Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Allan Gomez-Zelaya (43, Honduras) has pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft. Gomez-Zelaya faces a minimum mandatory penalty of two years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, E-Verify is a web-based system through which employers electronically confirm the employment eligibility of their employees. E-Verify is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The SSA and USCIS check the submitted information against the records of actual persons who are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a voluntary program for employers and requires documents such as a Social Security number and photo identification of a prospective employee.
From at least 2018 through October 2022, Gomez-Zelaya used another person’s means of identification in order to defeat the E-Verify system and to commit the felony offenses of misuse of a Social Security number and false claim of United States citizenship for employment purposes.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Department of Transportation – Office of Inspector General, the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General, the United States Border Patrol, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
Former Law Enforcement Officer Sentenced to 21 Years for Armed Robbery of Multiple PharmaciesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Visiting United States District Judge Larry A. Burns from the Southern District of California has sentenced Jesse Rance Moore (46, Bell) to 21 years in federal prison for four counts pertaining to Hobbs Act robberies and three counts for brandishing a firearm during the robberies. The court also ordered Moore to forfeit his firearm, which was used to commit the offenses. A jury had found Moore guilty on November 2, 2023.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the FBI first learned of a masked man robbing a string of pharmacies in the Columbia County area after the North Florida Pharmacy of Fort White was robbed at gun point on January 13, 2022. This masked individual was captured on surveillance cameras walking into the pharmacy with a black handgun, and demanding controlled substances, specifically, oxycodone, OxyContin, and Percocet.
After holding up multiple store employees and taking the controlled substances, the masked man exited the pharmacy and drove southbound on US Highway 27. Unbeknownst to the robber, a good Samaritan in the pharmacy’s drive-thru followed the getaway vehicle and captured the license plate number, which led back to Moore. The FBI also later discovered that the vehicles used in previous three robberies (North Florida Pharmacy of Fort White on August 2, 2021; North Florida Pharmacy of Chiefland on November 20, 2021; and the Baya West Pharmacy in Lake City on December 29, 2021) either matched the description of a white Ford F-350 registered to Moore or matched the vehicles Moore’s wife rented just days prior to the robberies.
According to trial testimony and evidence, law enforcement seized articles of clothing, multiple masks, the firearm, handwritten notes, and brown boots associated with the robberies. In addition, and despite Moore’s many disguises, witnesses testified to the robber’s physical appearance, clothing, interactions, and demeanor during the robberies.
During trial, evidence seized from Moore’s cellphone was presented to demonstrate that he had Googled medications stolen from the pharmacies, store hours of pharmacies, and a variety of key word searches, including the question “do drug stores get robbed in florida,” which he Googled just weeks prior to the first robbery.
According to court documents, Moore was employed as a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper from January 13, 2003, to February 27, 2017. Moore had several disciplinary issues during his term of employment, where he was twice terminated, but later reached settlement agreements to convert his dismissals to suspensions.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the Lake City Police Department, the Chiefland Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kirwinn Mike.
Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Five Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger today sentenced Ernesto Hidalgo (30, Orlando) to five years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Hidalgo entered a guilty plea on September 21, 2023.
According to court documents, over the course of several months in 2023, Hidalgo engaged in a series of drug sales to a source cooperating with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Hidalgo sold the source an ounce of cocaine for $1,000 on January 10, 2023; an ounce of fentanyl for $2,000 on January 17, 2023; another ounce of fentanyl for $1,900 on March 2, 2023; 50 fake fentanyl pills (pills that are pressed to look like pharmaceutical controlled substances but actually contain fentanyl) for $1,000 on March 27, 2023; and another three ounces of cocaine for $2,700 on March 31, 2023.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.
Clay County Woman Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Possessing with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, and CocaineRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Alyssa Avery (32, Green Cove Springs) to six years in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine base, and cocaine. Avery entered a guilty plea on October 19, 2023.
According to court documents, on January 30, 2023, deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) observed Avery driving in a rental vehicle in Green Cove Springs. When deputies learned Avery did not have a valid driver’s license, they initiated a traffic stop. During the stop, a CCSO canine alerted the detectives to the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle. Deputies searched the vehicle and found over 20 grams of fentanyl in 17 individual sealed baggies, 60 grams of pure crystal methamphetamine, over 13 grams of cocaine, and over 16 grams of cocaine base. Deputies also recovered a digital scale. Detectives learned Avery had been released from the Florida Department of Corrections the month prior for trafficking methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Honors Department of Justice Employees and Partners for the 2022 and 2023 Attorney General’s AwardsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Attorney General Merrick B. Garland today announced the recipients of the 70th and 71st Attorney General’s Awards, honoring Justice Department employees and others for extraordinary contributions to the enforcement of our nation’s laws. Recipients from both 2022 and 2023 were selected from a group of more than 800 nominees.
“Each of today’s recipients has served with distinction, and in so doing, they have enabled the Justice Department to advance its work on behalf of the American people,” said Attorney General Garland. “Their exceptional leadership, heroism, and dedication have benefited people and communities across the country.
“It is indeed an honor to join Attorney General Garland in recognizing three members of my office for their distinguished service to our district and country,” stated U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “AUSAs Bratt, Krigsman, and Asokan continue to perform at the highest level as they work with our law enforcement partners to keep our citizens safe.”
In the Middle District of Florida, for 2023, Distinguished Service Awards were presented to Assistant U.S. Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt for his contributions to an international investigation involving the Hive ransomware group that targeted more than 1,500 victims in over 80 countries around the world, including hospitals, school districts, financial firms, and critical infrastructure. In addition, the Middle District of Florida’s National Security Chief Cherie Krigsman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Risha Asokan were recognized for their valuable contributions to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
For details on all of today’s award recipients, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-merrick-b-garland-honors-justice-department-employees-and-partners-70th-and
Lake Worth Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Straw Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Charles David Mobley (50, Lake Worth) to two years in federal prison for making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of a firearm. Mobley entered a guilty plea on April 4, 2022.
According to court documents, special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) identified Mobley as a potential black-market firearms dealer after law enforcement recovered several firearms purchased by Mobley in connection with separate criminal investigations. Undercover ATF agents subsequently engaged in five different straw purchases from Mobley between July 2021 and August 2021. For each purchase, Mobley went to federally licensed firearms dealers, bought firearms requested by the undercover agents, and falsely certified in ATF paperwork he was purchasing the firearms for himself. Mobley subsequently provided the undercover agents with the purchased firearms. In total, Mobley straw-purchased nine firearms for the undercover ATF agents, some of which had large-capacity magazines attached.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian.
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.
Florida Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Ronnie Lee Seward (41, Seffner) to 25 years in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Seward entered a guilty plea on September 20, 2023.
According to court documents, on January 12, 2023, the Tampa Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration executed a search warrant at an apartment in South Tampa where Seward had just delivered methamphetamine to a co-defendant, Sean Barton. Seward was detained and ultimately arrested after law enforcement discovered over a half-kilogram of methamphetamine in Seward’s vehicle. Seward had previously served three separate state prison sentences in Florida. His prior convictions include lewd and lascivious molestation, felony battery, armed trafficking in amphetamine, trafficking in amphetamine, and felon in possession of a firearm, among others.
Barton previously pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 1, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan.
California Man Sentenced to Prison for Transporting Narcotics Through the Orlando AirportRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Michael Jayson Scarlett (44, Moreno Valley, CA) to five years and six months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. The court also ordered Scarlett to forfeit his cellphone, which was used to commit the offenses. Scarlett entered a guilty plea on August 31, 2023.
According to court documents, on March 5, 2023, Scarlett’s checked bag was searched during an interdiction operation at the Orlando International Airport. Inside, agents located several packages of vacuum-sealed methamphetamine. The packages were later weighed and analyzed by a forensic chemist at the DEA lab and found to contain more than 16 kilograms of methamphetamine. Further investigation revealed that Scarlett had brought narcotics from California to Florida on multiple occasions. He was paid for transporting the narcotics each time.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney D. Richardson-Jones.
Orlando Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Kyle Jay Hunter Baronville (36, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to distribution and possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Baronville faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, a confidential source working with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted two controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Baronville in Orange County. During the first controlled purchase, Baronville sold the confidential source 357.3 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine. During the second purchase, Baronville sold the confidential source 892.5 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
Georgia Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced John David Horton (38, Georgia) to 10 years in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of a mixture containing fentanyl. Horton had pleaded guilty on September 11, 2023.
According to court documents, on December 20, 2022, agents with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit were conducting surveillance when they observed Horton exit a vehicle carrying a black bag. After Horton returned to the vehicle with the bag, agents continued to conduct surveillance and observed multiple traffic violations, resulting in a traffic stop. A police canine then provided a positive alert to the odor of illegal narcotics, leading to a search of the vehicle. During the search, officers located a black bag matching the bag Horton was observed carrying, which contained 283.8 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine and 167.4 grams of fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
Winter Haven Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Floyd Hintteon Green, Jr. (62, Winter Haven) to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Green was found guilty on September 6, 2023, following a bench trial.
According to court documents, on December 28, 2022, detectives with the Winter Haven Police Department pulled over Green’s vehicle for a window tint violation. During a consensual search of the vehicle, detectives found a black toiletry bag containing 442 grams of high-purity methamphetamine. Green admitted to possessing the methamphetamine and that he sold it for about $2,600 per pound.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Winter Haven Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David W.A. Chee and Samantha J. Newman.
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Possession and Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Robert Jones IV, a/k/a “Klout,” (24, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing methamphetamine and one count of possessing methamphetamine with intent to deliver. Jones faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each distribution count and up to 40 years in federal prison for the possession with intent to distribute count. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, in February and March 2023, Jones sold methamphetamine to an undercover police officer. During each of the transactions, Jones hid the methamphetamine inside the gas cap of his vehicle. He then drove to a pre-determined meeting location in St. Petersburg, where the drugs were retrieved as Jones remained inside his vehicle.
During a search of Jones’s residence, law enforcement officers recovered assorted drug paraphernalia including a digital scale, plastic resealable bags, a heat seal, and distribution quantities of methamphetamine. Jones later admitted to selling drugs from his home and took ownership of the methamphetamine found in the residence.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David W.A. Chee and Michael Kenneth.
Port Charlotte Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Sexual Abuse ImagesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Doron Markowitz (50, Port Charlotte) to 20 years in federal prison for producing images depicting the sexual abuse of a child. The court also sentenced Markowitz to a lifetime of supervised release and ordered him to register as a sex offender. Markowitz had pleaded guilty on August 16, 2023.
According to court documents, between August 23 and September 2, 2022, Markowitz produced images of a minor being sexually abused. In September 2022, the mother of a 13-year-old minor learned of the sexual abuse and contacted law enforcement to report Markowitz. The minor described an incident in which the minor believed that Markowitz had used his cellphone to take a photo of the minor being sexually abused. Shortly thereafter, Markowitz was located in Port Charlotte and his cellphone was seized by law enforcement.
On September 6, 2022, during an interview with law enforcement, Markowitz admitted that he had sexually abused the minor at least 10 times. The following day, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Markowitz’s cellphone. A subsequent forensic analysis of his cellphone revealed four images depicting the sexual abuse of the minor. The images had been taken on August 23 and September 2, 2022.
This case was investigated the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Fort Myers Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Middle District of Florida Prosecutors Indict 167 Firearms and Violent Crime Defendants During 2023 as Part of Project Safe Neighborhoods StrategyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced today the results of the 2023 and the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) strategy. During 2023, which includes the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida has indicted 167 defendants. These defendants face federal firearms and violent crime charges. Law enforcement seized approximately 445 firearms associated with these defendants.
During the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, ending on December 31, 2023, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida indicted 41 defendants for federal firearms and violent crime offenses, removing 93 firearms from our streets in the process. (See chart for case details)
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 spoke with more than 200 middle and high school students during the first quarter of 2024. Assistant United States Attorneys also met with college and law students to discuss firearm and violent crime prevention and prosecution. Prison re-entry events at Baker Re-entry Center and Lawtey Correctional Institute this quarter reached almost 100 inmates.
“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.
Q1 PSN case highlights:
United States v. Edward James Bess, III (Ft. Myers)
On December 12, 2023, Edward James Bess, III (29, Fort Myers) was sentenced to 33 years and 4 months for carjacking causing serious bodily injury, discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and a second carjacking. Bess carjacked two victims, one in Fort Myers whom Bess shot in the leg before taking the victim’s vehicle. The victim was injured but survived the shooting. Bess carjacked a second victim in Sumter County. Bess was eventually apprehended by law enforcement following a chase.
United States v. Jesse Moore (Jacksonville)
In November 2023, a federal jury found Jesse Rance Moore (46, Bell) guilty of four counts pertaining to Hobbs Act robberies and three counts of brandishing a firearm during the robberies. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, the FBI first learned of a masked man robbing a string of pharmacy stores in the Columbia County area after the North Florida Pharmacy in Fort White was robbed at gun point on January 13, 2022. This masked individual was captured on surveillance exiting a blue/grey sedan, walking into the pharmacy with a black handgun, and demanding controlled substances, specifically, oxycodone, oxycontin, and Percocet. After holding up multiple store employees and taking the controlled substances, the masked man exited the pharmacy and drove southbound on US Highway 27. Unbeknownst to the robber, a good Samaritan in the pharmacy’s drive-thru followed the getaway vehicle and captured the license plate number, which led back to Moore. Further, the FBI later discovered that the vehicles used in the previous three robberies either matched the description of a pickup truck registered to Moore or matched the vehicles Moore’s wife had rented just days prior to the robberies. Law enforcement seized articles of clothing, multiple masks, the firearm, handwritten notes, and brown boots associated with the robberies. During trial, evidence seized from Moore’s cellphone was presented to demonstrate that he had googled medications stolen from the pharmacies, the store hours of pharmacies, and a variety of keyword searches, including the question “do drug stores get robbed in florida,” which he had Googled just a couple weeks prior to the first robbery. Moore’s sentencing is set for January 30, 2024.
United States v. Kingsley Wilson and Viviana Rodriguez (Ocala)
In November 2023, Kingsley Wilson (35, Kissimmee) pleaded guilty to 1 count of dealing in firearms without a license, 14 counts of making a materially false statement to a federally licensed firearms (FFL) dealer, and 14 counts of causing an FFL to maintain false information in its official records. In December 2023, his girlfriend, Viviana Rodriguez (41, Kissimmee), pleaded guilty to one count of dealing in firearms without a license, seven counts of making a materially false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL), and seven counts of causing an FFL to maintain false information in its official records. According to the plea agreement and evidence presented in court, between January 2022 and July 2023, Wilson purchased 92 firearms from FFLs within the Middle District of Florida. Rodriguez purchased an additional 47 firearms during the same period. While purchasing these firearms, Rodriguez falsely certified on ATF Form 4473s (Firearm Transaction Records) that she was the “actual transferee/buyer” of the firearms. Rodriguez was actually purchasing these firearms for others in exchange for monetary payments. Wilson’s cellphone revealed numerous conversations between Wilson and others, including Rodriguez, about the illegal purchases and transfer of these firearms. Fourteen of the firearms purchased by Wilson and Rodriguez have been recovered by law enforcement at crime scenes (including homicides) in the Bahamas and Canada.
United States v. Bernard Rogers (Orlando)
On October 10, 2023, Bernard Rogers was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison for committing three armed robberies in July 2022. First, Rogers entered a Cracker Barrel in Melbourne and robbed the cashier of cash using a firearm. He then robbed a cashier at a Dollar General in Orlando, once again stealing cash from the register. Rogers was caught shortly after his third armed robbery, a T.D. Bank in Melbourne. The bank teller gave Rogers a concealed GPS tracker and law enforcement caught him after a brief car chase. Rogers was arrested in his rental getaway car with more than $3,000, the GPS tracker, and a loaded Ruger .380 firearm.
United States v. Antonio Brown and Steven Jackson (Tampa)
On October 4, 2023, Antonio Brown (45, Tampa) was sentenced to 17 years in prison for conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. His codefendant, Steven Jackson, was previously sentenced to 13 years and 6 months in prison. According to court documents, Brown and Jackson robbed two auto parts stores in the Tampa area on August 29, 2021. During the first auto parts store robbery, Brown and Jackson carried firearms and wore surgical masks when they entered the store. They brandished their firearms, demanded money from store employees, and stole approximately $300 from cash registers. Brown and Jackson then drove to a second auto parts store where they again entered wearing masks and carrying firearms. They pointed their firearms at store clerks and demanded money from the cash registers. Later that night, officers from the Tampa Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that Brown was driving. During a search of the car, they found a distinctive hat that one of the robbers had worn during the armed robberies, approximately $900 in cash, and Jackson’s wallet containing his identification. Further investigation provided evidence showing Jackson in the vicinity of the auto parts stores at the times of the robberies. Officers also found the clothes Jackson wore during the robberies in his garbage outside his residence.
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)
(Age)
Charges
Minimum/Maximum Terms of Imprisonment
Firearms Seized
Fort Myers Division
1st Quarter
Javier Velasquez, Jr. (37)
Distribution of cocaine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, illegal possession of a machinegun, and carrying firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 5 years, up to life in federal prison.
6
Luis Armando Rodriguez-Padilla (27)
Illegal reentry by a previously convicted felon, possession of a firearm by and alien unlawfully in the United States, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 25 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Fort Myers Division are being handled by AUSAs Mark Morgan and Benjamin S. Winter.
Jacksonville Division
1st Quarter
Timothy Crowe (54)
False statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Gabriel Daniel Pinnace (31)
False statement during purchase of firearm, aiding and abetting smuggling firearms, aiding and abetting possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison (false statement), 5 years in federal prison (aiding and abetting).
3
Eric Joel Valdez (22)
Possession of a stolen firearm and transportation of a stolen firearm
Maximum Penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
1
Andre Lee Long (48)
Distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Minimum/maximum penalty: 5 years, up to life, in federal prison and 10 years, up to life in federal prison.
1
Scott Randall Chance, Jr. (22)
Dealing Firearms without a license, possession of an illegal machinegun, distribution of a controlled substance.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison and 10 years in federal prison.
8
Anthony Lavar Wilson (40)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Markee Washington (33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a machinegun.
Minimum/maximum penalty: 15 years, up to life, in federal prison and 10 years in federal prison.
2
Jaime Rosario Ang (51)
Distribution of 5 grams or more of pure methamphetamine and distribution/possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine.
Minimum/maximum penalty: 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison and 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Mar’Kesie Williams (27)
Possession of a machine gun
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
1
Michael Thomas Sawyer (49)
Making false statements to a firearms dealer
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Paul Allen Anderson, Jr. (31)
Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Minimum/maximum penalty: 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
5
Randolph Wayne Swindle
Making false statements to a firearms dealer.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Roberto Roman Ramirez (50)
False statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
These PSN cases from the Jacksonville Division are being handled by AUSAs Frank Talbot, Aakash Singh, Michael Coolican, John Cannizzaro, Kirwinn Mike, and Kevin Frein.
Ocala Division
1st Quarter
Jared Boyle (33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 in federal prison.
1
Jerome Junior Swopshire (40)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 in federal prison.
1
Marcus Cleaver Morgan, Jr. (23)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 in federal prison.
1
James Wendell Jackson
(31)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Tyran Terrell Harris
(23)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Gregory Howard Coleman, III (27)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
William Scott Fogg (37)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Kevin Eugene Leeks, Jr. (33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Frank Thomas Diviak (23)
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 Tyrie Boyer, Sara Swartzberg, and Hanna Nowalk.
Tampa Division
1st Quarter
Gabriel Gladman (23)
False statements with the intent to purchase firearms and selling/transferring a firearm to a juvenile under the age of 18.
Maximum penalties: 10 years in federal prison (false statement) and up to 1 year in federal prison (selling/transferring a firearm to a juvenile).
16
Nahum Rodriguez-Jaimes (46)
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl (3 counts), and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (per fentanyl count); and up to 15 years in federal prison (firearm offense).
0
Brandale Swails (29)
Hobbs Act robbery.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison.
0
Marcel Morris (33)
Darrence White (27)
Possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Maximum penalty: 40 years in federal prison (fentanyl offense); and up to life imprisonment (methamphetamine offense)
1
Baruch Roche, II (33)
Possession of a firearm in a federal facility.
Maximum penalty: One year in federal prison.
0
Darius Lavon Williams (38)
Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine;
possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (drug offense); Minimum mandatory 20 years, up to life, in federal prison (firearms offenses).
2
Kavar Young (32)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Tampa Division are being handled by AUSAs Maria Guzman, Diego F. Novaes, and Ross Roberts.
Orlando Division
1st Quarter
Dainton Steve Drummond (61)
Possession of a firearm by an illegal alien.
Possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Dana Calley (54)
Possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
4
Karon Lyshawn Watson (36)
Possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 15 years, up to life, in federal prison under Armed Career Criminal Act.
1
Tramon Jamal Stewart (23)
Possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Shawndell Johnson (31)
Distribution of fentanyl, possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
2
Verun Maharajh (31)
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 (38)
Export of firearms and ammunition (3 counts), and shipment of firearms without a license (3 counts).
Maximum penalty: 60 years in federal prison.
18
Victor Morales-Acosta (26)
Possession of a firearm by an illegal alien.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Kristian Moises Ramos (43)
Possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Orlando Division are being handled by AUSAs Michael Sartoian, Dana Hill, Richard Varandan, Adam Nate, Megan Testerman, Diane Hu, Matthew Del Mastro, and Noah Dorman.
Adjudicated Cases
Defendant(s)
(Age)
Charges
Minimum/Maximum Terms of Imprisonment
Firearms Seized
Fort Myers Division
1st Quarter
Grant Elmore Davis, Jr. (71)
Armed bank robbery; discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 25 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
This PSN cases from the Fort Myers Division is being handled by AUSA Mark Morgan.
Jacksonville Division
1st Quarter
Jesse Rance Moore (46)
Interference with commerce by threats or violence robberies and burglaries involving controlled substances; brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison; minimum mandatory penalty of 7 years, up to life, in federal prison (brandishing a firearm in furtherance of crime of violence).
1
Paul Bryan McCorkle (55)
Receiving and possessing an explosive by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
0
Samuel Arthur Thompson (53)
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.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 10 years, up to 20 years in federal prison; 15 years up to 40 years in federal prison; up to 10 years in federal prison; 25 to 50 years in federal prison; 10 years in federal prison.
1
Diandre Murel (30)
Conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
Mandatory minimum penalty: 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison.
3
Annette Elaine Jones
Conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more methamphetamine.
Mandatory minimum penalty: 10 years, up to life in federal prison.
2
These PSN cases from the Jacksonville Division are being handled by AUSAs Kirwinn Mike, Laura Taylor, Frank Talbot, and Aakash Singh.
Ocala Division
1st Quarter
Jared Boyle (33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Wendell Doyle Goney (51)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Raymond Devon Haynes (33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Kingsley Samuel Richard Wilson (35)
False statement to firearms dealer; dealing in firearms without a license.
Maximum penalty: 10 years in federal prison.
139
Viviana Rodriguez (41)
False statement in required information kept by a firearms dealer.
Maximum penalty: 5 years in federal prison.
0
Craig Antwon Oneal (53)
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 Tyrie K. Boyer, Robert Bodnar, Jr., Belkis Crockett, and Sarah Swartzberg.
Tampa Division
1st Quarter
Floyd Hintteon Green, Jr. (62)
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Kenneth Lorenzo Jackson (48)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Minimum mandatory penalty:15 years, up to life, in federal prison under Armed Career Criminal Act.
0
Nicholas Quinton Hanson (31)
Marcus Dewonn Mobley, Jr. (23)
Possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
0
Kenneth Lorenzo Jackson (48)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Mandatory minimum penalty: 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
Erik Barner (44)
Possession of controlled substance with the intent to distribute it; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (drug offense); minimum mandatory of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison (firearm charge).
0
Ivan Lamar Vasquez (39)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 15 years, up to life, in federal prison, qualifies for enhanced penalties under Armed Career Criminal Act.
1
Francisco Cabrera (28)
Armed robbery; possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 28 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Jason Washington (42)
Possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine with intent to distribute it.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
0
Donald Robert Smith (29)
Hobbs Act robberies; brandishing a firearm during and in relation to one of the robberies; and discharging a firearm during and in relation to another of the robberies.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison for robbery offenses; minimum mandatory of 7 years, up to life, in federal prison for brandishing the firearm; and a minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for discharging the firearm.
0
Oscar Freemond Fowler III (48)
Possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison (drug offense); maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison (firearm offense).
1
John Knight (46)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Donovan Shabazz (50)
Possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
2
These PSN cases from the Tampa Division are being handled by AUSAs Samantha Newman, David W.A. Chee, Shauna S. Hale, Christopher F. Murray, David P. Sullivan, Callan L. Albritton, and Diego F. Novaes.
Orlando Division
1st Quarter
Angel Ruben Hernandez, Jr. (75)
Failure to record firearms purchaser by FFL dealer (3 counts)
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
9
Nicholas Brooks Race (40)
Bank robbery.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison.
0
Desha Cooper (31)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Maximum penalty: 15 years in federal prison.
2
Carlos Aquino (42)
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.
Minimum mandatory penalty: 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.
1
O’Neil Clifton Gordon (31)
Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.
Maximum penalty: 20 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Orlando Division are being handled by AUSAs Dana Hill, Michael Sartoian, Noah Dorman, Richard Varandan, Kara Wick, and Rachel Lyons.
Sentenced Cases
Defendant(s)
(Age)
Charges
Sentence Imposed
Firearms Seized
Fort Myers Division
1st Quarter
Manuel Alfredo Dickerson Copland (30)
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; possession of MDMA, possession of oxycodone, and attempted possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Sentence imposed: 26 years, 10 months in federal prison.
2
Steven Dewayne Barnes, Jr. (26)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Sentence imposed: 10 years, 1 month in federal prison.
1
Deshon G. Walker (27)
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 3 years, 1 month in federal prison.
1
Omar Arriojas (57)
Attempting to smuggle goods from the United States and making a false statement during a firearms acquisition.
Sentence imposed: 18 months in federal prison.
3
Edward James Bess, III (29)
Carjacking causing serious bodily injury; discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence; and carjacking.
Sentence imposed: 33 years, 4 months in federal prison.
1
Chester Lewis Risco (20)
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 3 years, 10 months in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Fort Myers Division were handled by AUSAs Mark Morgan, Patrick L. Darcey, Simon R. Eth, and Trent Reichling.
Jacksonville Division
1st Quarter
Jonathan Donte Rogers, Jr. (22)
Possession of unregistered short-barreled rifle.
Sentence imposed: 21 months in federal prison.
0
Shawntae Jamell Clark (45)
Possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 10 years, 5 months in federal prison.
2
Dwayne Eric Thompson (39)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 7 years in federal prison.
1
D’Trevious Sharron Epps (26)
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Sentence imposed: 5 years in federal prison.
2
Pocols Lashawn Jackson (39)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 6 years, 3 months in federal prison.
10
Maisha K. Daniels (47)
Possessing, selling, and disposing of a stolen firearm.
Sentence imposed: 3 years’ probation.
1
Adam Taylor (33)
Making false statements to a firearms dealer
Sentence imposed: 4 years’ probation.
2
James Frank Little (50)
Making false statements to a firearms dealer
Sentence imposed: 4 years’ probation.
0
Thelonious Kirby (52)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Sentence imposed: 37 months in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Jacksonville Division were handled by AUSAs John Cannizzaro, Kevin C. Frein, Frank Talbot, and Michael Coolican.
Ocala Division
1st Quarter
Mario Jerard Delaney (33)
Possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 37 months in federal prison.
1
Cody Richard Hawk (51)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 15 months in federal prison.
1
Timothy Roberts (28)
Possession of an unregistered NFA weapon; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 6 years, 5 months in federal prison.
3
Christopher Worlds (36)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 6 years in federal prison.
1
Eddie Lee Parks, III (24)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 4 years in federal prison.
1
These PSN cases from the Ocala Division were handled by AUSAs Sarah Swartzberg, Hannah Nowalk. and Tyrie K. Boyer.
Orlando Division
1st Quarter
Bernard Rogers (35)
Armed robbery.
Sentence imposed: 17 years in federal prison.
1
Christian Arroyo-Rivera (30)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing cocaine.
Sentence imposed: 6 years in federal prison.
1
Allen Lee Glover (25)
Possession of a loaded firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 6 years, 5 months in federal prison.
1
Cristian Burgos (25)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 7 years in federal prison.
1
Terrell Robinson (37)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
Sentence imposed: 15 years in federal prison.
1
Jennifer Lee Branham (42)
Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
Sentence imposed: 6 years in federal prison.
0
Zachary Ramyard (22)
Robbery of Postal Carrier
Sentence imposed: 12 years, 1 month in federal prison.
0
Camilo Ignacio Vivas Sanchez (20)
Conspiracy to rob a Postal Carrier, robbery of Postal Carrier
Sentence imposed: 4 years in federal prison.
0
Jonathan James Pilgrim (42)
Possession of heroin and cocaine with intent to distribute, and Possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Sentence imposed: 10 years in federal prison.
1
Jarule Jhlem Jarvis Neal (22)
Possession of a loaded firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 4 years in federal prison.
2
These PSN cases from the Orlando Division were handled by AUSAs Dana E. Hill, Megan Testerman, Shannon Laurie, Kara Wick, Noah P. Dorman, Stephanie A. McNeff, and Karina Valdes.
Tampa Division
1st Quarter
Basilio Amaury Bron, Jr. (43)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and violation of federal supervised release.
Sentence imposed: 5 years, 4 months in federal prison.
1
Kranston Algeno Rolle (33)
Firearms trafficking.
Sentence imposed: 4 years in federal prison.
2
Deterrio M. Young (29)
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 15 years, 10 months in federal prison.
1
Carvia Harris (35)
Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 2 years in federal prison.
0
Randell Alexander Love (48)
Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute it and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Sentence imposed: 25 years in federal prison.
0
Terrence Thompson (42)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 6 years in federal prison.
0
Clinton Justesen (49)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it.
Sentence imposed: 6 years, 2 months in federal prison.
0
Eugene Washington, Jr. (36)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Sentence imposed: 9 years in federal prison.
0
Marquis Henry Mack (33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 3 years, 1 month in federal prison.
0
Johnathan Anton Williams (39)
Distribution of methamphetamine, carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Sentence imposed: 8 years, 8 months in federal prison.
0
John Charles Anderson (40)
Bank robbery with an assault by using a deadly weapon.
Sentence imposed: 12 years in federal prison.
0
Michael Edward Lindsay (47)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possessing a controlled substance with the intent to distribute it.
Sentence imposed:
(under the Armed Criminal Act)
15 years in federal prison.
0
Terrence Johnson, Jr. (28)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Sentence imposed: 7 years in federal prison.
0
John Kennedy Braun (51)
Bank robbery.
Sentence imposed: 20 years in federal prison.
0
Michelle Denise Herds (45)
Possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Sentence imposed: 5 years, 10 months in federal prison.
1
Yvens Philone (36)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
Sentence imposed: 10 years in federal prison.
7
These PSN cases from the Tampa Division were handled by AUSAs David W.A. Chee, Michael Kenneth, David P. Sullivan, Callan Albritton, Christopher F. Murray, Diego F. Novaes, and Samantha E. Beckman.
Lehigh Acres Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing A Firearm During Drug TransactionRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Mar’tavoius Martel Brown (25, Lehigh Acres) to five years in federal prison for possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Brown had pleaded guilty on September 14, 2023.
According to the plea agreement, on August 19, 2022, Brown sold a pistol and cocaine to an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Fort Myers.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make 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.
Lee County Man Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Alanzo Lamart Edison, a/k/a “Nuely,” (42, Cape Coral) to 10 years in federal prison for distributing and possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl and cocaine. The court ordered that Edison’s federal sentence be served consecutive to a 15-year Florida state sentence previously imposed for unrelated criminal conduct. Edison had pleaded guilty on October 10, 2023.
According to court records, Edison sold fentanyl to an FBI informant on three occasions between November 2022 and January 2023. During the transactions, Edison was wearing a GPS monitor in connection with his pre-trial release for a pending Lee County felony criminal case. In April 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at a residence in Lehigh Acres associated with Edison and recovered more than a half-kilogram of controlled substances, including fentanyl and cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Fort Myers Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Simon R. Eth.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than 5 Years for Distributing Illegal, Unregistered FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Lucas Shirley II (28, Jacksonville) to five years and five months in federal prison for transferring unregistered short-barreled rifles. Shirley pleaded guilty on August 17, 2023.
According to court documents, on January 4, 2023, an undercover (UC) agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and a confidential informant (CI) went to Shirley’s home in Jacksonville posing as leaders of a motorcycle gang. Shirley sold the CI three privately manufactured rifles (to include a machinegun, a short-barreled rifle, and a combination machinegun short-barreled rifle) and a firearm silencer. None of the firearms were registered in the National Firearms Registrations and Transfer Record, as required by law. Inside the home, the UC saw various tools and machines suitable for manufacturing firearm components and accessories.
In the weeks that followed, the CI, UC, and Shirley spoke on the phone and exchanged text messages about firearms Shirley was manufacturing. Shirley told the CI he had armor-piercing ammunition and the firearms he was building were like the ones that U.S. Navy SEALs carry in battle. Through text messages, Shirley also sent the UC photographs of short-barreled rifles and firearm silencers.
On January 24, 2023, the UC went to Shirley’s home and bought four short-barreled rifles equipped with firearm silencers. Shirley confirmed that two of the rifles were machineguns. These silencers and rifles were again not registered in the National Firearms Registrations and Transfer Record. Shirley also gave the UC three privately manufactured derringer-style pistols with the understanding the UC would pay for them at a later date.
On February 2, 2023, the UC and other agents arrested Shirley and executed a federal search warrant. During the search, they found a privately manufactured pistol, a privately manufactured rifle equipped with a silencer, over 200 rounds of ammunition, approximately 12 machinegun conversion devices, a template for manufacturing machinegun conversion devices, two bags containing methamphetamine and marijuana, a pipe suitable for smoking methamphetamine, and various firearm accessories and parts, including components that had been created using 3D printers. They also found tools, raw materials, and equipment, including a 3D printer, which can be used to manufacture firearms, silencers, and machinegun conversion devices. Shirley has never been licensed to manufacture or sell firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
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.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Duglas Hernandez Valladares (38, Honduras) has pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft. Valladares faces a penalty of two years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, E-Verify is a web-based system through which employers electronically confirm the employment eligibility of their employees. E-Verify is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The SSA and USCIS check submitted information against the records of actual persons who are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a voluntary program for employers and requires documents such as a Social Security number and photo identification of a prospective employee.
From at least 2021 through October 2022, Valladares used another person’s means of identification in order to defeat the E-Verify system and to commit the felony offenses of misuse of a Social Security number and making a false claim of United States citizenship for employment purposes.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Department of Transportation–Office of Inspector General, the Social Security Administration–Office of the Inspector General, the United States Border Patrol, the Department of Labor–Office of Inspector General, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
Fort Myers Felon Sentenced to Prison for Unlawfully Possessing A Loaded Firearm and CocaineRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Keith Dewayne Drayton, Jr. (27, Fort Myers) to four years and one month in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon and possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine. The court also ordered Drayton to forfeit the firearm and ammunition possessed during the offense. Drayton had pleaded guilty on August 29, 2023.
According to court records, on the night of June 17, 2023, officers from the Fort Myers Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Drayton was the front-seat passenger. The vehicle did not stop, and by the time the officers caught up to the vehicle, both the driver and Drayton had fled from the vehicle on foot. On the ground near the front passenger door of the vehicle, officers found a loaded Glock handgun. Inside the vehicle, officers located a satchel which contained a prescription pill bottle bearing Drayton’s full name, as well as a baggie containing almost a half-ounce of crack cocaine. Drayton was later located by officers hiding in a nearby dumpster.
As a convicted felon who previously served time in federal prison for a firearm offense, Drayton is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Myers Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Simon R. Eth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Convicted Felon Charged with Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Byron Louder (34, Orlando) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Louder faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Louder that the United States intends to forfeit a Sig Sauer firearm, which is alleged to be involved in the offense.
According to the indictment, on December 25, 2022, Louder possessed a firearm. At the time of the alleged offense, Louder had prior felony convictions for delivery of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver, possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver. As such, 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 Orlando Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Uzbek National and United States Citizen Charged with Long-Running Immigration and Passport-Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of a superseding indictment charging U.S. citizen Abduvosit Razikov (44, Orlando) and Uzbek national Dilrabo Obidova (35, Orlando) with conspiring for more than 16 years to make false statements to federal agencies, illegally obtain immigration benefits, make false statements in U.S. passport applications, and illegally obtain U.S. passports. The superseding indictment also charges Razikov and Obidova with several counts of passport fraud, and it charges Obidova with making false statements to federal agencies and attempting to illegally procure naturalization or U.S. citizenship. If convicted, Obidova and Razikov each face a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison for conspiracy and up to ten years in federal prison for passport fraud. Obidova also faces five years in federal prison for false statements to a federal agency and up to ten years in federal prison for attempting to illegally procure naturalization or U.S. citizenship.
According to the superseding indictment, Razikov, originally a national of Uzbekistan, gained immigration status and eventually obtained U.S. citizenship through a fraudulent marriage to a U.S. citizen. Razikov and Obidova separately conspired for Obidova to gain immigration benefits in the United States through her own fraudulent marriage to a different U.S. citizen. In the meantime, Razikov and Obidova secretly married each other and concealed their relationship from immigration authorities, including by listing Obidova’s sham husband as the father on Razikov and Obidova’s children’s birth certificates. Their efforts to hide their respective fraudulent marriages led to both Razikov and Obidova making several false statements in applications for U.S. passports for Razikov and their children.
After obtaining lawful permanent resident status, Obidova attempted to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. According to the superseding indictment, in her application for naturalization, Obidova made numerous false statements, under penalty of perjury, relating to her background, marriages, and past attempts to illegally obtain immigration benefits and status.
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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force with valuable assistance from the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kara M. Wick and Richard Varadan.
Brevard County Felon Charged with Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Shawndell Johnson (31, Melbourne) with distribution of controlled substances, possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on all counts, Johnson faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Johnson that the United States intends to forfeit the firearms and ammunition which are alleged to have facilitated some of the offenses.
According to the indictment, on September 1 and September 8, 2022, Johnson distributed a mixture containing fentanyl. Then, on March 16, 2023, Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 400 grams or more of a mixture containing fentanyl, and 500 grams or more of a mixture containing cocaine. Johnson is also charged with possessing multiple firearms and ammunition despite his previous felony convictions for third-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and with possessing a firearm in furtherance of his March 16, 2023, drug offenses.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Thirteen Indicted on Drug Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging thirteen individuals in a drug conspiracy and related charges. According to the indictment, the defendants conspired with one another to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine within the Middle District of Florida. See chart below for details.
Defendant
Charges
Maximum Penalty
Daniel Carrillo
(35, Weeki Wachee)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine
3 Counts -Distribution of cocaine
Life in prison
(Mandatory Minimum of 10 years)
Yoned Onil Santana Vazquez
(18, Hudson)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine
1 Count - Distribution of cocaine
40 years
(Mandatory Minimum of
5 years)
Georgelys Natal Vazquez
(27, Hudson)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
1 Count - Distribution of cocaine
20 years
Lucy Carrillo Gonzalez
(60, Port Richey)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
1 Count - Distribution of cocaine
20 years
Jacqueline Navarro
(53, Port Richey)
1 County - Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine
5 Counts - Distribution of cocaine
1 Count - Possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Life in prison
(Mandatory Minimum of 10 years)
Betsy Luz Trinidad
(32, Weeki Wachee)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine
4 Counts - Distribution of cocaine
Life in Prison
(Mandatory Minimum of 10 years)
Rolando Alvarez Canete
(40, Holiday)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
1 Count - Distribution of cocaine
20 years in prison
Kevin Valdez
(33, Port Richey)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
20 years in prison
Victor Hernandez Jr
(24, Port Richey)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
20 years in prison
John Patrick Barrett, (57, Port Richey)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
1 Count - Possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Life in prison
(Mandatory Minimum of 10 years)
Jennifer Hanna
(51, Hudson)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
1 Count - Possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
2 Counts - Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Life in prison
(Mandatory Minimum of 10 years)
Johan Eloy Del Valle Carrillo
(41, Puerto Rico)
1 Count - Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
1 Count - Attempted distribution of cocaine
20 years in prison
James Perry Oneal
(29, Clearwater)
1 Count – Conspiracy to distribute cocaine
1 Count – Possession with intent to distribute of cocaine
20 years in prison
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Samantha Beckman and Jeffrey Chang.
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.
Tampa Man Sentenced on Drug Conspiracy Charges Involving Nearly Five Kilograms of Methamphetamine and over 8,000 Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Victor Yoel Perez Cremades (52, Tampa) to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl. The court also ordered Cremades to forfeit $4,820, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense. A federal jury had found Cremades guilty on May 9, 2023.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on September 8, 2021, the FBI served a search warrant on Cremades’ residence in Tampa. In Cremades’s bedroom, agents located a bag containing more than 800 grams of pills pressed to look like oxycodone tablets and over 3,000 grams of methamphetamine. The bag was in the same closet as Cremades’s passport, ID card, and Social Security card. An additional 145 grams of methamphetamine was located in the dining area.
On the same day, agents intercepted a suspicious package in the mail that was destined to a fictitious person at Cremades’s address. The package contained more than 1,700 grams of methamphetamine and over 1,200 fentanyl pills pressed to look like oxycodone tablets. During the search, agents located financial receipts showing Cremades had sent money to the same city the suspicious package was mailed from.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Samantha Beckman and Brooke Padgett.
Prior Convicted Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison on Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Andrez Galarza Miranda (51, Mexico) to 10 years and 1 month in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Galarza Miranda had pleaded guilty on September 29, 2023.
According to court documents, on May 6, 2022, Miranda made arrangements to sell 15 pounds of methamphetamine to a confidential informant outside a restaurant in Jacksonville. Upon arrival to the agreed upon location, a traffic stop was initiated and Miranda was found in possession of 15 pounds of methamphetamine. At the time, Miranda was on supervised release after having served 18 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute marijuana and more than 5 kilograms of cocaine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.
Orlando Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison on Cocaine and Ecstasy ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Eric Joen Brenes-Colon (34, Orlando) to 9 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and MDMA (Ecstasy). Brenes-Colon had pleaded guilty on October 26, 2023.
According to court documents, Brenes-Colon was the source of supply of kilograms of cocaine for a drug-trafficking operation that operated in Central Florida and Tampa in 2020 and 2021. Brenes-Colon coordinated shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico to Florida and delivered cocaine to Georgi Milenov Solakov (31, Tampa) up until March 2021, when Solakov was arrested. Some of the cocaine was sent from Puerto Rico to Solakov’s residence near downtown Tampa in parcels with Styrofoam coolers of cocaine inside. Solakov was convicted of federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses on September 17, 2021, and he is currently serving time in federal prison. Brenes-Colon also distributed MDMA tablets and marijuana, and several firearms, including a shotgun, a semi-automatic pistol, and an assault rifle, were seized in connection with the investigation.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew J. Del Mastro and E. Jackson Boggs Jr.
Marco Island Felon Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of A Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Nicholas Munson Troemner (41, Marco Island) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Troemner faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on February 16, 2023, in North Fort Myers, Troemner was in possession of a loaded Taurus pistol. At the time, Troemner had multiple prior felony firearm and drug-related convictions and was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Troemner agreed to forfeit the pistol and ammunition as part of a plea agreement.
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 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 Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jonnetric Devonte Ivey (30, Fort Myers) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Ivey faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on March 22, 2023, Ivey was stopped by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for a traffic stop. Ivey made a throwing motion prior to complying with the deputy’s demands. In the same area of the throwing motion, deputies located a loaded Taurus pistol. DNA evidence later linked Ivey to the loaded pistol. At the time, Ivey was a convicted felon and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Ivey agreed to forfeit the loaded pistol as a part of the plea agreement.
This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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 our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Tampa Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Enticing A Filipino Child into Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Joshua Friedbauer (61, Tampa) to 15 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor and receipt of child sex abuse material. Friedbauer is also responsible for an Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act assessment of $3,000 and a Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act assessment of $10,000. Friedbauer had pleaded guilty on July 5, 2023.
According to court documents, around June 2021, Friedbauer visited the Philippines and met the impoverished 13-year-old child victim through her mother, with whom Friedbauer shared a romantic relationship. Thereafter, Friedbauer coerced, persuaded, and used the child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing photos of this conduct. In return, Friedbauer gave the child money and other gifts. When the child victim resisted and did not fully cooperate with his requests, Friedbauer continued to pressure and guilted her for more images.
“This predator traveled internationally and exploited the impoverished financial status of a mother and her child to create sexually explicit imagery for his perverse conduct,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt. “The vile actions of child predators make lifetime victims of their prey and cause irreparable harm. This successful sentencing is a testament to the strength of our global network of law enforcement partnerships, including the Philippine National Police, and our commitment to serve and protect victims of human trafficking and exploitation.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Tampa, with substantial assistance from the Philippine National Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Claire Favorit.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Owner of Tax Return Preparation Business Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – A Florida woman was sentenced today to two years in prison for a scheme to file false tax returns and to two years in prison for an unrelated online romance scam. The two sentences are to run concurrently with each other.
According to court documents and statements made in court related to the tax scheme, Iona Coates owned and operated Bits & Bytes Accounting Services Inc., which provided tax preparation and bookkeeping services. Between 2015 and 2020, Coates claimed $228,788 in tax refunds on her individual federal income tax returns by falsely reporting that taxes had been withheld from her income and had been paid to the IRS. Coates further enriched herself by creating nearly 20 sham entities for the sole purpose of filing false tax returns that claimed fuel tax credits. Between 2017 and 2019, Coates prepared and filed 35 such returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court regarding the online romance scheme, in 2020, Coates met two individuals online through a dating website. She subsequently provided them with her bank account information and began receiving money into her account from victims of the scheme. She sent the money she received to them. In December 2020, U.S. Secret Service agents met with Coates and explained that she was acting as a “money mule” in an online romance scheme. As the agents described, the individuals, acting as fake suitors on dating websites, convinced victims to send money to Coates’s bank account. The Secret Service advised Coates to cease participation in the scheme, as the individuals were using her bank account to facilitate their theft. Coates, however, soon thereafter began acting as a money mule for another online romance scammer. Between December 2020 and September 2021, she received $229,376.26 into her bank accounts from victims of the scheme and sent the money to the scammer.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Brian Davis ordered Coates to serve a total of three years of supervised release for both schemes. Judge Davis also ordered Coates to pay approximately $186,288 in restitution to the United States related to the tax charges and $229,376.26 in restitution to the victims of the romance scheme.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the tax scheme and the U.S. Secret Service investigated the online romance scheme.
Trial Attorneys Kevin Schneider and Wilson Stamm of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin C. Frein for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the tax case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Frein prosecuted the online romance scheme case.
Owner of Tax Return Preparation Business Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
A Florida woman was sentenced today to two years in prison for a scheme to file false tax returns and to two years in prison for an unrelated online romance scam. The two sentences are to run concurrently with each other.
According to court documents and statements made in court related to the tax scheme, Iona Coates owned and operated Bits & Bytes Accounting Services Inc., which provided tax preparation and bookkeeping services. Between 2015 and 2020, Coates claimed $228,788 in tax refunds on her individual federal income tax returns by falsely reporting that taxes had been withheld from her income and had been paid to the IRS. Coates further enriched herself by creating nearly 20 sham entities for the sole purpose of filing false tax returns that claimed fuel tax credits. Between 2017 and 2019, Coates prepared and filed 35 such returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court regarding the online romance scheme, in 2020, Coates met two individuals online through a dating website. She subsequently provided them with her bank account information and began receiving money into her account from victims of the scheme. She sent the money she received to them. In December 2020, U.S. Secret Service agents met with Coates and explained that she was acting as a “money mule” in an online romance scheme. As the agents described, the individuals, acting as fake suitors on dating websites, convinced victims to send money to Coates’s bank account. The Secret Service advised Coates to cease participation in the scheme, as the individuals were using her bank account to facilitate their theft. Coates, however, soon thereafter began acting as a money mule for another online romance scammer. Between December 2020 and September 2021, she received $229,376.26 into her bank accounts from victims of the scheme and sent the money to the scammer.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Brian Davis ordered Coates to serve a total of three years of supervised release for both schemes. Judge Davis also ordered Coates to pay approximately $186,288 in restitution to the United States related to the tax charges and $229,376.26 in restitution to the victims of the romance scheme.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the tax scheme and the U.S. Secret Service investigated the online romance scheme.
Trial Attorneys Kevin Schneider and Wilson Stamm of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin C. Frein for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the tax case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Frein prosecuted the online romance scheme case.
Lake County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of A Firearm by A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Tyran Terrell Harris (24, Leesburg) has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Harris faces up to 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set. A federal grand jury had indicted Harris on December 12, 2023.
According to the court records, Harris has multiple prior state felony convictions, including grand theft, tampering with a witness, and grand theft auto. On September 25, 2023, officers from the Leesburg Police Department observed Harris walking around an apartment complex with a loaded firearm. Knowing Harris was a convicted felon from previous interactions, the officers arrested him and took possession of the firearm. A record check showed the firearm had been reported stolen approximately two weeks earlier. Harris subsequently admitted to the officers that he knew he could not possess the firearm as a convicted felon.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leesburg 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.
Federal Jury Finds Hernando Man Guilty of Destruction of Evidence and Accessing with Intent to View Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Basilio Jim Diaz (64, Hernando County) guilty of destruction of evidence and accessing with the intent to view child sexual abuse material. Diaz faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for each offense. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 17, 2024. Diaz has also agreed to forfeit his electronic devices which were used in the commission of the offense.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on March 9, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Diaz’s home seeking evidence of child exploitation. When the FBI announced their presence, Diaz refused to exit his home. FBI SWAT members used an armored vehicle to break through the front door and obtain a visual inside the home. The SWAT agents also deployed two drones to better assess the situation inside the home. After nearly an hour, Diaz disabled one of the drones and while holding the second drone, the SWAT agents safely entered the home and detained Diaz. A search of the home revealed that Diaz had spent those 45 - 50 minutes destroying evidence. Despite Diaz’s efforts, the FBI used forensic tools to recover thousands of images and videos depicting the child sexual abuse and exploitation of children from Diaz’s laptop. Agents also recovered two child-like sex dolls.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, and Task Force Officers from the Tampa Police Department and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ilyssa M. Spergel and Ross D. Roberts.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Six-Time Convicted Felon Charged with Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Lawrence Lamar Singleton II (34, Orlando) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Singleton faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Singleton that the United States intends to forfeit a Sig Sauer firearm, a Smith & Wesson firearm, Blazer ammunition and Lake City Army ammunition, which are alleged to be involved in the offense.
According to the indictment, on May 14, 2023, Singleton possessed two firearms and ammunition. At the time of the alleged offense, Singleton had prior felony convictions for burglary of a dwelling, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer and driving while license suspended (two prior convictions). As such, 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 Orlando Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Orlando Man Sentenced to More Than 8 Years in Federal Prison on Fentanyl and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Gregory A. Presnell has sentenced Jason Santos (27, Orlando) to eight years and four months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The court also ordered Santos to forfeit 11 firearms and various ammunition, which are traceable to the offense. Santos had pleaded guilty on September 22, 2023.
According to court documents, on February 15 and March 14, 2023, Santos sold cocaine to an undercover deputy from the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. Law enforcement subsequently obtained a search warrant for a residence out of which Santos was operating and recovered 11 firearms, various ammunition, a tactical bag, and drug paraphernalia, including scales and empty clear bags. Officers also recovered various controlled substances, including, fentanyl, cocaine, LSD, MDA, methamphetamine, cannabis, alprazolam, and mushrooms.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Orlando Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Antavious Anton Gray, Jr. (23, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Gray faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court records, on October 19, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Gray was a passenger. The driver gave law enforcement consent to search the vehicle, wherein they located a semi-automatic Smith & Wesson firearm with an extended magazine in a satchel on the floorboard where Gray had been sitting. A lab analysis revealed Gray’s DNA was on the firearm. At the time, Gray had a prior felony conviction for possession of a firearm by a person found to have committed a delinquent act. As a convicted felon, Gray is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Nineteen-Time Convicted Felon Charged with Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Luis Rosado (28, Winter Park) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Rosado faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Rosado that the United States intends to forfeit a Taurus pistol, a Radical Firearms rifle, a Silver Eagle shotgun, and Sellier & Bellot and Norma ammunition, which is alleged to be involved in the offense.
According to the indictment, on August 20, 2023, Rosado possessed a pistol, a rifle, a shotgun, and various ammunition. At the time of the alleged offense, Rosado had 19 prior felony convictions. As such, 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 Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sartoian.
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.
Kissimmee Man Sentenced for Smuggling Cocaine from the Dominican Republic to FloridaRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Roman Batista (38, Kissimmee) to five years in federal prison for importing cocaine into the United States. Batista had pleaded guilty on September 25, 2023.
According to court documents, on July 10, 2023, Batista flew from the Dominican Republic to the Orlando International Airport. After securing his checked luggage from the baggage claim area, Batista was referred for a bag examination. Customs and Border Protection Officers conducted an examination of Batista’s luggage wherein 2,994 grams of cocaine was located hidden in a speaker.
“CBP is focused on attacking every link in the global illegal narcotic trafficking chain. The diligent work by our CBP Officers prevented these illicit drugs from ever finding their way on to the street of Orlando or beyond,” stated Miami/Tampa Director of Field Operations Carlos Martel. “One of CBP’s main mission is to relentlessly prevent the flow of illicit narcotics into our nation and our job is performed 24/7.”
“This sentencing is a testament to Homeland Security Investigations’ commitment to stop those who exploit our nations travel system to further their illicit narcotic distribution networks,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “The outstanding law enforcement partnership we have with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Orlando International Airport has ensured this criminal will now face the consequences of his actions.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
Federal Jury Convicts Arcadia Man of Conspiracy to Commit Numerous Armed Robberies, Home Invasions, Shootings, While Dressed as Police OfficerRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Darius Hudson (44, Arcadia) guilty of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, three separate Hobbs Act robberies, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. Because of the specific robberies that they each participated in, the defendants also face mandatory minimum sentences of imprisonment. Hudson faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 27 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the evidence introduced during the trial, between December 2020 and April 2021, a group of individuals conspired with each other to commit armed robberies throughout Pasco, Polk, Lee, and Hillsborough Counties, as well as Georgia and Arizona. While committing these offenses, the conspirators, including Hudson, impersonated law enforcement officers by wearing black clothing, gloves, and masks, often with law enforcement insignia, or vests with “Sheriff” affixed. They drove a black Dodge Durango equipped with lights, and often handcuffed their victims. During these robberies, victims and their family members were awoken in the middle of the night at home, beat, pistol whipped, threatened, and, on several occasions, shot.
This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Bartow Police Department, the Lakeland Police Department, the Dade City Police Department, the Cape Coral Police Department, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, the Arcadia Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sarasota Methamphetamine Trafficker Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Alfred Clayton Rosier, Jr. (29, Sarasota) has pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Rosier faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on September 22, 2022, a deputy from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office retrieved a package from a FedEx facility after the deputy’s canine partner had alerted on the package for the presence of narcotics. After the deputy had procured and executed a search warrant on the package, law enforcement discovered approximately 16 pounds of methamphetamine. The package was addressed to a residence in Sarasota.
Agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with officers from the Sarasota Police Department and deputies from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, conducted a controlled delivery of a portion of the methamphetamine to the residence. Rosier was found outside of the residence with a large box as law enforcement was executing a search warrant. When Rosier observed law enforcement approaching, he threw the box inside of a parked white van and jumped inside of a car parked next to the van. Upon a search of the van and the box that Rosier had thrown inside, agents discovered approximately 22 pounds of marijuana and 647 grams of methamphetamine. They also recovered a small backpack that contained a loaded pistol and documents addressed to Rosier.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Sarasota Police Department, and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Orlando Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Attempting to Entice A 15-Year-Old to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell has sentenced Victor Aguilar (32, Orlando) to 12 years and 6 months in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Aguilar had pleaded guilty on October 13, 2023.
According to court documents, in May 2023, Aguilar responded to a social media posting from an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 15-year-old child. Aguilar engaged in sexually oriented conversation, telling the undercover officer in detail what he planned to do with the minor. The two discussed meeting locations, including a mall in the Ocala area. A few hours later, Aguilar told the undercover officer he had arrived at the Ocala mall to meet with the minor. While Aguilar was waiting, deputies arrived and arrested Aguilar.
“This predator knowingly targeted a child to carry out his deviant behaviors, but our team of investigators were diligent in bringing him to justice,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “HSI investigators, alongside our partners, the U.S. Secret Service, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, have successfully removed another predator from the streets.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Secret Service, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Belkis H. Crockett and Tyrie K. Boyer.
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.
Orlando Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Lying to the FBI in Connection with an International Terrorism InvestigationRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton has sentenced Moad Mohamed Benkabbou (23, Kissimmee) to six years in federal prison for making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in an interview relating to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Benkabbou had pleaded guilty on May 5, 2023.
According to Benkabbou’s plea agreement and evidence previously admitted during a hearing, Benkabbou swore an oath to support ISIS in January 2020, made plans to travel to Turkey and Syria to fight for ISIS, sent money to support ISIS, purchased airplane tickets in August 2020 and January 2021 (later cancelled both tickets), and sent ISIS propaganda videos to others, including ISIS sponsored videos showing the executions (by gunshot and beheading) of American allies fighting against ISIS. Benkabbou also sent a photo of himself dressed as an ISIS fighter with the statement, “Hey Crusaders hey Jews die within your rage.” When interviewed on two occasions by FBI in relation to these activities, Benkabbou lied about his involvement with and support of ISIS.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn P. Napier and Kara M. Wick.
Orange County Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Robert Lee Pringle (35, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Pringle faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court records, on May 3, 2022, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle Pringle was driving. Rather than stopping, Pringle fled at a high rate of speed and later crashed into another vehicle. During a search of the stolen vehicle, officers located two firearms on the front passenger floorboard as well as a pistol magazine on the driver’s side 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, baggies, and 9mm bullets.
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 multi-convicted felon, Pringle is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Four-Time Convicted Felon Charged with Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Kristian Ramos (43, Kissimmee) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Ramos faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ramos that the United States intends to forfeit a Beretta Nano 9mm handgun, which is alleged to be involved in the offense.
According to the indictment, on May 23, 2023, Ramos possessed a Beretta Nano 9mm handgun. At the time of the alleged offense, Ramos had prior felony convictions for robbery with a deadly weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and robbery. As such, 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 Orange County Sherriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Noah P. Dorman.
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.
Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer Pleads Guilty to Falsifying Sale PaperworkRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Angel Ruben Hernandez, Jr. (75, Altamonte Springs) has pleaded guilty to three counts of failing to record required information about firearms purchases. Hernandez faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison for each count. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Hernandez was an owner and responsible party for Arms Hill LLC, a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL or Federal Firearms Licensee) from 2019 through 2023. In 2022, the FBI obtained information that Hernandez was supplying firearms to an individual who was unlawfully selling them to drug dealers and convicted felons and that Hernandez was falsifying paperwork in connection with supplying those firearms. FFL dealers who operate within the law require purchasers to complete specific forms (ATF Form 4473) and answer numerous questions about the buyer’s background and eligibility to purchase firearms. Firearms that are sold without a Form 4473 indicating the true purchaser are more valuable on the black market because they provide an avenue for otherwise prohibited persons to acquire firearms.
Beginning in April 2023, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), through a cooperating source, conducted a series of undercover purchases from Hernandez. On April 20 and 24, 2023, and again on May 1, 2023, Hernandez sold nine firearms to the ATF’s source. Hernandez charged above-market prices for the firearms while also creating false ATF Form 4473 forms documenting fake sales to Hernandez’s relatives. On May 19, 2023, during the execution of a search warrant, ATF agents found pre-filled ATF 4473 forms with information from Hernandez’s relatives that had been pre-populated and prepared for future fake sales. Hernandez’s FFL records indicate that nearly a quarter of his sales as an FFL from 2019-2023, including more than 260 firearms, were recorded as though they were sold to his relatives.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Apopka Police Department, and the Altamonte Springs Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dana E. Hill and Noah Dorman.
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.
Venice Man Charged with Threatening to Commit A Mass Casualty Event and Unlawful Possession of A SilencerRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Alexander Lightner (26, Venice, FL) with interstate transmission of a threat to injure and unlawful possession of a silencer. If convicted on all counts, Lightner faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison.
According to court filings, on December 29, 2023, Lightner made the following threats on an internet messaging platform indicating his intention to carry out a mass shooting: “2024 there shall be saints u fuq”; “Highscore shall be defeated”; “I’ll delete this, but I say to you there is no surrender only death. Only purpose”; “When my @ says last seen a week ago remove me from everything.”; “It’s called a .308 black tip.”; and “Those that know me know. It’s over, you have not seen the wrath of the Aryan that has no purpose left.” In the racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist (“RMVE”) community, a “saint” is an individual who commits an act of mass violence in furtherance of RMVE ideology, and the term “high score” refers to the death toll amassed by an attacker, or saint, who commits an act of mass violence.
Federal law enforcement subsequently executed a search warrant at Lightner’s residence. During the search, agents recovered an unregistered firearm silencer, ammunition, and multiple firearms from Lightner’s bedroom.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, with valuable assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Sarasota Police Department, and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lindsey Schmidt.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Federal Prison for Selling FentanylRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan today sentenced Elliott Dubenion (40, Jacksonville) to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Dubenion had pleaded guilty on September 27, 2023.
According to court documents, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office identified Dubenion as a mid-level supplier of fentanyl to other dealers in Duval and Clay counties. Agents conducted two controlled purchases of fentanyl directly from Dubenion in Jacksonville on January 27 and February 7, 2023. According to lab reports, Dubenion sold approximately 84 grams of fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Smuggling and Straw-Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Gabriel Daniel Pinnace (31, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to smuggling firearms from the United States and making materially false statements during the purchase of a firearm. Pinnace faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison for each offense. A sentencing date has not been set.
According to the plea agreement, on May 15, 2021, Pinnace and an individual in a related case, Antonio Reyes, attempted to smuggle three firearms and 57 rounds of ammunition from Jacksonville to Venezuela. Prior to that date, Reyes enlisted Pinnace to purchase the firearms from federally licensed firearms dealers with knowledge that the firearms would be sent to Venezuela. Pinnace purchased the firearms after falsifying ATF Forms 4473, which are required for all firearms purchases. After purchasing the firearms, Pinnace scratched the serial numbers off two of the firearms and provided them to Reyes, who then concealed the firearms and ammunition in a futon that he attempted to mail using a freight forwarding service. Employees from the freight forwarder observed the firearms during a routine x-ray of the parcel and contacted law enforcement. On May 22, 2021, agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) seized the three firearms, which included a Glock 17 pistol and two Smith and Wesson M&P 15 rifles. Forensic technicians at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) restored the obliterated serial numbers, which allowed ATF agents to trace the firearms back to Pinnace. On May 24, 2021, Pinnace reported the firearms as stolen. Following Reyes’s arrest on unrelated state charges on August 11, 2023, federal agents from ATF, HSI, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) searched Reyes’s cellphone and found conversations between Reyes and Pinnace discussing trafficking firearms to Venezuela.
On August 26, 2023, ATF, HSI, and CBP agents conducted an operation to purchase firearms directly from Pinnace. That morning, Pinnace met with an undercover agent and agreed to sell the agent three firearms. That afternoon, agents surveilled Pinnace as he travelled to a gun store in Jacksonville, where he falsified another ATF Form 4473 and purchased two firearms. After leaving the store with what appeared to be a gun box, Pinnace travelled to meet with the undercover agent. At that meeting, Pinnace sold the undercover the three firearms and instructed the undercover to scratch off the serial numbers.
Reyes previously pleaded guilty to smuggling firearms from the United States and conspiring to use a facility of interstate commerce to commit a murder-for-hire on January 3, 2024. His sentencing hearing is set for April 23, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 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.
Unforgiven Gang Member Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy, Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge Henry L. Adams has sentenced Geoffrey Scott Carter (44, Jacksonville) to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Carter to forfeit 10 firearms and assorted ammunition. Carter had pleaded guilty on March 28, 2023.
According to court documents, on August 5, 2022, in St. Johns County, a police officer observed an SUV commit a traffic offense and the officer executed a traffic stop. The only occupants of the SUV were its driver and Carter. A police canine alerted when walked around the SUV, indicating the recent presence of illegal drugs in the vehicle. When an officer searched the SUV, he found two loaded pistols (one of which had been previously reported stolen), approximately 36 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 21 grams of cocaine, 3 grams of MDMA (also known as ecstasy), 3 grams of marijuana, a digital scale, syringes, and baggies. The driver denied knowing that there were illegal drugs in the vehicle but confirmed that Carter was a drug dealer. When searched, Carter had brass knuckles in his pocket and was wearing an empty firearm holster. When an officer located the holster, Carter stated that it was for holding his cigarettes. Carter was arrested for various state offenses, but soon was released on bond.
Following Carter’s release, a confidential source, acting at the direction of law enforcement, purchased controlled substances from Carter four times at Carter’s home in Jacksonville. During these transactions, Carter sold the confidential source approximately 645 grams of methamphetamine, 3 grams of fentanyl, and a Colt revolver. Having previously been convicted of 11 felony offenses, Carter is prohibited by law from possessing firearms, including the Colt revolver.
On November 2, 2022, law enforcement agents and officers executed a federal search warrant at Carter’s home. During the search, they located seven loaded handguns, two body armor vests, ammunition, a scale, baggies containing methamphetamine and marijuana, a Nazi flag, and a vest with markings associated with the “Unforgiven,” a white-supremacist prison gang.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Augustine Beach Police Department, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
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's Office Observes National Human Trafficking Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. To commemorate this month, United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg renews his Office’s commitment to prosecuting human traffickers, protecting victims, empowering survivors, and preventing the proliferation of these abhorrent crimes.
In recognition of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the U.S. Attorney’s Office reaffirms that vindicating the rights of human trafficking victims and other vulnerable persons ranks among its highest priorities.
“Human trafficking is a crime of exploitation,” said U.S. Attorney Handberg. “Whether it’s forced labor, domestic servitude, or sex trafficking of children and adults, human trafficking is the exploitation of human beings for profit and has no place in any society. That’s why in January and throughout the year, my Office’s dedicated prosecutors, victim witness coordinators, and support personnel work with our law enforcement partners to combat human trafficking and bring offenders to justice.”
Anyone who has information about a potential human trafficking situation or a person who may be experiencing human trafficking should contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
Information on the Office’s work to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/humantrafficking.
To enhance awareness and educate the community about human trafficking, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has released a Public Service Announcement on how to identify potential trafficking situations and where to report suspected human trafficking activity.