Northern District of Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, and AMIkids Tallahassee and Gadsden, will present a BLAST Program event on Friday to approximately 40 students.

 

Event: BLAST Program

Location:

AMIkids Tallahassee

2514 W. Tharpe St.

Tallahassee, FL 32303

Date: Friday, June 16, 2017

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. EDT

Press: Please RSVP to Amy Alexander at [email protected] if you plan to attend.

 

United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova said: “The BLAST initiative was created by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to provide a forum to exchange information about officer risks and citizen viewpoints. Sharing these perspectives encourages safe interactions between citizens and officers to improve our community.”

 

Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil said, “We are excited and proud to be a partner in this event to engage our young people and work with our community members.”

 

AMIkids Inc. representatives said: “This is an important priority for AMIkids and our partners in law enforcement as it is critical to our service of building and maintaining healthy, safe communities.”

 

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.

 

The schedule will include the following discussion sessions, during which students will have a chance to participate in role play with law enforcement officers.

 

• Criminal Justice Overview: Students will learn about each phase of a federal criminal case, including investigation, prosecution, and sentencing.

  This session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• Domestic Violence: Students will participate in a scenario in which police respond to a domestic disturbance. Discussion includes the challenges officers face, rights of witnesses and suspects, and benefits of providing information to the police.

  This session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• Traffic Stop Simulation: Participants and officers alternate playing the roles of civilians and officers in a traffic stop. Discussion includes de-escalation and the uncertainty officers and vehicle occupants face during a traffic stop.
  This session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.
   

• 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.

  This session is closed to the media and public. Reporters may try the simulator equipment after the event ends.

 

Participating agencies include:

• United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida

• Leon County Sheriff’s Office

• AMIkids Tallahassee

• AMIkids Gadsden

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

• IRS-Criminal Investigation

• U.S. Postal Inspection Service

• Florida Highway Patrol

• FAMU Police Department

 

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.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Danny Ray Murphy, 37, of Milton, was convicted today in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola of all counts, which charged conspiracy, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography involving a minor under age 12. The verdict was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

During the three-day trial, the jury reviewed three months of online communications between Murphy and a conspirator, including images and a video of sex acts involving a three-year-old, evidence linking the online activity to Murphy, and forensic evidence from his cellular telephone regarding sexually assaulting the three-year-old.

 

For the conspiracy and receipt charges, Murphy faces a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years in prison. For the possession charge, Murphy faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 31, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola

 

The case is being investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, the State Attorney’s Office for the 1st Judicial Circuit, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case is being 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.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Benjamin Guerrero-Lantz, 21, of Destin, was sentenced yesterday to 65 months in prison. In March, he pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering. Co-defendant Andres A. Barrios, 27, also of Destin, was sentenced on May 18, 2017, to 120 months in prison. In March, he pled guilty to both conspiracy charges and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

Barrios and Guerrero-Lantz were funneling proceeds of a California-based drug trafficking operation through at least eight bank accounts containing more than $350,000, and illicitly obtained dozens of $500 money orders and multiple vehicles under nominee names.

 

In July 2016, law enforcement officers searched Guerrero-Lantz’s condominium after receiving complaints about the smell of marijuana. They found $17,000 in cash, handwritten ledgers recording drug debts, marijuana, vacuum-sealed bags, money order receipts, and vehicle titles. Guerrero-Lantz’s vehicle contained additional money order receipts and a bank transaction receipt for $9,000.

 

In December 2016, Guerrero-Lantz and others were stopped in Jackson, Mississippi, with more than $10,000 in cash, bank deposit slips, money orders, and cellular telephones. Law enforcement searched a Destin residence where they found Barrios. Inside, they found 13 one-pound bags of marijuana, more than $10,000 in cash, and other evidence of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Barrios also possessed a firearm and body armor.

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Pensacola Police Department; and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. 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.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Heinrich “Henry” Springer, of Anchorage, Alaska, has pled guilty to conspiracy to smuggle wildlife and other protected species, transporting wildlife in violation of foreign law, and concealing illegally imported merchandise. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

Between May 2010 and October 2014, Springer and Anthony Gilyard, of Williston, Florida, conspired to smuggle and trade in endangered, protected, and threatened birds, in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Over the years, Springer collected more than 5,000 bird specimens through hunting, purchase, and trade. He traveled internationally to obtain them, acquiring birds from Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Africa, Australia, Siberia, and South America.

 

Springer and Gilyard were taxidermists with an in-depth knowledge of domestic and international wildlife laws. Gilyard unlawfully acquired the birds from foreign sellers and traders, and Springer then smuggled the birds into the United States.

 

For the conspiracy charge, Springer faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. For the wildlife transportation charge, he faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $20,000 fine. For the smuggling charge, he faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Springer is scheduled to be sentenced on August 28, 2017, at 2:00 p.m.

 

The case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory P. McMahon.

 

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.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Silvano Zaragoza-Ambriz, 31, of McAllen, Texas, was sentenced today to 353 months in prison after pleading guilty in August 2016 to armed drug trafficking and conspiracy to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Co-defendant Kyle James Corbi, 32, of Milton, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy and was sentenced in October 2016 to 180 months in prison. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In 2014, law enforcement officers discovered 19 firearms, a grenade, and 8 kilograms of methamphetamine on the Texas/Mexico border. One of these firearms was connected with Corbi in Milton, Florida. In May 2016, agents arrested Zaragoza-Ambriz in Texas, and a search of his residence revealed approximately 45 kilograms of cocaine. Officers determined that Zaragoza-Ambriz had been providing Corbi with large quantities of heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine, and that Corbi had paid for the illegal drugs with firearms.

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Edwin F. Knight prosecuted 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.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – After a two-day trial, Teona N. Rodgers, 27, of Tampa, was convicted yesterday of theft of government funds, possession of 15 or more unauthorized access devices, use of unauthorized access devices, aggravated identity theft, and false claims. The verdict was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

While on a track and field scholarship at Florida State University, Rodgers participated in a scheme to file fraudulent income tax returns during the 2011 and 2012 tax years by using other people’s personal information. The scheme was discovered in November 2013, when two notebooks and 12 debit cards in other people’s names were discovered in the Tallahassee apartment Rodgers had recently vacated.

 

The notebooks contained handwritten names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, tax refund amounts, account numbers, and other data of more than 150 individuals. The notebooks also included notations such as “rejected” and “filed,” and detailed instructions to file a return reporting $47,196 of interest income. This amount was used on multiple tax returns in this scheme (including Rodgers’s own 2011 and 2012 returns). Investigators determined that the returns had been filed from IP addresses linked to Rodgers and that the false returns had funded the debit cards. Rodgers used these debit cards to make purchases. In total, the information contained in the notebooks was used to file 64 fraudulent tax returns, seeking $465,948 in refunds.

 

The sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 4, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee. Rodgers faces a maximum of 15 years in prison on the use of unauthorized access devices count, 10 years in prison on the theft of government funds and possession of unauthorized access devices counts, 5 years in prison on the false claims count, and a consecutive 2 year sentence on the aggravated identity theft.

 

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 and the Tallahassee Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Gary Milligan 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.

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Veronica Dale Hahn, 60, of Bonifay, Florida, was sentenced yesterday to 9 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $394,800.85 in restitution, after pleading guilty to theft of government funds on the second day of her trial in January. The sentence 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 driver’s licenses 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 these activities required normal eyesight to perform her duties.

 

United States Attorney Canova said: “Instead of providing benefits and assistance to worthy veterans who are justifiably in need, significant resources from the Department of Veteran’s Affairs were diverted to uncover an extensive and persistent fraud by Ms. Hahn, who repeatedly gave dishonest information and collected hundreds of thousands of dollars to which she was not entitled. This case sends the message that you cannot make false disability claims and just walk away from such a crime.”

 

Special Agent in Charge Monty Stokes, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General – Southeast Field Office, said that this sentencing was the result of a successful multi-year investigation. “VA Disability Compensation Benefits are intended to provide for veterans with injuries or diseases related to their military service. Because of the successful investigative and prosecutive efforts of the VA OIG and the U.S. Attorney's Office, Veronica Hahn’s greed and deception will not go unchecked.”

 

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

[email protected]

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA –Patrick Shawn Kelley, 55, of Panama City Beach, was sentenced yesterday to 15 months in prison and $210,397 in restitution to the IRS, after pleading guilty to tax evasion in October 2016. The sentence 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. 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.

 

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 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

[email protected]

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Roosevelt Williams Jr., 25, of Miami, Florida, has been sentenced to 60 months in federal prison after pleading guilty in December 2016 for crimes arising from the filing of fraudulent federal income tax returns. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

Consecutive sentences were imposed of 36 months in custody on each of 12 counts of fraudulently taking federal funds and 24 months for using the identities of other persons in the scheme. Williams was also ordered to pay $207,882 in restitution.

 

Evidence presented in court reflected that in October 2011, Williams was caught on FSU’s campus with 14 debit cards in other people’s names. In July 2013, he was caught with 18 additional debit cards issued to people other than himself, as well as a loaded pistol and $14,300 in cash near the Atlanta airport. He was stopped in Atlanta for driving more than 30 mph above the speed limit. Each of the debit cards reflected a fraudulent attempt to obtain a tax refund based upon another person’s identity. A laptop computer and documents seized in Atlanta contained more than 100 stolen identities, as well as numerous visits to tax return filing websites and to websites where details of identity could be verified.

 

U.S. Attorney Canova applauded the investigative agencies whose joint efforts led to this successful prosecution, including the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the Florida State University Police Department, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office (Georgia). Mr. Canova noted that this was a timely reminder of the importance of filing accurate and honest income tax returns, and that efforts to steal federal funds have serious consequences. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Michael T. Simpson.

 

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

[email protected]

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Torry Williams, 23, of Tampa, was arraigned yesterday in the U.S. District Court in Tallahassee after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with theft of government funds and aggravated identity theft. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

The indictment alleges that, between November 2012 and June 2013, Williams unlawfully used the personal identifying information of multiple individuals to obtain approximately $149,847 in funds stolen from the Internal Revenue Service.

 

The trial is scheduled for June 12 at 8:15 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee.

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Harwin 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

[email protected]

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Antonio Fuguet, 36, of Tallahassee, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for receipt of child pornography, after pleading guilty on January 5. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In October 2015, law enforcement officers discovered child pornography files online through a peer-to-peer network that were traced to Fuguet’s residence. A forensic examination of Fuguet’s laptop computers revealed child pornography videos and more than 230 images, many of which involved children under the age of 12.

 

U.S. Attorney Canova said: “Protecting our children from exploitation is a top priority of my office and the Department of Justice. I commend the hard work of our prosecutors and law enforcement professionals who protect our communities and bring child predators to justice.”

 

“These children are re-victimized every time one of these horrendous images is shared over the Internet, and now this criminal will be held accountable,” said Susan L. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Tampa. “This sentencing, and the hard work of our HSI special agents with our Leon County Sheriff’s Office partners, has made our communities safer today.”

 

The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Milligan.

 

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

[email protected]

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Awald Edward Pokrant Jr., 50, of Pensacola, has been sentenced to 86 months in prison after pleading guilty on January 24, 2017, to unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing an unregistered firearm. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In October 2016, law enforcement officers who responded to an armed disturbance observed Pokrant fleeing the scene. After a high-speed chase, the officers pulled Pokrant over and transported him back to the location of the incident. At the scene, an injured and bleeding victim told officers that Pokrant had struck her with a hammer. Law enforcement officers observed blood splatter in several locations in the house and recovered a hammer. A search of the house revealed firearms and ammunition. The victim later told officers that Pokrant might have moved additional firearms to a friend’s house. Law enforcement officers recovered eight firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition from this other location.

 

This case resulted from investigations by the ATF Gun Crime Response Team, which includes the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pensacola Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James M. Ustynoski.

 

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

[email protected]

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Belinda Gail Sheppard-Lewis, 59, of Gainesville, was arraigned today in the U.S. District Court in Gainesville after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging her with filing a false tax return (four counts), wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

The indictment alleges that Sheppard-Lewis, an owner of a tax preparation business, filed false personal individual income tax returns for 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014, and under reported her income and tax liability. The indictment also alleges that Sheppard-Lewis fraudulently used another person’s social security number to claim the person as a dependent.

 

Sheppard-Lewis was released, pending trial. The trial is scheduled for May 23 at 8:30 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville.

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jason S. Beaton 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

[email protected]

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Thomas E. Matassa, 24, of Gulf Breeze, pled guilty today to receipt of child pornography. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In February 2016, a detective interviewed Matassa, who admitted to downloading child pornography online. A forensic examination of Matassa’s laptop revealed approximately 200 images of child pornography and more than 30,000 chat messages with underage males to exchange videos and images of child sexual acts. The defendant is detained, pending sentencing.

 

Matassa faces a maximum of 20 years and a minimum of 5 years in prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 29 at 1:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola.

 

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case is being 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

[email protected]

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jorge Maldonado, 52, of Oviedo, Florida, has been sentenced to 84 months in prison and ordered to pay $1,203,073 in restitution for conspiracy, wire fraud, theft of government property, and aggravated identity theft. His three tax fraud conspirators are scheduled to be sentenced later this month. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

The co-defendants are:

 

• Jennifer Maldonado, 29, of Oviedo, sentencing set for April 19 at 10:00 a.m.;

• Sharon Glover, 55, of Sanford, Florida, sentencing set for April 20 at 2:00 p.m.; and

• Diane White, 54, of Sanford, sentencing set for April 20 at 10:00 a.m.

 

In July 2016, a federal jury convicted the Maldonados of conspiracy, wire fraud, theft of government property, and aggravated identity theft. Co-conspirators Glover and White pled guilty in February 2016 to conspiracy, theft of government property, and aggravated identity theft.

 

During the six-day 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 fraudulent returns that generated refunds. Glover and White cashed refund checks issued as a result of the fraudulent returns. 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.

 

United States Attorney Canova said: “When fraudsters submit fraudulent tax returns, they are actually stealing from the millions of honest taxpayers who fulfilled their tax obligations accurately and on time. My office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners, such as the Internal Revenue Service, to ensure that tax dollars are used for their intended purpose.”

 

IRS-Criminal Investigation Tampa Special Agent in Charge Mary Hammond said: “When Jorge and Jennifer Maldonado used their tax return preparation service to steal client identities and make a fast buck for themselves and their co-conspirators, they underestimated the special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation. IRS-CI works diligently to protect the American tax system and root out criminals who prey on unsuspecting taxpayers. ”

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Herbert S. Lindsey and Gary K. Milligan 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

[email protected]

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Curtis Kennedy Williams, 31, of Gainesville, has been sentenced to 43 years and 9 months in federal prison for kidnapping, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Williams was convicted on July 27, 2016, following a jury trial. Co-defendant Shakayla Nicole Taylor, 22, of Harvey, Louisiana, was sentenced in September 2016 to 72 months in prison after pleading guilty to kidnapping. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In October 2015, Williams and Taylor kidnapped a young woman in Gainesville by forcing her into a car and holding her at gunpoint. Taylor then drove them to her Louisiana residence. During the trip, Williams raped and beat the victim, and fired the gun into the backseat of the car. Williams and Taylor were arrested at an apartment complex in Louisiana where the victim was also rescued.

 

U.S. Attorney Canova said: “Combatting violent crime is a top priority for my office, the Department of Justice, and our many federal, state, and local law enforcement partners who tirelessly work to keep our communities safe. While a prison sentence cannot reverse the unspeakable trauma inflicted on the victim, it sends a strong message that those who commit brutal crimes and put other people’s lives in danger face serious consequences under the law.”

 

Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville division, said:“The FBI is committed to thoroughly investigating violent crimes of this nature, and we will continue to work with our local and state law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable and ensure justice for their victims.”

 

Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell said: “Violent crime will not be tolerated in Alachua County. This case shows the complete cooperation within the law enforcement community to bring justice to violent criminals.”

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in Louisiana. Assistant United States Attorney Frank T. Williams 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

[email protected]

BLAST (Building Lasting Relationships Between Police and Community) Program

Brings Law Enforcement and Communities Together

 

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, together with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and Madison County High School, will present a BLAST Program event on Monday to approximately 50 students.

 

Event: BLAST Program

Location: Madison County High School

2649 US 90 West
Madison, FL 32340

Date: Monday, April 3, 2017

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. EST
Press: Please RSVP to Amy Alexander at [email protected] if you plan to attend.

 

United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova said: “The BLAST initiative was created by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to provide a forum to exchange information about officer risks and citizen viewpoints. Sharing these perspectives encourages safe interactions between citizens and officers to improve our community.”

 

Madison County Sheriff Benjamin Stewart said: “The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is committed to building relationships with other law enforcement agencies and with citizens to protect and serve our community. I commend the continued hard work of our law enforcement professionals in accomplishing this mission.”

 

Dr. Karen Pickles, Madison County Superintendent of Schools, said: “I am excited to welcome the various federal, state, and local agencies participating in the BLAST event at Madison County High School. Our law enforcement play a crucial part in our society today. It is important to showcase their skills, provide an understanding, and promote awareness to youth and the community. This event is only a small step in addressing safety in a variety of situations students may experience and a way to promote law enforcement officers in a positive manner and as a safe haven.”

 

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.
 

The schedule will include the following discussion sessions, during which students will have a chance to participate in role play with law enforcement officers.

 

• Criminal Justice Overview: Students will learn about each phase of a federal criminal case, including investigation, prosecution, and sentencing.

  This session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• Domestic Violence: Students will participate in a scenario in which police respond to a domestic disturbance. Discussion includes the challenges officers face, rights of witnesses and suspects, and benefits of providing information to the police.

  This session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• Traffic Stop Simulation: Participants and officers alternate playing the roles of civilians and officers in a traffic stop. Discussion includes de-escalation and the uncertainty officers and vehicle occupants face during a traffic stop.
  This session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.
   

• 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.

  This session is closed to the media and public. Reporters may try the simulator equipment after the event ends.

 

Participating agencies include:

• United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida

• Madison County Sheriff’s Office

• Madison County High School

• Federal Bureau of Investigation

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

• Drug Enforcement Administration

• FAMU Police Department

 

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, FLORIDA – Timothy James Nelson, 36, of Navarre, Florida, has 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.

 

Documents introduced at the time of the guilty plea reflect that, between July 1, 2015, and April 1, 2016, Nelson submitted false travel expense claims for hotel stays to steal $29,650 from the U.S. Department of State. Nelson did so while working as a contractor in Jerusalem for a security company installing and repairing communication equipment in vehicles operated by employees of the U.S. Department of State.

 

Nelson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 16 at 1:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola.

 

The case was investigated by special agents from the United States Department of State’s Office of Inspector General (DOS-OIG), Steve A. Linick inspector general. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Ryan Love.

 

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]

BLAST (Building Lasting Relationships Between Police and Community) Program

Brings Law Enforcement and Communities Together

 

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, together with the Pensacola Police Department and AMIkids, will present a BLAST Program event tomorrow to approximately 50 youth from the AMIkids Pensacola and Emerald Coast programs.

 

Event: BLAST Program

Location: AMIkids Pensacola

3685 Muldoon Road
Pensacola, FL 32526

Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. CST
Press: A media availability will take place at 12:50 p.m. CST.
Please RSVP to Amy Alexander at [email protected] if you plan to attend.

 

United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova: “The BLAST initiative was created by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to provide a forum to exchange information about officer risks and citizen viewpoints. Sharing these perspectives encourages safe interactions between citizens and officers to improve our community.”

 

Pensacola Police Chief David Alexander III said: “We must continue to work hard at building trusting relationships between citizens and law enforcement to protect the community from crime and disorder. This effort includes our youth.”

 

AMIkids Inc. representatives said: “#BreakingBarriers is an important priority for AMIkids and our partners in law enforcement as it is critical to our service of building and maintaining healthy, safe communities.”

 

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.

 

The schedule will include the following discussion sessions, during which students will have a chance to participate in role play with law enforcement officers:

 

• Criminal Justice Overview: Students will learn about each phase of a federal criminal case, including investigation, prosecution, and sentencing.

  Session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• Domestic Violence: Students will participate in a scenario in which police respond to a domestic disturbance. Discussion includes the challenges officers face, rights of witnesses and suspects, and benefits of providing information to the police.

  Session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• Traffic Stop Simulation: Participants and officers alternate playing the roles of civilians and officers in a traffic stop. Discussion includes de-escalation and the uncertainty officers and vehicle occupants face during a traffic stop.

  Session is open to the media and public, and videography and photography is permitted.

• 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.

  This session is closed to the media and public. Reporters may try the simulator equipment after the event ends.

 

Participating agencies include:

• United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida

• Pensacola Police Department

• AMIkids Pensacola

• AMIkids Emerald Coast

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

• Drug Enforcement Administration

• United States Probation Office

• Homeland Security Investigations

• Naval Criminal Investigative Service

 

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, FLORIDA – Kevin R. Griffin, 44, of Alford, Florida, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison yesterday and ordered to pay $480,785.06 in restitution to First Federal Bank of Florida for committing bank fraud. The sentence was announced today by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

Griffin was employed by 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 undocumented loans that were actually 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. After the fraud was discovered, Griffin’s employment with the bank was terminated.

 

“This defendant had a duty to make truthful transactions on behalf of his company to help ensure a sound banking industry, and he violated that duty,” said U.S. Attorney Canova. “My office is committed to prosecuting unethical financial representatives who abuse their authority for their own gain.”

 

Federal Reserve Board representatives stated: “Griffin’s false and fraudulent representations in loan applications and loan documents directly impacted the accuracy of the Bank of Bonifay’s Consolidated Reports of Condition and Income (Call Report), which provides quarterly financial data regarding a bank’s financial condition and the results of its operations. The Federal Reserve Board relies on the accurate submission of call report data to effectively regulate and oversee the safety and soundness of the bank’s holding company.”

 

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 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]

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Willie L. Walker, 57, of Lynn Haven, Florida, has been arraigned in the U.S. District Court in Panama City after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with depriving an inmate at the Gulf Correctional Institution of constitutional rights. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

The indictment alleges that, in March 2015, Walker, while acting as a correctional officer of the State of Florida, assaulted an inmate, resulting in bodily injury.

 

The trial is scheduled for May 15, 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 in a court of law.

 

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Corrections – Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aine Ahmed.

 

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, FLORIDA – On Friday, March 10, after a five-day trial, Anthony J. Atkins, 51, of Eufaula, Alabama, was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, four counts of false statements to a federally insured financial institution, bank fraud, and mail fraud affecting a financial institution.

 

Today, co-conspirator Bruce A. Houle, 57, of Inlet Beach, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of false statement to a federally insured financial institution.

 

On February 27, 2017, co-conspirator Samuel D. Cobb, 37, of Destin, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy, four counts of false statement to a financial institution, and bank fraud.

 

The jury’s verdict and the guilty pleas were announced today by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In 2007, an individual went to Anthony Atkins, the president of GulfSouth Private Bank, and notified Atkins that the individual’s company, which had been loaned $3.4 million, was no longer going to be able to make payments on the mortgage loans issued by GulfSouth Private Bank that had been secured by three condominiums. an effort to conceal that the loans were going into default, and instead of recognizing that the $3.4 million in loans were losses to the bank, Atkins devised a scheme to conceal the bad debt.

 

As a part of the scheme, Atkins and Cobb solicited Houle, Mark W. Shoemaker, Michael Bradley Bowen, and William Blake Cody to take out new loans with the bank to purchase the three condominiums. 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 new mortgage loans and additional lines of credit to be issued for approximately $3.8 million to the men they had solicited. According to the terms of the fraudulent loans issued during the scheme, the men Atkins and Cobb solicited were not required to make any payments on the loans until the loans came due months down the road. These new loans were then used to pay off the old loans that were going into default. Issuing these new loans and new lines of credit created the appearance that the debt was “performing”, which allowed Atkins to avoid having to report the loans associated with the condominiums as bad debt, as required. Further, as a part of the scheme, Atkins and Cobb caused fraudulent security agreements to be prepared that falsely represented that Houle, Shoemaker, Bowen, and Cody were obligated to repay their respective new mortgage loans and lines of credit.

 

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 allowed the deficiencies and the lines of credit to be charged off of GulfSouth’s books and records.

 

The defendants face a maximum of 30 years in prison for each count. The sentencing hearings are scheduled at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, as follows:

• Atkins: May 31, 2017, at 10:30 a.m.

• Houle: May 31 at 2:00 p.m.

• Cobb: May 16 at 10:30 a.m.

 

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 prosecuted the case.

 

“This bank fraud case is a reminder that my office will vigorously prosecute those who do not conduct ethical transactions, especially financial representatives who abuse their positions of trust,” said U.S. Attorney Canova. “I commend the hard work of the investigators and prosecutors who enforce our federal laws and ensure that justice is served.”

 

“In 2008, at the height of the financial crisis, former GulfSouth Private Bank president Anthony Atkins had a decision to make: tell the truth about the bank’s troubled finances or take intricate steps to criminally conceal millions of dollars in bad loans,” said Christy Goldsmith Romero, Special Inspector General for TARP. “Unlike most bank executives, Atkins chose the latter and, along with former vice president Samuel Cobb, hatched a scheme to hide the loans and make the bank appear healthier than it actually was. GulfSouth then received $7.5 million from TARP, a program designed for healthy banks. But GulfSouth was not a healthy bank and later failed—causing taxpayers to lose their entire investment. SIGTARP will continue to bring justice to bankers who commit bailout-related fraud.”

 

“The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General is committed to working with U.S. Attorneys and law enforcement partners throughout the country in investigating and prosecuting individuals whose fraudulent activities threaten the safety and soundness of our nation’s banks,” said Jason Moran, Special Agent in Charge, FDIC-OIG. “It is particularly troubling when those individuals are bank insiders like Messrs. Atkins and Houle, who violate the public trust, conspire with others, and engage in activities that ultimately cause losses to their banks. Today’s verdict and the associated guilty pleas should deter others from pursuing similar criminal activity.”

 

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, FLORIDA – After a three-day trial, Gregory Williams, 29, of Pensacola, was convicted this week of 19 counts of firearm-related offenses, including possession of a machinegun, possession of an unregistered machinegun, and false statement to a firearm dealer. The verdict was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

At trial, the government presented evidence that Williams knowingly sold dozens of auto sear parts to undercover law enforcement officers. Auto sears are conversion parts designed to modify semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic firearms. Auto sears are defined under federal law as machineguns. Williams never registered them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required by law.

 

On nine occasions in 2016, Williams communicated with the undercover officers via text message and then shipped the firearms or met the officers in person. When law enforcement officers searched Williams’s residence, they seized an additional auto sear.

 

Williams faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison on each count. He is currently being detained at the Santa Rosa County Jail. The sentencing hearing will take place at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola on a date to be determined by the court.

 

This case resulted from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Sacramento, California, and Pensacola, Florida, and the ATF Gun Crime Response Team. 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.

For more information, contact: Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer

(850) 216-3854, [email protected]

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Danny Ray Murphy, 37, of Milton, made a first appearance today in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with conspiracy, receipt, 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 November 2016 and January 2017, Murphy knowingly conspired with others to participate in Kik instant messaging communications that distributed child pornography images and videos. The indictment further alleges that he received and possessed child pornography involving a minor under age 12. The defendant is currently being detained at the Santa Rosa County Jail. The detention hearing and arraignment have been scheduled for March 15, 2017, at 12:30 p.m.

 

The case is being investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, the State Attorney’s Office for the 1st Judicial Circuit, 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, FLORIDA – Thomas E. Matassa, 23, of Gulf Breeze, made a first appearance today in the U.S. District Court in Pensacola after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with receipt 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 January 2014 and February 2016, Matassa received child pornography. The indictment further alleges that, in February 2016, he possessed child pornography involving a minor under age 12. The defendant is currently being detained at the Santa Rosa County Jail. The detention hearing and arraignment have been scheduled for March 16, 2017, at 12:30 p.m.

 

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, 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]

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Arthur Larange Lee Jr., 33, of Gainesville, was arraigned today in the U.S. District Court in Gainesville after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with sex trafficking by force and use of a facility of interstate commerce to promote prostitution. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

The indictment alleges that, between August 4 and 5, 2016, Lee transported, maintained, and advertised a victim, knowing that the victim would be forced to engage in a commercial sex act. The indictment further alleges that Lee used the internet and a cellular telephone to promote a prostitution offense. The trial is scheduled for April 25, 2017, at 8:00 a.m.

 

The case is being investigated by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Williams.

 

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]

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Gerald Michael Ward, 31, of Panama City, was sentenced to 84 months in prison and a lifetime of supervised release yesterday after pleading guilty on December 15, 2016, to receipt and distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In September 2016, law enforcement officers became aware that child pornography had been posted in an online chat room, which was traced back to Ward. A search of Ward’s e-mail accounts and electronic devices revealed dozens of images and videos of child pornography, including a girl as young as two years old, bound by her wrists and tied to a bed, in addition to the discovery of images of infants being sexually assaulted. Ward also distributed at least 160 images of child pornography online to various others engaged in the trafficking of child pornography.

 

“Children deserve to be protected from online exploitation, and my office and our law enforcement partners are committed to pursuing child predators who target innocent children,” said United States Attorney Canova.

 

“Seeing this criminal behind bars is a satisfying outcome for HSI special agents, who work diligently to identify child sexual predators and bring them to justice,” said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “The sexual exploitation of children is a despicable crime and there are serious consequences. HSI remains committed to working with all of our law enforcement partners, as in this case with the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, to aggressively pursue those who victimize the most vulnerable members of our society, our children.”

 

The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Thielemann.

 

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, FLORIDA – United States Air Force Master Sergeant Cody Boone Covert, 43, of Fort Walton Beach, was sentenced late yesterday to 23 months in prison and $126,300 in restitution for conspiracy (to commit theft of honest services and wire fraud) and bribery by a public official. Co-conspirator Michael Allen Braun, 54, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 10 at 1:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola for conspiracy and bribery of a public official. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

In January 2014, MSgt. Covert, 901st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Hurlburt Field, was tasked with procuring specialized equipment in support of C-130 Special Operations Aircraft. Braun, who owned the company Trans Global Storage Solutions, conspired with Covert to obtain a contract from the United States Air Force. Prior to the solicitation of the contract, Braun agreed to provide Covert 45% of the profit from the contract proceeds, if Covert ensured that Trans Global won the contract. Covert submitted a request to purchase the specialized equipment. Because Covert was the requester of the equipment, he was chosen to evaluate each proposal for technical acceptance. Subsequently, Covert decided the Trans Global proposal was the only proposal technically acceptable for the government requirement. After Trans Global was fraudulently awarded the $126,300 contract from the United States Air Force via Covert’s inside influence, Covert and Braun split the proceeds. Covert pled guilty on October 28, 2016, and Braun pled guilty on January 12, 2017.

 

“The United States Attorney’s Office, along with our other federal, state, and local government partners, is committed to upholding the law by exposing corruption and pursuing justice for those lawbreakers who abuse their authority and positions of trust," said U.S. Attorney Canova.  "I commend the work of the investigating and prosecuting team on this case. Public service carries a high ethical standard, and no one is above the law.”

 

Special Agent-in-Charge Wendell W. Palmer, United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations-Procurement Fraud Detachment 5 Southeast, stated, “This was a great outcome for the investigation and prosecution of those who would do damage to the integrity of the U.S. Air Force acquisition process. Dedicated and thorough work on the part of investigators and prosecutors alike have once again protected the warfighting capability of the world’s greatest air and space fighting force. The teamwork exhibited by investigators and prosecutors, in conjunction with the court, sends a strong message that fraud against our government will not be tolerated.”

 

“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, along with our investigative partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will bring to justice anyone who takes bribes and kickbacks to undermine the integrity of the Department of Defense,” commented Special Agent-in-Charge John F. Khin, DCIS, Southeast Field Office. “Corruption and fraud in DoD programs also jeopardizes the safety of our warfighters.”

 

The case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James M. Ustynoski.

 

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, FLORIDA – Shawn Ryan Goodfleisch, 38, of Pensacola, was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison and will be required to register as a sex offender. A jury convicted Goodfleisch on September 29, 2016, of receipt of child pornography and destruction of evidence to prevent seizure. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

 

At trial, the government presented evidence that, between January 2014, and October 2014, Goodfleisch received and possessed child pornography, including videos depicting images of minors less than 12 years of age engaged in sex acts. An undercover law enforcement officer discovered and downloaded files containing child pornography from a public sharing network that could be traced to Goodfleisch’s computer. After agents executed a search warrant at Goodfleish’s residence, a forensic analysis of his computer’s hard drive revealed numerous images and videos of child pornography. During the execution of the federal search warrant, Goodfleisch remotely accessed his computer using a cellular telephone and destroyed, or attempted to destroy, the contents contained on his computer.

 

United States Attorney Canova stated, “Protecting children from online exploitation is a top priority for this office, the Department of Justice, and our many law enforcement partners. Tragically, it is easy for child predators to access reprehensible content via the Internet.”

 

“Because of HSI special agent’s investigative authorities, along with our law enforcement partnerships, like with the Pensacola Police Department, this predator will now be behind bars - making our communities safer,” said Susan L. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Tampa.

 

The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Pensacola 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 J. Ryan Love.

 

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, FLORIDA – Joseph-Michael Elias McFarland, 22, of Madison, Florida, was sentenced yesterday to 132 months for sex trafficking of a minor and distribution of the controlled substance α-Pyrrolidinovalerophenone or "Alpha-PVP." The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

In September 2015, a confidential source met McFarland to purchase drugs. During this meeting, McFarland told the confidential source that he was prostituting a girl. After the confidential source told McFarland about potential clients, McFarland said the victim was either 17 or 18 years old. However, McFarland knew that the victim was only sixteen years old. The narcotics the confidential source bought, as well as additional drugs bought the next day, tested positive for Alpha-PVP. McFarland later contacted the confidential source to discuss prostituting the victim and also sent pictures of the victim.

When law enforcement officers searched the residence where McFarland sold the drugs, the victim was located hiding in a closet. Firearms, ammunition, digital scales, and drug paraphernalia were also discovered. McFarland’s cellular telephone contained messages discussing prostituting the victim and selling narcotics. McFarland pled guilty on May 9, 2016.

"Our role in these investigations is to help parents and caregivers keep children safe in their homes and in the community," said United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova. "These despicable acts ruin lives at an early age and this sentence sends a strong message to child predators that my office and our law enforcement partners are vigilant in our efforts to identify and prosecute them."

"Let this sentencing send a message that HSI special agents, and our law enforcement partners, will expend every resource to investigate and prosecute these heinous crimes," said Susan L. McCormick, special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. "A young victim was rescued and this predator is being held accountable for his crimes."

This case resulted from investigations by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the

Madison County Sheriff’s Office. 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]

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – David Michael Hobby Rossner, 36, of Panama City, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison for production, receipt, and distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

In May 2016, law enforcement officers received information regarding the online sexual exploitation of a 15-year-old girl. An investigation determined that Rossner and the victim were chatting on the social media platform Facebook. Following sexually detailed chats on Facebook, Rossner successfully solicited the 15-year-old girl to take nude images of herself and then directed her to send them to him. Rossner also previously solicited photos from other underage girls online. The investigation also uncovered that Rossner received and distributed child pornography using the social media platform Kik. A forensic review of Rossner’s cellular telephone and online chats revealed dozens of images and videos of child pornography, including very young females under the age of 10. Rossner pled guilty on November 30, 2016.

United States Attorney Christopher P. Canova stated “We will continue to utilize the resources of our office to prosecute anyone that attempts to steal the innocence of a child while hiding in the shadows of the internet.”

"HSI special agents will continue to work tirelessly, with partners like the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, to bring child sexual predators to face justice and ensure those victims who are identified are rescued from this plight," said Susan L. McCormick, special agent I charge of HSI Tampa. "This sentencing is a reminder to those who exploit our most innocent citizens, children: We will identify, investigate and arrest you for committing these horrendous crimes."

The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Thielemann.

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]

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]

 

 

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]

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]

 

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, 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]

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]

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, 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, 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]

 

 

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, 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, 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]

 

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, 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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]