Middle District of Florida

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Theresea Walker (30, Fairburn, GA) to three years and six months in federal prison for wire fraud. She was also ordered to pay $1,757,082.73 in restitution and forfeited $934,885.65 that was seized by the FBI from various accounts held by her or in her control. Walker had pleaded guilty on March 29, 2022.

According to court documents, from at least October 2019 through May 21, 2021, Walker was employed as an accounts payable processor with a technology company, defense contractor, and information technology services provider headquartered in Melbourne, Florida. In this role, Walker’s responsibilities included accessing her employer’s payment software systems for the purpose of entering vendor and supplier invoices and scheduling those invoices for payment. Walker’s employer conducted an audit of accounts serviced by Walker and the audit revealed that Walker had made false entries into the employer’s accounts payable system to conduct nine wire transactions through which Walker caused the transfer of funds from the employer’s bank account to accounts controlled by Walker.

As part of her scheme, Walker also edited the payment terms and accounts of actual existing vendors with the employer, so that new invoices entered under that vendor name would be paid directly to the accounts designated by Walker.  During the course of the scheme, in an attempt to hide her fraudulent activity, Walker created multiple fictitious invoices and fraudulent credit memos. In total, as a result of her scheme, Walker caused a total loss of $1,757,082.73 to the employer, which also represents the proceeds received by her from her scheme. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Terry B. Livanos. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Andrejko.

Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Magdiel Carmona (27, Tampa) with one count of conspiracy to distribute narcotics, four counts of possession with the intent to distribute narcotics, four counts of carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and six counts of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. If convicted, Carmona faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for the each of the drug counts, a minimum of five years, and up to life, for each count of carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and up to 10 years in prison for each count of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The indictment also notifies Carmona that the United States intends to forfeit the firearms recovered in this investigation, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.

According to the indictment, from August 10, 2021, through March 6, 2022, Carmona conspired with others to sell or deliver narcotics. During the conspiracy, Carmona possessed multiple firearms. Carmona had previously been convicted of multiple felonies – to include robberies – and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms 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 Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office, the Tampa Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Beckman.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.       

Orlando, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Justin Dwayne Johnson, Sr. (47, Sanford) has pleaded guilty to five counts of producing and attempting to produce videos depicting children being sexually exploited and one count of possessing child sexual abuse materials. Johnson faces a minimum of 15 years, and up to 30 years, in federal prison on each of the five production counts, and up to 20 years in federal prison for the possession count. A sentencing date has been set for October 12, 2022. Johnson had been indicted on March 23, 2022.

According to the plea agreement, in January 2022, an investigation was initiated into Johnson after Child Protection Services was alerted that Johnson was secretly video-recording foster children to whom he had access. Johnson disclosed to an acquaintance that he had cameras in a particular residence to record the children in the nude and that he had videos on his cellphone and computer that depicted him molesting the children. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized several devices belonging to Johnson. The forensic examinations of Johnson’s cellphone and other electronic devices revealed numerous images and videos depicting children being sexually abused. Specifically, the evidence showed that Johnson used the children under his care to produce depictions of sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, Johnson’s cellphone contained numerous videos and images depicting other young children being sexually abused. To date, the FBI has identified at least 16 child victims that were sexually exploited by Johnson.

This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Sanford Police Department and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Courtney Richardson-Jones and Ilianys Rivera Miranda.

Any person who was a victim, or has knowledge of someone who may have been a victim, is urged to contact FBI at 1-800-225-5324 or https://tips.fbi.gov.  

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.  

Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Brett Amante (39, Jacksonville) to nine years and six months in federal prison for bank robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime.  The court also ordered Amante to forfeit the firearms and ammunition he had possessed in connection with the offenses. Amante had pleaded guilty on February 22, 2022.

According to court documents, on the morning of February 26, 2021, Amante robbed a Wells Fargo Bank branch in Jacksonville. Amante entered the bank and approached a teller, passing over a bag and a note which demanded money and stated that if the teller gave him a dye pack, “it will not end well with you.” The teller pressed the panic button, which Amante noticed. Amante then brandished two loaded 9mm pistols in a shoulder holster and in his waistband. The teller provided him with approximately $1,046 and Amante escaped in a getaway vehicle.

The teller had placed a GPS tracking device in the bag and officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office immediately responded and followed the GPS device to the Amante’s residence. Amante was apprehended as he walked out of his front door still armed with one of the 9mm pistols and carrying some of the stolen money and a stolen license plate that he had used on his getaway vehicle. Law enforcement recovered the other 9mm pistol used in the robbery during a search of Amante’s house, along with an AR-15-style rifle, 869 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 993 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, body armor, an unregistered firearms silencer, surveillance equipment, handcuffs, and zip ties.  Officers also searched the getaway vehicle and recovered an unregistered AR-15-style short-barreled rifle loaded with armor-piercing ammunition, along with multiple loaded spare magazines for the rifle and the 9mm pistols.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.  It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, FL – Senior U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Luis Alberto Bran-Lopez (43, Oaxaca, Mexico) to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine while onboard a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.  Bran-Lopez had pleaded guilty on April 15, 2022.

According to court documents, on January 14, 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cutter STEADFAST interdicted a go-fast vessel (GFV) carrying Bran-Lopez and his six co-conspirators in international waters about 212 nautical miles south of Huatulco, Mexico. The defendants were carrying approximately 760 kilograms of cocaine on the GFV. During the boarding of the GFV, Bran-Lopez told the USCG that he and his co-conspirators were fishing for sharks even though there was a lack of fishing equipment and neither ice nor bait on board.

According to testimony and court documents, investigators learned of a plan that one of the seven co-conspirators would plead guilty and then provide information to law enforcement exonerating the others. Bran-Lopez was that person, and he later told federal agents, while under a cooperation agreement, that he tricked his co-defendants into thinking they were going on a fishing trip when, in reality, the co-defendants were going on a smuggling trip that Bran-Lopez had to take because his family had been kidnapped. The court rejected this explanation and found that Bran-Lopez had obstructed the investigation by making materially false statements to law enforcement.

This case was investigated by the Panama Express Strike Force, an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of agents and analysts from the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force South. 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. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.

A Florida man was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, also known as ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Romeo Xavier Langhorne, 32, of St. Augustine, pleaded guilty in the Middle District of Florida to one count of attempting to provide material support to ISIS on May 13, 2021. According to court documents, Langhorne pledged his allegiance to ISIS at some point in 2014, knowing that ISIS was a designated foreign terrorist organization that engaged in acts of terrorism. Between 2018 and 2019, Langhorne reaffirmed his support of ISIS on various social media accounts, posted ISIS-produced videos to his YouTube account and participated in online ISIS chat rooms with like-minded individuals. In December 2018 and January 2019, Langhorne expressed in one of those chat rooms an interest in creating a video that would improve on existing videos demonstrating the making and use of a deadly explosive, triacetone triperoxide (TATP).

In February 2019, Langhorne began communicating with an undercover employee (UCE) of the FBI who was posing as someone working on behalf of ISIS. Langhorne told the UCE about his plans to create and disseminate an instructional video on making TATP and sought the UCE’s assistance in creating the video. Langhorne told the UCE that, in order to ensure that the video was not removed from the internet by service providers, it should include disclaimers advising that it was intended for educational purposes. However, Langhorne informed the UCE that his true purpose in making and distributing the video was to arm ISIS adherents and others with knowledge of how to make TATP and use it for terrorism-related purposes in support of ISIS.

During the summer of 2019, Langhorne sent multiple messages to the UCE for assistance with creating a Nasheed, which is a form of Islamic vocal music. Langhorne stated he wanted the Nasheed to include a particular recording of an ISIS member yelling “Allahu Akbar” while breaking out of prison, as well as a clip of children saying, “kill them all.” Langhorne explained that he wanted the Nasheed “to encourage justified retaliation” against the United States for its role in killing Muslims.

The FBI produced a video in accordance with Langhorne’s instructions, but – unbeknownst to Langhorne – it featured an inert chemical formula for TATP that would not produce an explosion.  In November 2019, the UCE provided versions of the TATP video to Langhorne, and Langhorne distributed the video by uploading it to a video-sharing website.

Langhorne was arrested at his residence in Roanoke, Virginia, on Nov. 15, 2019. Langhorne admitted in a post-arrest interview that he had “probably at some point” pledged allegiance to both ISIS and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who was the leader of ISIS from 2014 until his death on Oct. 26, 2019.  Langhorne admitted that he communicated with the UCE and that he uploaded the TATP video to the internet.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Roger B. Handberg, Acting Assistant Director Kevin Vorndran of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division and Special Agent in Charge Sherri E. Onks of the FBI’s Jacksonville Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI, including partner agencies participating in the Northeast Florida Joint Terrorism Task Force, investigated the case with investigative support from U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations and Border Patrol and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney D. Andrew Sigler of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.

Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Roger Handberg announces today that a Florida man was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, also known as ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Romeo Xavier Langhorne, 32, of St. Augustine, pleaded guilty in the Middle District of Florida to one count of attempting to provide material support to ISIS on May 13, 2021. According to court documents, Langhorne pledged his allegiance to ISIS at some point in 2014, knowing that ISIS was a designated foreign terrorist organization that engaged in acts of terrorism. Between 2018 and 2019, Langhorne reaffirmed his support of ISIS on various social media accounts, posted ISIS-produced videos to his YouTube account and participated in online ISIS chat rooms with like-minded individuals. In December 2018 and January 2019, Langhorne expressed in one of those chat rooms an interest in creating a video that would improve on existing videos demonstrating the making and use of a deadly explosive, triacetone triperoxide (TATP).

In February 2019, Langhorne began communicating with an undercover employee (UCE) of the FBI who was posing as someone working on behalf of ISIS. Langhorne told the UCE about his plans to create and disseminate an instructional video on making TATP and sought the UCE’s assistance in creating the video. Langhorne told the UCE that, in order to ensure that the video was not removed from the internet by service providers, it should include disclaimers advising that it was intended for educational purposes. However, Langhorne informed the UCE that his true purpose in making and distributing the video was to arm ISIS adherents and others with knowledge of how to make TATP and use it for terrorism-related purposes in support of ISIS.

During the summer of 2019, Langhorne sent multiple messages to the UCE for assistance with creating a Nasheed, which is a form of Islamic vocal music. Langhorne stated he wanted the Nasheed to include a particular recording of an ISIS member yelling “Allahu Akbar” while breaking out of prison, as well as a clip of children saying, “kill them all.” Langhorne explained that he wanted the Nasheed “to encourage justified retaliation” against the United States for its role in killing Muslims.

The FBI produced a video in accordance with Langhorne’s instructions, but – unbeknownst to Langhorne – it featured an inert chemical formula for TATP that would not produce an explosion. In November 2019, the UCE provided versions of the TATP video to Langhorne, and Langhorne distributed the video by uploading it to a video-sharing website.

Langhorne was arrested at his residence in Roanoke, Virginia, on November 15, 2019. Langhorne admitted in a post-arrest interview that he had “probably at some point” pledged allegiance to both ISIS and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who was the leader of ISIS from 2014 until his death on October 26, 2019. Langhorne admitted that he communicated with the UCE and that he uploaded the TATP video to the internet.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Roger B. Handberg, Acting Assistant Director Kevin Vorndran of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, and FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Sherri E. Onks made the announcement.

“The willingness of this dangerous individual to go to great lengths to harm innocent Americans was always very real,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Sherri E. Onks, “but through hard work and determination, the FBI Jacksonville Joint Terrorism Task Force successfully disrupted his plan early on, and averted a threat to the safety of our community. Moving forward, we remain as vigilant as ever in our efforts to protect the public from others who support terrorist organizations, and we encourage the public to help us by reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement.”

“Due to the outstanding cooperation and coordination by our law enforcement partners, great harm to our community was prevented,” stated U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “I applaud the diligence of those who worked expeditiously to disrupt this threat to our public’s safety.” 

The FBI, including partner agencies participating in the Northeast Florida Joint Terrorism Task Force, investigated the case with investigative support from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney D. Andrew Sigler of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.

Jacksonville, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Shawntae Jamell Clark (41, Clay County) with possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of two firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted on all counts, Clark faces a minimum mandatory term of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Clark that the United States intends to forfeit two firearms and ammunition, which are alleged to be traceable to his offenses. Clark is detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for July 11, 2022.

According to the indictment, on July 2, 2021, Clark was in possession of 50 grams or more of pure/actual methamphetamine while also in possession of two firearms and ammunition. At the time of the incident, Clark had previous felony convictions for armed robbery, attempted lewd or lascivious act – sexual battery, and multiple convictions for possession of cocaine. As a previously convicted felon, Clark is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.  

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Orlando, Florida – United States District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Yunis Isaac Mejia (28, St. Cloud) to 21 months in federal prison for possessing an unregistered short-barreled rifle. Mejia had pleaded guilty on January 28, 2022. 

According to evidence admitted during the sentencing hearing, Mejia illegally modified a CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 pistol, with a barrel less than 16 inches long, with an aftermarket shoulder stock. With this modification, Mejia illegally converted the pistol into a short-barreled rifle. Under the federal National Firearms Act, short-barreled rifles are required to be registered. 

Mejia then offered to sell his illegally modified firearm to an confidential source working at the direction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mejia also provided direction and instruction to the confidential source on how the confidential source could purchase the same model of pistol and modify it himself.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Nishera Remon Johnson (41, Silver Springs Shores) guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance (methamphetamine, cocaine, cocaine base, and marijuana) and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Johnson faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years, and up to life in federal prison, for the firearm offense and a minimum mandatory 10 years, and up to life imprisonment, for the drug offense. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 22, 2022. A grand jury had indicted Johnson on September 2, 2020.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on November 26, 2019, investigators searched a vehicle belonging to Johnson and found nearly two pounds of methamphetamine. They also found evidence of a marijuana grow operation at Johnson’s residence. When that home was searched pursuant to a warrant in December 2020, agents located numerous firearms and ammunition along with nearly half a kilogram of powder cocaine. In a shed behind the home, agents discovered the hidden marijuana grow operation. Johnson had been living at the home with her minor child and a co-defendant. Johnson, a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the City of Ocala Police Department, and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Charlene E. Honeywell today sentenced Deuntay Robertson (30, Sarasota) to 6 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Robertson to forfeit a Bersa Thunder 380 CC, .380 caliber pistol and four rounds of ammunition. Robertson had pleaded guilty on March 11, 2022.

According to court documents, on February 9, 2021, law enforcement officers were working an undercover operation in Sarasota. Robertson approached the undercover law enforcement vehicle and offered to sell the undercover officers cocaine base. Robertson instructed the undercover officers to meet him around the corner.

Two uniformed law enforcement officers approached and detained Robertson as he went to meet the undercover officers. The officers conducted a pat-down search of Robertson and recovered a loaded firearm, a digital scale, cocaine base, and eutylone. Robertson later confessed to possessing the firearm. At the time of this offense, Robertson had multiple prior felony convictions and therefore is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sarasota Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Marquvius Trevon Dixon (26, Clearwater) with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. If convicted, Dixon faces a minimum mandatory term of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Dixon that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm traceable to his offense.

According to the indictment, on July 8, 2021, Dixon possessed a firearm. At the time of the incident, Dixon had multiple prior felony convictions for the sale of cocaine and possession of cocaine. As a previously convicted felon, Dixon is prohibited from possessing a firearm 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Clearwater Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William Jung has sentenced Gerardo Gomez-Lubo, a/k/a Francisco Niño, (42, Colombia) to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine knowing and intending it to be imported into the United States. Gerardo Gomez-Lubo had pleaded guilty on January 11, 2022.

According to court documents, beginning in approximately September 2017 and continuing through 2019, Gomez-Lubo was part of a transnational criminal conspiracy that transported cocaine directly from Colombia, through Central America and the Caribbean, directly to the United States, including Texas, California, Hawaii, and Florida.

Th investigation revealed that Gomez-Lubo and others discussed, planned, and executed the transportation of cocaine to include discussing cocaine prices, currency transfers, drug debts, and methods used to avoid apprehension and detection by law enforcement. The cocaine distributed by Gomez-Lubo and others displayed identifying symbols and marks. Those marks were found in kilograms of cocaine recovered by law enforcement in New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida.

Gomez-Lubo’s co-defendant, Piero Antonio Lubo-Barros, was also indicted.

Lubo-Barros was arrested in Costa Rica in January 2021, living under an assumed identity. He was extradited to the United States in November 2021 and is currently pending trial in Tampa.

“This case is a great example of how the DEA works in concert with our law enforcement partners all across the globe to apprehend and bring to justice those involved in the poisoning of American communities by trading in illicit drugs,” said Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Division. “I’m very proud of the work done by all of our special agents who work very hard to keep our communities safe.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant support with the defendant’s extradition. The U.S. Marshals Service also provided critical assistance by extraditing Gerardo Gomez-Lubo from Panama to the Middle District of Florida.

This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Shyron Deonta Givens, a/k/a “Ron,” (45, St. Petersburg) to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute cocaine. Givens had pleaded guilty on April 16, 2021.

According to court documents, Givens was one of eleven defendants charged with federal drug trafficking offenses. According to the indictment, from around August 2018, and continuing through November 26, 2019, Givens and others conspired to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine. As part of this conspiracy, Givens facilitated cocaine deals between the co-defendants. In total, Givens was responsible for several drug transactions that involved more than 5 kilograms of cocaine.

Each of the eleven individuals charged in this case has pleaded guilty and been sentenced, as reflected in the chart below:

Defendant (age, residence)

Sentence Imposed

Ahmad Rashad Weston, a/k/a “Blood,” (45, St. Petersburg)

17 years, 6 months

Charleston Shellie Long, a/k/a “Shellie,” (41, St. Petersburg)

7 years, 6 months

Shyron Deonta Givens, a/k/a “Ron,” (45, St. Petersburg)

5 years, 10 months

Charlie James McDuffy, Jr. (34, Clearwater)

10 years

Teddy Terrell Strachan (40, Pembroke Pines)

6 years, 6 months

Ceveghnta Billvon Guyden, a/k/a “Chop,” (44, St. Petersburg)

17 years, 6 months

Quincy Alfonzo Turner, a/k/a “Chico,” (44, St. Petersburg)

10 years

Justice Deshonna McLaurin, a/k/a “Jussy,” (27, St. Petersburg)

5 years

Willie Carl McLaurin, a/k/a “Baldy,” (55, St. Petersburg)

Time Served

Ja’Vonta Willie McLaurin, a/k/a “Tay Tay,” (28, St. Petersburg)

5 years

Willie Carl McLaurin, Jr. (33, St. Petersburg)

5 years

This case was investigated by a multi-agency task force through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. Agencies involved in this OCDETF operation include the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. Petersburg Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.   

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Calfus W. Drummond (37, Gulfport) to 11 years and 6 months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; 500 grams or more of methamphetamine; cocaine and marijuana; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Drummond had pleaded guilty on December 7, 2021. This federal sentence is to run consecutive to a 7-year prison sentence that a state court previously imposed on Drummond for possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute. The court also ordered Drummond to forfeit a Glock 19 pistol, Romrarm/Cuigar Draco pistol, Iver Johnson revolver, FIE E22 pistol, Glock 17 pistol, Ruger P90 pistol and 177 rounds of ammunition.

According to court documents, on October 9, 2018, Drummond pleaded nolo contendere to a 10-count Information in state court in Manatee County. The state charges that Drummond had pleaded to include possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute. Drummond was on bond when he pleaded guilty and later failed to appear for his sentencing, becoming a fugitive.

On February 4, 2021, law enforcement officers located Drummond at a hotel in Manatee County. The officers detained Drummond as he was getting into his car. The officers recovered a loaded firearm from the passenger seat of the car. The firearm was located underneath a backpack that officers had observed Drummond carrying. The officers searched the backpack and discovered 15 grams of fentanyl, 13.8 grams of methamphetamine, and 57 grams of cocaine. The officers also recovered four pounds of marijuana from inside Drummond’s car. More than $6,700.00 was seized from Drummond’s person during a search incident to arrest.

On that same day, subsequent to Drummond’s arrest, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Drummond’s residence and located two bags near Drummond’s front door. One bag contained three firearms, 35 grams of cocaine, 2 grams of fentanyl, and 210 grams of methamphetamine. The second bag contained nearly 1,890 grams of fentanyl and 115 grams of marijuana. Officers also officer recovered $9,836, a Ruger 45, and ammunition from Drummond’s bedroom, an additional 29 grams of fentanyl, 349 grams of methamphetamine, and 116 grams of marijuana were located inside the home. Two firearms and assorted ammunition were recovered from a shed located the back of the residence.

This case was investigated by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.    

 Jacksonville, FL –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Jesse Rance Moore (45, Bell) with Hobbs Act robbery, robbery involving controlled substances, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of crimes of violence. If convicted on all counts, Moore faces a minimum mandatory term of seven years, and up to life, in federal prison.

According to the indictment, on or about January 13, 2022, Moore robbed the North Florida Pharmacy of Fort White. During the robbery, Moore brandished a firearm and took pharmaceutical drugs and controlled substances from an employee of the pharmacy. Moore was arrested and made his initial appearance on June 27, 2022. 

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 FBI, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration,  the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the Lake City Police Department, the Chiefland Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kirwinn Mike.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Ocala, Florida – Senior United States District Judge John Antoon II has sentenced Jeffrey Walt Boston (45, Orlando) to 8 years and 8 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and for possessing with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing cocaine. He was also required to forfeit the firearm and ammunition used in the offense. Boston had pleaded guilty on February 15, 2022.

According to the plea agreement, Boston is a felon who had previously been convicted in state court of resisting arrest with violence, battery on a law enforcement officer, delivery of cocaine, and possession of cocaine. On June 4, 2021, while in Lake County, Boston tossed a cigarette box containing cocaine from the window of the car he was driving. A nearby deputy retrieved the box, recognized the contents, then pursued and stopped Boston. During the pursuit, Boston discarded a bag of marijuana that hit the deputy’s windshield.

A subsequent search of the car revealed another cigarette box containing cocaine, a stolen pistol under the driver’s seat loaded with ammunition, 13 bags of cocaine, 5 alprazolam pills, and marijuana. Boston later admitted that all of the drugs and the loaded firearm belonged to him. He also confirmed that his fingerprints would be on the firearm. As a convicted felon, Boston is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.         

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Jeffrey Jedlicki (51, Panama City, Panama) to eight years in federal prison for wire fraud conspiracy. As part of his sentence, the court also ordered Jedlicki to forfeit $700,000 and a South Florida residence worth in excess of $2 million. The court also ordered Jedlicki to pay $3,244,592.00 in restitution to the victims. Jedlicki had pleaded guilty on September 16, 2021.

According to court documents, Jedlicki and his coconspirators operated international boiler rooms in Panama and elsewhere that used high-pressure sales techniques to defraud individuals who invested substantial amounts of money in what they believed were regulated financial products or markets, such as options in commodities and stocks. The majority of the victims that the boiler rooms targeted were located in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Jedlicki and his co-conspirators then transferred fraud proceeds generated by the boiler rooms through several money laundering rings, and then on to overseas accounts, with the launderers receiving a percentage of the funds they had moved. Jedlicki himself received a 2% referral fee for referring victims’ funds to a money laundering ring. Jedlicki used the funds to perpetuate the conspiracy, and for his own personal enrichment. In total, Jedlicki and his co-conspirators wired or caused to be wired approximately $3,244,592 in victims’ funds to money laundering accounts in furtherance of the wire fraud conspiracy.  

“This sentence reflects the serious nature of the offense,” said HSI Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge John Dumas. “HSI, working closely with Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and our international partners, is committed to stopping transnational criminal organizations that target the elderly with investment fraud schemes.”  

“Boiler rooms use high-pressure sales techniques to rope unsuspecting individuals into bogus investment schemes,” said Brian Payne, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Tampa Field Office. “Today, justice was served. Jedlicki will spend nearly a decade in prison, and he has been ordered to repay the victims of his scheme the $3.2 million he stole from them.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David W.A. Chee. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

Jacksonville, FL - After a 24-day trial, a federal jury in the Middle District of Florida convicted two individuals for their roles in a conspiracy that fraudulently billed approximately $1.4 billion for laboratory testing services in a sophisticated pass-through billing scheme involving rural hospitals.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jorge Perez, 62, and Ricardo Perez, 59, both of Miami, Florida, conspired with each other and others to unlawfully bill for approximately $1.4 billion of laboratory testing services which were medically unnecessary, and that fraudulently used rural hospitals as billing shells to submit claims for services that mostly were performed at outside laboratories. Jorge Perez and Ricardo Perez also committed health care fraud on five specific occasions, and conspired to launder the proceeds of this fraudulent scheme.

“These defendants preyed on and exploited the vulnerable – vulnerable hospitals, vulnerable underserved communities, and vulnerable patients seeking treatment for addiction – to line their own pockets,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “We will continue to work tirelessly to hold accountable those who exploit the integrity of the health care industry for profit.”

“The defendants in this case engaged in an elaborate scheme to prey upon distressed medical facilities across multiple states and defraud private insurers,” said U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Roger Handberg. “Today’s verdict clearly demonstrates our vigilance to prosecute those who violate our laws for profit.”

“The defendants in today’s case allegedly conspired to run an elaborate billing scheme which took advantage of vulnerable hospitals and the rural communities that relied on them,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to protecting the health care system and shutting down fraudulent billing shells.” 

The evidence showed that the defendants targeted and obtained control of financially distressed rural hospitals through management agreements and purchases. The defendants sought to obtain control of these rural hospitals because of private insurance contracts that provided for higher reimbursement rates for laboratory testing — a common feature of rural hospital contracts designed to ensure that the hospitals can survive and provide rural communities with much needed care. The defendants promised to save these rural hospitals from closure by turning them into laboratory testing sites, but instead billed for fraudulent laboratory testing worth hundreds of millions of dollars in a sophisticated and years-long “pass-though” billing scheme. The scheme made it appear that the rural hospitals themselves did the laboratory testing when, in most cases, it was done by testing laboratories controlled by certain defendants.

The evidence further showed that much of the laboratory testing billed through these rural hospitals involved urine drug testing for vulnerable addiction treatment patients, often obtained through kickbacks paid to recruiters and providers, frequently at sober homes or substance abuse treatment facilities. The tests billed by the defendants were often not medically necessary. After private insurance companies began to question the defendants’ billings, they would move on to another rural hospital, leaving the rural hospitals they took over in the same or worse financial status as before. Three of the four rural hospitals closed shortly after the defendants moved on to a different rural hospital. The defendants also conspired to launder the proceeds of their scheme through a series of large financial transfers. 

Jorge Perez and Ricardo Perez were convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, five counts of health care fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering of proceeds greater than $10,000. The defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years for each of the health care fraud and wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy counts, and 10 years for each substantive health care fraud count. A federal district court judge will determine the sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The rural hospitals involved in this case were: Campbellton-Graceville Hospital (CGH), a 25-bed rural hospital located in Graceville, Florida; Regional General Hospital of Williston, a 40-bed facility located in Williston, Florida; Chestatee Regional Hospital, a 49-bed rural hospital located in Dahlonega, Georgia; and Putnam County Memorial Hospital, a 25-bed rural hospital located in Unionville, Missouri.

The FBI’s Jacksonville Field Office; Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General (OPM-OIG); Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG); and the Amtrak Office of Inspector General investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tysen Duva for the Middle District of Florida and Senior Litigation Counsel Jim Hayes and Trial Attorney Gary Winters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Kermon Williams, a/k/a “The General” (42, St. Petersburg), James Higgs, Jr., a/k/a “Hammer” (40, St. Petersburg), and Jhaphre Higgs, a/k/a “Pre” (35, St. Petersburg) guilty of the murders of Roger Lee Ford, Jr. and Tywan Jeremiah Armstrong, which occurred in St. Petersburg on January 21, 2019, on Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance Day. Each faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 20 years, and up to life, in federal prison. Sentencing is scheduled for September 27, 2022, before the Honorable Charlene E. Honeywell. 

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Williams asked Jhaphre and James Higgs, Jr. to kill Armstrong, who Williams saw as a threat to his drug business. Williams paid Jhaphre and James Higgs, Jr. with cash and drugs and gave them an AR-15 rifle to murder Armstrong. Shortly after they were asked to murder the victim, Jhaphre and James Higgs, Jr. shot and attempted to kill Armstrong with an AR-15 on September 22, 2018, on a street in St. Petersburg, but Armstrong survived. Testimony established that after this shooting, Williams told people that Armstrong would have died if the gun hadn’t jammed. Williams then directed Jhaphre and James Higgs, Jr. to make the murder as public as possible to send a message on the street.

On January 21, 2019, on Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance Day, Jhaphre and James Higgs, Jr. shot and killed Tywan Armstrong in his car, also killing passenger Roger Ford, and injuring a third passenger victim with an AR-15 rifle and a .40 caliber pistol. As directed by Williams, the shooting took place in front of a large crowd of people gathered at a St. Petersburg gas station. Testimony from the medical examiner at trial established that Armstrong was shot 28 times and Ford was shot 11 times. Despite heroic efforts on the part of officers from the St. Petersburg Police Department and members of St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, both victims died from their injuries. Forensic specialists from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office processed the crime scene and recovered multiple shell casings used in the murders.

The jury also convicted Williams, Jhaphre Higgs, and James Higgs, Jr. of conspiracy to commit murder for hire, drug conspiracy, and using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime causing the death of Roger Ford and Tywan Armstrong. Jhaphre and James Higgs, Jr. were also convicted of being felons in possession of ammunition.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department and was investigated and prosecuted by former Assistant United States Attorney Natalie Hirt Adams. The trial was conducted by Assistant United States Attorneys Craig R. Gestring and Charlie D. Connally.

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Jacksonville, Florida - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Orlando Pina (31, Atlantic Beach), Tawfiq Goggans (25, Jacksonville), Juan Carlos Muniz-Alvarez (33, Jacksonville), and Juan Carlos Muniz-Alvarez (33, Jacksonville) have been sentenced to federal prison terms for their involvement in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of pure/actual methamphetamine in the Jacksonville area.

According to court documents, between December 2018 and September 2020, Pina supplied Goggans with two to six pounds of methamphetamine every week or two in Jacksonville. When arrested, Pina, having been previously been convicted of a felony offense, unlawfully possessed a firearm which was seized by law enforcement officers. In March 2022, Pina pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure/actual methamphetamine. On June 23, 2022, Pina was sentenced to 13 years and 8 months in federal prison. He was held accountable for distributing at least 1.5 kilograms and up to 4.5 kilograms of pure/actual methamphetamine.

On March 9, 2022, Goggans pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure/actual methamphetamine. He was sentenced on June 7, 2022, to 5 years in federal prison. Goggans was held accountable for distributing at least 1.5 kilograms and up to 4.5 kilograms of pure/actual methamphetamine.

On February 25, 2022, Muniz-Alvarez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure/actual methamphetamine. He was sentenced on June 1, 2022, to 10 years in federal prison. Muniz-Alvarez was held accountable for distributing at least 1.5 kilograms and up to 4.5 kilograms of pure/actual methamphetamine.

On April 1, 2021, Windle pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of pure/actual methamphetamine. He was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison on July 12, 2021.

“The illicit opioid crisis continues to ravage our communities, prematurely end lives, and tragically destroy families at the seams,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge John Condon. “The sentencings of these criminals to a combined 428 months in a federal penitentiary is a testament to the partnerships we have with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to stop the peddling of poison.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Clay County Sheriff's Office, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie Hackenberry.

 

 

Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Ataire Carl Ray (27, Tampa) with possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ray that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense.

According to the indictment, on April 1, 2022, Ray was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time of the incident, Ray had previous felony convictions for robbery with a gun or deadly weapon and delivery of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school. As a previously convicted felon, Ray is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.          

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Kenneth. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney James Muench.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Raequan M. Nelson (23, Tampa) with possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. If convicted, Nelson faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Nelson that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense.

According to the indictment, on February 13, 2022, Nelson was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time of the incident, Nelson had previous felony convictions for robbery with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. As a previously convicted felon, Nelson 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Kenneth. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Fort Myers, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber today sentenced Savannah Symone Duncan (24, Los Angeles, CA) to two years in federal prison for passing or uttering counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. Duncan had pleaded guilty on November 23, 2021.

According to court documents, on April 28, 2021, Duncan passed counterfeit $20 bills to cashiers at multiple CVS stores and a Michaels store in Fort Myers. In total, Duncan passed approximately $2,640 in counterfeit currency for the purchase gift cards, which was captured on store surveillance.

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung today sentenced Ronald O’Neal White (26, Tampa) to 37 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered White to forfeit the Taurus PT11 G2 GN firearm and ammunition. White had pleaded guilty on March 24, 2022.

According to court documents, on February 21, 2021, law enforcement officers responded to the scene where it had been reported that an individual had pointed a firearm at another individual. While on scene, an officer observed a van drive by slowly. Witnesses identified White as a passenger in the van and informed the officers that White was the individual who had pointed the firearm at the other person.

Officers conducted a traffic stop of the van and a subsequent searched of the vehicle revealed a loaded firearm under the seat where White was sitting. The gun had previously been reported stolen. White later admitted to possessing the firearm.  White is a previously convicted felon and therefore is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging James Clay Bexley (34, Center Hill) with possessing destructive devices and firearm silencers and possessing firearms in violation of a domestic violence injunction. If convicted, Bexley faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each count.

According to court records, Bexley was arrested at his home after contacting his wife in violation of an injunction. Deputies from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office located six firearms, two silencers, and two small explosive devices in Bexley’s vehicle. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office bomb squad then responded and discovered two destructive devices (pipe bombs) on Bexley’s front porch. After obtaining a search warrant, federal agents recovered approximately 35 pounds of explosive materials and bomb-making equipment from within the residence, along with an additional 12 firearms and two silencers.

Firearm silencers and destructive devices, such as pipe bombs, are illegal to possess unless registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. None of Bexley’s silencers or destructive devices had been registered as required under federal law. Furthermore, it is also a federal crime to possess firearms while subject to a domestic violence injunction.

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, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie K. Boyer. 

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

 

 

 

Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Jennifer Hansen to two years in prison for filing false tax returns for the years 2016, 2017, and 2018.  She had pleaded guilty on March 22, 2022.

According to court documents, Hansen, a registered nurse, was employed by a medical examination company to evaluate individuals who were seeking life insurance policies.  In that role, Hansen earned hundreds of thousands of dollars in income during the years 2016, 2017, and 2018, all of which she intentionally omitted from her federal income tax returns.  Through her false returns, Hansen caused a tax loss to the United States of $257,830.44.  The Court ordered her to make full restitution to the Internal Revenue Service in that amount.

During the investigation into Hansen’s tax crimes, investigators also learned that a substantial portion of Hansen’s unreported income was illegitimately earned.  In that regard, Hansen generated income by submitting false records to her employer claiming that she had examined a real patient, when, in fact, she had not.  The Court ordered Hansen to pay over $1,000,000 in restitution to her former employer.

"For three years, Ms. Hansen cheated her employer, insurance policy holders, and the American people to collect hundreds of thousands of dollars for herself," said Brian Payne, special agent in charge of IRS-CI's Tampa Field Office. "Cheaters don't win, and Ms. Hansen must now face consequences for her actions."

This case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael V. Leeman.

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a grand jury has returned an indictment charging Romeo Lopez-Hernandez (37, Coleman) with the first-degree premeditated murder of his cellmate while in the Coleman Federal Correctional Institution (FCI). If convicted, Lopez-Hernandez faces a mandatory term of life imprisonment.

According to court records, Lopez-Hernandez was housed in the Special Housing Unit of Coleman FCI in Sumter County when authorities found his cellmate strangled to death. The victim was lying face down and unconscious on his bed with a bedsheet wrapped around his neck and tied to the bedpost. Dark ligature marks were apparent around the victim’s neck, and a medical examiner confirmed that he had died by strangulation.

When interviewed by the FBI, Lopez-Hernandez gave a full confession. He detailed repeatedly strangling the victim in intervals and concealing the body behind a bedsheet so that correctional officers wouldn’t find him until he was sure the victim was dead. According to Lopez-Hernandez, one of his main reasons for killing the victim was to maintain respect from other inmates.

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 FBI and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie K. Boyer. 

Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Cleate Wilson (40, Tampa) with forcibly resisting, opposing, impeding, and interfering with two Deputy United States Marshals and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. If convicted on both counts, Wilson faces a maximum penalty of 11 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Wilson that the United States intends to forfeit an H&K 9mm firearm and 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. 

This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Melinda Sue Hernandez (33, Ruskin) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Hernandez faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison for the conspiracy count, as well as a consecutive two years in federal prison for the aggravated identity theft count.

According to the plea agreement, from approximately June 2020, through April 2021, Hernandez and her co-defendant, Aloysius Moodie, Jr. (33, Tampa), obtained personal identifying information of others and used that information to submit, or caused to be submitted, false and fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) claims to various state workforce agencies to obtain UI benefits. These UI benefits were then transferred to bank accounts or loaded onto debit cards issued in the names of other persons. Hernandez and her co-defendant then used, and attempted to use, the fraudulently obtained debit cards to withdraw money from ATMs. Law enforcement calculated the total intended loss caused by the fraudulent UI claims at more than $1.5 million, but less than $3.5 million.

Moodie was indicted on March 29, 2022.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Gregory D. Pizzo.

In March 2020, the President signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, which expanded states’ ability to provide UI for many workers impacted by COVID-19, including for workers who were not ordinarily eligible for benefits.

On May 17, 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, among other methods, 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 https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus

Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Timothy Crawley (66, North Fort Myers) to seven years in federal prison for possessing images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.  Crawley was also sentenced to a 20-year term of supervised release and ordered to register as a sex offender.  Crawley had pleaded guilty on March 15, 2022.

According to court documents, from March 8, 2014, through September 22, 2021, Crawley knowingly possessed child sex abuse images and videos that he searched for and downloaded from the internet.  Crawley collected and stored these visual depictions involving prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct on his laptop and various hard drives.

Between August 2021, through September 2021, the FBI connected to Crawley’s computer and viewed a list of files that Crawley had available for sharing using a peer-to-peer file-sharing program and downloaded files depicting children engaging in sexually explicit conduct from Crawley’s computer.  On September 22, 2021, the FBI executed the search warrant for Crawley’s residence in North Fort Myers, Florida, and among the property seized were Crawley’s laptop and hard drives.  During an interview with agents, Crawley admitted to downloading child sex abuse materials for approximately one year and provided some of the various search terms that he had used to search for child sex abuse materials over the internet and save it to his computer and external hard drive.  A subsequent forensic analysis of the hard drives revealed in excess of 30,000 images and over 900 videos depicting the sexual exploitation and abuse of children. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fort Myers Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.  It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.

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

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Troy Nix (29, Mount Dora) with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing heroin with the intent to distribute it. If convicted, Nix faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the firearm offense and up to 20 years in federal prison for the drug offense.

According to court records, on or about June 3, 2022, Nix sold a 9mm firearm and heroin to an undercover ATF agent. Nix then fled on foot when agents attempted to arrest him. He was apprehended several hours later. Nix has at least eight prior state felony convictions, including battery on a person 65 years of age or older, sale of cocaine, and fleeing to elude police. Because of his prior felony convictions, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mount Dora Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie K. Boyer. 

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Luis Mojica Rojas (45, Zephyrhills) with conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, conspiracy to commit international money laundering, possession of 400 grams or more of fentanyl with the intent to distribute, money laundering, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted on all counts, Mojica Rojas faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 40 years, and up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Mojica Rojas that the United States intends to forfeit $92,195, an AR-15 type pistol, and ammunition, which are alleged to be traceable to the offenses.

According to court records, on May 9, 2022, federal agents executed a search warrant at Mojica Rojas’s residence. Inside the master bedroom, agents seized an AR-15 assault pistol and a loaded drum magazine for an AR-15. Cocaine was also found in the master bathroom. Agents seized over 800 grams of suspected fentanyl in powdered form, and another 100 grams of counterfeit prescription drugs containing suspected fentanyl from a shed and camper in the backyard. The indictment further alleges that in August 2021, Mojica Rojas was part of a conspiracy to internationally launder drug proceeds to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the drug proceeds.

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 operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Tampa Police Department, and the Plant City Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.

OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Ocala, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Ronrico Lionel Farmer (33, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Farmer faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Farmer had been indicted on September 28, 2021.

According to court documents, on or about April 17, 2021, an Ocala police officer conducted a traffic stop of an automobile being driven by Farmer for a traffic infraction. Farmer gave the officer a false name to conceal his suspended license. A subsequent search of the automobile revealed a substance (fentanyl) on the driver’s floorboard, which Farmer referred to as “children’s candy.” Also on the floorboard, the officer discovered a loaded 9mm handgun with an extended magazine. The FBI conducted a DNA analysis of the recovered firearm and determined that Farmer’s DNA was on the weapon. As a multi-convicted felon, Farmer is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the City of Ocala Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Levelle Joseph Harris (36, Kissimmee) has surrendered pursuant to an indictment charging him with 14 counts of wire fraud. Each count is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Harris had been indicted on June 7, 2022.

According to the facts presented in court, between May 27, 2020, and June 2, 2021, Harris applied for 14 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act using false information. As part of his scheme, Harris made false representations on his PPP applications and electronically submitted the applications over the internet. The fraudulent loans were approved, and Harris received more than $1 million in internet wire transfers.

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

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.

This case is being prosecuted as part the Department of Justice’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the CARES Act relief programs. The CARES Act is a federal law enacted in March 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the two programs that were developed through CARES Act is the PPP. It provides funding to businesses through PPP loans for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. PPP allows the interest and principal on loans to be forgiven if the business spends proceeds on certain expense items within a designated time and uses a certain percentage of the loan on payroll expenses. The Department of Justice remains vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing related to the crisis.

         

Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Marion Michael O’Steen (43, Cross City) guilty of interfering with commerce by extortion and failing to timely file a Form 8300 reporting the receipt of more than $10,000 in currency. O’Steen faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison and may be required to forfeit at least $60,000 in proceeds received. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 12, 2022.

According to evidence presented at trial, O’Steen was a criminal defense attorney who represented clients being prosecuted by former State Attorney Jeffrey Alan Siegmeister’s office in the Third Judicial Circuit. Siegmeister was previously charged and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to use a facility of commerce for unlawful activity, conspiracy to commit extortion, wire fraud, and tax fraud. Testimony at trial established that O’Steen requested official acts from Siegmeister—including the favorable disposition of charges filed against his client, and the delay of official actions–in order to enable O’Steen to obtain additional “fees” from at least one of his clients. On August 17, 2018, O’Steen told his client that if the client paid him an additional $60,000 fee, O’Steen would use up a “favor” with the state attorney to make “everything go away,” representing that O’Steen had favors with Siegmeister for which people would pay him. O’Steen told his client he could “go to trial and fight em’ out, which I don’t think you can win.” He further advised his client that he would not get the same results from another attorney.

O’Steen received two payments of $30,000 each from his client. Evidence at trial established that O’Steen knew the reporting requirements but failed to timely file a Form 8300 with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.        

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kelly S. Karase and David B. Mesrobian.

Ocala, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Marty Eugene Days, Jr. (33, Williston) has pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition affecting commerce by a convicted felon. Days faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Days had been indicted on May 10, 2022.

According to court documents, on or about February 23, 2022, an Ocala police officer stopped an automobile driven by Days for erratic driving. Days, the sole occupant, did not have a valid license, and also admitted that he had been drinking and displayed an alcoholic beverage to the officer. After detaining Days, the officer located a bag on the ground adjacent to the automobile that contained Days’s Florida ID card, two of his credit cards, and a 9mm handgun. Video surveillance footage from a nearby convenience store showed Days tossing the bag out of the passenger-side window. The firearm—a “ghost gun” with no manufacturer serial number—was loaded with 21 rounds of ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, Days is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the City of Ocala Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

 Fort Myers, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Cambrel Jamal Smart (28, Fort Lauderdale) with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. If convicted, Smart faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.  A sentencing date has not yet been set.  The indictment also notifies Smart that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense.

According to the indictment, on January 5, 2022, Smart was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time of the incident, Smart had previous felony convictions for robbery with a firearm, false imprisonment, attempted murder in the second degree, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. As a previously convicted felon, Smart is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Myers Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reiching.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

A federal grand jury in Ocala, Florida, has charged two Florida men with committing a hate crime. The indictment charging Roy Lashley, 55, and Robert Lashley, 52, was unsealed today following the arrest of Robert Lashley. 

The indictment alleges that on or about Nov. 17, 2021, the defendants, aiding and abetting one another, willfully caused bodily injury to the victim, a Black man, because of his actual and perceived race. According to the indictment, the defendants repeatedly called the victim racial slurs and repeatedly struck the victim with closed fists and an axe handle. 

If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum term of 10 years imprisonment, three years of mandatory supervised release and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg of the Middle District of Florida made the announcement. The FBI and the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office investigated the matter. Trial Attorneys Maura White and Matthew Tannenbaum of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert E. Bodnar Jr. for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case. 

For more information and resources about the department’s work to combat hate crimes, visit www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.

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

Ocala, FL - A federal grand jury in Ocala, Florida has charged two Florida men with committing a hate crime. The indictment charging Roy Lashley, 55, and Robert Lashley, 52 was unsealed today following the arrest of Robert Lashley. 

The indictment alleges that on or about Nov. 17, 2021, the defendants, aiding and abetting one another, willfully caused bodily injury to the victim, a Black man, because of his actual and perceived race. According to the indictment, the defendants repeatedly called the victim racial slurs and repeatedly struck the victim with closed fists and an axe handle. 

If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum term of 10 years imprisonment, three years of mandatory supervised release and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg of the Middle District of Florida made the announcement. The FBI and the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office investigated the matter. Trial Attorneys Maura White and Matthew Tannenbaum of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert E. Bodnar Jr. of the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case. 

For more information and resources about the department’s work to combat hate crimes, visit www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.

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

Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Malachi Deloch (23, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Deloch faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court documents, on February 7, 2022, Deloch, a convicted felon, possessed multiple firearms, including a Springfield XD 9mm with extended magazine. Deloch was seen openly carrying the firearm in a residential area of Tampa, he later fled from officers with the Tampa Police Department who had arrived on the scene.

This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Beckman.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Aunyis Cherry (27, St. Petersburg), an Armed Career Criminal, guilty of possessing a firearm and ammunition as convicted felon. Cherry faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing has not yet been set. Cherry had been indicted on May 27, 2021.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Cherry drove a vehicle with a counterfeit license plate in the area of 14th Street South in St. Petersburg. A uniformed detective from the St. Petersburg Police Department arrived to conduct a stop. Cherry fled from the car but was apprehended. The vehicle’s owner couldn’t be determined, and an inventory search revealed a fully loaded FN Herstal pistol. The jury heard testimony that Cherry’s DNA was located in three places on the firearm, including the handle and trigger. As a previously convicted felon, Cherry is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the St. Petersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Gordon and Craig Gestring. The trial was conducted by Assistant United States Attorneys Samantha Beckman and Jim Preston.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Joyce O. Isagba guilty of three counts of mail fraud and one count of conspiring to defraud the United States with respect to claims. She faces a maximum penalty of 70 years in federal prison. A grand jury had indicted Isagba and her husband, David, on May 27, 2020. David Isagba entered a guilty plea on March 29, 2022.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, from 2009 through 2019, the Isagbas submitted 227 fraudulent tax returns to the IRS falsely claiming to be entitled to more than $2.94 billion in tax refunds on behalf of sham trusts. The Isagbas subsequently received a total of $5,815,723.65 from the IRS as a result of this fraudulent scheme. Joyce Isagba used her portion of the money to purchase a residence. She entered into a contract to purchase the home the day after she received a $462,000 fraudulently obtained refund check from the IRS. The Isagbas also purchased multiple luxury vehicles with fraud proceeds and used the money to fund a luxurious lifestyle. 

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys William S. Hamilton and Hannah Nowalk.

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Luis Raul Perez Rodriguez (50, Orlando) to 10 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Perez Rodriguez had pleaded guilty on March 28, 2022.  

According to court documents, on January 21, 2022, Perez Rodriguez had arranged to receive a shipment of three parcels containing 19 kilograms of cocaine, valued at an estimated $570,000, through a delivery service from an address in Puerto Rico to an apartment in Orlando. On January 19, 2022, security specialists at the delivery service company detected the cocaine shipment and reported the parcels to the Drug Enforcement Administration. On January 21, 2022, an undercover officer, working with the DEA posed as a delivery driver and delivered a fake package to the address listed on the shipment. Perez Rodriguez was in the parking lot of his apartment and identified himself with the fake name associated with the parcels and showed the delivery driver that he was tracking the progress of the shipment on his phone. Perez Rodriguez was apprehended as the driver loaded two of the three packages into Perez Rodriguez’s vehicle. Additional evidence linked Perez Rodriguez to seven suspected kilogram-quantity shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico to Orlando that were delivered as early as 2018.    

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.

Jacksonville, Florida–United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of a three-count indictment charging Michael Christopher Langston (37, Jacksonville) with illegally possessing 11 firearms and a firearm silencer. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each count. The indictment also notifies Langston that the United States intends to forfeit the firearms and ammunition traceable to the offense. Langston was arrested on June 15, 2022, in Jacksonville. 

According to the indictment, on August 4, 2019, Langston knowingly possessed a machine gun, a firearm silencer, and a Glock .40 caliber firearm equipped with a machinegun conversion device. The indictment further alleges that Langston possessed 11 firearms knowing that he was an unlawful user of marijuana and anabolic steroids. He is also charged with possessing firearms after he was committed to a mental institution.    

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. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John Cannizzaro and Laura Cofer Taylor. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Cedric Durham, Jr. (21, Tampa) with possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Durham that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense. Durham was arrested on June 13, 2022, in Tampa. He made his initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Thomas Wilson the following day and was ordered detained pending trial.

According to the indictment, on March 6, 2022, Durham was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time of the incident, Durham had a previous felony conviction for carrying a concealed firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Durham is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Guzman and David Chee. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney James Muench.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle has sentenced Hao Kuo Chi (41, La Puente, California) to nine years in federal prison for conspiracy and computer fraud. Chi had pleaded guilty on October 15, 2021.

According to court documents, Chi operated for years on Anon-IB, a now defunct website. Anon-IB was notorious for posting explicit and intimate images of others shared without consent and with the intent to intimidate, harass, or embarrass—commonly known as “revenge porn.” Chi hacked into the Apple iCloud accounts of victims across the United States in search of nude photographs and videos of young women, which he referred to as “wins.” Using the online moniker “icloudripper4you,” he then shared and traded these images with persons he had met on Anon-IB.

Chi’s email accounts contained the iCloud credentials of approximately 4,700 victims. These accounts also revealed that he had sent content stolen from victims to conspirators on more than 300 occasions. Some of those conspirators subsequently released the images into the public sphere. Chi not only shared his “wins” with conspirators, but he also kept many of those images for his own personal collection. Specifically, Chi maintained approximately 3.5 terabytes of victim data on cloud and physical storage, containing content attributable to more than 500 victims.

“Chi victimized hundreds of women across the country, making them fear for their safety and reputations,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. “This sentence reflects the resolve of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold cybercriminals responsible for their crimes.”

“This man led a terror campaign from his computer, causing fear and distress to hundreds of victims. The FBI is committed to protecting the American people by exposing these cybercriminals and bringing them to justice,” said David Walker, FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge.       

This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlton C. Gammons.

Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton has sentenced Eric Lance Reynolds (42, Mount Dora) to life in federal prison for coercing and enticing a child to engage in sexual activity and for distributing child sexual abuse material. Reynolds was also ordered to serve a lifetime of supervised release, register as a sex offender, pay $24,797 in restitution to the victim of the offense, and forfeit the Apple iPhone that he used to commit these child sex offenses. Reynolds had pleaded guilty on March 22, 2022.

According to court documents and evidence presented during the sentencing hearing, over the course of several years, Reynolds repeatedly sexually abused a prepubescent child to whom Reynolds had access. Specifically, on November 29, 2019, Reynolds used the internet to communicate with a registered sex offender, Jonathan Boudreau. During these online communications, Reynolds offered to allow Boudreau to participate in the sexual abuse of this child, in exchange for money to purchase a video game for the child. On that date, and on at least six other occasions from approximately 2017 to 2020, Boudreau and Reynolds sexually abused the child together, and forced the child to wear a blindfold during the encounters. On one occasion, Reynolds allowed a third individual to participate in the sexual abuse of the child. In total, Reynolds sexually abused this child victim between 15 and 50 times.

A search of Reynolds’ iPhone revealed that Reynolds was also engaged in the distribution and trading of child sexual abuse material with other individuals online. The FBI conducted a forensic review of his devices and discovered six videos and 47 images depicting the sexual abuse of infants and prepubescent children.

On December 21, 2021, Boudreau was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for distributing and receiving child sexual abuse material as a registered sex offender.

“No amount of prison time can erase the horrors this man inflicted on an innocent child. But the community can be assured, he will never victimize another child again thanks to the exemplary work of our special agents and task force officers who work tirelessly investigating crimes against children,” said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge David Walker.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.

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.

Jacksonville, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Thomas Oliver Morrison (62, Jacksonville) with knowingly making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer.  If convicted, Morrison faces a maximum penalty of 5years in federal prison. 

According to the indictment, Morrison attempted to purchase a handgun from a federally licensed firearms dealer on April 20, 2022. Morrison falsely stated on the required ATF Form 4473 that he was not a felon, when in fact he had numerous prior felony convictions, including false imprisonment, battery – second offense, grand theft, possession of controlled substance and dealing in stolen property. Morrison also falsely stated that he was not subject to a final injunction for protection against domestic violence and that he had not been previously involuntarily committed to a mental institution.

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. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Cyrus P. Zomorodian.

This case is part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle has sentenced Julius Arline (31, St. Petersburg) to 40 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for engaging in the sex trafficking of minor children. Arline was also ordered to register as a sex offender and to pay restitution to the victims. Arline had pleaded guilty on March 11, 2022.

According to court documents, Julius Arline and his co-defendant, Leslie Reio, obtained, enticed and housed two child victims in a St. Petersburg hotel room, forcing them to commit commercial sex acts between March 6, 2021, and March 14, 2021. The child victims (14 and 15 years old) were rescued after being forced to take sexually explicit photographs of themselves that were used as online advertisements for commercial sex with strangers. The two children were kept in the hotel room where they were provided illegal drugs and forced to participate in a number of sex dates over an 8-day period. After being forced to engage in the sex acts and receiving payment, the child victims were required to give money to Arline and Reio.

A sentencing hearing for Reio is scheduled for July 8, 2022.

“Child sex trafficking is happening every day, and this significant sentence exemplifies HSI’s commitment to protecting children from sex trafficking crimes and victimization,” said HSI Tampa acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Silliman. “HSI, alongside St. Petersburg Police Department, are committed to locating, and recovering child victims, as well as ensuring predators are held responsible for their heinous crimes.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Tampa Bay Human Trafficking Task Force, with substantial assistance from St. Petersburg Police Department and the United States Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Claire Favorit.

This case was brought as part of the Tampa Bay Human Trafficking Task Force of the Middle District of Florida, which is one of 13 task forces in the country to receive grant funding from the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Task Force is a collaboration of local, state, and federal law enforcement agents working together with organizations to detect, investigate, and prosecute human trafficking in the Tampa Bay area. This includes trafficking of minors, forced labor, transnational sex trafficking, and sex trafficking of adults by force, fraud, or coercion. More information about the Tampa Bay Human Trafficking Task Force can be found at www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/humantrafficking. Information on the Department of Justice’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.