Northern District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Five Sentenced in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Five defendants were sentenced today on drug and firearm-related crimes, as well as conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The defendants and sentences are as follows:
-
Thomas Zachary Breeding, 33, of Panama City, Florida, 72 months in prison;
-
Benjamin Bailey McGraw, 37, of Smyrna, Georgia, 180 months;
-
Jeremy Patrick Hubbard, 32, of Panama City Beach, Florida, 96 months;
-
Richard Kenneth Helms Jr., 43, of Panama City Beach, 48 months; and
-
Jessica Renee Ashbaker, 32, of Panama City Beach, 12 months.
In addition to the conspiracy charge, the defendants pled guilty to the following charges:
- Possession of a firearm as a convicted felon: Breeding and Hubbard;
-
Possession with intent to distribute the controlled substance alprazolam: McGraw;
-
Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking: McGraw and Hubbard; and
-
Possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of Cocaine: Helms and Ashbaker
In early June 2016, Breeding acquired approximately 20 kilograms of cocaine and then divided it among himself, Helms, Ashbaker, and McGraw to sell. On June 25, 2016, law enforcement officers stopped Breeding’s vehicle and arrested him after discovering cocaine and a firearm in his vehicle. On June 29, McGraw and Hubbard planned to obtain an additional 5 kilograms of cocaine from Breeding in Panama City Beach. When Hubbard arrived at the scheduled meeting place, he possessed approximately $20,000 in cash and a loaded firearm in his vehicle. He was arrested. While Hubbard went to meet Breeding, McGraw waited at a nearby motel room. McGraw was arrested at the motel. In the motel room, law enforcement officers seized a cocaine press, approximately 800 alprazolam tablets, a loaded firearm, and drug paraphernalia. On July 8, law enforcement officers seized approximately 2 and 1/2 kilograms of cocaine and approximately $33,000 in cash from Helms’s and Ashbaker’s residence.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Panama City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Edwin Knight prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]-
Woman Charged with Conspiracy and Wire Fraud Involving the Theft of $215,000 from Two Health Care ProvidersRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Melissa Moniz, 44, of Marianna, was arraigned today in the U.S. District Court in Tallahassee after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and nine counts of wire fraud. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that, between 2006 and 2014, Moniz controlled entities known as Billing and Collection Services and Billing and Collection Services, LLC (collectively “BCS”), which purportedly conducted collections work for health care providers. Moniz is charged with fraudulently obtaining money from Gynecology and Obstetrics Associates in Tallahassee for collections services that were never performed. Additionally, Moniz, is alleged to have made false statements in connection with her application for employment as the director of physician practices with the Jackson County Hospital. The indictment charges that Moniz used her position at Jackson County Hospital to induce the hospital to hire BCS for collections services and that Moniz concealed the fact that she both controlled BCS and was personally receiving the payments the hospital made to BCS. Moniz is alleged to have fraudulently obtained $215,766.68 from her scheme to defraud the two businesses.
The trial is scheduled for March 13, 2017.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen M. Kunz is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Pensacola Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years in Prison for Multiple Federal Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Deangelo A. Rome, 26, of Pensacola, was sentenced today to 17.5 years in prison, after pleading guilty on May 3, 2016, to unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon on multiple dates. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In February 2015, a law enforcement officer discovered a running vehicle with Rome unresponsive in the driver’s seat and located a loaded handgun in view under Rome’s seat.
Later, in December 2015, law enforcement officers responded to a “shots fired” disturbance call. A shooting victim was located, and the residence had bullet holes through a sliding glass door. Multiple shell casings and a loaded magazine were found on the scene. A fingerprint on the loaded magazine matched that of Rome. During the sentencing hearing, the court heard evidence regarding Rome as one of the shooters of the victim.
A few days after the shooting, law enforcement officers responded to a call of armed individuals, who, after fleeing, were tracked to a residence with a vehicle in the driveway. A deputy saw an assault rifle in the vehicle, and ammunition was also found on the premises. During a search of the premises, Rome was located hiding under a bed. The rifle inside the vehicle had both a palm print and DNA evidence belonging to Rome, and Rome’s fingerprint was also located on a separate box of ammunition.
The case resulted from investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office; the Pensacola Police Department; and the ATF Gun Crime Response Team. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Woman Charged with Federal Stolen Identity Refund FraudRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Teona N. Rodgers, 27, of Tampa, made an initial appearance yesterday in the U.S. District Court in Tallahassee after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging her with theft of government funds, use of unauthorized access devices, aggravated identity theft, and false claims. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that Rodgers unlawfully used the personal identifying information and account numbers of several individuals to assist in the filing of numerous fraudulent federal income tax returns, seeking more than $100,000 in federal tax refunds. The trial is scheduled for March 20.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Emerald Coast Financial Crimes Task Force, comprised of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Gary Milligan is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Pensacola Attorney/CPA Pleads Guilty to Federal Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – James R.J. Scheltema, 56, of Pensacola, has pled guilty to filing false tax returns and tax evasion. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Between 2010 and 2013, Scheltema, a certified public accountant and attorney, received restricted stock as compensation for his legal and accounting services. He initially reported no compensation on his 2011 and 2012 individual income tax returns, despite receiving substantial compensation from stock issuance and the sale of stock. Scheltema also failed to file timely 2013 individual and corporate income tax returns for two companies he owned and operated. Scheltema tried to evade notice of stock sales by instructing checks be made payable to his wife and to one of the companies he owned, rather than to himself. After being notified of the IRS investigation, Scheltema filed amended 2011 and 2012 returns and a delinquent 2013 return, which were still false.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 10, 2017, 3:00 p.m.
For each charge of filing false tax returns, Scheltema faces a maximum of three years in prison. For the tax evasion charge, he faces a maximum of five years in prison.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Pace Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Charity Telemarketing FraudRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Gary R. Tomey II, 47, of Pace, Florida, was sentenced today to 90 months in prison after he was found guilty of conspiracy and mail fraud during a two-week jury trial. He was also ordered to pay a $1,219,129.46 forfeiture money judgment and $6,677 in restitution. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Tomey owned and operated Children and Family Services Inc. (later called Children’s Charitable Services Inc.), which fraudulently solicited charitable donations by calling donors in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee. Tomey instructed his employees to falsely tell donors that 100% of their donation went to the charity and that they were volunteers. They were also told to say the charity was located in and only helped the donor’s home state. However, the employees were paid a commission-based hourly wage and worked from a call center in Milton, Florida. Of the more than $1.2 million raised in donations, only 1.5% actually went to a charitable cause. The rest paid wages, business expenses, and Tomey’s own personal expenses.
Tomey’s sentence was enhanced because he committed his fraud through telemarketing and because he victimized more than 10 people over the age of 55.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Kim prosecuted the case.
“Fraudsters who exploit the charitable spirit of the American people, and especially those who prey upon the generosity of our seniors, can count on a thorough scrutiny and aggressive prosecution by this office,” said United States Attorney Canova.
“When individuals misuse funds intended for a charitable purpose, it harms all donors and honest non-profit organizations,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “The FBI is committed to investigating and rooting out this type of corruption, whether it happens in a public office or a non-profit organization.”
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Holmes County Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Receiving Veterans Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Following day two of her trial this week, Veronica Dale Hahn, 60, of Bonifay, Florida, pled guilty to theft of government funds. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
During the first two days of trial, the government presented evidence that, between November 2001 and February 2016, Hahn received $394,800.85 from the Department of Veterans Affairs in disability payments for 100% service-connected blindness in both eyes. Over the course of a decade and a half, Hahn told various doctors within the Veterans Health Administration and in private practice that she was almost completely blind. However, within a year of receiving her disability benefits for loss of vision, she obtained a driver’s license in New Mexico, Alabama, and Florida with no vision restrictions, after passing vision exams in each state with at least 20/40 vision. During this time, Hahn was also observed driving her personal automobile on numerous occasions. Further, she worked full time as a case manager and transition counselor at several state correctional facilities. All of which required normal eyesight to perform her duties.
Hahn faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 13, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse, in Panama City, Florida.
The case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of the Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher J. Thielemann and Michael J. Frank.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Pensacola Man Sentenced to 135 Months in Prison for Assaulting a Law Enforcement OfficerRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Thomas M. Jackson, 36, of Pensacola, Florida, has been sentenced to 135 months in prison for using a motor vehicle to assault a police officer with Naval Air Station Pensacola. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In March 2016, a police officer with the Naval Air Station Pensacola was on duty at the main gate when Jackson drove to the gate. The officer believed that Jackson was driving under the influence and tried to get Jackson to turn the vehicle off and surrender the keys. Jackson then accelerated the vehicle, striking the officer. The officer sustained several strained muscles and abrasions.
"Our law enforcement officers strive to keep us all safe, while putting themselves at risk," said United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova. Those who seek to harm our officers will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
The case was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Naval Air Station Pensacola Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Indictment for Mailing Threats to Sheriff MorganRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Regis L. Walker, 30, of Pensacola, pled guilty today to mailing threatening communications. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In June 2016, Walker mailed a threatening letter on notebook paper to Sheriff David Morgan at the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. In the letter, Walker claimed several people who had joined ISIS would simultaneously attack military bases, beaches, and schools at a nonspecific time and could not be stopped by law enforcement. Walker made specific reference to the recent attack in Orlando, Florida, that killed approximately 50 people. Walker wrote that the attackers planned on “not giving up,” and that they “plan on dying.” He appeared to sign the note as “ISIS ALLAH.”
Walker faces a maximum of five years in federal prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 6, 2017 at 12:30p, at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Two Defendants Sentenced in $4 Million, Armed, Multistate Jewelry Store RobberiesRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Abigail Lee Kemp, 25, of Smyrna, GA, was sentenced to 10 years in prison today for conspiracy, interfering with commerce by robbery, and using a firearm during a crime of violence. Larry Bernard Gilmore, 43, of Atlanta, GA, was sentenced to 32 years in prison. They were ordered to pay $1,499,690 in restitution. The sentencing hearings for co-conspirators Lewis Jones III, 36, and Michael Bernard Gilmore, 47, both of Atlanta, GA, were continued to February 16 at 2:00 p.m. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Between April 2015 and January 2016, the conspirators committed armed robberies of six jewelry stores in Panama City Beach, Florida; Woodstock and Dawsonville, Georgia; Bluffton, South Carolina; Sevierville, Tennessee; and Mebane, North Carolina. More than $4 million of jewelry was stolen during the time frame of the conspiracy.
After the April 2015 robbery, Jones and the Gilmores began training Kemp to rob the jewelry stores on her own. The training took place at the Gilmore's window tint shop in Atlanta, Georgia. Jones and the Gilmores reviewed jewelry store layouts with Kemp and taught her how to handle a gun, secure employees with zip ties, and what merchandise to steal. They also gave Kemp various code words, decided her clothes and disguises, and then purchased supplies for her. Jones and the Gilmores always selected the dates and locations of the jewelry stores to be robbed.
Thereafter, Kemp would enter an outlet mall jewelry store at approximately the same time of day, brandish a firearm, order the employees to the back of the store, and force them to lie face down while she zip tied their hands behind their backs. Hundreds of thousands of dollars-worth of jewelry was then removed from the jewelry display cases. Kemp would use an earpiece to communicate with her conspirators while Jones and the Gilmores conducted surveillance and security outside.
In December 2015, a jewelry store manager believed Kemp matched the description of the white female who was previously linked to the armed robberies of various jewelry stores in the southeast. The store manager requested that another employee contact the police. The conspirators decided to call off the robbery and left the store. Five days later, they robbed the Mebane, North Carolina, jewelry store.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Panama City Beach Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Kathryn D. Risinger and Michael J. Frank prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Pensacola Man Sentenced to 3 Years for Making False Statements Regarding His Support and Promotion of ISILRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Robert Blake Jackson, 31, of Pensacola, was sentenced to 3 years in federal prison today for making materially false statements in a federal investigation. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In October 2014, Jackson’s Facebook profile contained comments, photos, and videos expressing support for extremist terrorist groups such as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS). This included graphic ISIL videos promoting the execution of those who oppose ISIL. In January 2015, a Pensacola telemarketing corporation reported they had recently fired Jackson for viewing ISIL related and other terrorist related websites and videos on his work computer.
In June 2015, during an interview with the FBI, Jackson stated that he never posted any pro-ISIL or violent content, and that he only used the internet at work to search news sites. Upon his arrest in July 2016, Jackson was in possession of an electronic tablet that contained the most recent addition of Dabiq, an ISIL recruitment magazine, as well as audio lectures of Anwar al-Awalki. At his plea hearing on September 23, 2016, Jackson admitted that the statements he made to federal agents were false.
“Our law enforcement agencies work around the clock to keep us safe,” said U.S. Attorney Canova. “The United States Attorney’s Office will vigorously prosecute those who provide false statements to federal agents, because false statements divert precious time and resources from the furtherance of important criminal investigations.”
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the other members of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg prosecuted the case, with the assistance of David Cora of the National Security Division.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer(850) 216-3854, [email protected]
Panama City Title Agent Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud and Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Patricia Lynn Smith, 55, of Panama City Beach, pled guilty today to six felony counts, including one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and/or mail fraud affecting a financial institution and five counts of bank fraud. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Smith pled guilty surrounding conduct she engaged in while she was the manager of Northwest Florida Title Services. Smith participated in a scheme to defraud and obtain money and/or property by fraudulent means from the federally insured financial institutions Bank of America, First Tennessee Bank, JP Morgan Chase Bank, MetLife Bank, and Wells Fargo Bank. As a part of the scheme, Smith signed HUD-1 forms and caused them to be submitted to these financial institutions. The forms falsely claimed buyers were providing cash to purchase residences located in Panama City Beach and elsewhere, when this money was actually coming from a third party. During the course of the scheme, mortgage loans totaling in excess of $6 million on at least 18 pieces of real property were closed by Smith and Northwest Florida Title Services.
On each count, Smith faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a maximum of a $1 million fine, and restitution. Smith is scheduled to be sentenced on March 30, 2017.
The case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General, Federal Housing Finance Agency and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany H. Eggers.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Three Okaloosa County Residents Charged with Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Darrell W. Hopkins, 21, of Mary Esther, Florida, and Anthony M. Fannin and Katelin N. Kestner, both 20, of Fort Walton Beach, were arraigned this week in federal court after a grand jury returned an indictment charging them with federal firearms offenses. Hopkins was charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing an unregistered short-barreled weapon made from a shotgun. Fannin and Kestner were charged with making a false statement. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that Hopkins, as a convicted felon, possessed a firearm, which was also unregistered, and that Fannin and Kestner falsely stated that this firearm belonged to Kestner’s grandfather. The National Firearms Act (NFA) requires particular firearms, including machineguns, short barrel rifles, short barrel shotguns, and weapons made from rifles and shotguns, to be registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. In this case, the firearm is classified as a “weapon made from a shotgun” because it has a barrel length of less than 18 inches, an overall length of less than 26 inches, and is modified with a pistol grip, meaning it is no longer designed to be fired from the shoulder.
These cases resulted from investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Kim is prosecuting the case.
The trial is scheduled for February 6, 2017, at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Tallahassee Woman Sentenced to Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Lydia Jennine Thomas, 39, of Tallahassee, has been sentenced to 24 months and 1 day in prison for theft of public money and aggravated identity theft. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
During Thomas’s guilty plea on September 12, 2016, Thomas admitted that, between 2012 and 2014, she knowingly prepared and electronically filed fraudulent tax returns. The personal identifying information that Thomas used on the tax returns came from homeless people, inmates, and Thomas’s family members. The tax returns typically claimed false income that generated refunds of approximately $6,000. Thomas would establish recipient addresses, such as abandoned houses and rental properties, for the refunds to arrive in the form of treasury checks and debit cards.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Corey J. Smith.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Jackson County Loan Officer Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Kevin R. Griffin, 43, of Alford, Florida, pled guilty yesterday to bank fraud. The plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Griffin was employed as a loan officer for the Bank of Bonifay, which later became the First Federal Bank of Florida. Between 2010 and 2012, Griffin used his position as a loan officer to give customers loans that were not documented with the bank. These loans were funded by embezzling money from other customers’ bank accounts without authorization. Griffin obtained loans for customers using other customers’ bank assets as collateral, without permission, and forging loan documents. Griffin also embezzled money from bank customers for his own personal benefit.
Griffin faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. Sentencing for this case is currently set for March 2, 2017.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia Kim is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Former Bank Officers and Walton County Man Charged in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Anthony J. Atkins, 51, of Eufaula, Alabama, Samuel D. Cobb, 37, of Destin, Florida, and Bruce A. Houle, 57, of Inlet Beach, Florida, have been arraigned in court after a federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment charging them with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, false statements to a federally insured financial institution; bank fraud, and mail fraud affecting a financial institution. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges the following:
In 2008, Atkins, as the president of GulfSouth Private Bank, and Cobb, as a vice president of GulfSouth, devised a scheme to conceal that the bank had mortgage loans in default. As a part of the scheme, Atkins and Cobb solicited Houle, Mark W. Shoemaker, Michael Bradley Bowen, and William Blake Cody to take out loans in their names with the bank. To persuade Houle, Shoemaker, Bowen, and Cody to engage in the scheme, Atkins and Cobb told these individuals that the loans would be non-recourse, meaning that, if the men defaulted, GulfSouth would have no recourse against them.
Thereafter, Atkins and Cobb caused loans to be issued for approximately $3.8 million to the men they had solicited. As a part of the scheme, Atkins and Cobb caused U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Settlement Statement, Form HUD-1s (“HUD-1”) to be prepared in connection with the loans issued by GulfSouth to Houle, Shoemaker, Bowen, and Cody. The HUD-1s falsely stated that the men provided cash for their respective transactions, but the amounts listed as “cash from borrower” on the HUD-1s was actually money provided by GulfSouth. Further, according to the indictment, Atkins, Cobb, Houle, Shoemaker, Bowen, and Cody submitted fraudulent security agreements that falsely represented that Houle, Shoemaker, Bowen, and Cody were obligated to repay their respective loans. As a result of the scheme, it appeared that the loans were performing.
In September 2009, GulfSouth received $7,500,000 in Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) funds from the United States Treasury. Thereafter, Atkins and Cobb allowed the condominiums that were collateral for the mortgage loans to be sold in short sales, resulting in a loss to GulfSouth. Further, Atkins and Cobb allowed additional lines of credit that they caused to be issued to be charged off of GulfSouth Private Bank’s books and records.
This case resulted from a joint investigation by the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG). Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany H. Eggers is prosecuting the case. The trial is scheduled for February 6, 2017.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Alachua County Survey Company Owner Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Federal Financial Fraud CrimesRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Matthew G. Munksgard, 41, of Archer, Florida, was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for four counts of false statement to a federally insured institution and aggravated identity theft. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
At trial, the government presented evidence that Munksgard, as the owner of a land surveying company, requested and received four line-of-credit loans from Drummond Community Bank in amounts ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000. The loans were each secured with a survey contract as collateral, which provided for Munksgard to be paid after he completed survey work. Munksgard told the bank that he would repay the loans after he completed the survey work. When the loans became due, Munksgard informed the bank that his customers had not paid him yet because of project delays. He requested that the loan maturity dates be extended. After contacting two of Munksgard’s clients, the bank discovered that Munksgard did not have any contracts with them. Munksgard later admitted to the bank that the four contracts were fraudulent. Munksgard was convicted on September 15, 2016.
“Truthful loan applications are essential to the determination of credit worthiness in maintaining a sound banking industry,” said U.S. Attorney Canova. “Therefore, we will vigorously prosecute those who make false statements to obtain loans.”
“Financial fraud has the potential to cause immeasurable damage to our community,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “The FBI will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to identify, stop, and punish those who commit fraud schemes that impact our financial institutions.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Herbert S. Lindsey.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Washington County Man Charged with Federal Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Glenn D. Stewart, 37, of Vernon, Florida, has been arraigned in court after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with conspiracy and six counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that, on various dates this year, Stewart conspired with others to distribute the controlled substance methamphetamine and possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. Stewart is in custody, pending further proceedings.
This case resulted from a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Gary Milligan is prosecuting the case. The trial is scheduled for February 6, 2017, at 8:15 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Panama City.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Gulf Breeze Attorney Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud, Embezzlement, and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Richard Michael Colbert, 55, of Pensacola Beach, pled guilty last week to 13 felony counts, including one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and/or mail fraud affecting a financial institution, one count of false statement to a federally insured financial institution, nine counts of money laundering, and two counts of theft, embezzlement or misapplication by a person connected with a financial institution. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Colbert pled guilty surrounding conduct he committed while he was the manager of Beach Title Services, a subsidiary of Beach Community Bank. That is, Colbert participated in a scheme to defraud and obtain money and/or property by fraudulent means from the federally insured financial institutions Bank of America, Beach Community Bank, and, the now defunct, Premier Community Bank. As a part of the scheme, Colbert signed and submitted false HUD-1s to Bank of America and Beach Community Bank. Colbert also signed and submitted a false HUD-1 to the now defunct GulfSouth Private Bank so former builder Lawrence Wright could obtain a loan. Additionally, while acting as an escrow agent for Beach Community Bank, Colbert embezzled and misapplied funds being held at Beach Community Bank. Thereafter, Colbert conducted a series of financial transactions, thereby laundering the funds he had embezzled.
For each of the conspiracy, false statement, and theft/embezzlement/misapplication of funds charges, Colbert faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. For each of the money laundering charges, Colbert faces a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Colbert is scheduled to be sentenced on March 2, 2017, at the U.S. Courthouse in Pensacola.
The case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General, and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany H. Eggers.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Two Plead Guilty in Multimillion Dollar Internet Pharmacy CaseRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Edward Leonforte, 55, of Gainesville, and Larry Burstein, 69, of Alachua, Florida, have pled guilty in a multimillion dollar internet pharmacy case. On September 13, Leonforte pled guilty to conspiracy, distribution of the controlled substance codeine, and money laundering. Burstein pled guilty today to conspiracy. The guilty pleas were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Leonforte and Burstein operated multiple internet pharmacy websites from a Progress Park rental space in Alachua, Florida, and sold substantial quantities of prescription drugs without requiring customers to provide a prescription. Between 2013 and 2015 through freeworldpharmacy.com, Leonforte’s business sold more than $7.5 million in pharmaceuticals, including more than $385,000 in generic codeine in 2015 alone. On several occasions in 2012 and 2013, an undercover DEA law enforcement agent was able to order and receive hundreds of codeine pills from the freeworldpharmacy.com and medsindia.net websites without providing a prescription.
The defendants face a maximum of 20 years in prison. Leonforte’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 4, 2017, at 5:30 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville. Burstein’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 3, 2017, at 1:30 p.m.
This case resulted from a joint investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the Gainesville Police Department, the Alachua County Sheriff's Office, the Alachua Police Department, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Florida Department of Health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Jason S. Beaton is prosecuting the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Third Defendant Sentenced in Child Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Derek Lamar Reddick, 28, of Boynton Beach, Florida, was sentenced to 235 months in prison yesterday afternoon for sex trafficking of a minor and conspiracy to transport a minor for prostitution. After incarceration, Reddick will serve a 20-year term of supervised release and be required to register as a sex offender. In July 2015, Reddick’s co-conspirator Christine Thurman, 30, of Thomasville, Georgia, was sentenced to 126 months in prison for conspiracy and sex trafficking of a minor. In October 2016, co-conspirator Timothy Gosier, 28, of Thomasville, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for conspiracy and coercion to engage in prostitution. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In January 2014, an undercover investigator arranged to meet a girl featured in an online sex trafficking advertisement posted by the defendants. At the motel where the meeting was to take place, investigators observed Reddick and Thurman leave a room adjacent to the motel room where the girl had arranged to meet the undercover officer. A search of both rooms revealed evidence of prostitution; documentation that the rooms were registered to Reddick and Thurman; and personal belongings of the victim, Reddick, and Thurman. Investigators were later able to establish that Reddick was connected to prepaid debit cards that had been used to pay for the online advertisements and vehicle rentals to transport the victim for prostitution. Gosier was involved in transporting this victim on several occasions.
In May 2014, investigators discovered an online advertisement featuring another underage girl, which led them to the same motel where the previous victim had been found. Reddick was observed dropping off the victim at a motel room. Directly afterwards, a customer who had arranged to meet the victim entered the motel room. Investigators immediately went to the room and arrested the man. Reddick was arrested a short distance away.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Tallahassee Police Department, whose joint investigation led to the charges in this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.
“This case is an example of the positive impact local and federal law enforcement officers have when they join efforts to protect children from predators who would exploit them for personal, financial gain,” said United States Attorney Canova. “My office and the Department of Justice will continue to prioritize these cases, both in the investigative phase and during prosecution, as they are so profoundly important.”
“This is a horrific example that child sex trafficking exists even in the best of communities,” said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “This sentencing will stop this predator from harming any more young girls and will serve as a warning that HSI special agents will aggressively investigate crimes against our children.”
“Trafficking minors for sexual exploitation is a horrific crime, and one that the FBI remains dedicated to fighting,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “Offenders like the perpetrators in this investigation must know that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will stop at nothing, and use every resource available, to fight for the interests of our young people and bring justice to bear upon those seeking to exploit their vulnerabilities.”
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Ocala Sex Trafficker Sentenced to 20 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Corey Lawayne Mosley, 40, of Ocala, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for sex trafficking by coercion. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
During his guilty plea, Mosley admitted that, between September 2010 and March 2012, he was involved in a sex trafficking scheme using a woman who was addicted to cocaine. Mosley transported the victim to various locations within the Northern District of Florida, including hotels and area truck stops, for commercial sex. Mosley coerced the victim both with physical violence and nonphysical means. He also provided her with cocaine and then forced her to pay for it by performing sex acts for money. Mosley collected the proceeds from the victim’s commercial sexual activity.
“Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and tragically, it occurs in the Northern District of Florida, as well as throughout the nation,” said United States Attorney Canova. “This horrific crime is often hidden in plain sight because traffickers use coercion tactics to keep their victims silent. I am proud of the hard work of all those who are fighting human trafficking, including prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, local coalitions, and community members.”
“Sex trafficking is a violation of its victims’ civil rights, and infringes upon the protected liberties guaranteed to all Americans,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Jacksonville Division. “This type of illegal activity demonstrates a very real risk to our local communities, and stopping it remains one of the highest criminal investigative priorities for the FBI.”
“FDLE, along with our partners, will continue to aggressively investigate human trafficking cases,” said FDLE Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Dennis Bustle. “These crimes have devastating impacts on their victims, and we must remain vigilant to identify and investigate these criminals.”
This case resulted from investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Williams.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Online Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA –Robert M. Grafton Jr., 30, of Pensacola, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison and will be required to register as a sex offender. A jury convicted Grafton of attempted enticement of a minor for sex, and Grafton also pled guilty to possession of child pornography just prior to jury selection for the trial. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
At trial, the government presented evidence that, in May 2015, Grafton communicated online with an undercover law enforcement officer for the purpose of meeting a 12-year-old special needs child for sexual activity. Grafton was arrested when he arrived at the arranged meeting location in Pensacola. A search of his cellular telephone and digital media at his residence revealed numerous images and videos of child pornography. This included electronic folders in a hidden partition, which contained child pornography involving infants and toddlers.
“Tragically, the advantages of advanced technology also bring opportunities for child predators to contact and victimize the most vulnerable members of our communities,” said United States Attorney Canova. “Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to aggressively pursue and prosecute offenders who seek to harm children.”
“This predator attempted to target the most vulnerable in our society, a special needs child,” said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “The hard work of our HSI special agents and partners prevented him from harming a child, and our communities are safer with him behind bars.”
The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, Pensacola Police Department, Gulf Breeze Police Department, and other agencies that are part of the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Eight Sentenced in Interstate Human Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Eight defendants, all of whom resided illegally in the United States, have been sentenced in an interstate human trafficking case. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The defendants and sentences are:
- Edegardo Osorno Rodriguez, 38, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, 60 months in prison;
- Mauro Gonzalez-Lira, 25, McComb, Mississippi, 60 months in prison;
- Jose Juan Ruiz Prudencio, 41, Montgomery, Alabama, 48 months in prison;
- Romon Tobon, 46, Starkville, Mississippi, 42 months in prison;
- Antonio Flores-Esparza, 32, Pensacola, Florida, 24 months in prison;
- Jose Alvaro Trujillo-Santiz, 46, Panama City Beach, Florida, 18 months in prison;
- Emerson Corvera, 21, Montgomery, Alabama, 9 months in prison; and
- Rosa Mirtha Cruz Vidal, 35, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, 8.5 months in prison.
Between February and May 2016, seven defendants pled guilty to engaging in a conspiracy during 2014 and 2015, to transport, harbor, and market undocumented female immigrants for prostitution in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Thereafter, the defendants wired the prostitution proceeds outside the United States.
In addition to conspiracy, the following defendants also pled guilty to:
- Enticing individuals to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution
(Rodriguez, Flores-Esparza, Gonzalez-Lira, and Prudencio);
- Transporting individuals in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution
(Rodriguez, Flores-Esparza, Prudencio, Tobon, and Corvera); and
- Illegal entry by a deported alien (Tobon).
In May 2016, Cruz Vidal pled guilty to fraud and misuse of a falsely made permanent resident alien card.
Upon completion of their sentences, each defendant will be turned over to the Department of Homeland Security for deportation. Cruz Vidal has already been deported from the United States. Lazaro Juarez-Juarez, 34, of Atlanta, Georgia, who was also indicted in this case, has not been apprehended.
United States Attorney Canova stated, “Combatting human trafficking is a priority of the Department of Justice and my office, and the trafficking of women for commercial sex is a significant part of the human trafficking problem that our country faces. In this particular case, dozens of women were brought into the United States illegally and exploited by the defendants to engage in prostitution in several states for the defendants’ profit. This office will continue to partner with our federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and vigorously prosecute the trafficking of vulnerable victims for sex.”
“Human trafficking is a violation of its victims’ civil rights, and infringes upon the protected liberties guaranteed to all Americans,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Jacksonville Division. “This type of illegal activity demonstrates a very real risk to our local communities, and stopping it remains one of the highest criminal investigative priorities for the FBI.”
“Human trafficking is an abomination, and this criminal organization has devastated the lives of so many women,” said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “These sentencings are the result of the hard work of our special agents and show the importance HSI places on investigating human trafficking crimes.”
This case resulted from a 15-month investigation into human trafficking activities in the Northern District of Florida by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephen M. Kunz. It is a follow-up prosecution to a previous kidnapping case prosecuted in federal court in Panama City.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Northern Floridians May Report 2016 Election Violations to U.S. Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova will lead the efforts of the United States Attorney's Office, Northern District of Florida, in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2016, general elections. As the United States Attorney and District Election Officer, United States Attorney Canova is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters.
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact for the public to report election violations while the polls are open on Election Day. This program deters election fraud and discrimination by increasing the Department’s ability to prosecute these offenses when they occur.
United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova said, “The ability to exercise the right to vote is the centerpiece of American democracy. The Department of Justice will act aggressively to ensure that those who are entitled to vote may do so and that those who seek to corrupt the integrity of the process are brought to justice. It is imperative that anyone with specific information about voting abuses or election fraud share the information with my office, the FBI, or the Department of Justice, so that we may ensure an open and fair election process.”
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also protects voters from intimidation and harassment. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
To respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 8, 2016, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, District Election Officer Christopher P. Canova will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached at (850) 942-8430.
The FBI will also have Special Agents available in each field office and resident agency in the Northern District of Florida to receive and respond to allegations of election fraud, voter intimidation, voter suppression, and other election abuses. The FBI can be reached by the public at (904) 248-7000.
Complaints about possible violations of federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division's Voting Section in Washington at (800) 253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by e-mail to [email protected], or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php. The DOJ 2016 Election press release also contains additional information.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Milton Truck Driver Sentenced to 15 ½ Years for Federal Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Andre M. Straughn, 40, of Milton, Florida, was sentenced late yesterday to 15 ½ years in prison for receipt and transportation of child pornography, as well as making a false statement to a federal agent. After incarceration, Straughn will serve 10 years of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In July 2015, law enforcement agents became aware of online child pornography files that were linked to Straughn’s online activities. Law enforcement agents conducted an investigation and determined that Straughn was a truck driver who traveled to other states with his cellular device and laptop and used multiple electronic platforms to engage in online child pornography. After Straughn returned home from a trip, agents searched Straughn’s residence. Straughn told law enforcement agents that he did not have an online storage account, did not use the social media application Kik, and could not remember the password to his cellular telephone. A forensic review of Straughn’s electronic devices revealed that Straughn did maintain online storage accounts and a Kik account. In total, Straughn’s online storage account, laptop, and other electronic devices revealed more than 50,000 images and videos of child pornography, dating back approximately 10 years. Straughn pled guilty on June 2, 2016.
“Protecting our children from exploitation is a top priority of my office and the Department of Justice,” said United States Attorney Canova. “I commend the hard work of our prosecutors and law enforcement professionals who protect our communities and bring child predators to justice.”
“Our communities are safer today now that this criminal will spend the next 15 ½ years behind bars,” said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “HSI special agents will continue to relentlessly pursue those who want to do harm to our children.”
The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, Pensacola Police Department, and the other agencies in the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Tallahassee Man Convicted of Federal Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Ray Eugene Collins, 62, of Tallahassee, was convicted today of receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography. The verdict was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
At trial, the government presented evidence that, in January 2014, law enforcement officers identified a computer determined to belong to Collins that was sharing child pornography files through a peer-to-peer network. A forensic review of Collins’s laptop and external hard drive revealed that Collins had downloaded dozens of videos and images of child pornography between October 2013 and January 2014.
This case resulted from investigations by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason S. Beaton.
Collins faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of 20 years in prison. Collins’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 11, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Construction Company Partner Pleads Guilty to Evading Taxes on More Than $1 MillionRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA –Patrick Shawn Kelley, 54, of Panama City Beach, has pled guilty to two counts of tax evasion. The plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Between 2009 and 2011, Kelley was a partner in American Construction Logistics and Services (ACLS), a construction company that performed work for the U.S. Government in Afghanistan. During his guilty plea on October 14, Kelley admitted that he failed to file tax returns for the 2009, 2010, and 2011 tax years on income consisting of $1,167,025.32 in wages, ACLS funds used for personal expenditures, and cash wired to Kelley’s wife from ACLS employees. In total, Kelley never paid the IRS $210,397 in taxes due and owing for the unreported income.
During the years 2010 and 2011, in an effort to conceal his income from the IRS, and without the knowledge or consent of his business partners, Kelley made significant personal expenditures directly from the ACLS bank account. The expenditures included $320,550 for the purchase of his personal residence in Panama City Beach; $156,000 for an ownership interest in a motorcycle shop; $44,000 for the purchase of a boat; $10,393 for the purchase of a Jeep Wrangler; and a $9,500 loan to a friend. Kelley also diverted funds totaling $353,520.37 from the ACLS corporate bank account to his personal bank accounts, and directed Afghan employees to wire cash to his wife.
For each count of tax evasion, Kelley faces a maximum of five years in prison, a total fine of $250,000, and an order of restitution. Sentencing is scheduled for January 13, 2017, at 2:00 p.m., at the United States Courthouse in Panama City.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen M. Kunz is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Man Arrested on Federal Charges for Mailing Threats to Sheriff David MorganRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Regis L. Walker, 30, of Pensacola, has been arrested on a charge of mailing threatening communications. The criminal complaint was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
According to the criminal complaint affidavit, Walker mailed a threatening letter on notebook paper to Sheriff Morgan at the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The affidavit further alleges that Walker claimed several people who had joined ISIS would simultaneously attack military bases, beaches, and schools at a nonspecific time and could not be stopped by law enforcement. Walker appeared to sign the note as “ISIS ALLAH.”
The punishment for the crime alleged is a maximum of five years in prison. Walker will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals at the Santa Rosa County Jail pending further judicial proceedings. Future court appearances will take place in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola on a date to be determined.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Police and Prosecutors Join Students for a Day of LearningRead the Press Release
BLAST (Building Lasting Relationships Between Police and Community) Program Brings Law Enforcement and Youth Together
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – In recognition of National Community Policing Week (October 2-8, 2016), the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, together with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and Twin Oaks Juvenile Development, Inc., will present a BLAST Program event on Friday to 40 youth from the Juvenile Unit for Special Treatment, located in Wilma, Florida.
The BLAST Program offers students an opportunity to meet representatives of the criminal justice community and ask them questions, share their perceptions of law enforcement, and interact with officers in a familiar setting. Officers also provide students with their perspective on responding to dangerous or uncertain circumstances and the importance of remaining calm and following the officers’ directions in these situations.
Event: BLAST Program
Location: Veterans Memorial Civic Center
10405 NW Theo Jacobs Way
Bristol, FL 32321
Date: Friday, October 7, 2016
Press: A media availability will take place at 1:45 p.m. The youth discussion sessions are closed to the media and the public, and videography and photography of students is not permitted.The schedule will include the following discussion sessions, during which students will have a chance to participate in role play with law enforcement officers:
• Crime and Justice Overview: Students will learn about each phase of a federal criminal case, including investigation, prosecution, and sentencing.
• Domestic Violence: Students will participate in a scenario in which police respond to an injured victim. Discussion topics will include de-escalation in a stressful environment, rights of witnesses and suspects, and the benefits of providing information to
the police.
• Traffic Stop Simulation: Students will take turns playing the roles of civilians and officers in a traffic stop scenario in which some participants are compliant and some are argumentative. Discussion topics include vehicle searches based on probable
cause and the dangers faced by officers during a traffic stop.
• Use of Force: Facilitators and students will discuss when law enforcement officers may use force and an officer’s reaction time when confronted with a life-threatening situation.Participating agencies include:
• United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Liberty County Sheriff’s Office
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
• Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office
• Drug Enforcement AdministrationThe United States Attorney’s Office is expanding the BLAST program across the district, building on a successful event in Pensacola last month.
About National Community Policing Week:
Community policing is a public safety philosophy based on partnership and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities that they are sworn to protect. At the center of community policing is the idea that all members of the community, both officer and civilian, have a stake in the safety of their neighborhoods where they live and work.
In support of community policing efforts around the country, the United States Department of Justice will lead nearly 400 events, and President Obama will designate the week of Oct. 2-8, 2016, as National Community Policing Week. The week is also an extension of the Attorney General’s 12-city Community Policing Tour that highlighted collaborative programs and policing practices designed to advance public safety, strengthen police-community relations, and foster mutual trust and respect between law enforcement and citizens.
• 21st Century Policing Task Force report
• Attorney General’s Community Policing Op-EdThe United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Law Enforcement Officers and Federal Prosecutors Participate in "Coffee with Cop" EventRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – In recognition of National Community Policing Week (October 2-8, 2016) and the first national Coffee with a Cop Day, representatives of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, together with law enforcement officers across the district, will share a cup of coffee and conversations with members of their communities on Thursday, October 6, and Friday, October 7, 2016.
Community members will have a chance to discuss issues of concern with police and federal prosecutors in a familiar restaurant setting during the morning commute. This event is also an excellent opportunity to meet law enforcement officers and prosecutors who work and live in the community they serve.
PENSACOLA AREA
Date and Time: Thursday, October 6, 2016, 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Location: Starbucks at 346 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL
Participating Agencies:
- United States Attorney’s Office
United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova will participate in this event.
- Gulf Breeze Police Department
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Date and Time: October 7, 2016, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Location: Oscar’s Restaurant at 2805 W. Cervantes St, Pensacola, FL
Participating Agencies:
- Pensacola Police Department
- United States Attorney’s Office
TALLAHASSEE AREA
Date and Time: Friday, October 7, 2016, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Locations:
- Red Eye Coffee at 1122-7 Thomasville Rd., Tallahassee, FL
- Red Eye Coffee at 1184 Capital Circle, NE, Tallahassee, FL
Participating Agencies:
- United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida
- Leon County Sheriff’s Office
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
PANAMA CITY AREA
Location:
- McDonald’s at 3608 U.S. Highway 98, Panama City Beach, FL
Date and Time: Thursday, October 6, 2016, 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Participating Agencies:
- United States Attorney’s Office
- Panama City Police Department
- Homeland Security Investigations
GAINESVILLE AREA
Date and Time: Thursday, October 6, 2016, 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Location:
- McDonald’s at 1030 E University Avenue, Gainesville, FL
Participating Agencies:
- Alachua County Sheriff’s Office
- United States Attorney’s Office
- Gainesville Police Department
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Date and Time: Friday, October 7, 2016, 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Location:
- McDonald’s at 3826 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608
Participating Agencies:
- Alachua County Sheriff’s Office
- United States Attorney’s Office
- Gainesville Police Department
- Internal Revenue Service
Date and Time: Friday, October 7, 2016, 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Location:
- McDonald’s at 16018 NW US Hwy 441 in Alachua, FL
Participating Agencies:
- Alachua Police Department
- High Springs Police Department
- Alachua County Sheriff’s Office
- United States Attorney’s Office
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
About the "Coffee with a Cop" initiative:
The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) has partnered with the Hawthorne (California) Police Department to conduct the
first national Coffee with a Cop Day on October 7, 2016. Coffee with a Cop is an innovative program started by the Hawthorne Police Department in 2011 to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community. Today, more than 2,000 law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve have participated in this program, both throughout the United States and abroad.
For more information about the Coffee with a Cop program, please visit http://coffeewithacop.com/. For more information about the United States Department of Justice Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office), visit http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/about.
About National Community Policing Week:
Community policing is a public safety philosophy based on partnership and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities that they are sworn to protect. At the center of community policing is the idea that all members of the community, both officer and civilian, have a stake in the safety of their neighborhoods where they live and work.
In support of community policing efforts around the country, the United States Department of Justice will lead nearly 400 events, and President Obama will designate the week of Oct. 2-8, 2016, as National Community Policing Week. The week is also an extension of the Attorney General’s 12-city Community Policing Tour that highlighted collaborative programs and policing practices designed to advance public safety, strengthen police-community relations, and foster mutual trust and respect between law enforcement and citizens.
- 21st Century Policing Task Force report
- Attorney General’s Community Policing Op-Ed
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Okaloosa County Man Indicted for Locally Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Jack D. Messerschmidt, 36, of Laurel Hill, Florida, was arraigned today in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with the production and possession of child pornography. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that, between December 2015 and January 2016, Messerschmidt persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography. The indictment further alleges that, in September 2016, Messerschmidt possessed child pornography. The trial is scheduled for November 21, 2016, at 8:00 a.m.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, the Mount Dora Police Department, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Man Pleads Guilty to Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Robert Blake Jackson, 31, of Pensacola, pled guilty today to making materially false statements in a federal investigation. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In October 2014, Jackson’s Facebook profile contained comments, photos, and videos expressing support for extremist terrorist groups such as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS). In January 2015, a Pensacola telemarketing corporation reported they recently fired Jackson for viewing ISIL-related and other terrorist-related websites and videos on his work computer.
In June 2015, during an interview with the FBI, Jackson stated that he never posted any pro-ISIL or violent content and that he only used the internet at work to search news sites. At his plea hearing, Jackson admitted that these statements were false.
Jackson faces a maximum of five years in prison. Jackson is currently in federal custody at the Santa Rosa County Jail. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 12, 2016, at 12:30 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the other members of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case, with the assistance of David Cora of the National Security Division.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Attorney/CPA Indicted for Federal Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – James R.J. Scheltema, 56, of Pensacola, made an initial appearance today in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with filing false tax returns and tax evasion. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that Scheltema filed false tax returns, claiming a total tax of $18 for 2011 and $1,369 for 2012, when he knew his total tax exceeded that amount. The indictment further alleges that Scheltema attempted to evade paying tax on his taxable income of $598,291 for the calendar year 2013 by failing to file a timely income tax return and later filing a false tax return. The arraignment is scheduled for September 28, 2016, at 2:00 p.m.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Local Events Educate Students on Dangers of Opiate AbuseRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – As designated by Presidential proclamation, September 18 through 24 is National Prescription Opioid and Heroin Epidemic Awareness Week. In observance, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is participating in several events throughout October to educate students on the rising public health crisis of opiate abuse.
Recently, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) co-produced a 45-minute documentary titled Chasing the Dragon: The Life of an Opiate Addict. The film features several stark, first-hand accounts of the dangers of opiate addiction.
Beginning this week and continuing through October, the United States Attorney’s Office, the FBI, DEA, the United States Probation Office, and other agencies will host several screenings of Chasing the Dragon at local colleges to educate students on the dangers of opiate abuse and to discuss how the issue could impact their lives and future careers. Events took place this week at Florida State University, the University of West Florida, and Pensacola State College, with additional events to be announced as scheduled.
“The Northern District of Florida is joining United States Attorney’s Offices throughout the nation, as well as law enforcement, health professionals, and concerned citizens in our communities to bring awareness to this important issue,” said United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova. “The heroin and opioid epidemic requires a coordinated response to address prevention, drug enforcement, and treatment.”
In 2014, more than 27,000 lives were lost to heroin and opioids, and reports from the field indicate that this number has increased in 2015 and this year. During this week and beyond, Americans can learn more about the disease of addiction, join with community members to support evidence-based prevention and treatment programs, and stand with those who are suffering or recovering from a substance use disorder to let them know they are not alone.
As part of this initiative, more than 70 U.S. Attorneys around the country have already committed to doing more than 160 different events, and more than 90 events are planned at Bureau of Prison facilities.
For more information and resources about heroin and opioid awareness, visit www.justice.gov/opioidawareness. More information about Chasing the Dragon: The Life of an Opiate Addict can be found at the following link, including a free download of the film and teacher discussion guide: www.fbi.gov/chasingthedragon.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Police and Prosecutors Join Pensacola Students for Youth Dialogue EventRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida developed and presented the district’s first BLAST youth dialogue event on Tuesday in coordination with the Pensacola Police Department. The program offered local students an opportunity to meet law enforcement officers in their community and ask the officers questions, share their perceptions of law enforcement, and interact with the officers in a familiar setting. Officers also provided students with their perspective on responding to dangerous or uncertain circumstances and the importance of remaining calm and following the officers’ directions in these situations.
The event was held at Camelot Academy of Escambia County, a transitional school for 11 to 18-year-olds, who have been removed from a traditional school. Approximately 59 students from the school attended the event.
Participating agencies included:
-
United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida
-
Pensacola Police Department
-
Federal Bureau of Investigation
-
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
-
United States Probation Office
-
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
The schedule included the following breakout sessions, during which students had a chance to participate in role play with law enforcement officers:
-
Crime and Justice Overview: Students learned about each phase of a federal criminal case, including investigation, prosecution, and sentencing.
-
Domestic Violence: Students participated in a scenario in which police respond to an injured victim. Discussion topics included de-escalation in a stressful environment, rights of witnesses and suspects, and the benefits of providing information to the police.
-
Traffic Stop Simulation: Students took turns playing the roles of civilians and officers in a traffic stop scenario in which some participants were compliant and some were argumentative. Discussion topics included vehicle searches based on probable cause and the dangers faced by officers during a traffic stop.
-
Use of Force: Facilitators and students discussed when law enforcement officers may use force and an officer’s reaction time when confronted with a life-threatening situation.
After lunch, students heard two formerly incarcerated individuals speak about the consequences of criminal activity and the difficulties of living with a felony record. The day ended with a basketball game between officers and youth. The United States Attorney’s Office plans to expand the BLAST program across the district, which runs from Escambia to Alachua Counties.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Watch Video
-
Panama City Man Charged with Committing Federal Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – David Michael Hobby Rossner, 35, of Panama City, was arraigned today in the U.S. District Court in Panama City after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with production, receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that, in December 2015, Rossner persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography. The indictment further alleges that, during various dates in 2015 and 2016, Rossner received, distributed, and possessed child pornography. The trial is scheduled for November 21, 2016, at 8:15 a.m.
The case is being investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Thielemann.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Federal Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Daniel Leroy Ard, 33, a registered sex offender in Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced today to 180 months in federal prison, after pleading guilty in June 2016 to receipt of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
During an online investigation, federal agents discovered that on numerous occasions, between June 14, 2014, and May 26, 2015, Ard received or attempted to receive child pornography images and videos. A forensic review of Ard’s laptop computer and numerous hard drives recovered approximately 87 videos and 4,257 images containing child pornography.
The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pensacola Police Department, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 210 Months for Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Robert Lamar Gerald, 37, of Pensacola, was sentenced today to 210 months in federal prison, after pleading guilty in April 2016 to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In June 2015, an Escambia Country Sherriff’s Deputy on patrol stopped the vehicle Gerald was driving. After the stop, Gerald fled on foot and was apprehended after a brief chase. The search of his vehicle revealed a loaded 9 millimeter pistol.
The indictment lists 14 prior state felony convictions for Gerald. As a previously convicted felon, Gerald is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Because his prior criminal record includes several violent felonies and drug offenses, Gerald qualifies for enhanced sentencing as an Armed Career Criminal under federal law.
This case resulted from investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Gun Crime Response Team. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Milton Man Sentenced to 210 Months for Federal Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Winston D. Foster, 40, of Milton, was sentenced today to 210 months in federal prison, after pleading guilty in April 2016 to production and distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In January 2016, law enforcement agents became aware that Foster was communicating via Facebook with a 12-year-old child. These communications included Foster requesting the child perform and photograph sexually explicit acts and then send him the images. Foster also sent many sexually explicit images of himself to the child. In February 2016, a search warrant was executed at Foster’s residence, and agents seized his computers and cellular telephone. A forensic review of Foster’s electronic media revealed approximately 46 images of child pornography, of which approximately 33 were of the victim.
The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Local Woman Sentenced to Prison for Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Tanga J. Tarnower, 73, of Navarre, Florida, was sentenced yesterday to 12 months and 1 day in prison and ordered to pay $132,957.70 in restitution to the Social Security Administration after pleading guilty in April 2016 to theft of government money. The sentence was announced today by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Between approximately 1997 and 2014, Tarnower stole Social Security benefits that were being paid in the name of her deceased mother, whose benefits were directly deposited into a joint account they held. When the Social Security Administration was unable to contact Tarnower’s mother, Tarnower was asked to confirm whether her mother was still alive. Tarnower submitted a counterfeit death certificate fraudulently claiming her mother died in January 2014 to hide the fact she had taken and used her deceased mother’s benefits, when in fact, her mother had died in the mid-1990s.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Kim prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Pensacola Man Charged with Making False Statements in Investigation of ISIL-Related PostingsRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Robert Blake Jackson, 31, of Pensacola, made an initial appearance today in federal court after being arrested this morning on a charge of making materially false statements in a federal investigation. The criminal complaint was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
According to the criminal complaint affidavit, on several occasions in 2014 and 2015, Jackson made Facebook postings expressing support for extremist terrorist groups and stating a desire to assist the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS or ISIL). The affidavit also alleges that, in January 2015, a Pensacola telemarketing business reported it had fired Jackson for viewing ISIL and other terrorist-related websites and videos on his work computer. It is further alleged that, when FBI agents interviewed Jackson in June 2015, he denied all these activities.
The punishment for the crime alleged is a maximum of five years in prison. Jackson is currently in federal custody, being held at the Santa Rosa County Jail, pending further proceedings. Future court appearances will take place in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola on a date to be determined.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the other members of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Jewelry Thieves Convicted in $4 Million Armed, Multistate ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Yesterday evening, a federal jury convicted Lewis Jones III, 36, Larry Bernard Gilmore, 43, and Michael Bernard Gilmore, 46, all of Atlanta, GA, of conspiracy, interfering with commerce by robbery, and using a firearm during a crime of violence. Co-conspirator Abigail Lee Kemp, 25, of Smyrna, GA, pled guilty on July 11. The verdicts and guilty plea were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Between April 2015 and January 2016, the conspirators committed armed robberies of six jewelry stores in Panama City Beach, Florida; Woodstock and Dawsonville, Georgia; Bluffton, South Carolina; Sevierville, Tennessee; and Mebane, North Carolina. More than $4 million of jewelry was stolen during the time frame of the conspiracy.
After the April 2015 robbery, Jones and the Gilmores began training Kemp to rob the jewelry stores on her own. The training took place at the Gilmore's window tint shop in Atlanta, Georgia. Jones and the Gilmores reviewed jewelry store layouts with Kemp and taught her how to handle a gun, secure employees with zip ties, and what merchandise to steal. They also gave Kemp various code words, decided her clothes and disguises, and then purchased supplies for her. Jones and the Gilmores always selected the dates and locations of the jewelry stores to be robbed.
Thereafter, Kemp would enter an outlet mall jewelry store at approximately the same time of day, brandish a firearm, order the employees to the back of the store, and force them to lie face down while she zip tied their hands behind their backs. Hundreds of thousands of dollars-worth of jewelry was then removed from the jewelry display cases. Kemp would use an earpiece to communicate with her conspirators while Jones and the Gilmores conducted surveillance and security outside.
In December 2015, a jewelry store manager believed Kemp matched the description of the white female who was previously linked to the armed robberies of various jewelry stores in the southeast. The store manager requested that another employee contact the police. The conspirators decided to call off the robbery and left the store. Five days later, they robbed the Mebane, North Carolina, jewelry store.
For each of the conspiracy and robbery charges, the defendants face a maximum of 20 years in prison. For each of the firearm charges, the defendants face a consecutive term of imprisonment of at least seven years and up to life on the first conviction, and a consecutive term of imprisonment of at least 25 years and up to life on the second conviction. The sentencing hearings are scheduled for October 12, 2016, at 9:00 a.m. (Kemp) and 2:00 p.m. (Jones and the Gilmores) at the United States Courthouse in Panama City, Florida.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Panama City Beach Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Kathryn D. Risinger and Michael J. Frank are prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Employer Summit Educates Tallahassee on Benefits of Hiring Former InmatesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Tomorrow, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida and the Big Bend “A Fight to End Recidivism” (AFTER) Reentry Coalition are co-hosting the Big Bend Second Chance Employer Summit.
Event: Big Bend Second Chance Employer Summit
Location:
FSU Law School, Lecture Hall (Room 101)
425 W. Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Parking at Donald L. Tucker Civic CenterDate: Tuesday, July 26, 2016, 9:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Description: Turn someone’s life around with a second chance at a job. Learn about the benefits of hiring a formerly incarcerated individual from employers, law enforcement, and community partners.
Keynote Speaker: Former FSU Coach Bobby Bowden
Lunch: Provided at no cost.
RSVP: All participants, including media, should RSVP at https://usaoflntraining.org/employersummit if they wish to attend any portion of the event. The target audience is employers, human resource directors, nonprofit and faith-based organizations, and reentry providers. Available space for 200 participants to attend.
Press: A brief media availability will take place after the event concludes. Reporters are asked to set up camera equipment prior to the beginning of the event or during scheduled breaks.
This half-day summit will offer employers, human resource directors, nonprofit and faith-based organizations, and reentry providers an opportunity to learn from leaders who gave a previously incarcerated person a second chance. Former FSU Football Coach Bobby Bowden will give the keynote address, and two panels will discuss benefits and challenges of hiring formerly incarcerated individuals. Former inmates who now have successful careers will also share their reentry experiences.
“Nearly a quarter of Americans may face obstacles to achieving productive, law-abiding lives due to previous encounters with the criminal justice system,” said United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova. “The most important challenge for these individuals is finding a job. Employment helps reduce crime and makes neighborhoods across our district and nation better places to live.”
“We need to hear the voices of business leaders to address this economic and public safety challenge,” said Lauren Walker, Chair of the Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition. “To keep our economy growing, we need all hands on deck.”
The United States Attorney’s Office and the Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition thank the following organizations for their assistance in planning the employer summit:
-
Federal Bureau of Prisons
-
Florida Department of Corrections
-
Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
-
FSU Project on Accountable Justice
-
United States Probation Office
-
The Living Harvest
Reentry Resources
-
Attorney General Loretta Lynch’s message on National Reentry Week
-
Big Bend “A Fight to End Recidivism” (AFTER) Reentry Coalition
-
DOJ Roadmap to Reentry
-
Employer Tax Credit
-
Federal Bonding Program
-
Kearney Center Reentry Services
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]-
Family Members Convicted of $1.2 Million Tax Refund Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – After a six-day trial, a federal jury convicted Jennifer Maldonado, 29, and her father Jorge Maldonado, 52, both of Oviedo, Florida, of conspiracy, wire fraud, theft of government property, and aggravated identity theft. Co-conspirators Sharon Glover and Diane White, both 54 of Sanford, Florida, pled guilty in February 2016 to conspiracy, theft of government property, and aggravated identity theft. The verdicts and guilty pleas were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
At trial, the government presented evidence that, between 2009 and 2011, Jorge Maldonado and his daughter Jennifer, who were both tax preparers, conspired with Glover and White to obtain more than $1.2 million in income tax refunds issued on fraudulent tax returns. The Maldonados filed returns that generated refunds. Glover and White cashed refund checks issued as a result of the fraudulent returns at a Tallahassee supermarket. They deposited cash proceeds of the checks into the Maldonados’ bank accounts or delivered the cash to the Maldonados. Glover and White cashed 505 checks by using fraudulent powers of attorney, approximately 16 different forged notary seals, and forged taxpayer signatures.
The defendants face a maximum of 20 years in prison for conspiracy and wire fraud, and a maximum of 10 years in prison for theft of government property. The defendants also face a mandatory term of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft, which must be served consecutively to any penalty they receive on the other counts.
The sentencing hearings are scheduled as follows at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee:
-
Jorge Maldonado: October 5, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.;
-
Jennifer Maldonado: October 5, 2016, at 2:30 p.m.;
-
Sharon Glover: August 4, 2016, at 10:30 a.m.; and
-
Diane White: September 16, 2016, at 2:30 p.m.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Herbert S. Lindsey and Gary K. Milligan are prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]-
Hurlburt Field Intelligence Squadron Member Sentenced to 5 Years for Committing Federal Child Pornography Crimes on BaseRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Douglas J. Plate, 53, of Navarre, Florida, a federal employee at Hurlburt Field, was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for receipt, possession, and access with intent to view child pornography. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
In December 2015, the United States Air Force determined that Plate, who worked in a sensitive facility with a top secret security clearance, was searching for pornography online at his work station and residence. A forensic review of his work and laptop computers revealed a significant amount of accessed pornography, including sexualized images of minor females. Additionally, Plate admitted to using foreign language search terms to avoid detection.
“I commend the diligent work of our hard working prosecutors and law enforcement professionals to bring to justice those who abuse their positions of trust,” said United States Attorney Canova. “Serving as a representative of the U.S. government carries a high responsibility of setting an ethical example, and no one is above the law.”
“This case is particularly disturbing because a government employee violated the trust of the United States in one of the most heinous ways imaginable,” said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “Thanks to our HSI special agents’ partnership with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, an individual who was jeopardizing our Nation’s security and trust is now facing justice.”
The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Destin Business Entrepreneur Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for 7 Years of Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Trenton S. Sommerville, 48, of Destin, Florida, was sentenced Friday afternoon to 51 months in prison for wire fraud and tax evasion. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
During his guilty plea in January 2016, Sommerville admitted that he obtained funds from investors for ventures he controlled, including that of an insurance provider and companies involved in gambling initiatives in the Caribbean. At Sommerville’s direction, investors wired funds or sent checks to Sommerville’s bank accounts in Destin, Florida, held in the names of these companies.
Sommerville concealed from investors that he would take a salary and pay for personal expenses with investment funds. He also did not invest any of his own capital in his ventures. As a result, between January 2011 and December 2014, Sommerville embezzled investment funds by making personal expenditures directly from corporate accounts, transferring investment funds to his personal account, and writing corporate checks to a family member. In addition, when certain investors asked to have their investments refunded, Sommerville used investment funds from other investors to pay refunds.
As of May 2012, Sommerville owed approximately $549,789.56 in taxes to the Internal Revenue Service for the tax years 2004 through 2010. He tried to evade paying taxes by concealing income and assets from the IRS through the use of nominee names and accounts, by using a cashier’s check to pay off the mortgage on his residence, and by selling his personal shares and instructing the buyer to wire the money into another bank account. Sommerville failed to file federal income tax returns for the tax years 2011 through 2013, despite earning approximately $585,214 in income and owing approximately $103,279 in taxes for those years.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Financial Intelligence Unit of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Kim prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Nine Defendants Sentenced in $11.1 Million Tax Refund and Food Stamp Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Nine defendants have been sentenced for conspiracy, theft of government funds, and aggravated identity theft. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The defendants and sentences are:
-
John Walter Simmons, 35, Tampa, Florida, 168 months in prison;
-
Daria Patrice Simmons, 34, Tampa, Florida, 65 months in prison;
-
Jazzman Shabazz Simmons, 27, Tallahassee, Florida, 65 months in prison;
-
Anre’ Juardon Davis, 34, St. Petersburg, Florida, 36 months in prison;
-
Rashard LaVonta McMillian, 27, Quincy, Florida, 36 months in prison;
-
Ronald Edward Brown, 28, Quincy, Florida, 30 months in prison;
-
Addrain Montez McMillan, 30, Overland Park, Kansas, 18 months in prison;
-
Ja’baree Vazquez Allen, 27, Tallahassee, Florida, 3 years of probation, 600 hours community service;
-
Mercedes Shevon Sutton, 25, Tampa, Florida, 3 years of probation, 300 hours of community service; and
-
Jasmine Junae Robinson, 26, Tallahassee, Florida, sentencing hearing scheduled for August 19, 2016.
During their guilty pleas in February 2016, the defendants admitted that they conspired to file fraudulent income tax returns using stolen personal identifying information (PII) from approximately 2,800 individuals. The PII sources included an insurance provider, an online database, and an area hospital. The stolen PII was used to file 1,466 fraudulent income tax returns, claiming refunds of approximately $11.1 million and resulting in $2,695,253 being issued by the IRS. During their pleas, Sutton, John Simmons, and Jazzman Simmons also acknowledged their involvement in a scheme to file fraudulent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications. Between August 2013 and January 2014, stolen PII was used to electronically submit 165 fraudulent food stamp applications, seeking $176,704 in benefits.
“These conspirators stole the personal information of thousands of real victims and used their identities to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars from government programs and lawful taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher P. Canova. “I commend our law enforcement partners for their hard work investigating this case.
“This case is a good example of the continuing efforts of IRS Criminal Investigation and our local law enforcement partners working in concert to combat identity theft,” said Kimberly A. Lappin, Special Agent in Charge of the Tampa Field Office for IRS Criminal Investigation. “This crime can make honest taxpayers face a more difficult time obtaining their lawful refund or bring more pain to the families whose deceased relative was also a victim. This sentence demonstrates that criminals will have a price to pay for their roles in perpetrating these crimes.”
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Tallahassee Police Department, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jason R. Coody prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]-
Gainesville Defendant Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Child Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Tawanda LaKaye Burkett, 40, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for sex trafficking of a minor. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
At Burkett’s trial, which concluded on January 28, 2016, the government presented evidence that in August 2014, Burkett, Black, and Carter, all of Gainesville, Florida, were involved in a scheme to make money using a 15-year-old girl to perform sex acts. The defendants posted the victim’s photo in an online advertisement on a website section for “escort services.” The true purpose of the advertisement was to offer the victim for commercial sexual activity. The defendants also provided the victim with a cellular telephone so that “clients” could contact her. When the “clients” responded to the advertisements, Burkett, Black, and Carter transported the victim to private residences and hotels for sexual activity. The defendants shared the proceeds of the victim’s commercial sex acts.
Codefendant Hal Bernard Black, 21, was sentenced on January 25, 2016, to 135 months in prison, and Codefendant Ranell Carter Jr., 25, is scheduled to be sentenced on July 25, 2016, at 3:30 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville.
This case resulted from investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Gainesville Police Department, and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Williams.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]Tallahassee Man Convicted of Receiving Illegal Drugs from OverseasRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Yesterday afternoon, a federal jury convicted Robert E. Youman, 32, of Tallahassee, of possession with intent to distribute the controlled substance alpha-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (“alpha-PVP”). The verdict was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
At trial, the government presented evidence that, on July 9, 2015, an undercover Homeland Security Investigations agent posing as a delivery man delivered a package to Youman containing five kilograms of alpha-PVP that had been mailed from China to a “Jeffrey Davenport” at Youman’s address in Tallahassee. Youman told the undercover agent that he was “Jeffrey” and signed “Jeffrey Davenport” to receive the package. A short time later, Youman left his residence with the package. Law enforcement officers stopped Youman’s vehicle and arrested him. A search of Youman’s home revealed scales, additional alpha-PVP, and drug packaging materials.
Youman faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 26, 2016, at 9:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee.
The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Tallahassee Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Harwin.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]