Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Postal Carrier Sentenced to over Six Years for Distributing Cocaine Packages Sent to Her Postal RouteRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven has sentenced Nathasha Michelle Prieto (34, Bradenton) to six years and six months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute over five kilograms of cocaine. Prieto had pleaded guilty on January 5, 2023.
According to court documents, Prieto, a former United States Postal Carrier, and her co-defendant, Angel Hernandez Coss, orchestrated a scheme by which Prieto provided addresses on her delivery route to Coss who used those addresses to secure shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico. As a result, kilogram quantities of cocaine were shipped in packages to these addresses. Prieto then removed the packages from the mail stream and provide them to Coss who then distributed the cocaine.
Coss was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison on May 17, 2023.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Manatee County Sherriff’s Office, and the Bradenton Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jim Preston.
Village Home Care, CEO, and Two Doctors Pay $490,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations for Paying and Receiving KickbacksRead the Press Release
Village Home Care LLC (VHC), located in Ocala, Florida, has agreed to pay $225,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act (FCA) by paying kickbacks to two physicians in the form of sham medical director or sublease agreements in exchange for patient referrals. Joy Rodak (Rodak), VHC’s CEO and majority owner, has agreed separately to pay $105,000. Both settlements are based on financial ability to pay. In addition, the United States has reached agreements with Dr. Vishnu Reddy and Dr. Kuchakulla Reddy to pay $100,000 and $61,943.44, respectively, to resolve allegations that each accepted kickbacks from VHC in exchange for patient referrals.
On Jan. 15, 2021, the United States filed complaints in intervention in two whistleblower lawsuits brought under the FCA against VHC and Rodak alleging that they knowingly billed Medicare for home health services for patients referred to VHC by Dr. Vishnu Reddy from Nov. 15, 2012, through Nov. 14, 2014, while paying Dr. V. Reddy under sham medical director agreements. Although Dr. V. Reddy performed no services, VHC paid him $50,000 to induce him to refer patients to VHC. The United States further alleged that VHC and Rodak knowingly billed Medicare for home health services for patients referred to VHC by Dr. Kuchakulla Reddy from Dec. 1, 2012, through March 5, 2014, while paying Dr. K. Reddy, through his medical practice, under sham sublease agreements. Although VHC did not use the space, VHC paid Dr. K. Reddy $30,971.72 to induce him to refer patients to VHC.
“Paying doctors to refer patients for services paid for by federal health care programs can distort medical decision-making and result in medically unnecessary care,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The settlements in this matter demonstrate our commitment to protecting the integrity of these programs and the taxpayer dollars that support them.”
“Medicare funds should be used to provide care for our seniors, not to induce physicians to refer business,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “This office will take action against individuals who make unlawful payment to physicians in exchange for patient referrals.”
The civil settlements include the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Kasey Jacobs, James Hanes, Katherine Brooks, Karen Swain, and Barbara Mellot-Yezman, all former employees of VHC. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam cases are captioned U.S. ex rel. Jacobs, et al. v. Village Home Care, LLC, et al., No. 5:21-cv-00073-CEM-PRL (M.D. Fla.), and U.S. ex rel. Brooks, et al. v. Village Home Care, LLC, et al., No. 5:21-cv-00072-CEM-PRL (M.D. Fla.). The relators’ share of the settlements has not yet been determined.
The resolutions obtained in this matter were the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General.
The matter was investigated by Senior Trial Counsel Sarah Arni and Trial Attorney Breanna Peterson of the Civil Division's Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Keefe for the Middle District of Florida.
The investigation and resolutions in this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
St. Petersburg Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Distributing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced David Blackmer (34, St. Petersburg) to 7 years in federal prison, to be followed by 20 years of supervised release, for distributing and possessing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Blackmer to register as a sex offender and pay $114,000 in restitution. Blackmer had pleaded guilty on February 7, 2023.
According to court documents, on September 7, 2021, Blackmer distributed child sexual abuse videos and images to an undercover computer belonging to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) through a peer-to-peer program. Federal agents executed a search warrant at Blackmer’s residence and recovered electronic devices containing thousands of images and videos of children being sexually abused.
“This predator engaged in the collection and sharing of thousands of images and videos of children being sexually abused,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt. “Our HSI Tampa special agents are proud to be a part of Project Safe Childhood to combat the epidemic of people exploiting our most vulnerable.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.
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.
North Fort Myers Man Indicted for Possessing A Firearm as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Chester Lewis Risco, III (19, North Fort Myers) with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. If convicted, Risco faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Risco that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.
According to the indictment, Risco was in possession of a pistol on April 27, 2023. Risco was previously convicted of two felony offenses in March 2023, making him federally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
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 is case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark R. 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.
Jury Convicts Jacksonville Man for Receiving and Paying Illegal Healthcare KickbacksRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has returned guilty verdicts on the indictment charging Mario Correa Jackson (38, Jacksonville) with illegally soliciting and receiving healthcare kickbacks as well as illegally offering and paying health care kickbacks. Jackson faces a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment on each of the charges. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Jackson received illegal healthcare kickbacks for recruiting individuals to sign up for prescription compound creams. While working in the linen department of the NAS JAX Hospital, Jackson specifically targeted members of the military to ensure that the military members’ health insurance, TRICARE, would pay for the cost of the compound creams focusing on pain, scar, and migraine creams because they were the most lucrative for kickback purposes. The compound creams themselves cost TRICARE on average tens of thousands of dollars per cream. In addition to receiving kickbacks for receiving his own creams, Jackson also paid kickbacks to others once he had signed them up to get their creams and automatic refills, regardless of whether they actually needed the creams.
Jackson was responsible for signing up at least 40 individuals, for whom he would receive an additional kickback for recruiting them as “patients.” Once the individuals showed proof of obtaining their prescription cream, Jackson paid them their illegal kickbacks of several hundreds of dollars per cream they received.
This case was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John Cannizzaro, Mai Tran, and Julie Hackenberry.
Jacksonville Felon Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Cory Lee Kelly (35, Jacksonville) to four years and nine months in federal prison for possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Kelly had pleaded guilty on February 8, 2023. As part of his plea, he agreed to forfeit a machinegun, semi-automatic AR-style pistol, and assorted ammunition.
According to court documents, on April 28, 2022, a trooper from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) pulled over a vehicle being driven by Kelly for a seatbelt violation. The vehicle was occupied by Kelly and a two-year-old child. At Kelly’s driver’s side window, the trooper smelled marijuana. Kelly did not possess a valid driver license and the trooper also determined that Kelly had an outstanding arrest warrant for an unresolved charge of driving with a suspended license. Kelly was detained, and based on the smell of marijuana, his vehicle was searched.
During the search, the trooper located remnants of marijuana and a Glock-type pistol, which once the driver’s side door was opened, was readily visible under the driver’s seat. The pistol had no serial number, was loaded with 26 rounds of ammunition, and had a so-called “Glock switch” – a device used to convert the pistol into a machine gun, allowing it to fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger. Further investigation revealed that Kelly had previously been convicted of possession of a controlled substance while armed, a felony offense. The trooper arrested Kelly for, among other things, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, a state offense. On May 3, 2022, while his state case was pending, Kelly was released from custody after posting bond.
On July 19, 2022, an officer from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office observed Kelly driving a car while speeding, with illegal window tint, and an expired registration. The officer signaled Kelly to pull over, which he did. As the officer approached the driver’s side window, Kelly rolled it down a minimal amount. When asked to roll it down further, Kelly complied, and the officer smelled marijuana. Kelly was alone in the car and visibly within his reach was an AR-style semi-automatic pistol on the passenger-side of the car. When asked, Kelly could not produce a driver license and confirmed that he was a convicted felon. Kelly was detained, and pursuant to a search, in addition to the semi-automatic pistol (loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition), officers located counterfeit currency, and bags of marijuana and crack cocaine. Kelly was arrested for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
On September 1, 2022, while his two state prosecutions were pending, Kelly was released from custody after posting bond. On September 15, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted Kelly for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and he was arrested at his home on September 22, 2022. When officers entered the home, they located a loaded shotgun on the floor of a bathroom. As a convicted felon, Kelly is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Florida Highway Patrol, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael J. Coolican and Mai Tran.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Jacksonville Convicted Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine He Intended to Distribute and Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior United States District Judge Harvey E. Schlesinger has sentenced Leonard M. Green to 15 years in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Green had pleaded guilty on January 4, 2023.
According to court documents, on May 19, 2021, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted an undercover controlled receipt of a drug package that contained approximately 4.63 kilograms of methamphetamine from a drug trafficking organization (DTO) in Mexico. The package was to be shipped from Calexico, California to Jacksonville. HSI (San Diego) coordinated with HSI Jacksonville and the United States Postal Service Inspection Service (USPIS) after the undercover agent received instructions from the Mexican DTO to divide the methamphetamine and send it to two addresses in Florida.
On May 27, 2021, one of the packages containing more than two kilograms of methamphetamine was sent to Green’s residence. After the package arrived, federal agents executed a search warrant of the premises and interviewed Green. During the interview, Green admitted to receiving the package, owning a firearm as a convicted felon, and operating his residence as a drop spot for drugs being mailed to the Jacksonville area for a local drug trafficker.
“Illicit and dangerous drugs continue to ravage our communities, and this career criminal did not learn his lesson the first time,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. “Alongside our partners at the U.S. Postal Service Inspection Service and our dedicated task force officers, HSI continues our commitment to rid our streets from this poison that tears our communities apart.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the United States Postal Service Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kirwinn Mike.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Deltona Man Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting ChildrenRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Wayne Joseph Cavins (64, Deltona) to life in federal prison for attempted online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Cavins was also ordered to serve a life term of supervised release and to register as a sex offender. Cavins had pleaded guilty on November 15, 2022.
According to court documents, from December 23, 2020, through January 29, 2021, Cavins attempted to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a child to engage in sexual activity. Cavins met the child on a social media application and later communicated with the child via text messages. During their text messages, Cavins detailed his interest in engaging in sexual activity with the child, including specifying possible hotel locations for them to meet. In addition, Cavins persuaded and enticed the child to produce child sex abuse materials on several occasions that depicted specific content requested by Cavins. After his arrest, Cavins admitted to talking to the child and that he knew it was wrong. A search of his devices showed Cavins possessed multiple images of child sex abuse materials, including images of the minor child. Further investigation revealed Cavins physically and sexually abused another minor to whom he had access for several years.
“This predator fed his perverse fantasies by sexually abusing a child for years, enticing another minor victim, as well as producing and collecting sexually explicit content of children,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. “This well-deserved life sentence stands as proof that through law enforcement partnerships with St. Johns County and Clay County Sheriff’s Offices, and all partner agencies on the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, law enforcement in northeast Florida will stop at nothing to stop the victimization of our children by these dangerous predators.”
This case was investigated by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. The United States Attorney’s Office also extends a special thank you to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance during the sentencing hearing. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Cocoa Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Jason Alan Scruggs (53, Cocoa) to 25 years in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine. Scruggs had pleaded guilty on April 19, 2022.
According to court documents, on two occasions in 2021, Scruggs sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Each of the transactions occurred at a residence associated with Scruggs in Cocoa, and on one occasion, the methamphetamine sold by Scruggs was determined to be 99% pure. At the time of the offenses, Scruggs had multiple prior convictions for drug offenses.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cocoa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Terry B. Livanos.
Clay County Man Indicted on Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Edward Sherwood Gustafson, IV (30, Green Cove Springs) with two counts of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance involving methamphetamine and cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Gustafson faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of drug distribution and up to 15 years in federal prison for the firearm offense. The indictment also notifies Gustafson that the United States intends to forfeit a Smith and Wesson pistol and ammunition traceable to the firearm offense. The court ordered Gustafson detained pending trial. His trial is set for July 2023.
According to the indictment, on January 21, 2023, Gustafson possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. At the time of the drug offenses, he also possessed a firearm and ammunition. Gustafson has seven previous felony convictions, and therefore, 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 Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.
Bradenton Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years for Distributing Cocaine Obtained Through the MailRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven has sentenced Angel Hernandez Coss (38, Bradenton) to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute over five kilograms of cocaine. Hernandez Coss had pleaded guilty on January 17, 2023.
According to court documents, Hernandez Coss and his codefendant, Nathasha Prieto, a former United States Postal Carrier, orchestrated a scheme by which Prieto provided addresses on her delivery route to Hernandez Coss who used those addresses to secure shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico. As a result, kilogram quantities of cocaine were shipped in packages to these addresses. Prieto then removed the packages from the mail stream and provided them to Coss who then distributed the cocaine. Prieto previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 23, 2023.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Manatee County Sherriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jim Preston.
Atlanta Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution Conspiracy Using Laundry Detergent BoxesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Jose Javier Galvan (55, Atlanta, GA) to six years and six months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Galvan had pleaded guilty on February 2, 2023.
According to court documents, in July and August 2021, Galvan conspired with others to distribute kilogram quantities of high-purity methamphetamine from Guadalajara, Mexico to Atlanta and Tampa. Galvan drove from the Atlanta area to Tampa to plan for the distribution of the methamphetamine and agreed to sell several kilograms of methamphetamine for approximately $5,700, with more quantities of the drug to follow via deliveries from his drug courier.
A drug courier drove from Atlanta to Plant City and delivered 1.89 kilograms of high-purity methamphetamine imported from Mexico. The courier transported the methamphetamine in a bright green laundry detergent box.
On July 22, 2021, Galvan traveled from Atlanta to Temple Terrance, Florida to collect more than $11,000 of drug monies owed to him for the methamphetamine delivery. The following week, Galvan and a drug courier agreed to deliver another multi-kilogram package of methamphetamine into the Middle District of Florida. The drug courier drove from Atlanta with the methamphetamine contained in two laundry detergent boxes. Law enforcement stopped the courier’s vehicle in Lowndes County, Georgia. During the traffic stop, law enforcement discovered the two laundry detergent boxes containing an aggregate amount of approximately 4.9 kilograms of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Winter Haven Police Department, the Plant City Police Department, and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office (Georgia). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David W.A. Chee.
St. Petersburg Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Dry Cleaner Armed Robbery and Murder Relating to Exotic Nightclub Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Corey Small (44, St. Petersburg) to 25 years in federal prison for to interfering with commerce by robbery, using and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, conspiring to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, causing death by murder. Small had pleaded guilty on October 14, 2021.
According to court documents, in 2014, Small robbed a St. Petersburg dry cleaning business of $51.41 after pointing a gun at the clerk. Four years later, in 2018, he conspired to distribute cocaine with an exotic night club employee. Small argued with an individual who attempted to persuade the nightclub employee to leave the club and stop selling drugs for Small. During the argument, Small shot the individual four times, killing him.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pinellas Park Police Department, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Myers Man Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Federal Prison for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Jeffrey Brown (35, Fort Myers) to seven and six months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine. Brown had pleaded guilty on February 15, 2023.
According to court documents, an undercover Special Agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration was introduced to Brown and made a small introductory purchase of powder cocaine. Brown then told the undercover agent that he could supply the agent with large quantities of methamphetamine. Over the course of two ensuing transactions in late 2020, Brown sold the undercover agent approximately three-fourths of a pound of 99% pure methamphetamine. Each of the transactions occurred at residences associated with Brown in Fort Myers. Upon his arrest, Brown admitted he had been selling drugs since his childhood. He has multiple prior convictions for drug and firearms offenses.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael V. Leeman.
Lake County Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. today sentenced Jermaine Lamar Harvard (41, Eustis) to 30 years in federal prison for distributing fentanyl resulting in death. A federal jury had found Harvard guilty on February 23, 2023.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Harvard distributed a quantity of fentanyl to the victim, “M.R,” in October 2019. Harvard represented that the substance was heroin. An analysis of the victim’s cellphone revealed that Harvard had set up multiple drug transactions with the victim. The drugs supplied by Harvard led directly to the victim’s death. A medical examiner subsequently confirmed that the victim had died of acute fentanyl toxicity.
Harvard has prior state convictions for the sale of cocaine in 2013.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys William S. Hamilton and Hannah J. Nowalk.
Jury Convicts Insurance Agent of Defrauding Elderly InvestorsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that today, following a six-week trial, a jury has returned guilty verdicts on nine counts of the superseding indictment charging Phillip Roy Wasserman (66, Sarasota) with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud and substantive counts of wire fraud and mail fraud. Wasserman faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment on each of the conspiracy, mail fraud, and wire fraud counts. The United States is also seeking a money judgment in the amount of at least $6.3 million, the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct. Prior to trial, the tax counts in the superseding indictment were ordered to be tried separately at the request of Wasserman.
On July 21, 2021, Wasserman’s codefendant, Kenneth Rossman, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud as well as aiding and abetting the preparation of a false and fraudulent income tax return. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2023.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Wasserman, a former lawyer and licensed insurance agent, and Rossman, a Florida certified public accountant and licensed insurance agent, made false and fraudulent misrepresentations and concealed material information to convince elderly victim-investors to put their money into Wasserman’s new insurance venture – “FastLife.” Some victim-investors were persuaded to liquidate traditional investments such as annuities and/or to borrow funds against existing life insurance policies to generate cash to invest in the venture. These victim-investors were not told about surrender fees and other costs associated with said liquidations, or about negative personal tax consequences resulting from liquidations. Wasserman paid Rossman a percentage of the victim-investors’ money as compensation for his role in the conspiracy. Wasserman also used victim-investors’ money to make payments to earlier victim-investors in the FastLife venture, as well to as other earlier creditors.
Wasserman spent a significant amount of the victim-investors’ money to finance a lavish lifestyle that included a luxury personal residence, a beach house on Casey Key, Tampa Bay Lightning season and playoff tickets, concerts and other shows, vehicles, jet skis, jewelry, personal celebrity entertainment, gambling, retail shopping, home improvements, personal insurance, and a host of other expenses for his personal benefit and the benefit of family members.
The evidence also established that Wasserman took numerous affirmative steps to evade payment of more than $900,000 in taxes due and owed. Wasserman also failed to disclose a multitude of civil judgments and other debts pending against him at the time he solicited victim-investors to put their money into FastLife. In addition, Wasserman took steps to conceal FastLife’s mounting business debts to various business vendors and service providers, employees and independent contractors, and victim-investors. The investigation revealed that Wasserman had created a second set of books and fabricated a compensation agreement in an effort to convince investigators that he had not made improper personal use of victim-investors’ funds.
Moreover, Wasserman urged one witness to lie to investigators, attempted to dissuade several victim-investors from cooperating with law enforcement, and requested that one victim-investor make a baseless complaint against an investigator. In a further effort to thwart the investigation, Wasserman falsely and fraudulently represented that he had an audit from a highly regarded financial services firm that would show neither he nor FastLife had committed any wrongdoing. In fact, Wasserman had never even engaged the firm to perform an audit and never received any final work product of any kind from the firm.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachelle DesVaux Bedke and Rachel K. Jones.
U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Roger Handberg recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. This year, national events are taking place in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, May 10 through Monday, May 15, 2023.
“Each day, law enforcement officers across America answer the call to uphold the law, preserve the peace, and protect all of us from harm,” said U.S. Attorney Handberg. “This sacred duty comes with great responsibility and oftentimes at great risk. This week, our District remembers the men and women who have paid the ultimate price while answering the call to public service and supports those who continue to serve the people of Florida and across our nation.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 118 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2022. During this period, four officers have died in the line of duty in the Middle District of Florida.
Additionally, according to 2022 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 60 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2022 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 58 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts decreased 17.8% in 2022, when compared to the 73 officers who were killed as a result of criminal acts in 2021. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of 556 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Saturday, May 13, 2023, during a Candlelight Vigil (https://nleomf.org/event/35th-annual-candlelight-vigil/) in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
Two St. Petersburg Men Plead Guilty to Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Armani Dilworth (28, St. Petersburg) and Lemar Cowart (27, St. Petersburg) have pleaded guilty to possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute them. Each faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Dilworth has also pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking offense and faces a minimum mandatory penalty of five years, up to life, in federal prison for the firearm offense, to run consecutive to the other sentence imposed. Sentencing dates have not yet been set.
According to court documents, on May 4, 2020, an eyewitness observed a vehicle, occupied by Dilworth and Cowart, pull into oncoming traffic and shoot into the front of another vehicle. This action caused the other vehicle to retaliate, and a high-speed chase ensued. The car which Dilworth and Cowart occupied ultimately crashed into a gate at Azalea Middle School, and Cowart and Dilworth ran from the vehicle. Inside the vehicle, officers found cocaine, two substances containing a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, alprazolam, oxycodone, amphetamine, buprenorphine, and cannabis. They also found evidence of narcotics distribution inside the vehicle including plastic baggies, two scales, scissors, and a firearm. Both Dilworth and Cowart’s DNA were found on the firearm recovered from the vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney James Muench.
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 Convicted in A Conspiracy to Distribute Nearly Four Kilograms of Methamphetamine and over 8,000 Pressed Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Victor Yoel Perez Cremades (52, Tampa) guilty of one count of 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 one count of 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. Cremades faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 8, 2023. Cremades had been indicted on June 22, 2022.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on September 8, 2021, the FBI served a search warrant at Cremades’s residence located at 4813 N. MacDill Avenue in Tampa. Inside 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.
On the same day, agents intercepted a suspicious package from the mail that was addressed to a fictitious person at 4813 N. MacDill Avenue. The package contained more than 1,300 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 from which the suspicious package was mailed.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Beckman.
Tallahassee Man Indicted for Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Brian Keith Coleman (33, Tallahassee) with possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. If convicted, Coleman faces a minimum mandatory term of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.
According to court documents, a trooper with the Florida Highway Patrol found Coleman’s vehicle broken down on the shoulder of the interstate and, after a probable cause search of the vehicle, found methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana. The trooper also found half a kilogram of methamphetamine where Coleman had been when the trooper first arrived on scene.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Belkis H. Crockett and Tyrie K. Boyer.
St. Cloud Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Robert J. Potocnack (42, St. Cloud) has pleaded guilty to one count of possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. He faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for the drug possession offense, and a consecutive minimum mandatory sentence of 5 years, up to life, in federal prison for the firearm offense. His sentencing hearing has been scheduled for August 9, 2023.
According to the plea agreement, in November 2022, Potocnack sold 224 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm to an undercover detective from the St. Cloud Police Department.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. Cloud Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Terry B. Livanos.
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 Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United StatesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Madeline Nikolson has pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to impede and impair the ability of the Internal Revenue (“IRS”) to ascertain and collect personal and corporate income tax revenue. Nikolson faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement and information presented at the plea hearing, Nikolson owned and managed a restaurant in Sarasota. Beginning at least as early as August 2013, she and her partner and co-owner of the restaurant instituted a scheme to defraud the IRS by removing the records of daily cash sales from the point-of-sale registers at the restaurant, leaving the record to consist only of credit card sales. The owners used this falsified record of sales income to submit to tax preparers who prepared both their personal income tax returns and their corporate tax returns for tax years 2016, 2017, and 2018. As a result, they falsified and removed any reference to approximately $726,105 in sales income from their corporate and personal tax returns for those tax years, resulting in over $100,000 of taxes due and owing on those sums of unreported income.
This case was investigated by the IRS - Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.
Palm Beach County Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Al Clint LaRoche (43, Palm Beach County) to two years in federal prison for bank fraud. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $1,078,652.50, which were the proceeds of the bank fraud. LaRoche had pleaded guilty on January 30, 2023.
According to court documents, between April 2020 and April 2021, LaRoche submitted false and fraudulent First Draw and Second Draw Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications to a financial institution through a financial services and technology company based in Naples for his business – Bornwild, LLC. The loan applications contained numerous false representations and certifications, including Bornwild’s average monthly payroll, number of employees, and that the loan funds would be used for authorized purposes.
To qualify for each PPP loan and in support of his fraudulent loan applications, LaRoche submitted fake and fictitious quarterly federal tax returns (IRS Form 941s) for Bornwild that contained false representations about the business’s quarterly payroll expenses. LaRoche’s false and fraudulent representations caused the PPP lender to approve and fund a First Draw and Second Draw PPP loan, resulting in the deposit of approximately $1,078,652 into bank accounts LaRoche controlled. LaRoche then used the funds for unauthorized purposes and for his own personal enrichment, including the purchase of a Mercedes Benz SUV, jewelry, hotel and travel stays, various retail purchases, and more than $350,000 in cash withdrawals.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling.
In May 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Multi-Convicted Felon Sentenced to 15 Years for Possessing A Firearm and Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Curtis Tyrone Johnson (35, Melbourne) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing with the intent to distribute various controlled substances. The court also ordered Johnson to forfeit a Glock .40 caliber pistol and ammunition traceable to the offense. A federal jury had found Johnson guilty on February 8, 2023.
According to evidence presented at trial, on March 25, 2022, the Melbourne Police Department and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team, along with members of the DEA and FBI, were executing search warrants at two residences on Williams Street in Melbourne. While law enforcement moved in to set a perimeter, Johnson came jogging down the side of a residence holding a black bag. Upon making eye contact with law enforcement, Johnson took off running through backyards on Ryoland Street. Agents who followed Johnson observed him holding the black bag and a firearm. Johnson was given commands to put his hands in the air but instead threw the bag and firearm over a fence into a church parking lot. Both items were recovered. The firearm was determined to be a Glock .40 caliber pistol, loaded with 16 rounds of Winchester ammunition. The bag contained approximately 181 grams of methamphetamine, 35 grams of crack cocaine, 15 grams of fluorofentanyl, and 194 grams of N, N-Dimethylpentylone, a drug similar to MDMA.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Melbourne Police Department, and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Beatriz Gonzalez and Sarah 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.
Fort Myers Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal Prison for Firearms and Narcotics OffensesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Doumy Joseph (27, Fort Myers) to six years and nine months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The court also ordered Joseph to forfeit the firearms and ammunition he illegally possessed. Joseph had pleaded guilty on September 22, 2022.
According to court documents, law enforcement stopped Joseph’s vehicle after discovering there was an outstanding warrant for his arrest. Before Joseph’s vehicle was towed, law enforcement conducted an inventory search of the vehicle. During the inventory search, a brown fast-food bag containing four circular crack cocaine cookies, weighing approximately 69.4 grams total, was found on the front passenger seat. A loaded Glock 9mm firearm was located in the vehicle’s center console. Law enforcement also searched the trunk of the vehicle and found a Smith & Wesson MP15 rifle, as well as assorted ammunition. Joseph admitted to purchasing the firearms found in his vehicle.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Myers Felon Convicted for Unlawfully Possessing Loaded RifleRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Javonte Keyon Whitfield (25, Fort Myers) guilty of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. Whitfield faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. His sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. Whitfield had been indicted on February 9, 2022.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, shortly before 1:30 A.M. on May 14, 2021, officers from the Fort Myers Police Department (FMPD) were alerted to multiple gunshots near the intersection of Linhart Avenue and Evans Avenue in Fort Myers. While investigating the origin of the gunfire, the officers spoke with an occupant of a duplex on Evans Avenue, who denied hearing any gunshots and claimed that he was alone in the residence with his three young children. Shortly thereafter, in direct contradiction to what he just told officers, six adult males—including Whitfield—and three young children exited the residence. Officers observed that one of the men was suffering from a gunshot wound, and EMS was summoned. When the residence was later searched, FMPD personnel located seven unsecured firearms, dozens of rounds of ammunition, and cocaine. From under the bed in one of the two bedrooms of the residence, FMPD recovered a loaded NORINCO SKS rifle equipped with a high-capacity magazine. Subsequent forensic analysis of that firearm determined that a latent fingerprint lifted from the metallic bayonet of the rifle belonged to Whitfield, a previously convicted felon who had been released from prison less than five months earlier. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Fort Myers Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Simon R. Eth and Patrick L. Darcey.
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 Venezuelan National Guilty of Trafficking $21 Million of Cocaine on the High SeasRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Hector Caballero (70, Venezuela) guilty of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine on a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, as well as possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine on a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Caballero faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has been scheduled for July 21, 2023. Caballero and three others were indicted on November 30, 2022.
According to testimony presented at trial, a maritime patrol aircraft spotted a panga-style “go-fast vessel” in the Caribbean Sea, about 100 miles north of the nearest point of land in Colombia. The vessel was suspected of drug smuggling because it had several fuel barrels and a tarp covering the deck, had no registration numbers on the hull and was flying no flag, was operating at a high rate of speed, and was sailing in a location where maritime drug smuggling by similar vessels is common. A U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) helicopter and a USCG Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) were deployed from HNLMS Holland, a Dutch naval vessel patrolling in the area, to intercept the suspicious vessel. The helicopter and its crew were from the USCG Helicopter Interdiction Squadron (“HITRON”) unit based in Jacksonville and the LEDET boarding team was from the USCG Tactical Law Enforcement Team South (“TACLET South”) based in Opa-Locka.
The helicopter arrived on scene first and signaled the go-fast vessel to stop. The vessel continued at a high rate of speed, even after the helicopter deployed warning shots in front of the vessel. Ultimately, the helicopter successfully deployed disabling fire to the go-fast vessel’s two outboard engines, and the small boats from the Holland with the USCG LEDET boarding team arrived at the vessel.
The boarding team found Caballero and three others onboard. The USCG determined the vessel to be without nationality, and therefore subject to U.S. jurisdiction. A search of the vessel revealed over 700 kilograms of cocaine, worth approximately $21 million, hidden under the fuel barrels and tarp on the vessel. The three others onboard previously pleaded guilty and are pending sentencing. Photos of the law enforcement boarding and cocaine below:
This case was investigated by the United States Coast Guard and the Panama Express Strike Force, a standing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Strike Force comprised of agents and analysts from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force South. 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.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Pardo and Special Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Krebs.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to Five Years for Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Raequan M. Nelson (24, Tampa) to five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Nelson to forfeit the firearm and ammunition. Nelson had pleaded guilty on September 26, 2022.
According to court documents, on February 13, 2022, Nelson had two warrants for his arrest in Hillsborough County. Officers from the Tampa Police Department located Nelson in Tampa. When Nelson entered his car, the officers executed a “box-in” to stop Nelson from leaving the scene. Nelson responded by trying to flee. Once detained, law enforcement removed a loaded Glock 9mm pistol from Nelson’s right front pocket. At the time, Nelson had multiple prior felony convictions and is therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Kenneth. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne C. Nebesky.
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 Indicted for Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Milton Anthony Bradshaw (43, Tampa) with possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. If convicted, Bradshaw faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Bradshaw that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense.
According to the indictment, on September 20, 2022, Bradshaw was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time of the incident, Bradshaw had four previous felony convictions for delivery of cocaine. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Kenneth. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
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.
Cape Coral Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for FraudRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Johnny Fior (48, Cape Coral) to 46 months in federal prison for wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $1,404,169.74, which were the proceeds of the wire fraud and illegal monetary transaction offenses. Fior had pleaded guilty on January 18, 2023.
According to court documents, Fior committed the fraud by engaging in two different fraud schemes. With the first scheme, Fior convinced two individuals, by false and fraudulent pretenses, to serve as private investors/lenders for short-term balloon loans that were secured by mortgages on real properties in Lee County. To accomplish the scheme and give the investors the impression that their funded loans were secured by real property, Fior fraudulently filed fictitious mortgage deeds, promissory notes, and mortgage satisfactions. Additionally, Fior provided the investors interest-only payments to further delay repayment of the loans and requested loan repayment extensions to further prolong the scheme. Fior diverted the investors’ funds for his own personal use and none of the funds were used for their intended purpose.
In the second scheme, Fior, in his role as a real estate closing agent, diverted funds intended to be used to pay off property sellers’ existing mortgages to himself during real estate closings. In furtherance of the scheme, Fior created and caused the creation of real estate settlement statements that falsely represented a seller’s mortgage was repaid during the real estate closing process. Additionally, Fior created fake and fictitious bank statements, lender correspondence, wire transfer records, cashier’s checks, deposit records, and shipment records that fraudulently represented a seller’s mortgage had been paid or that the mortgage pay-off funds were submitted. As a result of the second scheme, two separate title insurance companies suffered a total loss of approximately $977,330.23.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling.
St. Petersburg Man Indicted for Possessing A Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute and Possessing A Firearm as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Jason Washington (42, St. Petersburg) with three counts of distribution of a controlled substance, one count of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute it, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Washington faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each of the controlled substance charges and up to 15 years on the firearm charge.
According to court documents, on several dates throughout February and March 2023, Washington sold cocaine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. On April 13, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence where the sales had taken place and found six firearms in the room in which Washington was located, including an AR-15 type semiautomatic pistol and an AK-47 type semi-automatic pistol. The indictment further alleges that Washington has prior felony convictions.
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 St. Petersburg Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.
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.
Sixteen Individuals Sentenced in Operation “Titan Fall”Read the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton has sentenced sixteen individuals for their respective roles in a multi-kilogram cocaine and fentanyl distribution operation dubbed “Operation Titan Fall.” Each of the defendants charged in the case pleaded guilty and were sentenced on the dates set forth below:
Name
Drugs, Drug Quantities, Other Charges
Date of Plea
Sentencing Date
Sentence Imposed
Alexander Acosta-Zapata
5 kilograms cocaine; 400 grams fentanyl
12/13/22
4/10/23
16 years
Frank Cadiz
5 kilograms cocaine
12/14/22
3/20/23
10 years, 1 month
Adal Antonio Navas-Feliciano
400 grams fentanyl
1/18/23
4/10/23
15 years
Jonathan Andres Marte-Rodriguez
5 kilograms cocaine
2/8/23
5/8/23
10 years
Juan Felipe Sanchez
40 grams fentanyl
2/7/22
4/24/23
4 years, 3 months
Nimesh Rashmikant Patel
500 grams cocaine
2/9/23
5/1/23
4 years, 6 months
Joseph Juan Torres-Torres
500 grams cocaine
9/7/22
12/21/22
5 years
Gabriel Isaac Irizarry-Aponte
500 grams cocaine
2/10/23
5/1/23
2 years
Jacob Nelson
500 grams cocaine
1/25/23
4/17/23
7 years
Carlos Alberto Roman
cocaine, firearm w/silencer possessed in furtherance of drug offense
12/6/22
3/14/23
40 years
James Richard Howell
cocaine, fentanyl
12/5/22
3/14/23
4 years, 9 months
Joely Manuel Burgos
40 grams fentanyl
12/28/22
3/13/23
4 years, 3 months
Kenneth Angel Vera
cocaine
12/6/22
3/14/23
2 years, 3 months
James Mirabal
5 kilograms cocaine
12/27/23
3/20/23
15 years
Jonathan Beharry
5 kilograms cocaine
11/29/22
2/13/23
9 years
Vilnarie Figueroa-Matos
5 kilograms cocaine
1/30/23
4/17/23
1 year, 6 months
According to the plea agreements and other court documents, during the course of this investigation, the DEA seized approximately 110 kilograms of cocaine and multiple kilograms of fentanyl through the mail, traffic stops, and search warrants. A search warrant executed on Carlos Alberto Roman’s home on August 9, 2022, yielded 19 firearms, 6 silencers, 3 flash-bang grenades, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Mirabal and his conspirators were linked to a seizure of 50 kilograms of cocaine in April 2022, and the seizure of 20 kilograms of cocaine seized in Beharry’s apartment in the Baldwin Park area in October 2022.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Winter Garden Police Department, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Kissimmee Police Department, the Winter Park Police Department, the Clermont Police Department, the Orlando Police Department, the Apopka Police Department, the Ocoee Police Department, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.
Operation Titan Fall is a multi-agency Organize Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCEDTF) 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.
Nine Indicted in Multi-State Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging nine individuals with a drug trafficking conspiracy and other charges as a result of a joint investigation dubbed “Operation Ice Man.” According to the indictment and court documents, since early 2022, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the DeLand Police Department, and the Daytona Police Department have been involved in an investigation into a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that was transporting methamphetamine and cocaine from Phoenix, Arizona and Los Angeles, California to central Florida.
See chart below for details on the defendants and charges. One additional defendant remains unnamed pending their arrest.
Name
Crimes
Potential Penalties
Luis Miguel Hernandez (36, Phoenix, AZ)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison
Saul Sandoval
(39, Phoenix, AZ)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison
Tyrone James Jones
(55, Palm Coast, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute
Mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison
Zara Adriana Mascarella (20, Palm Coast, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison
Jimmie Lee Bizzell
(53, Green Cove Springs, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison
Alfred Lamar Shavers
(48, Bunnell, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy and possession of firearms by a convicted felon
Maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and mandatory minimum of 15 years up to life in prison
Camarie Dontre Shavers (23, Bunnell, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Mandatory minimum of 5 years up to 40 years in prison
Alfred Lamar Shavers, Jr.
(26, Bunnell, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Mandatory minimum of 5 years up to 40 years in prison
During the investigation, federal agents and task force officers identified several members of the conspiracy and the methods used by the DTO to ship methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico across the United States to central Florida using commercial trucks. Law enforcement tracked the drugs from Phoenix and Los Angeles gathering vital intelligence on the DTO. Bizzell was one of the commercial truck drivers who transported the drugs from Phoenix to Florida.
On October 31, 2022, search warrants were executed at six locations in Palm Coast, Bunnell, and Daytona Beach. As a result, 44.54 kilograms of methamphetamine and 2.72 kilograms of cocaine were seized. In addition, nine guns and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were seized from a location where Alfred Shavers resided. Jones, Mascarella, Alfred Shavers, Alfred Shavers, Jr., and Camarie Shavers, were all identified as drug distributers in central Florida.
Upon further investigation, law enforcement determined that Sandoval and Hernandez were the sources of the methamphetamine and cocaine from Phoenix and Los Angeles. Agents learned that Sandoval and Hernandez had brokered deals with co-conspirators in Mexico who were sending drugs across the border for Sandoval and Hernandez to sell. Law enforcement also discovered that Sandoval possessed multiple illegal firearms at his residence including fully automatic firearms, short-barrel firearms, and auto switches designed to be installed on Glock handgun slides to render the handguns fully automatic. Authorities believe that since 2021, Sandoval and Hernandez distributed more than 300 kilograms of drugs that were shipped to central Florida.
On April 25, 2023, Sandoval was arrested in Phoenix and a search warrant was executed at his residence. Inside his home, agents located 1,114 grams of fentanyl pills, 18 firearms, 4 firearm suppressors, and more than $5,000 in cash. Sandoval was detained and is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transport to the Middle District of Florida for further proceedings. Hernandez was arrested in Los Angeles on the same day. He was in the middle of conducting a new drug trafficking deal for approximately 36 kilograms of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest. Hernandez was also detained and placed in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending his transport to the Middle District of Florida.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
The indictment also notifies Alfred Lamar Shavers that the United States intends to forfeit four pistols, two rifles, and one shotgun which are alleged to be traceable to the offense.
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.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, and the Volusia Bureau of Investigation which includes the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the Daytona Beach Police Department, and the DeLand Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney AUSA John M. Gardella.
Download Superseding IndictmentJacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than 13 Years for Attempted Enticement of A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard today sentenced Gregory James White (45, Jacksonville) to 13 years and 9 months in federal prison for attempted coercion or enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. The Court also ordered White to serve a 10-year term of supervised release and to register as a sex offender. He also forfeited a cellphone that had been used in the commission of the offense. White had pleaded guilty on November 17, 2022.
According to court documents, in 2021, White spent more than three weeks communicating with an undercover agent, who was posing as a 14-year-old girl, over a social media platform and via text message. During these conversations, White engaged the fictitious child in sexual conversations and requested that the child send him explicit sexual images. On June 25, 2021, White traveled to a residence in Jacksonville for the purpose of committing a sexual battery on the child and was subsequently arrested.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Colombia’s “Prince of Semi-Submersibles” Sentenced to over 20 Years in Federal Prison for Smuggling Thousands of Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell has sentenced Oscar Adriano Quintero Rengifo, a/k/a “Guatala,” (35, Colombia) to 20 years and 10 months in federal prison for smuggling cocaine into the United States of America. Referred to in the Colombian media as the “Prince of Semi-Submersibles,” Quintero Rengifo was arrested in Colombia at the request of the United States on January 29, 2021, and extradited to the United States on January 26, 2022. He pleaded guilty on May 20, 2022.
According to the plea agreement filed in this case, Quintero Rengifo was part of a transnational criminal organization that smuggled cocaine from South America to Central America for ultimate importation into the United States. The organization primarily sent vessels such as self-propelled semi-submersible vessels to Guatemala, where the cocaine was then smuggled over the Guatemala/Mexican border and then into the United States. A former mayor in Guatemala, who controlled drug routes in northern Guatemala into Mexico, oversaw the smuggling of cocaine to Mexican cartel members. Quintero Rengifo progressed within the group, from organizing smuggling operations, to ultimately investing in shipments and securing investors.
From at least as early as January 2015 through September 2019, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted at least four vessels, including two semi-submersible vessels, directly linked to the defendant’s organization, and involving more than 13,000 kilograms of cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Panama Express Strike Force, a standing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of agents and analysts from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, and the U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force South. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS) Judicial Attachés in Bogotá, Colombia substantially assisted in in securing the arrest and extradition of the defendant to the United States. The Government of Colombia and the Colombian Office of the Attorney General provided significant assistance and support. 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. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Kissimmee Man Pleads Guilty for Lying to the FBI in Connection with an International Terrorism InvestigationRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg, announces that Moad Mohamed Benkabbou (23, Kissimmee) has pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements to a federal agency. He faces a maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
On August 9, 2022, FBI agents interviewed Benkabbou and asked him several questions relating to a terrorism investigation. When asked if he ever talked about ISIS with a person known to FBI, Benkabbou falsely answered “No, I didn’t.” Benkabbou was asked if he ever made plans to travel overseas to join ISIS. Again, he falsely stated, “No, I didn’t.”
According to the plea agreement and evidence admitted during a detention 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 for travel to Turkey in August 2020 and January 2021 (later canceling 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 picture of himself dressed as an ISIS fighter with the statement, “Hey Crusaders hey Jews die within your rage.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.
Gang Leader Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Micheal Hankerson (31, Poinciana) to six years in federal prison for possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. As part of his sentence, the court also ordered Hankerson to forfeit firearms and ammunition. Hankerson had been found guilty on December 3, 2022.
According to court documents, in May 2022, investigators developed information that a known member of the Fruit Town Brims gang, who had been wanted on felony warrants from Alachua County for more than a month, was living in Hankerson’s residence in Poinciana. Hankerson was known to be a high-ranking member of the Fruit Town Brims gang.
On May 10, 2022, the United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force entered the residence to arrest the fugitive. As they searched the house for the fugitive, they spotted a firearm with an attached large drum magazine in plain view in the master bedroom. Hankerson, who had previously been convicted of robbery and served a five-year prison sentence, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. The task force officers informed agents from the FBI and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) of their observations.
After obtaining a warrant to search Hankerson’s residence, FDLE investigators searched the house and found multiple firearms and various types of ammunition. The firearm that had been seen in the master bedroom, a CZ Scorpion Evo 3 semi-automatic with a 50-round drum magazine attached, was loaded with 50 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Investigators also recovered parts of a disassembled AR-15 style pistol in the house. When assembled, the pistol—which had been painted and its serial number obliterated—was functional and capable of firing .223 caliber ammunition. 97 rounds of ammunition were recovered during the search, including 9mm ammunition, .223 caliber ammunition, and 12-gauge shotgun shells.
Hankerson admitted to investigators that he was the highest-ranking member of the Brims gang in Florida. He also admitted that he had spray-painted the components to the AR-15 style firearm. He claimed that the CZ Scorpion firearm belonged to his girlfriend, who was not a convicted felon, but investigators obtained other evidence indicating Hankerson had acquired the firearm and was its true owner.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sinacore.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Deltona Man Indicted for Distributing, Receiving, and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Images and Videos over the InternetRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Troy Mitchell McGowan (25, Deltona) with three counts of distributing child sexual abuse images and videos over the internet, two counts of receiving child sexual abuse images and videos over the internet, and one count possession of child sexual abuse images and videos. If convicted, McGowan faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 5 years, up to 20 years’ imprisonment, for each count of distributing and receiving child sexual abuse images and videos, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment for possessing child sex abuse images and videos.
According to court documents, McGowan used a particular chat application to download images and videos depicting children being sexually abused and distributed them over the internet. McGowan also distributed some of these materials to an undercover FBI agent.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Terry B. Livanos.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Tampa Men Sentenced for Armed Robbery of A Mail CarrierRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Kimberly Mizelle today sentenced Omar Rochester Miller, Jr. (23, Tampa) and Christopher Diaz, aka “Chico,” (27, Tampa) for the armed robbery of a postal mail carrier. Specifically, Miller was sentenced to 9 years and 2 months in federal prison for armed robbery of a postal mail carrier, theft of postal keys, and brandishing a firearm during the commission of the robbery. Diaz was sentenced to 8 years in federal prison for armed robbery of a postal mail carrier and theft of postal keys. Diaz had pleaded guilty on January 10, 2023. A federal jury found Miller guilty on January 25, 2023.
According to evidence presented at trial, Miller robbed a letter carrier at gunpoint while she was delivering mail at an apartment complex. Miller approached the letter carrier from behind, pointed a firearm at her, threatened to shoot her, and demanded her postal keys. After Miller stole the postal keys, he pushed the mail carrier to the ground and ran to a waiting getaway car, driven by Edwin Betancourt Vega. This robbery was organized through phone calls and text messages between Betancourt Vega and Diaz, to coordinate the robbery and sale of the postal keys in exchange for cash. Law enforcement recovered the postal keys, as well as proceeds from the sale of the key from both Miller and Betancourt Vega. They recovered the firearm used in the robbery, which contained Miller’s DNA.
Betancourt Vega was also charged for his role in the robbery as a getaway driver. He pleaded guilty to armed robbery of a postal mail carrier and theft of postal keys. On February 3, 2023, Betancourt Vega was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison.
“Employee safety is a top priority for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service,” said Juan Vargas, Inspector in Charge of the Miami Division. “These convictions and sentences demonstrate the commitment of the Inspection Service, as well as our partners at the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, to bring justice to anyone who would endanger the public servants of the Postal Service.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ilyssa M. Spergel and Stacie B. Harris.
Spring Hill Man Pleads Guilty to Tampa Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that John Charles Anderson (39, Spring Hill) has pleaded guilty to bank robbery. Anderson faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court records, on January 14, 2022, Anderson entered the SunTrust Bank located at 12902 North Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa armed with a Crossman BB pistol, a dangerous weapon. Anderson brandished the BB pistol while demanding money from the teller. The pistol appeared to be a functioning handgun, which caused fear in the mind of the teller, who complied with Anderson’s demand and gave him $941 in cash from the cash drawer.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Beckman.
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.
Riverview Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Two Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Jamaal Black (21, Riverview) to 15 years in federal prison for two armed robberies and discharging a firearm during one of the robberies. Black had pleaded guilty on January 26, 2023.
According to court documents, on January 30, 2021, Black entered a gas station in Riverview, pulled out a pistol with an extended magazine, aimed it at a clerk, and demanded money. Black attempted to go behind the counter when the clerk refused to give Black the money. Black engaged in an altercation with the clerk and shot the clerk in the arm during the struggle. The clerk fell to the ground. Black approached the clerk, aimed the firearm at the clerk, and repeated the demand for money. The clerk, bleeding profusely from the gunshot wound, complied. The clerk gave Black the contents of the cash register and Black escaped the gas station with $200.
Two months later, on March 14, 2021, Black committed another robbery. Black used a juvenile girl to arrange for a marijuana transaction. The girl went to a local drug dealer’s home under the guise of purchasing marijuana. Black approached the dealer when the dealer retrieved the marijuana for the sale. Black pressed a firearm to the drug dealer’s head and demanded the marijuana. The drug dealer threw the marijuana at Black and retreated back into the home.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.
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 Sex Offender Sentenced to More Than 19 Years for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse VideosRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Joel Michael Phelan (48, Jacksonville) to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by a life term of supervised release, for distributing videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. The court also ordered Phelan to forfeit a cellphone and computers, which were used in the commission of the offense. Phelan had pleaded guilty on January 13, 2023.
According to court documents, the case began with an investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO), which had executed a search warrant at Phelan’s residence in 2017, after receiving reports of the upload of files of child sexual abuse material from the residence. JSO seized multiple devices for further forensic examination. Phelan was arrested on the day the warrant was executed for unlawfully possessing a firearm and for two sex offender registration offenses. Phelan was sentenced to five years in prison for the state offenses.
During a forensic review of the devices, law enforcement found Phelan had hundreds of files of child sexual abuse material and had communicated with others over chat messages about his desire to engage in sexual activity with children.
Phelan was previously convicted in Polk County in 2008 of using a computer to seduce a child after he had traveled to a location for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with whom he believed to be a 14-year-old girl. Phelan was sentenced to sex offender probation but violated his probation by possessing an illegal image of the sexual exploitation of two young girls.
“This significant sentence is proof that not everyone learns their lesson the first time. Every time this previously convicted child predator feeds his perversion by receiving and distributing illicit images of children, he revictimizes those innocent victims,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge John Condon. “This sentence is proof that the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, HSI Jacksonville, and our partners at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, will stop at nothing to identify and prosecute those who exploit the vulnerability of our children.”
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Karase. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.
This case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Tampa Area Siblings Sentenced to 15 Years for Series of Convenience Store RobberiesRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced Christopher Alvarez (19, Tampa) and Dyonnie Alvarez (22, Tampa) to 15 years in federal prison for four Hobbs Act robberies, conspiracy to commit those robberies, and two counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence during the commission of the robberies. Dyonnie Alvarez was also sentenced for an additional attempted Hobbs Act robbery. Both had previously pleaded guilty.
According to court documents, on May 5, 2022, Christopher and Dyonnie Alvarez and their codefendant, Enrique Marquez, robbed two convenience stores in the Tampa area. During the robberies, Marquez brandished a firearm. The next morning, the three individuals robbed two more Tampa area convenience stores in the same manner. Also, on May 1, 2022, Marquez and Dyonnie Alvarez attempted to rob an individual in an attempt to obtain narcotics.
Marquez previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced on March 28, 2023, to 17 years and 11 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
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.
Roommates of Three-Time Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced to Prison on Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge James S. Moody has sentenced Donald Ray Shadowens (30, Clearwater) to 6 years in federal prison for receiving child sex abuse material. On April 19, 2023, Judge Moody sentenced related defendant Craigan Joyner (20, Clearwater) to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for receiving child sex abuse material. Both Shadowens and Joyner will be required to register as sex offenders and pay restitution to their victims. Shadowens had pleaded guilty on February 8, 2023, and Joyner pleaded guilty on January 11, 2023.
According to court documents, Joshua Tripp, Joyner, and Shadowens all lived together at a residence in Clearwater. On August 18, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence and discovered more than 1,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse material on the three defendants’ electronic devices. This material included children less than 12 years old and children in sado-masochistic images. Additionally, certain conversations between Tripp and Joyner indicated their desire to drug and rape children.
Tripp pleaded guilty to one count of distributing child sex abuse material and one count of receiving child sex abuse material on March 28, 2023. He is scheduled for sentencing on November 8, 2023.
“These predators openly discussed their desires to drug and rape children and possessed a vast collection of explicit images and videos of children,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt. “HSI, alongside our partners in the Dickson County (Tennessee) Sheriff’s Office, the Clearwater Police Department, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, are fully committed to making our streets safe from those who sexually exploit children.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with substantial assistance from the Dickson County (Tennessee) Sheriff’s Office, the Clearwater Police Department, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Claire Favorit.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lutz Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Toney Dewayne Salter (31, Lutz) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Salter faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Salter has also agreed to forfeit the firearm traceable to the offense.
According to court documents, on February 21, 2022, officers from the Tampa Police Department encountered Salter when they pulled over a car for a traffic infraction. After detecting an odor of marijuana and observing a firearm in the driver’s possession, the officers searched the vehicle and located a handgun under Salter’s seat. They also located quantities of cocaine and marijuana during the search of the vehicle.
At the time of his arrest, Salter had multiple felony convictions, including convictions for delivery of cocaine and delivery of a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a church. As such, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne C. Nebesky.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Myers Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing A Firearm as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Jontavious Jarquel Griffin (34, Fort Myers) to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. The court also ordered Griffin to forfeit the firearm and ammunition possessed during the offense. Griffin had pleaded guilty on January 25, 2023.
According to court records, on July 27, 2022, deputies from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven and solely occupied by Griffin. Deputies later searched the vehicle, and inside a backpack on the front-passenger seat, they found a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun and quantities of cocaine and fentanyl. As a convicted felon, who had previously served prison time for a drug-related crime, Griffin is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. 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.
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing and Possessing Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jeffrey Charles Thomas (41, Lithia) has pleaded guilty to distribution and possession of child sex abuse material. Thomas faces a mandatory minimum term of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. He will be required to forfeit the electronic devices used in the offense.
According to court documents, Thomas communicated with an undercover agent he met in an online chat group dedicated to people interested in father/daughter incest. Between August 9 and November 28, 2022, Thomas communicated online with the undercover agent. In his communications, Thomas described in graphic detail his desire to engage in various sexual acts with the undercover agent’s fictitious minor stepdaughter. Thomas then sent the undercover agent an approximately 14-minute video of a minor child being sexually abused.
On December 6, 2022, the FBI executed a search warrant at Thomas’s residence and found him in possession of approximately 14 images and 31 videos of child sex abuse material, including the video he had sent to the undercover agent.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa M. Thelwell.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Tampa Convicted Felon Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Federal Prison for Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge James Moody, Jr. has sentenced Christian Joel Andujar Rivera (25, Tampa) to four years and four months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of firearms. The court also ordered him to forfeit a Glock firearm and assorted ammunition associated with the offense. Andujar Rivera had pleaded guilty on February 2, 2023.
According to court documents, in June 2022, Andujar Rivera was wanted on a felony charge of fleeing and eluding police. On June 13, 2022, the United States Marshal's Service Fugitive Apprehension Unit located Andujar Rivera at his residence in Plant City. On that same day, investigators arrived at the Plant City residence and engaged in a standoff with Andujar Rivera. Andujar Rivera stood at the top of a set of stairs in the home, concealed his hands behind his back, and failed to obey law enforcement commands to surrender. He told the officers that the officers would have to shoot him once he pulled his firearm out. He eventually surrendered without incident.
After a search of the home, law enforcement located nine firearms and large amounts of assorted ammunition. A laboratory analysis later determined DNA found on one of those firearms, a Glock pistol, was linked to Andujar Rivera. As a multi-convicted felon, Andujar Rivera is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Tampa Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. PSN is a program that brings 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. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
Panama City Couple on State Probation for Passing Counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes Indicted for Manufacturing and Passing Counterfeit Federal Reserve NotesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Neal Evan Pollman (42, Panama City) with one count of manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes and nine counts of passing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes, and Lyndsey Rhea Markland (41, Panama City) with four counts of passing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. If convicted, each faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each count and payment of restitution to the victims they defrauded.
According to court documents and public records, Pollman manufactured counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. Thereafter, he and Markland defrauded multiple businesses throughout the Middle District of Florida by passing the counterfeit currency. Pollman and Markland appeared in federal court on April 27, 2023, pursuant to a writ bringing them to Jacksonville from the Bay County Jail where they are serving time for violating their state probation on charges related to passing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. The Court ordered Pollman and Markland detained pending trial. Pollman and Markland are currently on State of Florida felony probation for multiple crimes related to the passing of counterfeit Federal Reserve notes in 2022. Their trial is set for June 2023.
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 Orange Park Police Department, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Orlando Restaurateur Pleads Guilty for Failing to Pay $2 Million in Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Manuel Tato has pleaded guilty to three counts of failing to truthfully account for and pay over employment taxes. Tato faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Tato owned and operated multiple restaurants in the Orlando area from at least 2010 to 2017, including Spice Modern Steakhouse. Tato was the owner and operator of an entity called Core Food Group, an affiliated company for Tato’s restaurants that was responsible for processing payroll for the employees of Tato’s restaurants. Through Core Food Group, Tato employed approximately 645 restaurant workers between 2010 and 2017, and had a duty to collect and pay over employment taxes on behalf of those employees. Employment taxes include Federal Income Tax, Medicare and Social Security.
While Tato withheld employment taxes from his employees’ paychecks and informed his employees that he was doing so on their paystubs, he never actually paid those taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). During the charged time frame, July 2016 to March 2017, Tato failed to pay the IRS $93,690.66. Throughout the entire time Core Food Group existed, Tato failed to pay over $2 million in taxes that he had withheld from his employees and owed in relation to their employment.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel S. Lyons and Assistant United States Attorney Dana Hill.