observed Trevorah exit a motel room in Manatee County carrying a brown and red shoebox. Agents watched Trevorah as he traveled throughout Manatee County. Trevorah made multiple stops in the area. Agents believed, based on their training, experience, and knowledge of the investigation, that the multiple stops were narcotics transactions where Trevorah distributed narcotics to others.

Trevorah eventually parked at a residence on 16th Street W. in Bradenton and entered the home through the front door. Agents then executed a search warrant at the location and encountered Trevorah standing in the residence approximately five feet inside the open door. Trevorah was in the residence. In the same room where Trevorah was initially observed, officers found three plastic baggies containing white and tan powder. Also, in the same room, agents located the red and brown shoebox that Trevorah had with him earlier in the day. Inside the box officers located multiple plastic baggies containing narcotics. Lab testing confirmed the drugs to be 66 grams of cocaine base, 83 grams of cocaine, 40 grams of methamphetamine, and 18 grams of fentanyl.

In a cabinet in the same room as the narcotics, investigators located a loaded American Tactical .45 caliber handgun loaded with eight rounds of ammunition. Various rounds of ammunition were also strewn throughout the home. Agents also located a cutting agent, razor blades, scales, and white powdery residue in that same room, all indicative of drug trafficking.

Later that afternoon, agents executed a search warrant at the motel room where Trevorah was seen leaving earlier. Agents located a lunchbox inside a trash bag full of clothes. The lunchbox contained approximately $22,540 in cash.

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.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Mirtza Ocana (39, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to one count of bulk cash smuggling and one count of conspiracy to commit bulk cash smuggling. Ocana faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court documents, Ocana returned to the United States on a flight from Cuba on February 5, 2024. Despite telling U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents that she had no cash to declare, Ocana concealed more than $31,000 in her luggage. After agents found this cash, Ocana admitted that she frequently smuggled cash into the United States from Cuba and that she had done so two to three times per month since June 2023. She also told agents that she was paid between $1,000 and $2,500 each time she smuggled cash. Agents searched Ocana and discovered an additional $71,300 in cash hidden in her clothes. In total, agents found approximately $102,700 in cash concealed both in Ocana’s clothes and in her luggage.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan.

Tampa, Florida – Senior United States District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell has sentenced Dempsey Emmanuel Gilmore (33, Tampa) to six years and five months in federal prison for threatening to kill an Assistant United States Attorney. Gilmore pleaded guilty to this offense on March 29, 2024.

According to court documents, Gilmore was found guilty during a federal jury trial at the Sam M. Gibbons United States Courthouse in Tampa on March 9, 2023.  After the jury was polled, Gilmore got up from his table to approach the jury and began to threaten them. Once the jurors left the courtroom, Gilmore continued to approach the Assistant United States Attorney who prosecuted the case, lunged at her, and threatened to kill her. Gilmore was eventually restrained by multiple court security personnel and federal agents. The six year and five-month sentence that was imposed will include an additional term of 24 months’ imprisonment, to be served after Gilmore’s previously imposed sentence of 30 years.

The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.  

Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Jose’Luis Gabriel Villanueva (32, Sanford) to seven years and eight months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The court also ordered Villanueva to forfeit firearms and ammunition which were used in the commission of the offense. Villanueva entered a guilty plea on May 31, 2024.

According to court documents, in January 2022, law enforcement began monitoring Villanueva’s social media accounts on which he was seen in photos with large sums of money and suspected illegal narcotics, mostly bottles of promethazine and marijuana. Promethazine is a Schedule V prescription drug commonly used to treat allergies and motion sickness. Over the course of several months, law enforcement monitored Villanueva’s activities and observed what appeared to be drug trafficking activity.

On August 17, 2023, law enforcement executed a search at Villanueva’s residence during which they located the following items: 4 firearms and ammunition, including one short-barrel rifle; 19 (16-ounce) bottles of promethazine; one bag of powder cocaine weighing approximately 103 grams; and $6,935 in cash.

Prior to the search, Villanueva had been convicted of several felony offenses, including fleeing and eluding law enforcement, driving while his license was suspended, and driving while his license was revoked. As a previously convicted felon Villanueva is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Gang Enforcement Unit. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel S. Lyons.

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.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, 43, a Jordanian citizen residing in Orlando, Florida, with four counts of threatening to use explosives and one count of destruction of an energy facility. At his detention hearing yesterday, Hnaihen was ordered detained pending trial. If convicted, Hnaihen faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison for each threat offense and up to 20 years’ imprisonment for the destruction of an energy facility offense. The indictment also notifies Hnaihen that the United States intends to forfeit assets connected to the offense.

According to court documents, beginning around June 2024, Hnaihen targeted and attacked businesses in the Orlando area for their perceived support for the State of Israel. Wearing a mask, under the cover of night, Hnaihen smashed the glass front doors of businesses and left behind “Warning Letters.”

(Damage at two of the targeted businesses)

In his letters, which were addressed to the United States government, Hnaihen laid out a series of political demands, culminating in a threat to “destroy or explode everything here in whole America. Especially the companies and factories that support the racist state of Israel.”

Hnaihen’s attacks escalated. At the end of June, as law enforcement worked to identify the masked attacker, Hnaihen broke into a solar power generation facility in Wedgefield, Florida, and spent hours systematically destroying solar panel arrays. He smashed panels, cut wires, and targeted critical electronic equipment. Hnaihen left behind two more copies of his threatening demand letter. Hnaihen is believed to have caused more than $700,000 in damage.

 

(Aerial photo of the solar panel field Hnaihen attacked, with targeted panel areas outlined in red)

 

(Solar panels with cracked glass)

Following a multi-agency effort, law enforcement identified Hnaihen and arrested him on July 11, 2024, shortly after another “Warning Letter” threatening to “destroy or explode everything” was discovered at an industrial propane gas distribution depot in Orlando.

“We allege that the defendant threatened to carry out hate-fueled mass violence in our country, motivated in part by a desire to target businesses for their perceived support of Israel,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Such acts and threats of violence, whether they are targeting the places that Americans frequent every day or our country’s critical infrastructure, are extremely dangerous and will not be tolerated by the Justice Department.”

“Targeting and attacking businesses for perceived beliefs is unacceptable,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and federally prosecute those who make violent or hate-based threats and who seek to act on these threats.”

“Under the guise of expressing his beliefs, the defendant allegedly attacked a power facility and threatened local businesses, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Violence and destruction of property to threaten and intimidate others will never be tolerated. The FBI and our partners will work together to pursue and hold accountable those who resort to violence.”

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 and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, with valuable assistance from the Maitland Police Department, the Winter Park Police Department, and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard Varadan.

Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, 43, a Jordanian citizen residing in Orlando, Florida, is charged with four counts of threatening to use explosives and one count of destruction of an energy facility. At his detention hearing yesterday, Hnaihen was ordered detained pending trial.

“We allege that the defendant threatened to carry out hate-fueled mass violence in our country, motivated in part by a desire to target businesses for their perceived support of Israel,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Such acts and threats of violence, whether they are targeting the places that Americans frequent every day or our country’s critical infrastructure, are extremely dangerous and will not be tolerated by the Justice Department.”

“Under the guise of expressing his beliefs, the defendant allegedly attacked a power facility, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages, and threatened local businesses,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Violence and destruction of property to threaten and intimidate others will never be tolerated. The FBI and our partners will work together to pursue and hold accountable those who resort to violence.”

“Targeting and attacking businesses for perceived beliefs is unacceptable,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and federally prosecute those who make violent or hate-based threats and who seek to act on these threats.”

According to court documents, beginning around June 2024, Hnaihen targeted and attacked businesses in the Orlando area for their perceived support for Israel. Wearing a mask, under the cover of night, Hnaihen smashed the glass front doors of businesses and left behind “Warning Letters.”

Source:Case number 6:24-cr-201 in the Middle District of Florida, Document 17. Supplement to motion for detention. Damage at two of the targeted businesses

In his letters, which were addressed to the United States government, Hnaihen laid out a series of political demands, culminating in a threat to “destroy or explode everything here in whole America. Especially the companies and factories that support the racist state of Israel.”

Aerial photo of the solar panel field Hnaihen attacked with targeted panel areas outlined in red Source:Case number 6:24-cr-201 in the Middle District of Florida, Document 17. Supplement to motion for detention. Solar panels with cracked glass that Hnaihen attacked

Hnaihen’s attacks escalated. At the end of June, as law enforcement worked to identify the masked attacker, Hnaihen broke into a solar power generation facility in Wedgefield, Florida, and spent hours systematically destroying solar panel arrays. He smashed panels, cut wires, and targeted critical electronic equipment. Hnaihen left behind two more copies of his threatening demand letter. Hnaihen is believed to have caused more than $700,000 in damage.

Following a multiagency effort, law enforcement identified Hnaihen and arrested him on July 11, shortly after another “Warning Letter” threatening to “destroy or explode everything” was discovered at an industrial propane gas distribution depot in Orlando.

Hnaihen is charged with four counts of threatening to use explosives and one count of destruction of an energy facility. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each threat offense and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the destruction of an energy facility offense.

The FBI and Orange County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case, with valuable assistance by Maitland Police Department, Winter Park Police Department, and Orlando Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Varadan for the Middle District of Florida is prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorneys Ryan White and George Kraehe of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Nijah Jahni Mitchell (22, Orlando) and Dany Telfort (20, Orlando) with multiple counts of Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. If convicted on all counts, Mitchell faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 28 years, up to life, in federal prison, and Telfort faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 14 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Mitchell and Telfort that the United States intends to forfeit the Glock 9mm firearm, Taurus 9mm firearm, and associated ammunition, which are alleged to have been used during the commission of the offenses.

According to the indictment, between March 23 and April 1, 2023, Mitchell and Telfort robbed six convenience stores in Central Florida. They also brandished firearms during their respective robberies.

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 Orlando Police Department, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Clermont Police Department, the Ocoee Police Department, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oakland Police Department. It will be 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.

Download Indictment

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Brandon Palmore (29, Tampa) with possessing a firearm or ammunition as a convicted felon. If convicted, Palmore faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Palmore that the United States intends to forfeit a Sig Sauer handgun and assorted ammunition, which are alleged to have been used in the commission of the offense.

According to the indictment, on December 1, 2023, Palmore, knowing that he had been previously convicted of multiple felonies – including shooting at, within, or into a vehicle, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon – was in possession of a Sig Sauer handgun and 10 rounds of ammunition.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tampa Police Department.  It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.

This case is part of the 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 for occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Kellis Dion Jackson (63, Pinellas Park), a/k/a Chandler Dante Alexander, guilty of making a false statement to a federal agency, theft of government property, and fraudulent use of a Social Security number. Jackson faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to evidence presented at trial, Jackson stole Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits from the Social Security Administration while on federal supervision for prior federal offenses. Prior to submitting an application for SSI, Jackson obtained a Social Security number under the fictional identity of Chandler Dante Alexander by falsely reporting that he had never had a Social Security number and providing false information regarding his birthdate and parents. Jackson used the fraudulently obtained Social Security number to get a commercial driver license, work, file tax returns, get married, and open bank accounts. Jackson thereafter applied for SSI and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) benefits using his birth name and valid Social Security number. Jackson made false statements on the SSI application and related documents, including falsely stating that he was not married, and his application was approved. Jackson’s SSI application would not have been approved had he reported his marriage and work activity under the fraudulently obtained Social Security number. In total, Jackson received $43,755 in SSI benefits to which he was not entitled.

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration - Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, and the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that James Hilligardt (21, Brooksville) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Hilligardt faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court documents, on January 23, 2024, Hilligardt was showing his firearms off to friends, and in the process ended up with an accidental gunshot wound. Deputies with the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and found him in possession of a sawed-off shotgun. The investigation revealed that Hilligardt repeatedly posted images of himself with firearms and ammunition. Detectives later recovered a second shotgun that Hilligardt owned, which had been buried in a yard. As a convicted felon Hilligardt is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive. It is being 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.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Darnell Credit (51, Tampa) to six years and six months in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Credit to pay $21,000 in restitution and forfeit a computer, two thumb drives, and an external hard drive, which were used to commit the offenses. Credit entered a guilty plea on February 15, 2024.

According to court documents, in November 2021, the FBI executed a search warrant at Credit’s home and seized several of his electronic devices. A forensic search of those devices revealed more than 1,000 photos and over 100 videos of child sexual abuse material, including images depicting sadistic conduct, toddlers, and bestiality.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abigail K. King and Ross Roberts.

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.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Caleb Belanger (25, Clearwater) to 10 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and possession of child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Belanger to pay $3,000 in restitution and forfeit an iPhone and iPad, which were used to commit the offenses. Belanger entered a guilty plea on March 26, 2024.

According to court documents, Belanger enticed approximately 30 minor females, all between the ages of 13 and 17 years old, to take sexually explicit photos and videos of themselves and send the images to him via a mobile application, in exchange for money, vapes, and alcohol. He also offered money in exchange for sex and other sexual acts. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Belanger’s home and seized his iPhone and iPad. A search of those devices revealed that Belanger possessed 1,209 images and 111 videos of child sexual abuse material.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the Tarpon Springs Police Department, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ilyssa M. Spergel and Ross Roberts.

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.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Brandale Swails (29, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to brandishing a firearm during the commission of a Hobbs Act Robbery. Swails faces a minimum mandatory sentence of seven years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 7, 2024.

According to court documents, Swails arrived at a gas station on a bicycle, entered the business, pointed a gun at a clerk, and demanded money. The employee immediately hid behind the counter. Swails jumped over the counter towards the clerk while continuing to point the firearm at him. Swails then stated he would shoot the clerk if he did not open the register. Swails continued to hold the victim at gunpoint while directing him into a bathroom. Swails then exited the business and fled on a bicycle. Swails was arrested two weeks later, hiding inside a bedroom closet.

         

This case was investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is geing 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.

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest of Thomas Allen Ebersole (32, Dunnellon) on an indictment charging him with transporting a minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, Ebersole faces minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.

According to court records, Ebersole met a 16-year-old female while playing online video games. On December 28, 2023, Ebersole drove from his residence in Florida to Ohio where the minor lived. Once there, Ebersole picked up the minor and immediately drove her back to Florida where they engaged in sexual activity. The minor stayed in Ebersole’s home until January 3, 2024, when law enforcement was able to identify her location through the Internet Protocol (IP) address she used to play video games online. After law enforcement removed the minor from Ebersole’s home, DNA results confirmed that Ebersole had engaged in sexual activity with her.

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 Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lima (Ohio) Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.

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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Tyler Jacob (24, Winter Haven) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, aggravated identify theft, witness tampering, and destruction of evidence. Jacob faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 2 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to the plea agreement, between October 2021 and continuing through October 2023, Jacob, a self-identifying member of the “Trap Boys,” and others engaged in a conspiracy to defraud financial instructions throughout the Middle District of Florida. The conspiracy took many forms. First, Jacob obtained, altered, and created fictitious checks for the purpose of obtaining proceeds from those checks. The amount on the checks ranged from approximately $10,000 to as much as $100,000. In order to find businesses to defraud, Jacob identified bank account information, stole checks from industrial buildings, and called banks to obtain information. Second, Jacob recruited and enlisted a network of individuals to help him deposit those checks at various banks, instructing them on how to successfully deposit and withdraw funds and avoid detection by financial institutions. Third, Jacob, utilizing text messages and social media, sought Personal Identifying Information (PII), including bank account information that belonged to others, so that the fraudulent checks could be deposited in their accounts and the money could be withdrawn or wired from the bank account prior to detection. Jacob later paid his conspirators a portion of the fraudulent amount they obtained.

The conspiracy operated throughout Florida, including Orlando, Winter Haven, Lakeland, Bartow, Tampa, and Miami. During the course of the scheme, Jacob and his co-conspirators deposited approximately $50,000 per week in fraudulent checks, resulting in an intended loss of at least $550,000.

On January 23, 2024, the FBI and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Jacob’s residence. During the search, Jacob barricaded himself inside the home and began using a shredder to destroy evidence. Investigators found shredded papers on both floors of the residence and a shredding machine that was jammed. Jacob also threw documents inside his washing machine. In addition, investigators located a checkbook and financial documents in the names of others, as well as printers, scanners, and check writing software.

After his arrest, Jacob made phone calls to an individual and attempted to have that individual dispose of evidence and lie to law enforcement.

This case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.

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.

Orlando, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Teresa Eve Hunt (63, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to theft of government property. Hunt faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. As part of her plea, she agreed to forfeit the proceeds of her criminal conduct, and to make full restitution to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Hunt is scheduled to be sentenced on December 11, 2024.

According to the plea agreement, M.H. received both Social Security and VA benefits, which were directly deposited into a checking account to which her daughter, Hunt, had access via a power of attorney. M.H. died on April 13, 2016, at Hunt’s home in Orlando, Florida. Hunt did not report M.H.’s death to the SSA or VA, both of which continued to deposit benefits for M.H. into the account, thinking she was still alive. Hunt took those benefits, to which she was not entitled, and spent them on her own personal expenses. In total, Hunt knowingly converted to her own use and/or the use of another $62,857 in Social Security benefits and $59,120.95 in VA benefits.

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration - Office of the Inspector General and Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General’s Southeast Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Del Mastro.

Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza has sentenced Avinash Singh (42, St. Cloud) to 24 years in federal prison for wire fraud and money laundering. The court also ordered Singh to forfeit the $57 million in proceeds he obtained from his offenses, as well as real property that he purchased with those proceeds. Singh entered a guilty plea on May 6, 2024.

According to court documents, Singh operated an Orlando-based company by the name of Highrise Advantage, LLC (Highrise). From February 2013 to September 2020, Singh received more than $57 million from over 1,100 victims who believed that they were making investments in retail foreign currency contracts (forex) through Highrise. To induce his victims to invest, Singh claimed that he had a proven track record of success as a forex trader, that he was going to use the funds for investments in forex, and that he would “guarantee” that his victims would not lose any funds for any trading losses. None of these representations were true.

Rather than invest his victims’ funds in forex trading as he had promised, Singh used funds from one investor to pay amounts owed to another investor. Singh misappropriated at least $45 million of the victims’ “investments” in the form of payments to other investors and also spent millions of dollars in personal expenses, including the purchase of real estate, retail purchases, phone bills, events, dining, and reserving music studio space to record music with his band.

“This case epitomizes selfish greed at an astonishing level,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Tampa Field Office. “Mr. Singh tried to use the proceeds of his Ponzi scheme to live like a pop star while popping the dreams of his victim investors. This sentencing shows that we will go to great lengths to ensure those who try to illegally place themselves above others are held accountable.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation - Office of Inspector General, the St. Cloud IRS Federal Financial Crimes Task Force, and the State of Florida Office of Financial Regulation, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda S. Daniels. Asset recovery was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole M. Andrejko.

Orlando, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Delta Henry Rushing II (29, Orlando) with enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity and committing a felony offense involving a minor when required to register as a sex offender. If convicted on all counts, Rushing faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Rushing that the United States intends to forfeit assets that Rushing used to facilitate the offenses.

According to the indictment, between November 3, 2022, and December 5, 2022, Rushing, a prior convicted sex offender, enticed an individual who Rushing knew was under the age of 18 to engage in sexual activity.

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 Homeland Security Investigations and the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaley Austin-Aronson.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Aaron Bicknell (37, Zephyrhills) to 17 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for receiving child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Bicknell to pay $20,000 in restitution to the victims of the offense. Bicknell entered a guilty plea on April 22, 2024.

According to court documents, in 2011, Bicknell was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for receiving child sexual abuse material over the internet using a filesharing program. As part of his sentence, Bicknell was required to register as a sex offender. The Federal Bureau of Prisons released Bicknell in May 2021, and he began serving a lifetime term of supervised release. In August 2023, law enforcement downloaded files of child sexual abuse material from Bicknell. After executing a  search warrant at Bicknell’s home, investigators discovered more than100 images and 80 videos of child sexual abuse on Bicknell’s devices.

“The sentencing of this recidivist felon for collecting child sexual abuse material underscores HSI’s commitment to protecting our communities most vulnerable,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Micah C. McCombs. “Alongside our partners at the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, we will make sure these individuals are not able to hide their actions under a cloak of internet anonymity.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (Tampa), with substantial assistance from the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Claire Favorit.

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.

Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Alex Jared Zwiefelhofer (27, Wisconsin) to consecutive life sentences in federal prison as a result of his convictions for conspiracy to commit robbery and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, robbery interfering with commerce, discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence which resulted in death, conspiring to kill persons in a foreign country, and a violation of the Neutrality Act.  Zwiefelhofer has also been ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $10,886 to the family members of the victims of the offenses.  Zwiefelhofer was found guilty by a jury on March 8, 2024.

According to testimony presented at trial, on April 10, 2018, two individuals, S.L., Jr. and D.L., were found dead in Estero, Florida from multiple gunshot wounds to the head and body. Further investigation revealed that the couple had traveled to Estero from Brooksville, Florida to complete the purchase of several firearms from an individual who had listed them for sale on a website known as Armslist. As a result of the investigation, Zwiefelhofer was identified as one of two individuals who was believed to have murdered the couple during the course of an armed robbery of the $3,000 that the couple intended to use to purchase the firearms. 

Zwiefelhofer, who had previously fought in Ukraine in 2017 after going AWOL from the U.S. Army, pursued a plan to fight the Venezuelan government and committed the robbery of S.L., Jr. and D.L. to obtain money to fund his travel to Venezuela.

Zwiefelhofer’s co-defendant, Craig Lang, is pending trial.    

“There’s no question that Zwiefelhofer belongs behind bars, and his life sentence guarantees that will happen. When it comes to tackling the violent crime threat, our model is to work together with our state and local law enforcement partners to maximize impact and this case highlights those efforts with the Lee County Sheriff's Office,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor, FBI Tampa Division. “We will stop at nothing to protect our communities from these threats.”

“In collaboration with our law enforcement partners, no stone was left unturned in the investigation and federal prosecution of this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. “This defendant committed heinous crimes, and justice was served.”         

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jesus M. Casas and Michael V. Leeman.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Chadwick Lemaine (26, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Lemaine faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is set on October 31, 2024.

According to court records, Lemaine was convicted of felony offenses in 2018 and 2019 and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms. On May 26, 2023, an officer with the Orlando Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Lemaine and discovered narcotics and a firearm inside the vehicle. A DNA analysis confirmed Lemaine was a contributor to the DNA discovered on the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Orlando Police Department. 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.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Xavier Hernandez-Gerena, (34, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Hernandez-Gerena faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. Sentencing is set for October 23, 2024.

According to court records, in July 2022, Hernandez-Gerena was pulled over for a traffic violation as the sole occupant of a vehicle. Sitting near his lap was an unzipped bag that contained a Ruger firearm. Prior to possessing the firearm, Hernandez-Gerena had been convicted in federal court for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. As a convicted felon Hernandez-Gerena was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.

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.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung today sentenced Pen Yu (51, Taiwan) to three years and eight months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, followed by three years of supervised release. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $100,000, the proceeds of the wire fraud.

Yu was found guilty on May 2, 2024. Co-conspirator Gregory Muñoz was found guilty on May 9, 2024, and co-conspirator Jonathan Thyng was found guilty on July 23, 2024.

According to court documents, beginning in at least July 2016 and continuing through at least May 2023, Yu ordered biochemical products from MilliporeSigma, a subsidiary of multinational science and technology company Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, with help from Muñoz, a MilliporeSigma salesperson, by falsely representing that Yu was affiliated with a biology research lab at a large Florida university. This fictitious affiliation led MilliporeSigma to provide Yu over $4.9 million worth of discounts and other benefits, such as free overnight shipping, not available to the public. Yu gave Muñoz thousands of dollars in gift cards for facilitating these fraudulent discounted orders. When the products arrived at the university stockroom, a stockroom employee diverted the products to Yu, who repackaged them and shipped them to China. To avoid scrutiny, Yu made false statements about the value and contents of these shipments in export documents.

This scheme continued until MilliporeSigma compliance personnel identified certain orders as suspicious, prompting the company to retain outside counsel who voluntarily disclosed the misconduct to the Department of Justice’s National Security Division only a week later. MilliporeSigma made the disclosure well before its counsel had completed their investigation and understood the full nature and extent of the scheme. MilliporeSigma offered exceptional cooperation to the prosecution team, including by proactively identifying and producing documents to the Department that established probable cause to search residences and electronic devices of culpable individuals. MilliporeSigma’s cooperation allowed investigators to quickly identify the individuals responsible for the scheme, including Yu, Muñoz, and Thyng, and secure their felony guilty pleas.

The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Marcet for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Andre Pierrie (26, Tampa) to 8 years and 10 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The court also ordered Pierrie to forfeit a Smith and Wesson Air Rite. 38 special revolver that was seized as part of this case. Pierrie entered a guilty plea on February 29, 2024.          

According to court documents, law enforcement officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle Pierrie was driving, but Pierrie accelerated his vehicle and fled the scene. Surveillance by law enforcement indicated that Pierrie had gone to a parking lot in an apartment complex. Officers observed Pierrie in his vehicle throwing a firearm out of the vehicle’s window. The firearm was retrieved by law enforcement and Pierrie eventually pulled over. Officers located methamphetamine and marijuana inside the vehicle. 

At the time of the offense, Pierrie had multiple prior felony convictions including delivery of cocaine and escape from law enforcement. As a convicted felon Pierrie is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria Guzman.

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.

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Muhamad Almufada Adi (49, Orlando) to 60 years in federal prison for producing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Adi to forfeit the electronic devices used in the commission of the offense. Adi entered a guilty plea on May 14, 2024.

According to court documents, between 2018 and 2022, Adi sexually abused a minor victim and produced child sexual abuse material of the child. Adi then uploaded the child sexual abuse material to online cloud and social media accounts. Adi also sexually abused a second minor victim and forced the second child to look at the child sexual abuse material that had been produced of the first child.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Hu.

“Protecting our children from sexual exploitation is a moral obligation for Homeland Security Investigations and our partners at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office,” said Homeland Security Investigation Tampa Special Agent in Charge John Condon. “Our mutual steadfast commitment comes with an unwavering vigilance and compassion for victims.”

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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.

A Taiwanese national, Pen Yu, 51, was sentenced today to three years and eight months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $100,000, the proceeds of the wire fraud.

Yu pleaded guilty on May 2. Co-conspirator Gregory Muñoz pleaded guilty on May 9, and co-conspirator Jonathan Thyng pleaded guilty on July 23.

According to court documents, beginning in at least July 2016 and continuing through at least May 2023, Yu ordered biochemical products from MilliporeSigma, a subsidiary of multinational science and technology company Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, with help from Muñoz, a MilliporeSigma salesperson, by falsely representing that Yu was affiliated with a biology research lab at a large Florida university. This fictitious affiliation led MilliporeSigma to provide Yu over $4.9 million worth of discounts and other benefits, such as free overnight shipping, not available to the public. Yu gave Muñoz thousands of dollars in gift cards for facilitating these fraudulent discounted orders. When the products arrived at the university stockroom, a stockroom employee diverted the products to Yu, who repackaged them and shipped them to China. To avoid scrutiny, Yu made false statements about the value and contents of these shipments in export documents.

This scheme continued until MilliporeSigma compliance personnel identified certain orders as suspicious, prompting the company to retain outside counsel who voluntarily disclosed the misconduct to the Department of Justice’s National Security Division only a week later. MilliporeSigma made the disclosure well before its counsel had completed their investigation and understood the full nature and extent of the scheme. MilliporeSigma offered exceptional cooperation to the prosecution team, including by proactively identifying and producing documents to the Department that established probable cause to search residences and electronic devices of culpable individuals. MilliporeSigma’s cooperation allowed investigators to quickly identify the individuals responsible for the scheme, including Yu, Muñoz and Thyng, and secure their felony guilty pleas.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge John Johnson for the Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry Security (BIS) Miami Field Office and Colonel Kelly Frushour of the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group.

The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, BIS and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Marcet for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases.

Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge William Jung has sentenced Jason Washington (42, St. Petersburg) to 13 years and 1 month in federal prison for possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine with the intent to distribute it. Due to the amount of methamphetamine Washington possessed, he was subject to a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.

According to court documents, on April 13, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Washington’s residence. Inside the home, agents located more than 240 grams of methamphetamine, 225 grams of fentanyl, and 102 grams of cocaine. Agents also recovered more than $77,000 in cash and six firearms from inside the home.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.

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.

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Sean White (46, Orlando) to five years and five months in federal prison for access device fraud and aggravated identity theft. White pleaded guilty on April 10, 2024.

According to court documents, between January and March 2016, White and two affiliates—Jamie Fort and Sena Howell—executed a scheme to defraud several Orlando-area financial institutions. As part of the scheme, White and Fort obtained names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of identity theft victims. They then used these stolen identities to create counterfeit State of Florida driver licenses. White, Fort, and Howell then used the counterfeit driver licenses to obtain financing in victims’ names from federally insured banks. They purchased three luxury vehicles at Orlando-area car dealerships with this financing, including two Mercedes-Benz vehicles and a Cadillac Escalade. They then sold these vehicles for cash. 

White and his affiliates also used the counterfeit driver licenses to obtain credit and make fraudulent purchases in victims’ names at various retail stores in the Orlando area. Evidence located at White’s residence included stolen personal identifying information of a number of identity theft victims, as well as a book entitled “How to be Invisible.” White eluded arrest for several years after being charged. He was located in 2023 and arrested, at which time he was living under the alias of another identity theft victim.

Howell was sentenced in March 2017 to two years and three months’ imprisonment for her participation in the scheme to defraud. Fort was sentenced in October 2017 to five years and five months’ imprisonment for his involvement in the scheme. 

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chauncey A. Bratt and Michael Sartoian.

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Joshua Grant Cobb (33, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Cobb faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is set for October 23, 2024.

According to the plea agreement, on April 30, 2024, law enforcement received information from a confidential source that Cobb was distributing methamphetamine and heroin/fentanyl out of his residence in Orlando. The confidential source arranged for a fentanyl deal to take place at Cobb’s home later that night. Law enforcement detained Cobb as he was leaving his apartment following the transaction. On his person, agents located a loaded handgun and 55 grams of a fentanyl mixture.

Law enforcement then executed a search warrant on Cobb’s residence, during which they located large quantities of drugs (including over 700 grams of pure methamphetamine and over 250 grams of fentanyl mixtures), six additional firearms, drug processing materials, and $4,000 in cash.

As part of the plea agreement, Cobb has agreed to forfeit the firearms and ammunition he possessed.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It is being 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.

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced William Fisher (60, Melbourne) to 3 years and 6 months in federal prison for access device fraud and aggravated identity theft. Fisher pleaded guilty on April 4, 2024.

According to court documents, Fisher, while aiding and abetting Tonie Marie Marriott, knowingly and with intent to defraud, used an unauthorized debit card in another person’s name to make purchases over $1,000 at various retail stores and elsewhere. Together, Fisher and Marriott also broke into United States post office boxes and stole mail throughout the Middle District of Florida.

Marriott was previously sentenced to 3 years in federal prison for her participation in the offenses.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kara M. Wick.

Ocala, FL – Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell has sentenced Aaron Taylor Lemire (29, Lady Lake) to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for possession of child sexual abuse material. Lemire entered a guilty plea on February 6, 2024.

According to court documents, after an undercover detective received child sexual abuse images from Lemire, agents executed a search warrant on Lemire’s residence and seized his electronic devices. A forensic review of those devices revealed more than 100 files of child sexual abuse material depicting the abuse of children as young as six years old.

This case was investigated by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Crockett.

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’ 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. 

Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Michael Wayne Burroughs (46, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure or actual methamphetamine. Burroughs faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court documents, in 2022, federal agents began investigating Burroughs’s drug trafficking activity. Agents purchased pure methamphetamine from Burroughs at his residence in Jacksonville on three separate occasions using a confidential source. In 2023, agents identified one of Burroughs’s methamphetamine suppliers as Devan Hall. Between April and June 2023, agents observed Hall and Burroughs conduct multiple drug transactions in Jacksonville. In July 2023, agents arrested Burroughs and Hall on criminal complaints.

Hall pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure or actual methamphetamine. On January 8, 2024, he was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), which identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.

Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber today sentenced Janet Pettyjohn (78, Spring Hill) to three years in federal prison and Shelly Gallagher (34, Brooksville) to six years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute drugs. As part of Pettyjohn’s sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $34,132, the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct. Pettyjohn and Gallagher entered guilty pleas in May 2024.

According to court documents, Pettyjohn was an osteopathic physician licensed to practice medicine in the State of Florida with a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number to prescribe controlled substances. In July 2020, Florida’s Board of Osteopathic Medicine (BOM) restricted Pettyjohn from prescribing opioids due to complaints about the manner in which she prescribed controlled substances. After the BOM’s Final Order and the prescribing restriction took effect, Pettyjohn continued to prescribe opioids in violation of the Final Order. The BOM later lifted the prescribing restriction in March 2021.

Gallagher is Pettyjohn’s granddaughter and did not hold a medical license. Between March 2021 and February 2023, Gallagher sponsored patients at Pettyjohn’s clinic and ordered controlled substances for herself and others from Pettyjohn. Despite obvious signs of drug abuse and diversion, Pettyjohn knowingly and intentionally prescribed the controlled substances for Gallagher and others for no legitimate medical purpose in the usual course of professional practice, which Gallagher and others abused and diverted.

A search of Pettyjohn’s residence in February 2024 revealed $34,132 in U.S. currency in a safe, which were proceeds of her illegal prescribing. Pettyjohn relinquished her medical license and DEA registration in May 2024.      

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration - Tampa District Office, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, and by the Opioid Fraud Abuse and Detection Unit at the United States Attorney’s Office, which focuses on opioid-related fraud and abuse by medical and health care professionals who have contributed to the prescription opioid epidemic. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Pizzo.

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Julie S. Sneed has sentenced William Alfred Harris (62, Cape Canaveral) to five years in federal prison for possessing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Harris to forfeit the electronic device used in the commission of the offense and to pay a $250,000 fine and $22,000 in additional assessments. Harris entered a guilty plea on April 30, 2024.

According to court documents, in January 2023, the FBI identified Harris as being a recipient or downloader of child sex abuse material (CSAM) on a file-sharing platform. Agents downloaded multiple images and videos of CSAM from Harris’s internet protocol (IP) address. In May 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Harris’s residence and seized his laptop. A forensic examination of the computer revealed CSAM, three file wipers, and encryption software. In addition to the 21 images of CSAM recovered on the laptop, the forensic examination also uncovered a pattern of Harris downloading, viewing, and then deleting CSAM.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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.