Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Beretta Bandit Serial Robber Convicted at TrialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Richard Allen Randolph (44, Youngstown, Ohio) guilty of Hobbs Act robberies, namely three counts of robbery, one count of attempted robbery, three counts of brandishing a firearm, and one count of discharging a firearm during the commission of the robberies. Randolph faces a minimum statutory penalty of 100 years in federal prison on the firearm counts and a maximum of 20 years on each of the robbery counts. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 30, 2024.
According to evidence presented at trial, Randolph entered four Tampa commercial businesses between January 27 and February 26, 2020, wearing a hooded sweatshirt and facial covering. During each of the robberies, Randolph brandished and threatened the victims with a Beretta Pico pistol and removed cash from the registers. During the attempted robbery on February 26, 2020, Randolph again concealed his identity, entered the store, and threatened the clerk with the firearm. However, the victim’s boyfriend, who was outside the store waiting to take her home, confronted Randolph. Randolph then discharged the pistol twice in the parking lot of the business as the victims fled. Law enforcement recovered the bullet casing from the parking lot. The case remained active and under investigation under the name “Beretta Bandit” as no subject was able to be identified.
In July 2021, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of an individual who was found to have a Beretta Pico pistol in his car. The individual did not match the description of the robber and told law enforcement that he had purchased the Beretta Pico pistol from Randolph, who was a former co-worker. Forensic examiners from the ATF laboratory later determined that the Beretta pistol was the firearm involved in the last robbery committed by Randolph.
During trial, the victims testified about their terror during the robberies committed by Randolph. However, they could not identify Randolph because he was wearing a hooded sweatshirt and a mask. The evidence at trial focused on the recovered Beretta Pico pistol, the testimony of the co-worker, the forensic analyses from the ATF laboratory in Atlanta, and other location data analyses by the FBI.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Guzman and Brooke Padgett.
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.
Wisconsin Sex Offender Convicted of Enticing and Coercing A Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Mohammad Ali Hemmat (29, Milwaukee) guilty of enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity, production of child sexual abuse material, traveling on two occasions from Wisconsin to Florida for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, and committing these offenses while required to register as a sex offender. Hemmat faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 35 years, up to life, in federal prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 8, 2024.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, between April 2022 and March 2023, Hemmat used his cellphone and computer to sexually groom a 12-year-old girl in the Middle District of Florida. Hemmat groomed this minor through daily video chats, text message conversations, and by sending her cash, gifts, and fast food. Hemmat shared obscene material with this child through social media applications, and used a social media platform to remotely log-in to the minor victim’s laptop—which he had purchased for her—to search online for sexually explicit topics, images, and videos. The minor victim subsequently sent explicit images of herself to Hemmat over the internet.
In February 2023, Hemmat drove from Wisconsin to Florida for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with the minor. In March 2023, Hemmat drove to Florida for a second time for the same purpose, but law enforcement was alerted to his presence by the minor victim. Although Hemmat attempted to return to Wisconsin without detection, law enforcement in Indiana apprehended him.
Evidence presented at trial also showed that Hemmat had engaged similar tactics in grooming a13-year-old child in the United Kingdom to send sexually explicit images of herself to Hemmat. Hemmat has a prior conviction for an offense involving a minor, requiring him to register as a sex offender in Wisconsin when he committed the above offenses.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Jasper County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Office, the Sussex County (United Kingdom) Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ilyssa M. Spergel and Risha Asokan.
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.
Two Florida Steel Traders Sentenced for Money Laundering and Russia-Ukraine Sanctions ViolationsRead the Press Release
John Can Unsalan, aka Hurrem Can Unsalan, the president of Orlando, Florida-based steel trading firm Metalhouse LLC, was sentenced to six years in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering to promote violations of U.S. sanctions against Sergey Kurchenko, a pro-Russian Ukrainian oligarch. Unsalan’s former business associate, Sergey Karpushkin, a Belarusian national residing in Miami, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for his role in the scheme. Unsalan pleaded guilty and was ordered to forfeit $160 million in proceeds from the offense. Karpushkin pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and to commit international promotional money laundering and was ordered to forfeit $4.7 million in criminal proceeds.
Kurchenko was sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in 2015 for his role in misappropriating state assets of Ukraine or of an economically significant entity in Ukraine. Two sanctioned companies – Kompaniya Gaz-Alyans OOO, based in the Russian Federation and controlled by Kurchenko, and ZAO Vneshtorgservis, based in the Russian occupied Georgian region of South Ossetia – were designated by OFAC in 2018 for acting on behalf of and providing material support to the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic in the separatist-controlled regions of eastern Ukraine.
As set forth in court filings, Unsalan and Karpushkin engaged in trade with these sanctioned individuals and entities to procure steelmaking equipment and raw material despite knowing that Kurchenko, Gaz-Alyans and Vneshtorgservis were subject to U.S. sanctions that prohibited U.S. persons and entities from doing business with them. No licenses from OFAC were applied for or issued for these payments or transfers.
As stated in court documents, between July 2018 and October 2021, Unsalan conspired with others to transfer over $150 million to Kurchenko and companies controlled by Kurchenko. Unsalan, acting through his company, Metalhouse, engaged in trade with sanctioned individuals and entities and received tens of thousands of tons of metal products from the companies. Between July 2017 and August 2020, Karpushkin conspired with Unsalan and other business associates, acting through Metalhouse, to enter into contracts and purchase orders for pig iron, steel billets, and wire rods from these sanctioned companies and agreed to share profits from these unlawful transactions. The co-conspirators intentionally concealed from U.S. banks and government officials the ultimate source and origin of the goods that they sought to acquire, knowing that they did not have the necessary authorization or license from OFAC to transact with Kurchenko and companies owned and controlled by Kurchenko.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division made the announcement.
The FBI Tampa and Washington Field Offices investigated the case, with valuable assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt for the Middle District of Florida, Trial Attorney Emma Ellenrieder of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Trial Attorneys Sean O’Dowd and Sean Fern of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section prosecuted the case.
The investigation was coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department’s tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.
Two Florida Steel Traders Sentenced for Money Laundering and Russia-Ukraine Sanctions ViolationsRead the Press Release
Co-Conspirator Sentenced to 21 Months in Prison and $4.7 Million Forfeiture
John Can Unsalan, aka Hurrem Can Unsalan, the president of Orlando, Florida-based steel trading firm Metalhouse LLC, was sentenced to six years in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering to promote violations of U.S. sanctions against Sergey Kurchenko, a pro-Russian Ukrainian oligarch. Unsalan’s former business associate, Sergey Karpushkin, a Belarusian national residing in Miami, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for his role in the scheme. Unsalan pleaded guilty and was ordered to forfeit $160 million in proceeds from the offense. Karpushkin pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and to commit international promotional money laundering and was ordered to forfeit $4.7 million in criminal proceeds.
Kurchenko was sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in 2015 for his role in misappropriating state assets of Ukraine or of an economically significant entity in Ukraine. Two sanctioned companies – Kompaniya Gaz-Alyans OOO, based in the Russian Federation and controlled by Kurchenko, and ZAO Vneshtorgservis, based in the Russian occupied Georgian region of South Ossetia – were designated by OFAC in 2018 for acting on behalf of and providing material support to the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic in the separatist-controlled regions of eastern Ukraine.
As set forth in court filings, Unsalan and Karpushkin engaged in trade with these sanctioned individuals and entities to procure steelmaking equipment and raw material despite knowing that Kurchenko, Gaz-Alyans and Vneshtorgservis were subject to U.S. sanctions that prohibited U.S. persons and entities from doing business with them. No licenses from OFAC were applied for or issued for these payments or transfers.
As stated in court documents, between July 2018 and October 2021, Unsalan conspired with others to transfer over $150 million to Kurchenko and companies controlled by Kurchenko. Unsalan, acting through his company, Metalhouse, engaged in trade with sanctioned individuals and entities and received tens of thousands of tons of metal products from the companies. Between July 2017 and August 2020, Karpushkin conspired with Unsalan and other business associates, acting through Metalhouse, to enter into contracts and purchase orders for pig iron, steel billets, and wire rods from these sanctioned companies and agreed to share profits from these unlawful transactions. The co-conspirators intentionally concealed from U.S. banks and government officials the ultimate source and origin of the goods that they sought to acquire, knowing that they did not have the necessary authorization or license from OFAC to transact with Kurchenko and companies owned and controlled by Kurchenko.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division made the announcement.
The FBI Tampa and Washington Field Offices investigated the case, with valuable assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt for the Middle District of Florida, Trial Attorney Emma Ellenrieder of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Trial Attorneys Sean O’Dowd and Sean Fern of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section prosecuted the case.
The investigation was coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department’s tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.
Tampa Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Defrauding Veterans Health Administration ProgramRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge James S. Moody has sentenced Rupert G. McLendon, III (51, Tampa) to 90 days in federal prison, followed by 2 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 $37,402, the proceeds of the wire fraud conspiracy. McLendon entered a guilty plea on January 25, 2024.
According to court documents, McLendon was a paid caretaker for a family member through the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veteran Directed Home and Community Based Services (VDHCBS) Program. The veteran for whom McLendon was a paid caregiver was admitted to the hospital in August 2018 and remained hospitalized until his death on or about December 31, 2018. McLendon failed to notify the VDHCBS program of the veteran’s hospitalization and death. Instead, McLendon continued to input, or cause to be input, caregiver hours into the VDHCBS payroll system, and he made false and misleading statements regarding the veteran’s whereabouts and health when contacted by VDHCBS staff. As a result of these fraudulent payroll entries and representations, the VDHCBS Program, and a government contractor associated with that program, suffered a total loss of at least $37,402.39.
“The Veteran-Directed Care program provides a vital bridge between VA’s treatment team and the daily care needs of our nation’s veterans. This sentencing sends a clear message that those who would exploit veterans to commit fraud will be investigated and held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge David Spilker with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Southeast Field Office. “The VA OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to safeguard this important VA program.”
This case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.
Middle District of Florida Prosecutors Indict 64 Firearms and Violent Crime Defendants During First Three Months of 2024 as Part of Project Safe Neighborhoods StrategyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced today the results of the second quarter of fiscal year 2024 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) strategy. During the second quarter of fiscal year 2024, ending on March 31, 2024, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida indicted 64 defendants. These defendants face federal firearms, narcotics, and violent crime charges. Law enforcement seized approximately 97 firearms associated with these defendants.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also engaged in community outreach efforts aimed at violent crime prevention throughout the year. Members of the United States Attorney’s Office interacted with approximately 150 middle and high school students and community members during the first quarter of 2024. Re-entry events, including the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office DISMAS program, reached over 250 people.
“Our office is committed to reducing violent crime throughout the Middle District of Florida,” said U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners and community stakeholders as part of our joint effort to make our communities safer.”
PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. This evidence-based program has proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders working together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in communities and developing comprehensive solutions that reduce crime. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses on prevention and intervention efforts through community engagement and problem-solving partnerships, strategic enforcement of the most violent offenders, and locally based re-entry programs to reduce recidivism.
Q2 PSN case highlights:
United States v. Mar’tavouis Martel Brown (Ft. Myers)
On January 26, 2024, Mar’tavious Martel Brown (25, Lehigh Acres) was sentenced to five years in federal prison. According to court records, Brown sold a pistol and cocaine to an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Fort Myers.
United States v. Jose Melean Reyes (Jacksonville)
In January 2024, Jose Melean Reyes (29, Jacksonville) pleaded guilty to smuggling firearms from the United States and conspiracy to use a facility of interstate commerce in the commission of a murder-for-hire. According to his plea agreement, on May 15, 2021, Reyes attempted to smuggle 3 firearms and 57 rounds of ammunition from Jacksonville to Venezuela. Reyes concealed the firearms and ammunition in a futon that he attempted to mail using a freight forwarding service.
Following Reyes’s arrest on unrelated state charges on August 11, 2023, federal agents searched Reyes’s cellphone and found conversations between Reyes and another individual discussing trafficking firearms to Venezuela. From Reyes’s phone, agents also learned Reyes and others were involved in a murder-for-hire plot based on a $60,000 debt. Reyes attempted to hire a hitman for $15,000, but federal agents prevented any murder from occurring by arresting Reyes on a criminal complaint. Reyes faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison for each offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
United States v. Wendell Goney (Ocala)
On July 11, 2021, deputies from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary at a 10-acre business property in Mount Dora. Deputies used a law enforcement drone to assist with the outdoor search, only to have the drone destroyed by gunfire from a neighboring property. When deputies responded to that location, they confronted Goney, who admitted that he had just shot down the drone with a .22 caliber rifle. He claimed the drone had been “harassing” him. Goney then admitted to the deputies that he could not lawfully possess a firearm because he was a convicted felon. A record check confirmed Goney’s 29 prior state felony convictions, which included aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, illegal drug possession, burglary, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On February 22, 2024, Goney was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $22,000 in restitution for the destroyed law enforcement drone.
United States v. Timothy Jones (Orlando)
On February 14, 2024, Timothy Jones, (60, Orlando) was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for two bank robberies he committed in Orlando and Kissimmee. The first robbery occurred on June 2, 2022, one day after Jones was released from Putnam County Correctional Facility after having served an eight-year term of incarceration for bank robbery. During the first robbery in Orlando, Jones threatened to shoot everyone in the bank if they did not give him $150,000 and told the employee that there would be a “bloodbath” if he did not get what he wanted. After employees provided cash, Jones took the keys to an employee’s car and escaped. A week later, Jones robbed a bank in Kissimmee. Jones again threatened the tellers with a gun and stole cash before stealing an employee’s car and escaping. Later that afternoon, Jones was apprehended near the employee’s car with nearly all the money from the second robbery. Jones had previously been convicted of robbery charges in 1995, 2006, and 2013 and had spent most of the past 18 years incarcerated for robbery charges.
United States v. James Smith (Tampa)
On March 22, 2024, James Eugene Smith (44, Wimauma) was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to court documents, in the early morning hours of January 14, 2023, Smith was driving in Brandon, Florida and believed that a driver in a black sedan was brake checking him, while a separate driver prevented Smith from passing. Smith eventually passed both cars before brake checking the black sedan in return. The driver of the black sedan drove around Smith, and Smith and the driver of the black sedan then exchanged gunfire. Smith, in an alleged attempt to see the tag of the black sedan, made a U-turn. After making the U-turn, Smith spotted a gray sedan that he thought was the black sedan and opened fire. Smith followed the gray sedan into the gas station, again firing at it. Neither victim was shot. At the time of the incident, Smith had multiple prior felony convictions. As a convicted felon Smith is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
These cases are being prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorneys in all five divisions throughout the Middle District of Florida. For additional information on Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit our website: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/project-safe-neighborhoods-0.
Charged Cases
Defendant(s)
Charges
Minimum/Maximum Terms of Imprisonment
Firearms Seized
Fort Myers Division
James Michael O’Brien
Theft of a firearm from a firearms dealer and possession of a stolen firearm.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
1
This PSN case from the Fort Myers Division is being handled by AUSAs Mark Morgan.
Jacksonville Division
Bryan Lyndell Chapman
Manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes; passing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison for each offense.
1
Peter Lawrence
Making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Allen Tereal Grimes
Possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
0
Brian Givens
Possession of a machine gun.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Derrick Walden
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
James Clinton Gilmore, Jr.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, aiding and abetting the distribution of cocaine.
Maximum penalty: 155 years in federal prison
5
Ja’Quez Jerome Butler
Distribution of cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (cocaine), minimum mandatory 5 years up to life in federal prison (firearm in furtherance of violent crime), 10 years in federal prison (firearm as convicted felon).
4
Jhatarrion Jakwan Sampson
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Justin William Lightsey
Possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison; 5 years, up to life, in federal prison; up to 15 years in federal prison.
1
Kameron Lee Ingram
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Matthew Junior Rice
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Nathaniel Thomas Hatcher, III
Conspiracy to straw-purchase; making a false statement during purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 25 years in federal prison; 10 years in federal prison.
2
Nicholas Davonte High
Conspiracy to distribute cocaine, distributing and aiding and abetting the distribution of cocaine; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison; 10 years in federal prison.
1
Ralph Eric Lanham
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Sedrick Williams, Jr.
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine base; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison; 15 years in federal prison.
1
Trillian Taheim Mitchell
Possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
1
William Earl Union, Jr.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
These PSN cases from the Jacksonville Division are being handled by AUSAs Kevin Frein, Brenna Falzetta, John Cannizzaro, Michael Coolican, Laura Taylor, Elisibeth Adams, Aakash Singh, and Kirwinn Mike.
Ocala Division
Roydrick Dixon
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Penalty: Minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Michael Andrew Zallen
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Robert Edward Smith
Possession of an unregistered NFA weapon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
3
Luis Ernesto Sanchez
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Ocala Division are being handled by AUSAs Hanna Norwalk, Robert E. Bodnar, Jr., William S. Hamilton, Belkis Crockett, and Sarah Swartzberg.
Tampa Division
Laela Marme
Possession of stolen firearms.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
0
Daniel Gonzalez
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Brandale Swails
Hobbs Acts robbery and use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 7 years, up to 25 years, in federal prison.
3
Lewis James Scott
Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years (narcotics charge) in federal prison,
minimum mandatory 5 years in prison to run consecutive to any other sentence, 15 years in federal prison.
1
Markis Maxwell
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: life in federal prison.
1
Efrain Bermudez
Possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute; carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: life in federal prison (drug charges), 15 years in federal prison (firearm charge).
1
Sharquay Knighton
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Jarquis Bowens
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison for each drug charge and 5 years in federal prison for the firearm charge.
1
Noe Alegria
Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 30 years in federal prison.
13
Gary Hanford
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Christopher Bock
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
0
Corey Myrick
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Donta Bryant
Possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
2
Dackerett Brooks
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Michael Grady
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; possession with intent to distribute controlled substances; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
4
Daniel Gonzalez
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Deanthony Flowers
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Alex Jones
Jhakheem Smith
Conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threats or violence; interference with commerce by threats or violence; and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (violence charge),
up to life in federal prison (firearm charge).
0
Lewis James Scott
Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (narcotics charge), up to life in federal prison (firearm charge).
1
Johnie Shields
Possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Daquan Carey
Possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
3
James Hilligardt
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Keith Rhoden
Interference with commerce by robbery and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison(robbery offense), life in federal prison (firearm offense).
1
Jaquavious Green
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Rasheio Black
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Darell Padilla
Interference with commerce by threats or violence and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (violence offense), life in federal prison (firearm offense).
1
Tim Crawford
Interstate domestic violence, discharge of a firearm during and in the commission of a crime of violence, and interstate stalking.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Tyler Jacobs
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, aggravated identify theft, witness tampering, destruction of evidence, and possession of ammunition.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 2 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison.
0
These PSN cases from the Tampa Division are being handled by AUSAs Jeff Chang, Samantha Newman, Diego Novaes, Michael C. Sinacore, Michael R. Kenneth, and Candace Rich.
Orlando Division
Malcolm Bellamy
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Luis Rosado
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Lawrence Lamar Singleton II
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Byron Louder
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Benjamin Garmon, Jr.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Jonathan Nicola
Possession with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Jonen Castillo
Smuggling firearms from the United States to Canada.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
5
Reginald Dugger
Attempted possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 30 years in federal prison(the drug offense),15 years in federal prison (firearm offense).
2
Dominick Yvon Louissaint
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Darryl James London
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
David Lewis Andrew Bryan
Possession of ammunition by a convicted felon (2 counts).
Maximum penalty: 30 years in federal prison.
2
Sebastian Gabriel Lugo Lugo
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 5 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Edward Vincenzo Camacho
Theft of a firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
These PSN cases from the Orlando Division are being handled by AUSAs Noah P. Dorman, Michael Sartoian, Stephanie A. McNeff, Dana Hill, Megan Testerman, Diane Hu, Rachel Lyons, Kara Wick, and Richard Varadan.
Adjudicated Cases
Defendant(s)
Charges
Minimum/Maximum Terms of Imprisonment
Firearms Seized
Fort Myers Division
Nicholas Munson Troemner
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Jonnetric Devonte Ivey
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Javier Joel Perez
Possession of controlled substance with the intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (narcotics offense),
minimum mandatory sentence of 5 years in prison to run consecutive to any other sentence (firearm offense), 15 years in federal prison (second firearm offense).
1
Willie James Hunter, Jr.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Ruben Justus Edwards
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Ernest Jeshad Foster
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Coroy Dontavia Flournoy
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Fort Myers Division are being handled by AUSAs Mark Morgan and Simon Eth.
Jacksonville Division
Antonio Jose Melean Reyes
Smuggling firearms from the United States and conspiracy to use a facility of interstate commerce in the commission of a murder-for-hire.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
3
Gabriel Daniel Pinnace
Smuggling firearms from the United States and making materially false statements during the purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison for each offense.
3
Antonio Saquan Tate
Hobbs act robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison; mandatory minimum of 7 years, up to life, in federal prison
0
Brendon Bobby Brown
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Dondre Shauntrell Rosier
Distributing cocaine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison; 10 years in federal prison
1
Andre Lee Long
Distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Michael Thomas Sawyer
Making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Paul Allen Anderson, Jr.
Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
5
Randolph Wayne Swindle
Making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Roberto Roman Ramirez
Making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Desmond Lee Maxwell
Conspiring to straw purchase firearms.
Maximum penalty: 25 years in federal prison.
2
Edgar Diaz Aquino
Possession of a firearm by an alien.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Jacksonville Division are being handled by AUSAs Aakash Singh, Kirwinn Mike, John Cannizzaro, and Frank Talbot.
Ocala Division
Tyran Terrell Harris
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Michael Latrelle Simpson
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
1
Clinton Kaham
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Ocala Division are being handled by AUSAs Hannah Nowalk, and Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.
Tampa Division
Evan Ingram
Distribution and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Darius Hudson
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery (3 separate robberies) and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 27 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Benjamin Cedric Graddy
Possession with the intent to distribute dimethylpentylone and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 5 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Dovontate James Wright
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
0
Marcos Lutrell Walden
Distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison.
0
Elias Xavier Rosario Torres
Veronica Estefania Rodriguez Pinuela
Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and possession of a machine gun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Penalty: mandatory minimum 35 years, up to life, in federal prison.
Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and possession of a machine gun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Penalty: mandatory minimum 35 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Gerard Eric Beasley
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
0
Stewart Walter Bachmann
Possession of a machine gun and possession of a firearm not identified by a serial number.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison per charge.
0
These PSN cases from the Tampa Division are being handled by AUSAs Samantha Newman, Diego Novaes, David W.A. Chee, Michael Kenneth, James C. Preston, Samantha Beckman, and Shauna S. Hale.
Orlando Division
Robert Lee Pringle
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
2
Angel Ruben Hernandez, Jr.
Failing to record required information about firearms purchases (3 counts).
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison per count.
9
Antavious Anton Gray, Jr.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Jhroy Elijah Sackey
Possession with the intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison.
1
Kristian Moises Ramos
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Alfred Lamar Shavers
Possession of firearm by convicted felon (Armed Career Criminal).
Penalty: minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
9
Christian Ponce
Rodney Hernandez
Possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Penalty: minimum mandatory 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
3
Verun Maharajh
Export of firearms and ammunition, shipment of firearms without a license, and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien.
Maximum penalty: 35 years in federal prison.
4
Chrissie Fier Williams
Export of firearms and ammunition (3 counts).
Maximum penalty: 30 years in federal prison.
18
Victor Morales-Acosta
Possession of a firearm by an illegal alien.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Orlando Division are being handled by AUSAs Megan Testerman, Dana E. Hill, Noah Dorman, Stephanie A. McNeff, David Pardo, Michael Sartoian, Matthew Del Mastro, and Rachel Lyons.
Sentenced Cases
Defendant(s)
Charges
Sentence Imposed
Firearms Seized
Fort Myers Division
Chester Lewis Risco, III
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 3 years, 10 months in federal prison.
1
Mar’tavoius Martel Brown
Possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Sentence imposed: 5 years in federal prison.
1
Keith Dewayne Drayton, Jr.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Sentence imposed: 4 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Fort Myers Division were handled by AUSAs Mark Morgan and Simon R. Eth.
Jacksonville Division
Andrew Tyler Harp
Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 10 years in federal prison.
1
Kristofferson Farmer
Possession with intent to distribute Alpha-PVP, a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
Sentence imposed: 6 years, 8 months in federal prison.
3
Mario Lenard Elbert
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
Sentence imposed: 7 years in federal prison.
2
Keith Allen Dixon
Distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 10 years in federal prison.
3
Geoffrey Scott
Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 15 years in federal prison.
10
Lucas Shirley II
Transferring unregistered short-barreled rifles.
Sentence imposed: 5 years, 5 months in federal prison.
29
Charles David Mobley
Making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of a firearm.
Sentence imposed: 2 years in federal prison.
9
Edgar Guintivano
Possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
Sentence imposed: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Jesse Rance Moore
Interference with commerce by threats or violence robberies and burglaries involving controlled substances, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Sentence imposed: 21 years in federal prison.
1
Paul Bryan McCorkle
Receiving and possessing an explosive by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 2 years, 3 months in federal prison.
1
Pernell Dewayne Bodiford, Jr.
False Statements to a firearms dealer during firearm purchase.
Sentence imposed: Time served.
0
Samuel Arthur Thompson
Possession and receipt of child sex abuse material; intrusion of protected computer causing damage; production of child sex abuse material; failure to register as a sex offender; possession of firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 220 years in federal prison.
1
Tony Kenneth Paul, Jr.
Possession of a machine gun and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
Sentence imposed: 5 years in federal prison.
3
Rakesh Verma
Making false statement to federal firearms dealer.
Sentence imposed: 1 year, 3 months in federal prison.
0
These PSN cases from the Jacksonville Division were handled by AUSAs Michael Coolican, John Cannizzaro, David Mesrobian, Laura Taylor, Kirwinn Mike, and Frank Talbot.
Ocala Division
Raymond Devon Haynes
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 1 year, 1 day in federal prison.
1
Kingsley Samuel Richard Wilson
Viviana Rodriguez
Making a false statement to a firearms dealer, dealing in firearms without a license, making a false statement in required information kept by a firearms dealer.
Sentence imposed (Wilson): 3 years, 10 months in federal prison.
Sentence imposed (Rodriguez): 2 years, 6 months in federal prison.
140
Wendall Doyle Goney
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 4 years in federal prison.
1
Jared Boyle
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 10 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Ocala Division were handled by AUSAs Belkis Crockett, Sarah Swartzberg, Robert Bodnar, Jr., and Tyrie Boyer.
Orlando Division
Jason Santos
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
Sentence imposed: 8 years, 4 months in federal prison.
11
Jeremy Middleton
Possession of a stolen firearms.
Sentence imposed: 3 years, 10 months in federal prison.
13
Carlos Aquino
Possession of 400 grams or more of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possession of firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Sentence imposed: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Antione Oshea Ladson
Drug trafficking and possessing a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 10 years, 6 months in federal prison.
1
Geoffrey Gaston
Five armed robberies.
Sentence imposed: 7 years in federal prison.
0
Timothy Jones
Bank robbery.
Sentence imposed: 25 years in federal prison.
0
Yadier Torres-Rivera
Distribution of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl.
Sentence imposed: 15 years, 8 months in federal prison.
1
Desha Cooper
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 3 years, 10 months in federal prison.
2
E’Chavion Semaj Flewellen
Distribution of fentanyl.
Sentence imposed: 16 years, 8 months in federal prison.
3
O’Neil Clifton Gordon
Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.
Sentence imposed: 3 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Orlando Division were handled by AUSAs Stephanie A. McNeff, Diana Hu, David Pardo, Dana E. Hill, Noah Dorman, Megan Testerman, Richard Varadan, Rachel Lyons, and Kara Wick.
Tampa Division
Yvens Philone
Possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Sentence imposed: 10 years in federal prison.
0
Erik Barner
Distribution and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 17 years, 6 months in federal prison.
0
Sean Peter Brewer
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Sentence imposed: 7 years in federal prison.
0
Scott Carpenter, Jr.
Interfering with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Sentence imposed: 28 years in federal prison.
3
James Eugene Smith
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 8 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Tampa Division were handled by AUSAs David P. Sullivan, Samantha Newman, David E. A. Chee, David P. Sullivan, Michael M. Gordon, and Michael Kenneth.
Former Police Officer Arrested for Online Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest and filing of a criminal complaint charging Josue Garriga III (34, Jacksonville) with online enticement of a minor child to engage in criminal sexual activity. Garriga is a former police officer with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
According to the criminal complaint, Garriga met the child victim at church around September 2023 and began pursuing a relationship with her via text messaging and WhatsApp. Messages recovered from the victim’s phone revealed Garriga sent communications expressing his sexual interest in the child. Garriga went to the victim’s house late at night on several occasions and visited her at a coffee shop on March 6, 2024. During the March 6 encounter, while in his vehicle outside the coffee shop, Garriga grabbed the child’s hand, put her hand down his pants, and requested the child perform oral sex on him. When the child refused, Garriga asked the child to kiss his genitalia and would not let the child leave until the child did so.
A complaint 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. If convicted, Garriga faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, to include Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura Cofer Taylor and Kelly S. Milliron.
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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Department of Defense Contractor Sentenced to More Than Eight Years for Receiving Child Sex Abuse Materials over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Tyler Lee Murrell (27, Hillsboro, Tennessee) to eight years and one month in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse images. Murrell was also ordered to serve a 15-year term of supervised release and register as a sex offender. Murrell was arrested on July 17, 2023, and ordered detained pending the outcome of proceedings in this case. He entered a guilty plea on December 7, 2023.
According to court documents, in March 2023, the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) received information from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) about two CyberTipline Reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. These tips advised that child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) were suspected of being uploaded to a wireless cloud account. The subscriber information of the wireless account indicated the subscriber was Tyler Lee Murrell, with a residence in Jacksonville. Internet Protocol (IP) addresses were provided for the CyberTips and traced to a residence belonging to Murrell. Upon further investigation, JSO learned Murrell was likely a member of the military or a Department of Defense contractor and turned the investigation over to NCIS.
NCIS learned that Murrell worked for a company at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. NCIS obtained a search warrant for Murrell’s cloud account and located a video depicting CSAM from one of the CyberTips and additional files of CSAM. NCIS executed a search warrant and seized Murrell’s phone on June 28, 2023. A search of the phone resulted in the discovery of numerous files of CSAM, including 43 videos and 38 images of CSAM. There were also numerous discussions related to CSAM. In one, Murrell discussed engaging in sexual activity with a minor female child if he and the female he was chatting with had a child together. In response, the female sent Murrell two CSAM videos.
During an interview with law enforcement following his arrest, Murrell admitted to purchasing and receiving CSAM. He also admitted to speaking with an adult woman who would send him videos of CSAM.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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.
Wauchula Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell has sentenced Richard Aldo Melendez (36, Wauchula) to 14 years in federal prison for his role in a methamphetamine trafficking ring. Melendez entered a guilty plea on August 28, 2023.
According to court documents, Melendez conspired with Ellen Jean Bivens (25, Zolfo Springs) and Abdon Rivera, Jr. (33, Lake Wales) to distribute methamphetamine in the Middle District of Florida. In late 2022, Melendez sold methamphetamine to undercover agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Then, in January 2023, troopers from the Florida Highway Patrol, in coordination with DEA, stopped Melendez and Bivens as they were returning from a trip to Texas. A search of their vehicle yielded nearly 15 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Bivens was previously sentenced to 37 months in federal prison. Rivera has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan.
Palm Harbor Man Sentenced to Prison for Receiving and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced James Joseph Weishaar (65, Palm Harbor) to eight years in federal prison for receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Weishaar to pay $27,000 in restitution to victims of the offenses and register as a sex offender. He entered a guilty plea on September 27, 2023.
According to court documents, between March and December 2020, the FBI used a file sharing program to connect to Weishaar’s computer and download from it several files depicting the sexual abuse of children. In January 2021, the FBI executed a search warrant at Weishaar’s home and seized several 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 and toddlers. In an interview with the FBI, Weishaar stated, “I don’t even know if it’s okay, but I’m attracted to it.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation—Tampa, with substantial assistance from the Largo Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abigail K. King and Ross Roberts.
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.
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Selling Firearms and Machinegun Conversion DevicesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Scott Randall Chance, Jr. (22, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to dealing firearms without a license and knowingly possessing a machinegun. Chance faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in October 2022, federal and local law enforcement agencies identified Chance as a source of supply for illegal firearms and machinegun conversion devices (MCDs) in Duval and St. Johns counties. On four separate occasions, between February and July 2023, Chance illegally sold firearms and MCDs to an undercover law enforcement officer. In total, Chance sold six firearms and three MCDs to the undercover officer.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U. S. Attorney Handberg Announces $418,000 in Justice Department Grants to Support Youth SuccessRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL ― U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg today announced a grant award of $418,000 to help support youth success in the Middle District of Florida. The grant was awarded to the City of Orlando Continuum of Care Project to Support Youth Success by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s (OJJDP) “Building Local Continuums of Care to Support Youth Success” initiative and is part of more than $17 million going to communities nationwide.
“Effective prevention and intervention strategies are critical in reducing violence and improving the quality of life in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. “Providing youth with opportunities to succeed and realize their potential is essential in developing our future leaders. This initiative is an investment in both.”
The Continuum of Care framework supports a network of services and opportunities to foster positive youth development and prioritizes community safety and effective program outcomes. This new OJJDP investment leverages decades of evidence-based learning to prevent youth from entering or deepening their involvement in the juvenile justice system and steer them on a path to success. At its core, the continuum of care approach is community-driven, leverages local insights, and addresses youth needs through mentoring, after-school programs, and other prosocial activities.
More information about these and other OJP awards can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime; advance equity and fairness in the administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) provides national leadership, coordination, and resources to prevent and respond to youth delinquency and victimization. The Office helps states, localities, and Tribes develop effective and equitable juvenile justice systems that create safer communities and empower youth to lead productive lives.
Second Jacksonville Man Arrested on Bank Fraud and Theft of Mail ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Jonathan Benavide Hidalgo (26, Jacksonville) with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, eight counts of bank fraud, conspiracy to commit theft of mail, and theft of mail. If convicted, Hidalgo faces up to 30 years in federal prison for each count of bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud, up to 5 years for the theft of mail and conspiracy to commit theft of mail counts, and payment of restitution to the victims he and his co-defendant, Frank Anthony Acanda, defrauded. Federal law enforcement arrested Acanda on December 13, 2023.
According to the indictment, Hidalgo, Acanda, and others drove around areas of Fleming Island, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine and stole large volumes of mail from residential and business mailboxes over several months. After opening the mail and stealing checks and money orders, Hidalgo, Acanda, and others acting on their behalf, deposited the items into bank accounts controlled by them and then used ATMs to immediately withdraw cash. In some instances, the co-defendants altered the stolen checks by increasing the amount of the stolen checks to maximize the amount of money they could withdraw from ATMs.
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 Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Jacksonville Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The asset forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.
Florida attorney sentenced to federal prison for role in COVID-19 fraud schemeRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: A Florida attorney has been sentenced to federal prison and ordered to pay restitution for participating in a scheme to illegally obtain funding from a federal COVID-19 small business relief program.
Shaquandra Woods, 41, of Jacksonville, Fla., was sentenced to 75 months in prison for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge R. Stan Baker, who presided over the four-day trial in which a federal jury convicted Woods, also ordered her to pay $42,848 in restitution and to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of her prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Shaquandra Woods prolifically filed fraudulent applications for COVID-19 pandemic relief funds for herself and for others,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “With our law enforcement partners, we will continue to prosecute those who engage in such self-enriching behavior at taxpayers’ expense.”
As authorized by the CARES Act, the Small Business Administration (SBA) provided Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Woods, an attorney licensed to practice law in Florida and Georgia, completed at least nine applications for EIDL funding for herself and others, fabricating and submitting false documents to support the applications.
As a result of the fraudulent applications, Woods was successful in obtaining more than $300,000 for herself.
“Woods will now pay the price for stealing pandemic relief funds that others needed to keep a business open or to keep a roof over their heads,” said Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Will Clarke of FBI Atlanta’s Savannah Resident Agency. “Federal programs such as these are set up to help those in need, not to benefit criminals. Prosecution of those who illegally obtain government benefits will continue to be a priority for our office.”
“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who defraud SBA’s programs will be held accountable,” said Amaleka McCall-Braithwaite, Special Agent in Charge of the Eastern Region of the SBA Office of Inspector General. “Our office will remain steadfast in pursuing those who exploit such vital resources for personal gain, ensuring accountability and justice for the American taxpayer. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s office and our law enforcement partners for their unwavering commitment to pursuing justice in this case.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan C. Grover and Former Senior Litigation Counsel Jenna G. Solari.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Clewiston Felon Pleads Guilty to Firearms and Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Javier Velasquez, Jr. (38, Clewiston) has pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of cocaine, three counts of felon in possession of firearms, one count of illegal possession of a machinegun, and one count of carrying firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Velasquez faces a minimum mandatory penalty of five years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
According to court documents, between July 13 and September 19, 2023, Velasquez sold an undercover federal agent cocaine, multiple firearms, and a Glock switch. A Glock switch enables a semi-automatic firearm to operate as a fully functioning machine gun. Velasquez is a convicted felon and therefore is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Three Individuals Plead Guilty to Trafficking Methamphetamine Through the Orlando AirportRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jevonn Clayton (48, Auburndale), Venus Lott (45, Bartow), and Richardson Sid (40, Winter Haven) have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. All three defendants face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. Sentencing hearings have not yet been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement, on August 11, 2022, Clayton agreed to transport suitcases containing methamphetamine from Los Angeles to Orlando on behalf of a drug trafficker. Shortly thereafter, Clayton and the drug trafficker recruited Lott and Sid to travel to California to assist in transporting the suitcases.
On August 16, 2022, Clayton, Lott, and Sid departed Los Angeles for Orlando, with five suitcases packed with large amounts of methamphetamine. Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation were investigating inbound flights at the Orlando airport. The agents located and searched the suitcases belonging to Clayton, Lott, and Sid and recovered several vacuum-sealed bags that contained over 35 kilograms of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with valuable assistance from the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Noah P. Dorman.
Man Charged for over $70M Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – An indictment was unsealed in Tampa last week charging a Mississippi man for his alleged role in an over $70 million fraud scheme involving the payment of kickbacks and bribes to obtain doctors’ orders for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME).
Joel Rufus French, 46, of Amory, made his initial appearance on April 11 in Oxford, Mississippi.
According to court documents, French allegedly managed multiple DME companies without disclosing his role to Medicare. He and his co-conspirators allegedly used the DME companies to bill Medicare for orthotic braces that were obtained using doctors’ orders that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes, medically unnecessary, not provided as billed, and ineligible for Medicare reimbursement. French also allegedly obtained Medicare beneficiary information and paid kickbacks and bribes for doctors’ orders for DME. French allegedly generated and sold doctors’ orders for orthotic braces to suppliers and brokers in exchange for millions in kickbacks and bribes. Finally, French is alleged to have participated in a scheme to launder certain proceeds of his schemes.
French is charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive illegal health care kickbacks, conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted, French faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud count, as well as on the conspiracy to commit money laundering count. French faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive illegal health care kickbacks count.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida; Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.
The FBI Tampa Field Office and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Catherine Wagner of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Peresie for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Man Charged for over $70M Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed in Tampa last week charging a Mississippi man for his alleged role in an over $70 million fraud scheme involving the payment of kickbacks and bribes to obtain doctors’ orders for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME).
Joel Rufus French, 46, of Amory, made his initial appearance on April 11 in Oxford, Mississippi.
According to court documents, French allegedly managed multiple DME companies without disclosing his role to Medicare. He and his co-conspirators allegedly used the DME companies to bill Medicare for orthotic braces that were obtained using doctors’ orders that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes, medically unnecessary, not provided as billed, and ineligible for Medicare reimbursement. French also allegedly obtained Medicare beneficiary information and paid kickbacks and bribes for doctors’ orders for DME. French allegedly generated and sold doctors’ orders for orthotic braces to suppliers and brokers in exchange for millions in kickbacks and bribes. Finally, French is alleged to have participated in a scheme to launder certain proceeds of his schemes.
French is charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive illegal health care kickbacks, conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted, French faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud count, as well as on the conspiracy to commit money laundering count. French faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive illegal health care kickbacks count.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida; Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.
The FBI Tampa Field Office and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Catherine Wagner of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Peresie for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Jacksonville Convicted Child Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Producing Photos Depicting the Sexual Abuse of A ChildRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Andrew David Salas (36, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to producing photos depicting the sexual abuse of a minor child. Salas faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 25 years, up to 50 years, in federal prison, and a potential lifetime term of supervised release. Salas is a registered sex offender, having been convicted of carnal knowledge of a minor child in Virginia in 2008. Salas was arrested on November 3, 2022, and has been in custody since that time. A sentencing hearing for Salas is scheduled for July 16, 2024.
According to court documents, in 2022, Salas used a web-based social media messaging platform to engage in an online conversation with a minor child who lived in Georgia. During this online conversation, Salas decided to drive from Florida to meet and pick up the child. On June 14, 2022, Salas drove from Jacksonville to an area near the child’s residence and met the child, who was on foot, at a particular intersection and invited the child into his car. The child entered Salas’s vehicle and told Salas that the child was underage. Salas then drove the child back to his residence in Jacksonville.
For more than four months, the child remained in Salas’s residence, and Salas engaged in sexual activity with the child on several occasions. Salas also used and persuaded the child to pose for him as he took photos of the child in sexually explicit positions. He also took sexually explicit photos of the child while the child slept.
In November 2022, FBI agents in Jacksonville obtained geolocation data showing that an electronic device linked to Salas had been near the child’s residence in Georgia on the evening of June 14, 2022. On November 3, 2022, an FBI agent and a detective with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) went to Salas’s residence to make contact with Salas and attempt to locate the child. Salas was arrested and his cellphone was seized. Later that day, the child was located and rescued by law enforcement near Salas’s residence and was returned safely to the child’s family.
JSO detectives obtained a search warrant for Salas’s residence and seized several computers and electronic devices. Meanwhile, the FBI obtained search warrants for, Salas’s cellphone. A review of the phone’s contents revealed information about the location of the child’s residence, as well as text messages exchanged between Salas and the child. Salas’s phone also contained sexually explicit photos of the child produced by Salas, as well as photos depicting other young children being sexually abused.
This case was investigated by the Carroll County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, the United States Marshals Service, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Atlanta and Jacksonville), with assistance from the State Attorney’s Office in Jacksonville. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
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.
Conspirators Sentenced for Smuggling Narcotics into the Hillsborough County Jail, Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury to an InmateRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Seneca Dukes (42, Tampa), David Marty (43, Tampa), Emmanuel Gotay Hernandez (34, Tampa), Miriam Marti-Benning (49, Tampa), and Michelle Lipinski (35, Tampa) to federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine resulting in serious bodily injury. Dukes and Marty, who were the leaders of the conspiracy, were sentenced to 26 years and 25 years, respectively. Gotay Hernandez was sentenced to 9 years, Marti-Benning to 8 years and 2 months, and Lipinski to 5 years and 3 months in federal prison.
Dukes and Marty pleaded guilty on October 23, 2023, the day their jury trial was to commence. Gotay Hernandez pleaded guilty on October 16, 2023, Marti-Benning pleaded guilty on November 14, 2022, and Lipinski pleaded guilty on August 11, 2022.
According to court proceedings and documents, in March 2021, the group conspired to obtain controlled substances and smuggle them into the Hillsborough County Falkenburg Road Jail. Dukes and Marty were housed in the same pod at the jail, and Lipinski, who worked as a nurse at the jail, routinely visited their pod. Dukes developed a relationship with Lipinski and asked her to meet with Marti-Benning to get packages from her and bring them to him during her rounds. Marty had his sister, Marti-Benning, obtain controlled substances, package them, and give them to Lipinski. Marty also enlisted the help of Gotay Hernandez, who previously was an inmate in the same pod of the jail as Dukes and Marty. Gotay Hernandez obtained fentanyl, and, at Marty’s direction, provided it to Marti-Benning, who in turn provided it to Lipinski.
On March 29, 2021, Lipinski smuggled packages containing fentanyl and methamphetamine into the jail during her rounds and delivered them to Dukes. The next morning, an inmate in the pod overdosed on the fentanyl, but jail medical personnel saved his life by administering Narcan.
This case was investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Sinacore and Samantha Newman.
Clay County Man with History of Domestic Violence Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Paul Steven Hulbert (28, Middleburg) to three years in federal prison for the unlawful possession of an unregistered National Firearms Act firearm (sawed-off shotgun). Hulbert made his initial appearance in federal court on November 18, 2022, and was ordered detained. He entered a guilty plea on June 20, 2023.
According to court documents and public records, in May 2021, a court in Clay County issued a “Temporary Injunction for Protection Against Domestic Violence with Minor Children” against Hulbert. The court extended the injunction until September 2022. The injunction specifically prohibited Hulbert from possessing firearms and directed him to surrender any firearms in his possession to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). In October 2021, Hulbert was convicted in Clay County of the misdemeanor crime of domestic battery. After the domestic battery conviction and issuance of the domestic violence injunction, both of which prohibited him from possessing firearms, Hulbert obtained seven firearms, including rifles, pistols and a shotgun.
On May 16, 2022, members of the CCSO went to Hulbert’s home to serve an arrest warrant for violating the terms of the injunction. Upon arriving at the home, the CCSO arrested him and searched the house. They located four rifles, a revolver, a pistol and a 12-guage shotgun. Follow up investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) determined that the 12-gauge shotgun was illegally modified, as both barrels had been sawed off. ATF determined that the 12-gauge shotgun was not registered to Hulbert in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Jacksonville Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Wimauma Man on Federal Supervised Release Indicted for Possession of Ammunition by A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Alfredo Davila, Jr. (30, Wimauma) with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. If convicted, Davila faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on February 18, 2024, Davila, knowing that he had previously been convicted of a felony, was in possession of ammunition. At the time of the offense, Davila was serving a term of supervised release for his previous convictions. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. 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.
Jacksonville Woman Sentenced to 10 Years for Distributing Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Annette Jones (37, Jacksonville) to 10 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Jones entered a guilty plea on November 16, 2023.
According to court documents, Jones was part of a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Jacksonville between 2020 and 2023. During this time, Jones was responsible for distributing over 50 kilograms of methamphetamine and over 5 kilograms of fentanyl. Between December 2022 and February 2023, Jones sold over 1 kilogram of methamphetamine and a loaded firearm with an extended magazine to an undercover law enforcement officer. On March 15, 2023, federal agents and local law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Jones’s residence and recovered two loaded firearms, including one that had been reported stolen.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.
Georgia Man Indicted for Bank Fraud, Passport Fraud, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of a 15-count superseding indictment charging Gary Dale Thrasher (56, Georgia) with bank fraud, passport fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, Thrasher faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison on the bank fraud counts, a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment for the passport fraud offenses, and a 2-year minimum mandatory term of imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft.
According to the superseding indictment, between May and June 2023, Thrasher obtained and used, or attempted to use, fraudulent identification documents and a means of identification of others to withdraw cash from four different federally insured financial institutions within the Middle District of Florida.
A superseding 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 Ocala Police Department, the Wildwood Police Department, the Leesburg Police Department, and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to 5 Years’ Imprisonment for Assaulting Correctional OfficersRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell has sentenced Paige Robert Davis (44, Illinois) to five years in federal prison for two counts of assaulting a federal officer. He entered a guilty plea on October 30, 2023.
According to court records, Davis was an inmate in the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex in Sumter County. On November 18, 2022, during a standard pat-down search, Davis turned and punched a correctional officer in the face. When the correctional officer fell to the ground, hit his head on the concrete, and lost consciousness, Davis got on top of the officer and continued to strike him. Davis then fought with other responding correctional officers before finally being subdued.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.
Two Texans Sentenced to 15 Years for A Conspiracy to Distribute over 20 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven has sentenced Arnulfo Rodriguez-Munoz (43, Fort Worth, TX) and Enrique Velasquez (45, Dallas, TX) each to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Both Rodriguez-Munoz and Velasquez entered guilty pleas on June 22, 2023.
According to court documents, Velasquez coordinated a shipment of cocaine that was supposed to travel to Florida (but was intercepted by law enforcement). Velasquez then traveled to the Tampa Bay area to recover the proceeds. Rodriguez-Munoz traveled to Florida to coordinate two additional shipments of cocaine, one of which was concealed inside a speaker box. Both of those cocaine shipments were also recovered by law enforcement.
Two co-conspirators were previously sentenced. Heriberto Castillo was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison and David Ceballos was sentenced to 3 years and 1 month in federal prison.
This case was being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hardee County Sheriff’s office, and the Lakeland Police Department. 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. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael R. Kenneth and Diego F. Novaes.
Tampa Drug Trafficker Convicted by A Federal JuryRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Anthony Carroll (50, Tampa) guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Carroll faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Carroll and his co-defendant agreed with an individual located in Mexico and associated with the Sinaloa Cartel to purchase 30 kilograms of cocaine in Tampa. An undercover agent in communication with the Mexican cartel member was solicited by that individual to transport the 30 kilograms of cocaine from El Paso, Texas to Tampa. Once in Tampa, the undercover agent contacted the Mexican cartel member who told the agent that two people would be arriving to the meeting location in a white sedan. Carroll and his co-defendant arrived shortly afterwards in Carroll’s white car. The pair met with two undercover agents, paid them the transportation fee, and took possession of the cocaine. A short while later, troopers from the Florida Highway Patrol stopped the vehicle. After a narcotics dog was deployed on the vehicle, troopers discovered the cocaine in the trunk. The pair were then arrested.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration - Tampa District Office and El Paso Field Division and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.
New Jersey Couple Indicted for Producing, Distributing, and Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of a five-count indictment charging Michael Taylor, Jr. (27, New Jersey) and Alexandria Stevens (20, New Jersey) with producing, distributing, and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM). If convicted, Taylor and Stevens each face a minimum mandatory penalty of 15, up to 30 years, in federal prison for the production offense, and a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years’ imprisonment, up to 20 years, for the distribution and receipt offenses.
According to court documents, while visiting Florida in November 2023, Taylor and Stevens produced CSAM with an 8-year-old child. Using the internet, Taylor and Stevens also exchanged images of CSAM. Taylor and Stevens were both arrested in New Jersey on March 27, 2024. They are currently in custody pending the resolution of the criminal case.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
It is another case 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 child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Marion County Man Indicted for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Kyle Burbank (32, Belleview) with two counts of receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). If convicted on both counts, Burbank faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in federal prison, including a 5-year minimum mandatory term of imprisonment on each count.
According to court documents, between January 5 and 17, 2024, Burbank received five video files over the internet depicting CSAM from a 12-year-old child in another state. A review of Burbank’s social media accounts by investigators revealed multiple online interactions with other minors. Burbank subsequently was arrested by federal agents on April 4, 2024. He is currently in custody pending the resolution of this case.
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, with assistance from the Clinton County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Office, and the Rossville (Indiana) Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
It is another case 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 child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lakeland Man Pleads Guilty to Bringing Loaded Firearm into Tampa International Airport TerminalRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Abraham Othman Yacoub (26, Lakeland) has pleaded guilty to one count of violating airport security requirements and one count of attempted possession of a dangerous weapon on an aircraft. Yacoub faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each count. He has also agreed to forfeit the Glock 19 and assorted ammunition, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on August 4, 2023, Yacoub arrived at Tampa International Airport to board a flight to Las Vegas, Nevada. He entered the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening line and placed his backpack, shoes, and other personal items into a TSA bin before proceeding through TSA screening.
TSA electronically screened Yacoub’s items with an x-ray machine and observed a firearm inside of Yacoub’s bag. While TSA officers were attempting to locate the bag containing the firearm, Yacoub took his bag from the conveyor belt and proceeded to the nearest men’s restroom. Once in the restroom, Yacoub removed the firearm from his backpack, wrapped it in toilet paper, and hid it in a trash can.
A short time later, Yacoub exited the restroom and returned to the TSA screening area, still holding his backpack, where he was met by a TSA officer. TSA officers rescreened Yacoub’s backpack and questioned Yacoub, who lied to TSA officers and told them that he had not brought a firearm into the airport. The airport terminal was evacuated of passengers, delaying numerous flights. Officers from the Tampa International Airport Police Department (TIA PD) responded to the screening area, questioned Yacoub, and searched the restroom that Yacoub had entered. Inside the trash can in the handicap stall, TSA and TIA PD officers located a black firearm partially wrapped in toilet paper with fourteen 9mm rounds of ammunition inside a magazine and loaded into the gun.
The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Rules and Regulations for Tampa International Airport state that “[n]o person except those persons authorized by law may carry a firearm or concealed weapon inside the passenger terminal and sterile areas of the airport….” Further, the airport has clearly posted no-firearms signs at the entry of every airport security line.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Transportation Security Administration, and the Tampa International Airport Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Karyna Valdes.
Pasco Man Sentenced to Nearly 20 Years for Conspiring to Distribute over 100 Kilograms of Cocaine in the Tampa Bay AreaRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Jonathan Rivera-Roman (35, Hudson) to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for conspiring to traffic cocaine and for distribution of cocaine. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $108,000, which was seized from a co-conspirator. Rivera-Roman was arrested on March 29, 2023, and detained. He entered a guilty plea on November 8, 2023. Rivera-Roman’s co-defendant, Angel Martinez-Pantoja, was sentenced on February 23, 2024, to 10 years in prison. A third co-defendant, Oscar Borelli-Ortiz, is a fugitive from justice.
According to court documents, Rivera-Roman operated a drug trafficking organization in Pasco County that received cocaine shipped from Puerto Rico. Following several controlled purchases of cocaine from Martinez-Pantoja, authorities learned on August 28, 2021, of an imminent plan for the organization to be resupplied via Borelli-Ortiz in Orlando. Authorities conducted three traffic stops that evening and executed several search warrants the next day, resulting in the seizures of bulk cash, firearms, and several kilograms of cocaine.
According to testimony presented at sentencing, the Rivera-Roman organization was responsible for obtaining at least 100 kilograms of cocaine for distribution in the Tampa Bay area. Rivera-Roman also used a beauty product supply business to launder his drug proceeds.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pasco Sheriff's Office, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. 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. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Orlando Convicted Felon Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. has sentenced Robert Lee Pringle (35, Orlando) to 10 years in federal prison for possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. The court also ordered Pringle to forfeit the firearms and ammunition used in the offense. Pringle entered a guilty plea on January 16, 2024.
According to court documents, on May 3, 2022, an officer with the Orlando Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle driven by Pringle. Pringle fled at a high rate of speed and later crashed into another vehicle, after which Pringle attempted to flee on foot before being detained. A search of the stolen vehicle Pringle was driving revealed two pistols and ammunition on the front passenger floorboard. Also on the front passenger floorboard was a backpack containing paperwork with Pringle’s name, prescription bottles with Pringle’s name, suspected narcotics, digital scales, sandwich baggies, and additional ammunition.
At the time, Pringle had multiple prior felony convictions, including carrying a concealed firearm, robbery, burglary of a conveyance, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, grand theft third degree, and fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer at high speed or with wanton disregard. As a previously convicted felon, Pringle 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 was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Keystone Heights Multi-Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Allen Tereal Grimes (33, Keystone Heights) has pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. Grimes faces up to 15 years in federal prison and forfeiture of the ammunition, which is alleged to be traceable to his offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Grimes made his initial appearance in federal court on March 4, 2024, and was ordered detained.
According to court records, on August 11, 2023, Grimes was in possession of Winchester 9mm ammunition, among other ammunition. At the time of the incident, Grimes had seven prior felony convictions, including battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, fleeing and eluding a police officer, felony battery, and assault with intent to commit to a felony. As a previously convicted felon, Grimes is prohibited from possessing ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Jury Convicts Fentanyl Supplier of Conspiracies, Distribution, and Causing A Near-Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Joseph Marion (41, St. Petersburg) guilty of two counts of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine; one count of distributing fentanyl; and one count of distributing a mixture of fentanyl and heroin that resulted in serious bodily injury. Marion previously pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine with the intent to distribute. Marion faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 20 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 16, 2024.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Marion was a second-tier supplier of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine. He imported fentanyl and fentanyl analogues from China via the U.S. mail, blended and packaged the controlled substances himself, and then sold the drugs from his home to street dealers who further distributed them to users. During the trial, one of the street dealers testified that she bought 40 - 100 bags of fentanyl from Marion each day, every day, for several years. In November 2019, a woman who was with Marion in his apartment snorted Marion’s fentanyl, thinking it was heroin, and nearly died. Paramedics were able to save her, though she was hospitalized for days afterward.
In November 2019, agents executed a search warrant for Marion’s apartment and seized large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and marijuana, as well as thousands of branded wrappers used to package fentanyl and heroin.
Marion was known by the nickname “Backpage Jay” because his other source of illicit income was advertising and “managing” prostitutes on the now-defunct website Backpage.com.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Clearwater Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael M. Gordon.
This case 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.
Former Owner of Latitude 360 Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Failing to Pay over Payroll Taxes to the IRSRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Brent Brown to 30 months in federal prison for willfully failing to pay over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employment taxes that were withheld from employees’ paychecks. Brown was further ordered to pay more than $3.8 million in restitution to the IRS. Brown entered a guilty plea on January 11, 2024.
According to court documents, Brown established the initial version of the Latitude entities in June 2010 with a location in Jacksonville, doing business under the name Latitude 360. The Latitude entities operated restaurant and entertainment complexes and expanded to include locations in Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Albany, New York – although this location never opened to the public. As part of its business operations, the Latitude entities withheld payroll taxes from employees in trust, which taxes were legally required to be paid over to the IRS. Instead of paying these amounts over to the IRS, for multiple years Brown instead directed the monies be paid elsewhere. Additionally, the Latitude entities – at Brown’s direction – failed to pay over to the IRS the employer’s portion of the payroll taxes. Between tax years 2013 and 2016, Brown willfully failed to pay over to the IRS more than $5.3 million in payroll taxes. During the same time period, Brown diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars from the Latitude entities to pay personal expenses – including rent on a luxury Manhattan apartment and tuition at a Manhattan preparatory school.
“With this sentencing, Brent Brown was reminded that the responsibility to pay federal taxes is a legal obligation and not a game,” said IRS–Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Lani I. Rosado-Espinal. “We will continue to investigate payroll tax fraud to ensure cheats are not rewarded for their actions and other law-abiding employers are not placed at a competitive disadvantage.”
This case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura Cofer Taylor and Arnold B. Corsmeier.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Illegally Purchase A FirearmRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jason Harris (42, Palm Coast) has pleaded guilty to making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer. Harris faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the court documents, Harris completed an ATF Form 4473 during the attempted purchase of a firearm from a federally licensed firearms dealer. On the required paperwork, Harris indicated that he was not a convicted felon. Harris later admitted this was a false statement and he was previously convicted of multiple prior felonies, including robbery, shooting, or throwing a deadly missile, felony battery, and sale of cocaine. As such, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This is another case uncovered through the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). All NICS denials are reported to federal law enforcement and are reviewed daily for potential criminal prosecution. Federal law makes it a felony offense to make a false statement to a firearms dealer when trying to buy a gun.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Talbot.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Bradenton Drug Trafficker Convicted at TrialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Pierre C. Marc (37, Bradenton) guilty of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, marijuana, and heroin. The jury also found Marc guilty of possessing with the intent to distribute marijuana and 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Marc faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 14, 2024.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Marc was a major drug distributer in the Middle District of Florida. During the trial, a witness testified that Marc supplied him with an ounce of fentanyl and 1 to 2 kilograms of cocaine every week between January and September 2019 for distribution in Pinellas County. In 2021, Marc arrived at a controlled delivery of fentanyl with more than 300 grams of fentanyl and a firearm. Another witness testified that in 2020 and 2021, Marc supplied him with 3 to 5 kilograms of fentanyl for distribution in Manatee County.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. 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. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.
Boynton Beach Man Indicted for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Timothy Burch Morris (45, Boynton Beach) with distributing child sexual abuse material over the internet. If convicted, Morris faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison, and a potential lifetime term of supervised release. Morris was arrested near his home by FBI agents on April 1, 2024.
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 in Jacksonville and West Palm Beach, with assistance from the Boynton Beach Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
St. Petersburg Felon Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Possessing Firearm and CocaineRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Oscar Freemond Fowler III (48, St. Petersburg) to 12 years and 6 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon and for possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute it. Fowler entered a guilty plea on January 4, 2024.
According to court records, in October 2023, officers from the St. Petersburg Police Department and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed a search warrant at Fowler’s residence. During their search, they located cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. On the floor next to Fowler’s bed, agents located a loaded 9mm pistol that contained an extended magazine and 29 rounds of ammunition. At the time, Fowler had multiple prior felony convictions including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
“This is another example of how the ongoing collaboration with our state and federal partners assisted us in removing a dangerous felon and reducing gun violence in our community,” said Anthony Holloway, St. Petersburg Chief of Police.
“This is a major victory for the St. Pete community,” said ATF Tampa Field Division’s Special Agent in Charge Kirk Howard. “We’re proud to have contributed to putting this notorious and violent triggerpuller in federal prison for a long time.”
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 David P. Sullivan.
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.
Fort Myers Man Sentenced to over Eighteen Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse VideosRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Jesus Rojas Vera (25, Fort Myers) to 18 years and 4 months in federal prison for distribution of videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Vera was also ordered to register as a sex offender. He entered a guilty plea on October 6, 2023.
According to court documents, beginning in June 2021, and continuing through July 27, 2022, several social media applications provided CyberTips to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to report that Vera was involved in the possession and distribution of child sex abuse material on various social media platforms.
On November 8, 2022, the FBI executed a search warrant at Vera’s residence and seized his cellphone and laptop. In addition, agents spoke with Vera who admitted that the cellphone belonged to him and no one else used it. Vera also admitted to using the various social media accounts, and he provided his email address.
On December 2, 2022, the FBI obtained a search warrant for information associated with Vera’s cloud account and email address. There were 59 images and 75 videos depicting child sexual abuse material. Further, investigators located child sexual abuse material that Vera had sent within group messages using his social media account. On August 7, 2022, Vera participated in a chat on social media with other participants. He sent a video of a child being sexually abused to the participants in the group chat.
The subsequent forensic examination of Vera’s cellphone and laptop revealed child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fort Myers Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes the Lee County Sheriff’s Office that assisted with this investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Postal Workers Indicted for Destroying MailRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of indictments charging Austin Engler (26, St. Augustine) and Teron Haywood, Sr. (46, Jacksonville) with destruction or delay of mail by a United States Postal Service (USPS) employee. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison.
According to the indictments, Engler and Haywood were employed by USPS as Rural Carrier Assistants assigned to routes in the St. Augustine and Jacksonville areas, respectively. In June 2023, Engler and Haywood knowingly and unlawfully destroyed or delayed mail which had been provided to them for delivery in their capacity as mail carriers.
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.
These cases were investigated by the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. They will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian.
North Port Registered Sex Offender Indicted for Attempting to Transfer Obscene Materials to A MinorRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of a two-count indictment charging Imran Siddiqi (40, North Port) with attempting to transfer obscene material to a minor and committing a felony offense involving a minor as a registered sex offender. If convicted on all counts, Siddiqi faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison, including a 10-year minimum mandatory sentence.
According to court documents, between January 31 and March 6, 2024, Siddiqi engaged in a conversation with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing online as a 13-year-old girl. During the conversation, Siddiqi repeatedly described his desire to have sex with the child, sending multiple explicit photographs of himself and other explicit images to the undercover officer. Siddiqi is a registered sex offender. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Sex Offender Predator System, Siddiqi was convicted in 2016 of traveling to meet a minor to commit an unlawful sexual offense.
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 brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Marion County Man Indicted for Possessing Methamphetamine and Fentanyl with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Terrance Maurice Washington (41, Ocala) with six counts of possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine and fentanyl) with the intent to distribute it. If convicted on all counts, Washington faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Washington is currently detained in federal custody pending the resolution of this case.
According to the indictment, on five separate occasions—October 25, 2023, November 3, 2023, November 20, 2023, January 3, 2024, and January 25, 2024—Washington possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. Additionally, on November 8, 2023, Washington possessed 40 grams or more of fentanyl, also with the intent to distribute it.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team (UDEST). It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Lake County Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Theft of A Firearm from A Licensed Gun DealerRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Frank Thomas Diviak (23, Altoona) has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a stolen firearm, and stealing a firearm from a federal firearms licensee (FFL). Diviak faces up to 35 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court records, Diviak has been convicted of three state felonies, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement. On December 4, 2023, Diviak entered a Lake County pawn shop, took a revolver off a display, and put it in his pocket. He then fled from the store on his bicycle, but was quickly apprehended by law enforcement. As Diviak raised his hands to surrender to the officers, the stolen revolver fell out of his clothing. As a convicted felon, Diviak is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Eustis Police Department. It is being 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.
Jacksonville Postal Service Employee Indicted for Stealing from the MailRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Rekisha Duckworth (43, Jacksonville) with embezzlement of an article contained in the U.S. Mail by a U.S. Postal Service employee. If convicted, Duckworth faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on March 1, 2023, Duckworth, who was an employee of the U.S. Postal Service, stole from a mail item a retail store gift card and a bracelet. The mail item had come into her possession because it had been sent via U.S. Mail.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.
Former Hendry County Sheriff’s Deputy Indicted for Using Excessive Force and ObstructionRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Tyler Williams (29, Labelle) with deprivation of civil rights under color of law. Specifically, Williams is charged with unreasonable use of force and obstruction of justice. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison on the use of force charge, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the obstruction charge. Williams is a former deputy sheriff from the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office in Florida.
The indictment alleges that on or about July 4, 2023, Williams, while acting under color of law as a deputy sheriff with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, willfully deprived the civil rights of a man by throwing him to the ground and injuring him. Williams then wrote a false justification for the use of force on the man in an incident report, obstructing justice.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Tampa Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick L. Darcey and Jesus M. Casas.
Former FHP Trooper and DEA Task Force Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Narcotics, Defrauding the United States, and Illegally Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Joshua Grady Earrey (45, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute narcotics, one count of conspiring to defraud the United States, and one count of possessing firearms and ammunition while an unlawful user of controlled substances. Earrey faces a combined maximum penalty of 60 years in federal prison on these offenses, including a minimum mandatory sentence of at least 5 years for the drug distribution conspiracy. He has further agreed to forfeit the firearms and ammunition involved in these offenses.
According to the plea agreement, while employed as a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper and designated Task Force Officer with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Earrey and a co-conspirator engaged in widespread and extensive corrupt activity from 2017 - 2023. These corrupt acts included the theft of money and illegal drugs that were seized as evidence during criminal investigations; providing the illegal drugs to others to distribute on his behalf; and extorting or accepting cash payments from drug dealers in exchange for protecting them from arrest by law enforcement.
Earrey and his co-conspirator stole more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana from evidence and covered up the theft by submitting falsified paperwork showing that the drugs had been destroyed. Earrey, who had an addiction to prescription opiates, also used his corrupt activities to obtain illegal drugs for his own use. On one occasion, he traded cases of ammunition that he had diverted from the Florida Highway Patrol to a convicted murderer in exchange for oxycodone. Despite knowing that his drug addiction made it illegal for him to have firearms and ammunition, Earrey continued to possess these items in violation of federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service -- Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
The United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and United States Customs and Border Protection wish to thank the Florida Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their cooperation during this investigation.
Federal Inmate Indicted for Assault with Intent to Commit MurderRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Shane McMillan (50, Texas) has been indicted for one count of assault with the intent to murder and one count of possession of contraband by a federal inmate. If convicted, McMillan faces up to 25 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, McMillan is an inmate in the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex in Sumter County. On July 9, 2023, he assaulted another inmate with the intent to commit murder. McMillan was also in possession of a sharp metal object, which is a prohibited item in prison.
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 investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.
Chinese National Indicted for Access Device FraudRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Donghui Liao (32, China) with possession of 15 or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices. If convicted, Liao faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on October 17, 2023, Liao knowingly and with intent to defraud possessed 15 or more counterfeit and unauthorized access devices, including retail and credit card gift cards.
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 Ocala Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Sarasota Woman Pleads Guilty to Making A False Statement in A Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Olga Dedovets has pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement in a tax return. Dedovets faces a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Dedovets co-owned and helped to operate a roofing business based in the Middle District of Florida. In November 2018, Dedovets willfully made a false statement in her Individual Income Tax Return Form 1040 for tax year 2017, then signed it, and caused that return to be filed with the Internal Revenue Service. The false statement in that tax return related to income that she and the other owner of the roofing business had earned from that business in 2017. Dedovets failed to report to her tax preparer more than $1 million in income on that 2017 Form 1040, which was income derived from roofing work. Most of that income was concealed in bank accounts which Dedovets did not report to the tax preparer.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.