Middle District of Georgia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Tifton Bank Robber Pleads Guilty, Facing Max 20 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A man who robbed a bank after threatening to blow it up has pleaded guilty to his crime, announced Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Randy Angelo Hill, 34, of Tifton, pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery during a video teleconference hearing before U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Tuesday, April 21, 2020. Hill is facing a maximum 20 years in prison. He remains in custody pending his sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled.
According to the facts he admitted under oath before the Court, Hill robbed the South Georgia Banking Company located at 725 West 2nd Street on October 2, 2018. Undisguised, Hill dropped a plastic bag over the teller counter and told an employee, “This is a robbery. I have a bomb. Put money in the bag. I will blow everybody up here.” Hill fled on foot with stolen cash, and was apprehended by Tifton Police that day.
“The defendant is facing serious consequences for striking terror into the bank’s hard working employees and customers. Violent criminal acts will not be tolerated in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to commend the Tifton Police Department and the Tift County Sheriff’s Office for quickly apprehending the defendant, and working alongside the FBI investigating this crime.”
"The FBI's commitment to protecting citizens and upholding the Constitution is only achieved with the partnerships of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners, and this case is another perfect example," said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "Because of the quick reaction of the Tifton Police Department and the Tift County Sheriff Office, this suspect won't be able to terrorize more innocent citizens in possible future crimes."
“This is good news for our community and South Georgia Bank, and we certainly hope this sends a message to others that have considered doing robberies that it doesn't pay, nor will it be tolerated in our community. We are appreciative of the Tift County Sheriff's Office, Department of Natural Resources K-9 Team for their assistance, along with the U.S. Attorney's Office,” said Tifton Police Chief Steve Hyman.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, the Tifton Police Department and the Tift County Sheriff’s Office. Criminal Division Chief Michael Solis is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Former VSU Employee Charged for Threatening Campuses, Individuals Across the CountryRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – A former Valdosta State University employee is in custody, charged by criminal complaint for sending threatening emails to victims at universities across the country. Shawn Charles Merdinger, 50, of Lake Park, Georgia, had an initial appearance today at 2:30 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle from the Tift County Jail, where the defendant is currently in custody. The hearing was conducted remotely via videoconferencing due to social distancing restrictions in place since the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19). A detention hearing is set for Thursday, April 23 at 2:30 p.m.
The complaint alleges that Merdinger sent several emails between April 16 and April 19 to addresses affiliated with individuals employed at the University of California at Santa Barbara, University of Indiana, University of Texas, University of Texas at Austin, the University System of Georgia and Valdosta State University. The messages contained threats of extreme violence to the victims and himself, as well as general threats of harm, including a specific statement targeted toward the University of Texas at Austin emailed on April 18, “I am going to roll on faculty and execute you in your homes in alphabetical order. You might as well shut that place down. Here on out, any school faculty or student is going to be a personal, high value target for me. I’m coming in there. You better run.” Merdinger was taken into custody by the FBI on April 19 at his Lake Park home.
“Maintaining the safety of our citizens is a top priority for our office and law enforcement throughout the Middle District of Georgia,” said Charlie Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I am grateful to the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners for reacting quickly to shut down this alleged threat.”
"The FBI must take any threat to human life seriously," said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "This arrest would not have been possible without help from the Valdosta State University Police Department, the Lowndes County Sheriff Office and the universities who received these terrorizing threats."
A criminal complaint is allegation of unlawful conduct. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of competent jurisdiction. This case is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
$1.6+ Million in DOJ Grants for Public Safety in Response to COVID-19Read the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – $1,648,580 in federal grant dollars is now available to multiple communities across the Middle District of Georgia in response to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
The grants are available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude in the use of these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
The following communities are allocated grants: Albany, Americus, Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Baldwin County, Columbus, Dougherty County, Houston County, Lowndes County, Macon-Bibb County, Monroe, Sumter County, Tift County, Tifton, Valdosta, Walton County and Warner Robins. To view the allocation amounts for each community, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/program/cesf/state-and-local-allocations. Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
Any Georgia cities or counties not specifically listed, and are interested in receiving funding, can find updated information from the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/cesf/state-and-local-allocations. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“Each community will have the opportunity to use this emergency funding to help address their most urgent public safety challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the President and the Office of Justice Programs for making these grants available to our communities during this unprecedented time.”
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Criminal Street Gang Prosecutor Joins U.S. Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – The former Gwinnett County Managing Assistant District Attorney (ADA), Michael Morrison, was sworn-in as an Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) for the Middle District of Georgia, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The swearing-in occurred on Monday, April 6, 2020 and was conducted remotely by phone due to social distancing restrictions in place since the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Mr. Morrison earned both his undergraduate and juris doctorate degrees from Georgia State University. Since 2008, he has served as a prosecutor in the Gwinnett County District Attorney’s Office, supervising the Gwinnett Drug & Gang Task Force. Mr. Morrison has a strong track record trying complex, large-scale drug trafficking and violent criminal street gang cases. Most recently, Mr. Morrison was nominated, along with members of the FBI-Atlanta Gang Unit, for a 2019 FBI Director’s Award for his role as the lead prosecutor in the state murder trial of Nine Trey Gangster Bloods leader Gordon Evans, and was nominated for a separate award, along with members of the Atlanta-Carolinas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) drug task force, for his role as the lead prosecutor in a lengthy wiretap investigation targeting an Atlanta-based cell of the notorious Cartel De Jalisco Nueva Generacion, better known as CJNG.
“Mike is one of the most effective criminal street gang and drug trafficking prosecutors in the state, known for his expertise handling complex cases against dangerous individuals,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “We are working tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners to crack down on violent gang and drug activity across the Middle District. Mike strengthens this effort, and we are extremely pleased to have him on our team.”
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Top Federal, State Prosecutors Form Georgia COVID-19 Fraud Task ForceRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Georgia’s leading state and federal prosecutors announce a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) Fraud Task Force, aimed at better protecting the citizens of Georgia from criminal fraud arising from the pandemic.
The task force will serve to open channels of communication between partner agencies and more rapidly share information about COVID-19 fraud, while ensuring each fraud complaint is reported to the appropriate prosecuting agency. The task force member agencies include the Office of the Governor of Georgia, the Office of the Attorney General of Georgia, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia. Georgia’s three U.S. Attorneys, the Attorney General of Georgia and the Executive Counsel for the Governor’s Office serve on the task force.
“To all would-be scammers: Anyone who uses this pandemic to defraud Georgians will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Charlie Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “The creation of this unified task force better prepares us to investigate and prosecute criminal acts of fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The law enforcement community is strong in our state. I want to thank our partners at the local, state and federal level dedicated to protecting our citizens from fraudsters.”
“My office is honored to work with this task force in our state’s fight against the spread of COVID-19. As a team, we are committed to putting Georgians first to ensure their safety and well-being as we address this public health state of emergency,” said Governor Brian P. Kemp.
“Our office has received hundreds of complaints regarding scams, price gouging and other issues related to the COVID19 pandemic, and we won’t tolerate those who are taking advantage of consumers and interfering with our frontline workers’ response to the crisis,” said Attorney General Chris Carr. “This partnership between the State of Georgia and our U.S. Attorneys will enable us to work together to investigate and, as appropriate, prosecute those who violate our laws. We will leave no stone unturned as we protect all Georgians.”
“Opportunistic criminals are targeting the most vulnerable among us with COVID-19 scams, but our office and law enforcement and prosecutorial partners remain vigilant,” said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “We continue to detect, investigate and prosecute criminal conduct, and reassure our law-abiding citizens that their safety and security is our primary focus.”
“Thieves never stop searching for ways to take advantage of unsuspecting people,” said Byung J. “BJay” Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia. “Citizens can rest assured that we will bring every asset to bear against fraudsters and those who use this crisis as an opportunity to commit fraud. Also, we encourage anyone who believes they are the victim of a scam, or may have been contacted by someone stating they represent a government agency to contact this task force immediately.”
Within each task force member agency, an appointed fraud complaint coordinator will oversee the cases and remain in regular contact with partner law enforcement agencies. The appointed coordinators are as follows: Jim Crane, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia; David Dove, Executive Counsel, Office of the Governor of Georgia; Anne Infinger, Deputy Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division, Office of the Attorney General of Georgia; Russell Phillips, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia; and Patrick Schwedler, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia.
The public is urged to be on the lookout for any of these COVID-19 scams, which can be reported to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected]:
- Treatment scams: Scammers are selling fake vaccines, medicines, and cures for COVID-19.
- Supply scams: Scammers are claiming they have in-demand products, like cleaning and household supplies, and medical supplies, but when an order is placed, the scammer takes the money and never delivers the order.
- Charity scams: Scammers are fraudulently soliciting donations for non-existent charities to help people affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Scammers often use names that are similar to the names of real charities.
- Phishing scams: Scammers, posing as national and global health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending fake emails and texts to trick the recipient into sharing personal information like account numbers, Social Security numbers, and login IDs and passwords.
- App scams: Scammers are creating COVID-19 related apps that contain malware designed to steal the user’s personal information.
- Provider scams: Scammers pretending to be doctors and hospitals demand payment for COVID-19 treatment allegedly provided to a friend or family member of the victim.
- Investment scams: To promote the sale of stock in certain companies—particularly small companies, about which there is little publicly available information—scammers are making false and misleading claims that those companies can prevent, detect or cure COVID-19.
The Consumer Protection Division (CPD) of the Office of the Attorney General of Georgia has received more than 600 complaints of price gouging or scams related to COVID-19, the majority regarding food, toilet paper, water and hand sanitizer. The public can file complaints with the CPD by calling 1-800-869-1123 (toll-free) or at consumer.ga.gov.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
South Georgia Prosecutor Takes Oath as Special AUSA in Effort to Fight CrimeRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – A member of the Valdosta Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force, Alapaha Judicial Circuit Assistant District Attorney Rebekah Ditto, was sworn in as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in an effort to strengthen the task force’s ability to prosecute violent crime with even greater success, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The swearing-in occurred on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 and was conducted remotely by phone due to social distancing restrictions in place since the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Ms. Ditto is a graduate of the University of Georgia and Vermont Law School. Since 2013, she has served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Alapaha Judicial Circuit, which encompasses Atkinson, Berrien, Clinch, Cook and Lanier counties. Ms. Ditto currently serves as the Chief Assistant District Attorney for the Alapaha Judicial Circuit.
PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. PSN is a priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, with the criminal division establishing PSN task forces in areas with the highest violent crime rates across the District. PSN Task Forces are operating in Valdosta, Albany, Columbus and Macon, comprised of members of law enforcement, as well as federal and state prosecutors.
“Under PSN, we work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute the most violent individuals in our communities in the most appropriate court system, whether it be state or federal, with the single objective to remove dangerous criminals from the street for as long as possible,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Ms. Ditto serving as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney amplifies this effort in the South Georgia community, allowing even more efficient and effective prosecutions of the most violent defendants. I want to thank Alapaha Judicial Circuit District Attorney Dick Perryman for his continued partnership as we collectively work to make South Georgia safer.”
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
U.S. Attorney Appoints Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator for RegionRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler for the Middle District of Georgia is urging the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) and has appointed a federal prosecutor to investigate and prosecute these cases. In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes. The public can report fraud schemes to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected]. The NCDF Hotline can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes. Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen also directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities. The District of Middle Georgia’s Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator is Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Crane.
“Like the rest of the country, COVID-19 has impacted the lives of citizens throughout the Middle District of Georgia, yet there are fraudsters out there trying to exploit this situation for their own financial benefit. Our office and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners stand ready to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud scams in every community we serve,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “We are asking the public to remain alert to potential schemes. And, to all scam artists attempting to defraud the public during this difficult time: We will prosecute you to the fullest extent allowed by law. Count on it.”
Some examples of these schemes include:
- Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
- Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
- Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
- Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes. The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Federal Prosecutors Move to Revoke Supervised Release for Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A convicted felon with a lengthy criminal history in the Athens-Clarke County area is currently in detention after being accused of multiple new violations, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Shabazz Sangria Wingfield, 27, of Athens, was sentenced in January 2015 by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal to 60 months in prison and five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Since Wingfield’s release from federal prison on December 28, 2018, he is accused of committing ten violations of his supervised release. Documents filed in federal court allege the most recent violation occurred on January 30, 2020, when Wingfield was arrested on state charges following accusations that he struck a woman and threatened to kill her. On March 13, 2020, Wingfield pleaded guilty in state court to criminal trespass-family violence arising from the January 30, 2020 incident, in addition to pleading guilty to a state charge of Criminal Trespass from an incident on December 28, 2019.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle ordered Wingfield’s continued detainment at an initial appearance and detention hearing on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Wingfield is facing a maximum five years in prison for violating the terms of his supervisory release, in addition to any potential state sentences. The final revocation hearing has not been scheduled. Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty; in this case, the court must find by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant violated a condition of supervised release before it can be revoked.
“Our office will quickly move to revoke the supervised release of convicted felons who choose to commit violent crimes in our communities after serving their prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Convicted felons caught violating the terms of their supervised release will be prosecuted.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Probation Office. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Leary is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Prison, Restitution for Tax Preparers Guilty of Filing 126 False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – Two Columbus tax preparers guilty of federal wire fraud and identity theft charges were sentenced to prison for their crimes, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Keven Walker, 33, of Columbus, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Monday, March 16 to 54 months in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty in August 2019 to one count of wire fraud and one count of identity theft. His co-defendant, Tiffany Gist a/k/a Tiffany Walker, 46, of Columbus, was sentenced on Monday by Judge Land to 45 months in prison and three years supervised release after pleading guilty in July 2019 to one count wire fraud and one count identity theft. In addition, Mr. Walker and Mr. Gist have been jointly ordered to repay $33,446 in restitution to the IRS. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Two dishonest tax return preparers will now spend significant time behind bars for choosing to cheat trusting clients and the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Our office is committed to protecting the integrity of the tax system and our citizens from fraud. We will continue to work alongside our IRS partners to root out and prosecute tax fraud.”
“While most return preparers provide excellent service to their clients, a few unscrupulous tax preparers file false and fraudulent returns to defraud the government, the tax-paying public and their own clients, said Andrew M. Thornton, Jr., Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “The defendant in this investigation wreaked havoc on the integrity of our tax system in a very short time period. It is our hope that today's sentencing of Walker and Gist sends the strong message that tampering with the integrity of our nation's tax system will result in jail time."
Mr. Walker was the owner of Walker Tax Financial Group, an income tax preparation business operating in Columbus. During the 2013 tax year, IRS agents discovered that the co-defendants filed 126 fraudulent returns, attempting to steal approximately $216,684 in refunds. According to Mr. Walker’s signed plea agreement, the co-defendants used one victim’s correct social security number to file a phony tax return, but the address and W-2 form were false. Victims signed affidavits stating they never did business with the defendants and did not authorize them to file tax returns.
The case was investigated by the IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mel Hyde prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Judge Sentences Additional Defendants in Borris Fuller Meth Ring, More Sentencings Expected Next MonthRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – Six defendants linked to a major methamphetamine distribution ring in southwest Georgia have been sentenced to prison for their crimes, said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner sentenced the following individuals on Wednesday, March 11:
- Jamal Cornelius, 28, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 108 months in prison and three years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Abe Dennis, 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 140 months in prison and five years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Willie Dillard, 26, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 160 months in prison and five years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Montrevious Jackson, 31, of Adel, was sentenced to 72 months in prison and three years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Doug Palmer, 39, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Tahkhari Taylor, 29, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison and three years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Working together, federal, state and local law enforcement successfully shut down another dangerous methamphetamine operation pushing an extremely deadly drug into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “These defendants couldn’t escape the law, and neither will other dealers wanting to profit from the misery and death of people addicted to these illegal, deadly drugs. To all meth dealers: law enforcement is coming and will not stop until dealers are caught, prosecuted and sentenced.”
The known leader of the methamphetamine distribution ring, Borris Fuller, 41, of Moultrie, was sentenced on October 26, 2018 by Judge Abrams to 30 years in prison and ten years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Authorities estimate that an organization of 35 individuals was responsible for the distribution of more than 20 kilograms of the drug in and around Moultrie from May until November 2016. According to court evidence, some of these transactions also occurred in Atlanta and parts of Florida, including at the Georgia-Florida line. The names of the additional defendants previously sentenced to prison for their involvement in the Fuller methamphetamine distribution case are listed in an earlier press release on the USAO Middle District of Georgia website (click here to be directed to the webpage). The remaining eight defendants are expected to be sentenced on April 14 and April 15. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the DEA, GBI, Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Mid-South Narcotics Task Force, Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, Crisp County Sheriff’s Office, Tift County Sheriff’s Office, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Grady County Sheriff’s Office, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Leon County Florida Sheriff’s Office, Volusia County Florida Bureau of Investigation and Moultrie Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Judge Hands Down 24+ Year Prison Sentence, Including Contempt of Court Punishment, for 23rd Defendant Linked to Massive Drug RingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – The final defendant linked to a large narcotics and methamphetamine ring operating out of a Southwest Georgia community was sentenced to a total of 296 months in prison today, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner sentenced Alejandro Bustamante, 31, of Moultrie, Georgia to 260 months in prison and five years supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, plus an additional 36 months in prison for contempt of court. Bustamante was separately prosecuted for contempt of court after having posted a witness’s statement to law enforcement on social media, along with comments intended to silence the witness. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Defendants who attempt to intimidate or harm a witness will be prosecuted to the fullest extent allowed by law, and today’s sentence shows that our judicial system does not tolerate witness tampering,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “These defendants involved in this conspiracy will spend more than a combined 225 years behind bars for their involvement in this dangerous methamphetamine ring. I want to thank the GBI, DEA, Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office and Moultrie Police Department for shutting down this illegal narcotics operation and for protecting our communities.”
“When drug traffickers push poison into the community, the penalty is steep. All defendants linked to this illegal narcotics distribution ring will spend well-deserved time behind bars for their crimes,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “The investigation of this case was a success because of the combined efforts between the DEA, its law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
“This sentencing illustrates that drug trafficking at any level will not be tolerated in the state of Georgia. It is paramount that violators of drug laws be held accountable. The GBI is fully committed to working with our local and federal partners in drug enforcement to address these types of crimes,” said Vic Reynolds, Director of the GBI.
“We are grateful for the strong relationship with our federal and state partners. These criminals have been the cause of grave harm in our community, and now they will be locked up behind federal prison bars without parole,” said Sheriff Rod Howell, Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office.
“The individuals prosecuted in this case all have extensive criminal histories and have committed multiple criminal offenses within our community. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all the agencies that were involved, especially to our state and federal partners. Successful drug enforcement practices must be a coordinated effort within the purview of all law enforcement agencies, and this case is an outstanding example of that,” said Chief Sean Ladson, Moultrie Police Department.
Judge Gardner previously sentenced an additional 22 defendants involved in this methamphetamine and illegal narcotics conspiracy:
On January 22, 2020:
Gabino Tobias, 45, of Fairburn, Georgia was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Maria Del Carmen Salazar Mirales, 46, of Fairburn, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Gricelda Bustamante-Gutierrez, 37, of Norman Park, Georgia was sentenced to 180 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Ricardo Gutierrez, 32, of Norman Park, was sentenced to 292 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On January 16, 2020:
Kristen Dismuke, 31, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 42 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Trabian Jones, 43, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana;
Eric Townsend, 31, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Torranza McNeal, aka “Cheese,” aka “Meke,” was sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base.
On January 15, 2020:
Brenton Miller, 32, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 180 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
Regina Miller, 36, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 84 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
Ramon White, 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 36 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine;
James Fielder, 35, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
On January 14, 2020:
Josh Whaley, 38, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 54 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Tony Stamper, aka “Buggie,” 31, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 60 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to cocaine and marijuana;
Bryant Pittman, aka “John Gotti,” 36, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 200 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On January 13, 2020:
David Spradley, aka “ManMan,” 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 218 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Johntavious Johnson, aka “Mikey,” 33, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one county conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Jarvis West, 32, of Moultrie, was each sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one county conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Ricardo Bodiford, aka “Rico,” 34, of Moultrie, was sentenced on January 13, 2020 to 260 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
In earlier proceedings:
Stacy McLellan, 50, of Norman Park, was sentenced on May 13, 2019 to 160 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Eric Lamar, 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced on October 16, 2019 to 24 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana;
Brad Tuff, 39, of Moultrie, was sentenced on March 13, 2019 to 21 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana.
Investigators began a court-authorized wiretap on the cell phones belonging to Ricardo “Rico” Bodiford in April 2018. The wiretap investigation continued until law enforcement agents executed search warrants on several locations across Moultrie in May 2019, locating large amounts of illicit drugs, including two pounds of methamphetamine, one kilogram of cocaine, 13 pounds of marijuana, loaded firearms and cash, among other amounts of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.
The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, the Moultrie Police Department and the Leon County Florida Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
U.S. Attorney, Law Enforcement Stand with Crimestoppers, Announce New Top 15 most Wanted Fugitives in the Macon RegionRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Federal, state and local law enforcement partners stood with Macon Regional Crimestoppers leadership this morning to announce a new list of the Top 15 Most Wanted fugitives, said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. In February 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office made a public commitment with Macon Regional Crimestoppers to release a quarterly list throughout 2019 of the Most Wanted violent offenders. Macon Regional Crimestoppers, a community-run organization dedicated to increasing the safety of citizens, has provided rewards up to $1,000 for tips leading to the arrest of the Most Wanted fugitives. 41 of the 45 Top 15 Most Wanted fugitives in 2019 have been arrested. The new list of fugitives are wanted for violent crimes in Baldwin, Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Jones, Monroe and Peach counties, including aggravated assault, armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of competent jurisdiction.
“Removing dangerous criminals from the streets is a major priority of law enforcement, and we are proud to stand with Macon Regional Crimestoppers to ask citizens to be on the look-out for these wanted fugitives and to report their whereabouts to authorities,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Creating safer communities is a joint effort, and we are fortunate to have the dedicated partnership of law enforcement and citizens.”
“Crimestoppers is excited about our continued partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all of our Law Enforcement Partners,” said Warren Selby, Jr., Chairman of Macon Regional Crimestoppers. “Gun crimes continue to plague our community. We are committed to keeping our community safe and need the help of our citizens. Please ‘Make the Call.’”
For a complete list of the Top 15 Most Wanted, and more information about Crimestoppers, visit www.crimestop.us. Macon Regional Crimestoppers is a local non-profit serving Bibb, Baldwin, Houston, Jones, Twiggs, Crawford, Monroe, and Peach counties. The organization partners with law enforcement agencies and community groups to provide anonymous rewards for tips that lead to criminal arrests. Citizens can safely and anonymously report tips at 1-877-68CRIME.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office partnership with Macon Regional Crimestoppers is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The partnership is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
U.S. Attorney Led Call-In Attended by 40 Probationers, Goal to Decrease Recidivism in GeorgiaRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Georgia has completed its third offender call-in, an opportunity designed to help probationers successfully complete their probationary term and not reoffend, said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Currently, about two-thirds of Georgia offenders are arrested within three years of completing their state sentence, and the goal of the offender call-ins is to decrease the high rate of recidivism in Georgia. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is working with the Georgia Department of Community Supervision to track the participants and confirm whether they are reoffending at a higher or lower rate than those who choose not to participate in the federal offender call-ins. Both state and federal probationers have participated in call-ins to date.
Approximately 40 probationers attended the two-part meeting on February 10, 2020 at the Government Center in Albany. During the first section, local and federal law enforcement members and prosecutors discussed the rules that govern probationers, encouraging them to succeed, while also informing them that law enforcement is committed to keeping citizens safe and repeat offenders will not be tolerated. Information regarding federal gun and narcotics laws, and the consequences of breaking those laws, was provided, and probationers were reminded that there is no probation in the federal system. The probationers also heard from a returning citizen who has successfully completed probation and is enjoying a productive life. After the speaking portion, there was a community resource fair with local providers, exposing probationers to services available to them and their families for help with housing, employment, education, substance abuse and mental health counseling, driver’s license and medical insurance, among other information. Additional offender call-ins were held in Macon, Georgia on July 29, 2019 and December 10, 2018. A fourth federal offender call-in is being planned in Columbus, Georgia.
“We want every probationer in Georgia to beat the odds and not return to prison after paying their debt to society,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “These offender call-ins are designed to equip probationers with services they need to successfully re-integrate into society. Helping probationers succeed is a win for everyone — it’s a win for the probationer, their families, friends and neighbors, and society as a whole. Thank you to the probationers who avail themselves of the services they need, and thank you to all of our law enforcement partners, judges and community organizations who have enthusiastically agreed to take part in these call-ins, with an eye to ultimately making our communities safer.”
Participating judicial, law enforcement and community organizations to date are as follows:
United States District Court Judge Tillman E. (“Tripp”) Self
Bibb County Superior Court Judge Verda M. Colvin
Parental Accountability Court
DEA
U.S. Probation Office
Georgia Department of Community Supervision
Bibb County Sheriff’s Office
Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office
Dougherty County District Attorney’s Office
Macon-Bibb District Attorney’s Office
Albany Aspire
Albany Second Change
Albany Technical College
Central Georgia Technical College
Eckerd GED
Goodwill
Insure Georgia
Loaves & Fishes
Middle Georgia Access to Justice
Next Step Recovery Ministries
Rescue Mission
Spirit of Ruth Outreach Ministries
Work Source Georgia
The offender call-ins are a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362. The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Sentencing and Guilty Plea in Two "Operation End Game" Child Sexual Exploitation CasesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. — Two defendants arrested during “Operation End Game,” a multi-agency effort targeting and arresting adult perpetrators seeking sex with children, made appearances in federal court Wednesday, said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Andrew Leo Schafer, 53, of Winder, Georgia previously pleaded guilty to one count of use of facilities in interstate and foreign commerce to transmit information about a minor and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on March 4, 2020 to 46 months in prison and ten years of supervised release. Schafer is currently in federal custody, and once he finishes serving his sentence, he will be required to register as a sex offender and undergo computer and phone monitoring. Fredrick Lamar Smith, 28, of Royston, Georgia entered a guilty plea to one count of use of facilities in interstate and foreign commerce to transmit information about a minor and faces a maximum five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and at least three years supervised release. Smith remains in federal custody and will be sentenced in Athens, Georgia on June 3, 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
“These cases are about protecting children. The defendants both made explicit attempts to have sex with a person they believed was a 14-year-old child, but was in actuality an undercover officer working to stop child sex predators. This office will continue to criminally prosecute adults who seek sexual gratification from children,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their collective efforts to stop would-be child predators from harming young children.”
“Operation End Game did exactly what it was tasked to do: Put an end to criminal attempts of predators to irreversibly harm young children,” said Debbie Garner, GBI Special Agent in Charge and Commander of the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. “The GBI and the Georgia ICAC Task Force will work tirelessly with our partners to protect our children against those who seek to harm them.”
“This sentencing and guilty plea are indicative of the FBI’s commitment, along with our federal, state and local partners, to prosecute anyone who would seek sexual gratification from taking advantage of children,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Our message to these predators is you cannot hide behind the ‘anonymity’ of the internet.”
“Operation End Game” was a three-day proactive effort centered in Athens, Georgia in July 2019 to arrest adults communicating with children on-line and then traveling to meet them for the purpose of having sex. The cases were investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CEACC), the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), the FBI, and the Athens-Clarke County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362. The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at https://www.justice.gov/history.
168 Dogs Rescued in Georgia Pursuant to Federal Search Warrants Related to Suspected Violations of the Animal Welfare ActRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. — Eleven federal search warrants were executed Wednesday morning related to suspected violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and drug trafficking, resulting in the rescue of 168 canines, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General (USDA-OIG), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia are leading the investigation, with the assistance of the following agencies:
- U.S. Marshals Service
- The Department of Justice, Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD)
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI)
- Bibb County Sheriff’s Office
- Crawford County Sheriff’s Office
- Houston County Sheriff’s Office
- Merriweather County Sheriff’s Office
- Peach County Sheriff’s Office
- Taylor County Sheriff’s Office
- Webster County Sheriff’s Office
- Byron Police Department
- Fort Valley Police Department
This is an ongoing investigation and any individuals who may be arrested in this investigation are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Eleven federal search warrants were executed at the following locations on Wednesday, February 26, 2020:
- 323 Ruby Street, Macon, Bibb County, Georgia
- 16 Spruce Lane, Roberta, Crawford County, Georgia
- 99 Calloway Drive, Roberta, Crawford County, Georgia
- 107 Stanton Circle, Warner Robins, Houston County, Georgia
- 407 Vienna Street, Fort Valley, Peach County, Georgia
- 718 Green Street, Apt. A101, Fort Valley, Peach County, Georgia
- 223 Buckrun Road, Talbotton, Talbot County, Georgia
- 293 Chapman Road, Shiloh, Talbot County, Georgia
- 838 Jeff Hendricks Road, Woodland, Talbot County, Georgia
- 65 Turner Estates Road, Reynolds, Taylor County, Georgia
- 369 Millard Kennedy Road, Preston, Webster County, Georgia
The 168 rescued animals are now in the care of the U.S. Marshals Service. Many of the animals are malnourished with scarring, and some are severely injured and require surgery or other medical intervention. For example, one animal, a female pit bull, was discovered chained with broken legs, malnourished and overbred. An emergency veterinarian was on hand to administer care to the pit bull. At least two dogs had emergency surgery to treat their injuries. For the safety of the animals, the location of their care and housing will not be made public.
“I am incredibly grateful to the law enforcement teams who came together from all over the region to rescue these abused animals as we continue to investigate this alleged dog fighting ring,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Illegal dog fighting is a barbaric activity. Those who choose to violate the Animal Welfare Act face serious consequences, including federal prison time, where there is no parole.”
“The provisions of the Animal Welfare Act were designed to protect animals from being used in illegal fighting ventures, which often entail other forms of criminal activity involving drugs, firearms, and gambling,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason Williams of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG). “Animal fighting is an investigative priority for USDA-OIG, and together with the Department of Justice, we will work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and assist in the criminal prosecution of those who participate in animal fighting ventures.”
“These search warrants are part of a multi-month, multi-agency investigation into allegations of illegal dog fighting and drug trafficking,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “Because of the dedication between all law enforcement agencies involved, the citizens of Middle Georgia are safer and innocent animals have been rescued.”
The federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) defines “animal fighting venture” as “any event, in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, that involves a fight conducted or to be conducted between at least two animals for purposes of sport, wagering, or entertainment.” It is illegal to sponsor or exhibit an animal in, attend or cause an individual who has not attained the age of 16 to attend an animal fighting venture. It is illegal to possess, train, sell, buy, transport, deliver or receive an animal for purposes of having the animal participate in an animal fighting venture. It is unlawful to use an instrumentality of interstate commerce for commercial speech for purposes of advertising an animal for use in an animal fighting venture, or for promoting or furthering an animal fighting venture. All of these offenses are felonies punishable by up to five years in prison.
USDA Animal Care, a unit within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, administers the AWA. This federal law establishes requirements concerning the transportation, sale and handling of certain animals and includes restrictions on the importation of live dogs for purposes of resale, prohibitions on animal fighting ventures and provisions intended to prevent the theft of personal pets. Regulations established under the AWA set standards for the humane care and treatment for certain animals that are exhibited to the public, sold for use as pets, used in research or transported commercially. Facilities using regulated animals for regulated purposes must provide their animals with adequate housing, sanitation, nutrition, water and veterinary care, and they must protect their animals from extreme weather and temperatures. The regulations also establish specific requirements that must be met prior to the importation of dogs for resale purposes.
The investigation was conducted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Bowen Mize is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362. The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at https://www.justice.gov/history.
Milledgeville, Georgia Tax Preparer Sentenced for Tax Fraud, Ordered to Repay $1 MillionRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – The former owner of Mr. Tax, Etc., a tax preparation business, was sentenced to prison and ordered to pay $1,000,000 in restitution after admitting he manipulated and falsified client information on filed tax returns, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Willie Moore, Jr., 48, of Braselton, Georgia, previously entered a guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States on Thursday, September 12, 2019 and was sentenced on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Tilman “Tripp” Self to 33 months in prison and ordered to pay $1,000,000 in restitution to the IRS. A co-defendant in the case, James Prather, 47, of Douglasville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count Conspiracy to Defraud the United States on May 8, 2019, causing a $1,000,000 loss to the United States Government. Prather faces a maximum five years in prison and will be sentenced on February 26, 2020. Both defendants agreed to no longer prepare or file federal tax returns for anyone other than themselves. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The punishment is steep for those who steal from the tax payers and the government,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Protecting tax payers from government fraud is a priority of this office, and we will continue to work closely with the IRS, the Southeast Scheme Development Center and our many other law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute fraud crimes across the Middle District of Georgia.”
“This sentence should serve as a warning to any tax return preparer considering exploiting their clients for profit: You will be caught, you will be prosecuted, and you will pay a steep price for your actions,” said Andrew Thornton, Jr., Acting Special Agent in Charge IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS-CI remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to bring those seeking to enrich themselves at the expense of the government and their clients, to justice.”
“Today’s sentence sends a strong message to those who abuse the bankruptcy system,” said Nancy J. Gargula, U.S. Trustee for Georgia, Florida, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (Region 21). “Causing taxpayers to provide false tax returns and documents in connection with their bankruptcy cases undermines the integrity of the system and will not be tolerated. We appreciate the commitment of U.S. Attorney Peeler and our law enforcement partners to holding those who abuse the bankruptcy system accountable.”
Co-defendants and business partners Mr. Moore and Mr. Prather orchestrated a tax refund scheme through Mr. Moore’s tax return preparation business AMAB Enterprises, d/b/a/ Mr. Tax, Etc., a storefront location on North Columbia Street in Milledgeville, Georgia. Investigators identified a total of 5,529 suspicious federal income tax returns for the 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 tax years, and a high percentage of returns, 97%, receiving a refund. Mr. Moore admitted in his guilty plea agreement that to increase a client’s tax returns, he would manipulate the taxpayer’s returns by listing fraudulent businesses, profits, educational expenses, and household income. Most of the clients interviewed stated that their income tax returns were not explained to them nor were they reviewed with them. Some clients never even received a copy of their returns or were given partial copies missing pages, parts, or schedules. Bank records show more than $400,000 in transfers to the defendants, the profits of the tax refund scheme.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division and the IRS’s Southeast Scheme Development Center. The charges resulted, in part, from a referral by the U.S. Trustee for Region 21 to the U.S. Attorney. The U.S. Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. Region 21 is headquartered in Atlanta, with additional offices in Macon and Savannah, Georgia; Miami, Orlando, Tallahassee and Tampa, Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
52 Month Prison Sentence for Illegal Alien Who Injured Georgia Deputy While Fleeing ArrestRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Mexican national with prior convictions for illegal reentry into the United States and transporting illegal aliens, and who injured an officer during his 2019 arrest, was sentenced to 52 months in prison for illegal reentry and violation of supervised release, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Pedro Santos-Garcia, 42, of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Thursday, February 20, 2020 after Santos-Garcia entered a guilty plea on July 30, 2019 to one count of illegal reentry. The indictment shows the defendant was found unlawfully in the United States in Cook County, Georgia, on or about April 29, 2019, after previously being deported and removed from the United States on or about April 19, 2017, April 7, 2011, February 20, 2009, June 5, 2008, September 12, 2006, June 12, 2006, June 12, 2003 and December 13, 2002. Santos-Garcia was sentenced on both the new illegal reentry charge as well as a revocation for violation of his supervised release from a prior federal felony conviction for illegal reentry. There is no parole in the federal system.
Santos-Garcia was found to have violated his supervised release on April 29, 2019, when deputies with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office in Adel, Georgia arrested the defendant for driving and obstruction offenses. At the time of the defendant’s arrest, he gave officers false identifying data, pushed the arresting officer’s hands away, fled across a multi-lane interstate highway, crossed multiple lanes of traffic, jumped the concrete median and crossed to the other side of the interstate. Deputies pursued the defendant across the highway, putting themselves at substantial risk of death or serious physical injury. When apprehended, the defendant also took a deputy’s taser. During the struggle, one deputy suffered a broken wrist. Immigration officials investigated and determined the defendant, a citizen of Mexico, was in the United States illegally, had a final order of removal, and had numerous prior removals. On May 3, 2019, Cook County officials transferred the defendant to the custody of immigration officials.
“I want to thank our law enforcement partners across the Middle District of Georgia who put their lives on the line protecting us every day. I want to especially commend the Cook County Sheriff’s Office for their service and bravery in this case,” said U.S. Attorney Peeler. “This case illustrates that there is good reason to enforce immigration laws in the United States, and it is especially important to enforce our immigration laws when an offender is committing other crimes while in the United States illegally. This is about protecting the public, and dangerous criminals, illegal or legal, must be prevented from harming our communities.”
“This sentence should serve as a reminder that there are significant consequences for those who choose to reenter the country illegally, after being ordered removed,” said Thomas P. Giles, acting Field Office Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Atlanta. “ERO officers will continue to pursue criminal aliens seeking to circumvent U.S. laws.”
This case was investigated by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Helmick prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Former Georgia Youth Softball Umpire Sentenced in Child Sexual Exploitation Case, Judge Orders No Contact with ChildrenRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A former youth softball umpire arrested during “Operation End Game,” a multi-agency effort targeting and arresting adult perpetrators seeking sex with children, was sentenced to prison and will not be allowed to have contact with children without supervision, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. James Hughes Morriss, 50, of Dacula, Georgia entered a guilty plea on November 19, 2019 to one count of use of facilities in interstate and foreign commerce to transmit information about a minor, and was sentenced to 46 months in prison on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 by U.S. District Court Judge C. Ashley Royal. In addition, once his prison sentence is served, Morriss will be under terms of Court supervision that prohibit him from having contact or working with minors without supervision, and his use of the internet and cellular devices will be monitored by the Court. Morriss will also be required to register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Law enforcement in Georgia is aggressively working to find and arrest adults preying on children, and our office will vigorously prosecute perpetrators to the maximum extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “As a softball umpire, this individual intentionally positioned himself to be around youth. I commend the GBI, FBI and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department for stopping this individual, and for yet another excellent operation protecting Georgia’s children.”
“A dangerous child predator will no longer be free to victimize our children,” said ACCPD Chief Cleveland Spruill. “I’m grateful to U.S. Attorney Peeler and his staff for their efforts holding ‘Operation End Game’ defendants accountable for their crimes. This operation showcases the cooperative work of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and sends a clear message to sexual predators--our children are our most valuable asset and their protection is a priority.”
“Operation End Game did exactly what it was tasked to do: Put an end to criminal attempts of predators to irreversibly harm young children,” said Debbie Garner, GBI Special Agent in Charge and Commander of the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. “The GBI and the Georgia ICAC Task Force will work tirelessly with our partners to protect our children against those who seek to harm them.”
“This case is an example of the importance of our law enforcement partnerships in our efforts to rid our communities of those who would choose to do harm to the most vulnerable in our society,” said Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta, Chris Hacker. “Those who prey on our children must be held accountable to send a message that this behavior will not be tolerated.”
“Operation End Game” was a three-day proactive effort centered in Athens, Georgia beginning July 25, 2019 to arrest adults communicating with children on-line and then traveling to meet them for the purpose of having sex. On July 26, 2019, an undercover officer communicating with perpetrators online under a profile named “Lizzie” with a photo of a young girl, received notification in the mobile application Skout from an individual later identified as Defendant Morriss. Within the first few exchanges, Defendant Morriss, who was 49 at the time, asked “Lizzie” her age and was told she was only 14-years-old and attended a school in Georgia. Defendant Morriss, familiar with many schools in Georgia due to his work around the state as a youth softball umpire, recognized the named school. Defendant Morris initiated a sexually explicit discussion and suggested an in-person meeting with the child; he also requested and received photos of the purported 14-year-old. Morriss then traveled to meet the 14-year-old child in Athens for sexual purposes, and was arrested at the designated meeting place shortly after midnight on July 27, 2019.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CEACC), the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), the FBI and the Athens-Clarke County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Justice Department Seeks to Shut Down Georgia Tax Return PreparerRead the Press Release
The United States filed a civil injunction suit seeking to bar Wesley Adam Kroll from owning or operating a tax return preparation business and preparing tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced today. The complaint also seeks an order that Kroll disgorge ill-gotten return preparation fees that he obtained through his alleged misconduct.
The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia, alleges that Kroll has operated three tax return preparation stores in Albany and Moultrie, Georgia, under the names United Tax Service, American Tax Service, American Tax, and Tax South.
The government alleges that Kroll prepared tax returns claiming fabricated businesses and business-related profits or losses, and various false tax deductions and credits, including education, childcare, and earned income tax credits. The complaint estimates the lost tax revenue from federal tax returns prepared by Kroll and his employees exceeds $1.9 million. According to the complaint, the IRS took multiple steps to correct Kroll’s unlawful behavior, including conducting in-person educational visits with Kroll in 2012, 2014, and 2015; issuing him warning letters in 2013 and 2016; and assessing him with $182,500 in tax return preparer penalties. But, the government alleges, these efforts have failed to curb Kroll’s unlawful behavior.
“The Justice Department is committed to working with the IRS to bring enforcement actions against unscrupulous return preparers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard Zuckerman. “This civil action is further evidence that the IRS and the Tax Division will use all available tools to hold dishonest return preparers accountable and protect the U.S. Treasury from damage.”
Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’ Dirty Dozen Tax Scams and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. In the past decade, the Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
Career Offender Sentenced to 360 Months After Guilty Verdict for Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A convicted felon with an extensive criminal history in both Alabama and Georgia was sentenced to 360 months in prison after being found guilty for criminal gun and drug charges, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
Freddie Clark, 43, of Phenix City, Alabama was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Tuesday, February 11, 2020. A citizen jury found Clark guilty on all three charges he was facing during a federal trial in September, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. U.S. District Judge Clay Land presided over the federal jury trial in Columbus beginning on Monday, September 23, 2019. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Decreasing violent crime in Columbus is a top priority of our office, and we will prosecute violent and career offenders to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I hope this stiff 30 year sentence sends a message to all criminals that guns and drugs do not pay in Columbus, Georgia. I want to thank the Columbus Police Department and the ATF for their excellent work in this case.”
Mr. Clark was pulled over by a Columbus Police Department officer for extreme erratic driving March 14, 2018 at 3:30 a.m. on Buena Vista Road. Mr. Clark did not exit the car as directed, and upon approaching the vehicle, the arresting officer saw a pistol on Mr. Clark’s lap. The officer was able to remove the loaded Ruger .380 from Mr. Clark and the defendant was taken into custody. Officers found various drugs and 85 grams of methamphetamine on Mr. Clark and inside his vehicle. Mr. Clark has a total of eight prior felony convictions in Alabama and Georgia state courts.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
The case was investigated by the Columbus Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Convicted Felon, Arrested During Columbus "Horseshoe" Investigation, Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A convicted felon with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced to more than nine years in prison on a federal gun charge, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Clay Land sentenced Arrington Culpepper, 34, of Columbus, to 115 months in prison, after Culpepper pleaded guilty to one count possession of a stolen firearm. There is no parole in the federal system.
Culpepper was apprehended during a joint operation on September 5, 2017 investigating a high crime area in Columbus associated with criminal gang activity, known as “the horseshoe.” Culpepper fled from agents on foot. During the course of the chase, Culpepper discarded what was later found to be a stolen .380 caliber pistol, a digital scale and a small amount of marijuana. Culpepper has been convicted of the following felony crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year:
- Possession of Cocaine with intent to Distribute: Muscogee County Superior Court, Case No. SU-06-CR-545, sentenced on July 6, 2006;
- Possession of Cocaine: Muscogee County Superior Court, Georgia, Case No. SU-07-CR-276, sentenced on January 14, 2008;
- Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon: Muscogee County Superior Court, Case No. SU-13-CR-1506, sentenced on October 4, 2013;
- Possession of Controlled Substance with intent to Distribute & Felony Fleeing or Eluding Law Enforcement Officer: Muscogee County Superior Court, Case No. SU-15-CR-1557, sentenced on September 25, 2015;
- Possession of Marijuana with intent to Distribute: Muscogee County Superior Court, Case No. SU-15-CR-3355, sentenced on April 25, 2016.
“Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are united and focused on our shared goal to decrease criminal activity in the Columbus region,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to commend the excellent work by the Columbus Police Department, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision and the FBI in this investigation and for their joint efforts protecting our communities.”
The case was investigated by the Columbus Police Department, the Department of Community Supervision, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Meth Distributor Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A defendant who attempted to distribute a large amount of methamphetamine in Middle Georgia has been sentenced to prison, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell sentenced Kathleen Rojas, 37, of Fayetteville, Georgia, to 72 months in prison and three years supervised release on Wednesday, February 5, 2020 after she pleaded guilty on November 8, 2019 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The federal system has no parole.
Rojas was arrested during an operation conducted by the Butts County Sheriff’s Office on August 10, 2018. Agents were tipped off by a Confidential Informant that the defendant would be involved in the sale of methamphetamine. The defendant was arrested in Butts County, Georgia with 110.6 grams of 97% pure “ice” methamphetamine hidden in her bra. Rojas told investigators there was more methamphetamine in her nearby Henry County motel room, and an additional 635 grams of 99% pure “ice” methamphetamine was discovered. The total amount of “ice” methamphetamine recovered was 745.6 grams.
“To all criminals involved in the meth trade: Don’t use meth, don’t sell meth and don’t transport meth through the Middle District of Georgia. We will prosecute offenders engaged in pushing this deadly, illegal narcotic in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the Butts County Sheriff’s Office, the Flint River Drug Task Force and DEA for their excellent work in this case, and shutting down a meth distribution operation in Middle Georgia.”
The case was investigated by the Butts County Sheriff’s Office, the Flint River Drug Task Force and the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Outzs prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
SWGA Meth Dealer Sentenced to Ten Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – An admitted methamphetamine dealer, who was arrested with pure “ice” methamphetamine in Lee County, Georgia, was sentenced to ten years in prison, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Willie Ware, 22, of Albany, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Thursday, January 30, 2020 to serve 121 months in prison and five years supervised release, after pleading guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Ware admitted that he was arrested by Lee County Sheriff’s deputies in possession of 241.54 grams of 100% pure d-methamphetamine hydrochloride. Mr. Ware was taken into custody on November 24, 2017, during a routine traffic stop in the area of Joiner Drive and North Doublegate Drive. Deputies spotted a jar of marijuana in plain view and a handgun. During a legal search of the car, the methamphetamine was discovered. Mr. Ware told investigators that he had already sold one ounce of methamphetamine prior to his arrest.
“Methamphetamine is a poison in our society, killing users and ruining many lives. Its ripple effect is far reaching, and we will continue to prosecute individuals who choose to deal this dangerous drug in our communities,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the Lee County Sheriff’s Department and the DEA for their work in this case.”
“It is a great pleasure to work these types of drug cases and remove both the drugs and the dealers out of our society. Methamphetamine is a hideous drug that makes users paranoid, violent and aggressive, which I feel makes them a serious threat to society and law enforcement. Meth users and sellers are a threat to our children and families, therefore I intend to continue to investigate and arrest people involved in illegal drugs,” said Lee County Sheriff Reggie Rachals.
The case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Captured: Final Wanted "Operation Benchwarmers" Defendant Taken into Custody in TexasRead the Press Release
Macon, Ga. — The final defendant wanted in “Operation Benchwarmers” was taken into custody by FBI agents in Dallas, Texas on Wednesday afternoon, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Andrew Bravo Jimenez, aka “Droopy,” 25, of Athens and Texas, was captured by FBI-Dallas agents, with assistance from FBI-Atlanta. Jimenez is charged with one count conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin and crack cocaine, which carries a maximum life prison sentence, along with one count possession with intent to distribute heroin. Federal indictments were unsealed last week in “Operation Benchwarmers,” charging 17 defendants wanted on federal gun and drug charges. More than 300 law enforcement members from 24 agencies and task forces participated in “Operation Benchwarmers” on Tuesday, January 21, 2020 in the Athens-Clarke County region, arresting 16 charged defendants that day. According to the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), “Operation Benchwarmers” is the largest law enforcement operation in the department’s history, netting an estimated street value of $955,986 in illegal narcotics, including heroin and methamphetamine, along with 43 firearms and assault rifles, plus $84,013 in cash.
“I want to commend the dedication of the FBI in pursuing and capturing this wanted defendant, found hundreds of miles away attempting to evade arrest,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “All 17 defendants charged in ‘Operation Benchwarmers’ have now been taken into custody, thanks to the excellent work of two dozen law enforcement agencies and more than 300 people. This operation was a success because of their relentless commitment to keeping Georgia communities safe.”
“We would like to thank our FBI Dallas field office for their assistance in making this final arrest in ‘Operation Benchwarmers,’” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “They are one of two dozen federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, integral in our effort to protect the law abiding citizens in the Athens area, making those citizens’ communities safer today.”
“The capture of the final defendant in this case brings closure, not only for the dedicated men and women of law enforcement who worked tirelessly to make this investigation a success, but also for the citizens of Athens, Georgia who deserve a safe community free from dangerous and deadly substances that wreak havoc on society,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division.
“ACCPD is pleased to learn that the final violent felon in this operation is off the streets and will be brought back to Georgia to face charges,” said ACCPD Chief Cleveland Spruill. “It further illustrates that local, state, and federal agencies can and will work together to bring violent criminals to justice.”
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, with the assistance of the following agencies:
- Athens-Clarke Fire Department
- Banks County Sheriff’s Office
- Clarke County Sheriff’s Office
- DeKalb County Police Department
- FBI
- FBI-Dallas
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation
- Georgia Department of Community Supervision
- Georgia Department of Corrections
- Georgia State Patrol
- Greene County Sheriff’s Office
- Gwinnett County Police Department
- Homeland Security Investigations
- Madison County Sheriff’s Office
- Oconee County Sheriff’s Office
- City of Statham Police Department
- United States Marshals Service
- United States Probation Office
- Walton County Sheriff’s Office
Federal indictments charging 17 individuals have been unsealed. An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. The following individuals are charged and have been taken into custody, unless otherwise noted:
The following 16 subjects are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin and crack cocaine. The penalty is a mandatory minimum ten years in prison up to a maximum life term in prison, a $10 million dollar fine and five years supervised release:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One”
Jamian Huff, aka “Dunk,” 34, of Athens
Andrew Bravo Jimenez, aka “Droopy”
Manuel Gonzalez Romero, of Athens and Mexico
Steven Ricole Scott, aka “Black,” aka “Unc,” 43, of Athens
Antonio M. Mitchell, aka “Tonio,” 30, of Athens
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
Christopher Sanders, aka “Chris,” 33, of Athens
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens
Maquila Jones, aka “Qui,” 20, of Athens
Nicholas Jackson, aka “Nick Bean,” 26, of Athens
Terrell Bush, aka “T-Rock,” 45, of Athens
Shaddrick Cox, aka “Shad,” 24, of Athens
Robert Bolton, Jr., aka “Rob,” 31, of Athens
The following ten subjects are charged with distribution of cocaine base/crack cocaine. The penalties range from a maximum 20 years in prison to a maximum 40 years in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens (15 counts)
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One” (9 counts)
Jamian Huff, aka “Dunk,” 34, of Athens
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens (2 counts)
Shaddrick Cox, aka “Shad,” 24, of Athens
Steven Ricole Scott, aka “Black,” aka “Unc,” 43, of Athens (3 counts)
Christopher Sanders, aka “Chris,” 33, of Athens
Robert Bolton, Jr., aka “Rob,” 31, of Athens
Antonio M. Mitchell, aka “Tonio,” 30, of Athens
Maquila Jones, aka “Qui,” 20, of Athens
The following eight subjects are charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The penalty is a mandatory minimum five years in prison up to a maximum life term in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens (12 counts)
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One” (7 counts)
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens (3 counts)
Christopher Sanders, aka “Chris,” 33, of Athens
Antonio M. Mitchell, aka “Tonio,” 30, of Athens
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
Shaddrick Cox, aka “Shad,” 24, of Athens
The following three subjects are charged with distribution of heroin. The penalty is a maximum 20 years in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens (5 counts)
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One” (3 counts)
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens (2 counts)
The following six subjects are charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin. The penalties range from a maximum 20 years in prison to a maximum 40 years in prison:
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
Terrell Bush, aka “T-Rock,” 45, of Athens
Nicholas Jackson, aka “Nick Bean,” 26, of Athens
Manuel Gonzalez Romero, of Athens and Mexico
Andrew Bravo Jimenez, aka “Droopy”
The following two subjects are charged with distribution of methamphetamine. The penalty is a maximum 20 years in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens
The following two subjects are charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The penalty is a maximum 20 years in prison:
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
The following subject is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The penalty is a maximum ten years in prison:
Armand Payne, 39, of Athens
The following subjects were taken into custody during “Operation Benchwarmers” on state charges:
Luis Besave-Lagunas (Charged in Madison County with Trafficking Heroin, Trafficking Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony)
Zenon Carrera-Ferrer (Charged in Athens-Clarke County with Trafficking Methamphetamine, Trafficking Heroin and Possession of Cocaine)
Dwight Moreland (Probation Violation)
Andreas Lane (Charged in Madison County with Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Probation Violation)
Adian Mapp (Charged in Madison County with Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon)
Leonard Jackson (Charged in Athens-Clarke County with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon)
The following firearms, cash and illegal drugs were seized:
- 43 firearms seized (including 8 assault rifles)
- $84,013 U.S. Currency seized
- 8.34 kilograms of heroin (Street Value: $667,200)
- 4.3 pounds of crystal methamphetamine (Street Value: $195,400)
- 26.1 ounces of crack cocaine (Street Value: $78,200)
- 2.4 pounds of marijuana (Street Value: $4,376)
- 3.31 ounces of power cocaine (Street Value: $9,400)
- 94 controlled pharmaceuticals (Street Value: $940)
- 40 grams of oxycodone (Street Value: $470)
The investigation was conducted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Savannah felon admits to weeks-long, two-state robbery and carjacking spreeRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA – A convicted felon faces up to life in prison after pleading guilty to planning and executing a string of armed robberies and carjackings across Georgia and South Carolina in November 2018.
Demetrius Lamar Jackson, a/k/a “Meechy,” 30, of Savannah, pled guilty today to Discharging and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to Crimes of Violence, Carjacking and Attempted Carjacking, Interference with Commerce by Robbery, and Conspiracy to Use and Carry Firearms During Crimes of Violence, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood accepted Jackson’s guilty plea.
Jackson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 17 years in prison. The court retains the authority to sentence Jackson to prison for life, and there is no parole in the federal system.
“Jackson is a dangerous, violent criminal whose rampage across two states left innocent people injured and victimized – and fortunate to still be alive,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “A law-abiding citizen with a legal firearm finally brought Jackson’s reign of terror to an end, and a substantial federal prison term will ensure the community’s safety from him for many years to come.”
According to court statements and filings, in November 2018, Jackson perpetrated a two-and-a-half-week crime spree across Georgia and South Carolina, including:
- Nov. 6, 2018: Jackson robbed an employee of a Boost Mobile store in Savannah at gunpoint while the employee was transporting cash for the store. Jackson shot the store manager in the abdomen when she came to assist, and fled the scene in a car driven by his accomplice, Nautica Morgan, 23, of Savannah.
- Nov. 12: Jackson approached a young couple who was washing a Nissan sedan at a midtown Savannah carwash. Jackson pointed a gun at them and twice pulled the trigger, but the gun malfunctioned. Jackson then sped away in the victims’ car.
- Nov. 13: Jackson robbed a Valdosta, Ga., Boost Mobile employee and his girlfriend at gunpoint. The getaway car was the one stolen at the Savannah car wash.
- Nov. 19: Morgan attempted to steal merchandise from a beauty store in Augusta, Ga. When the store manager followed Morgan, Jackson pointed a gun at the manager. Jackson and Morgan later carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint from a woman at a nearby CVS. Later that day, at a Walgreens pharmacy in Conyers, Ga., Jackson held a man at gunpoint and attempted to steal his car, then stole a purse.
- Nov. 20: Jackson robbed a Boost Mobile store in East Point, Ga. Armed with a pistol, Jackson ordered the store’s employees to empty the cash register and safe. He then demanded the employees kneel on the floor of a back room and surrender a key to the store and their personal cell phones, debit cards, and cash before he fled.
- Nov. 21: Jackson carjacked a 73-year-old woman in Athens, Ga., while she was vacuuming her SUV. Jackson threatened to shoot her and then pistol-whipped her in the head. Later that same day, Jackson walked into a Boost Mobile store in Aiken, S.C., pulled out a gun and demanded money. Before he left with the store’s cash, Jackson seized an employee’s cellphone and smashed it.
- Nov. 23: Jackson attempted to rob a Boost Mobile store in Columbia, S.C., but a store employee shot Jackson during the robbery. To drive Jackson to a nearby emergency room, Morgan used a Chevrolet Tahoe that she and Jackson had carjacked in Georgetown, S.C., a few hours earlier.
Jackson and Morgan were both arrested shortly after the shooting, and a search of the Tahoe revealed bloody clothes, the stolen .22 caliber pistol used in the crimes, and numerous stolen items.
For her role in the crime spree, Morgan was charged with federal crimes in the District of South Carolina. On Aug. 27, 2019, Morgan pled guilty to charges of Conspiracy to Use and Carry a Firearm During Crimes of Violence and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence.
Jackson’s charges stem from two separate indictments brought by grand juries sitting in the Northern and Southern Districts of Georgia. The Northern District’s indictment was transferred to the Southern District. The U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Middle District of Georgia and District of South Carolina were important in bringing these cases to resolution.
“Jackson committed horrible violent acts, even pointing and firing guns at men and women of various ages and backgrounds with no regard for their lives,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak of the Northern District of Georgia. “We are committed to safe neighborhoods and communities no matter where they are. This case should clarify for anyone who chooses to follow in Jackson’s footsteps that we will find you and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
“I want to commend the law enforcement agencies in Georgia and South Carolina who tracked down and captured a violent man bent on causing grave harm to whomever crossed his path during this terrorizing crime spree,” said Charlie Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “We are pleased that justice will be served for the innocent victims in this matter.”
“Jackson went on a weeks-long crime spree and terrorized innocent individuals across two states. Hopefully the victims who were traumatized by him can take comfort in the fact that he has pled guilty and will now have to pay the penalty for his reign of terror,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI would like to thank our state and local law enforcement partners who helped bring this violent defendant to justice.”
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Savannah Police Department, the Richland County (S.C.) Sheriff’s Department, the Valdosta Police Department, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the East Point Police Department, the City of Conyers Police Department, the Aiken (S.C.) Department of Public Safety, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and the Georgetown (S.C.) City Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Southern District of Georgia and Theodore S. Hertzberg of the Northern District of Georgia prosecuted Jackson’s cases for the United States.
200+ Years Imprisonment for 22 Defendants Guilty in Moultrie Drug Conspiracy CaseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – 22 of 23 defendants charged with various federal drug crimes linked to a large narcotics and methamphetamine ring operating out of a Southwest Georgia community have been sentenced to prison for their crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner handed down sentences for 22 defendants concluding on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at the federal courthouse in Albany. The remaining defendant awaiting sentencing, Alejandro Bustamante, will be sentenced at a later date after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of criminal contempt of court.
On January 22, 2020:
Gabino Tobias, 45, of Fairburn, Georgia was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Maria Del Carmen Salazar Mirales, 46, of Fairburn, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Gricelda Bustamante-Gutierrez, 37, of Norman Park, Georgia was sentenced to 180 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Ricardo Gutierrez, 32, of Norman Park, was sentenced to 292 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On January 16, 2020:
Kristen Dismuke, 31, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 42 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Trabian Jones, 43, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana;
Eric Townsend, 31, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Torranza McNeal, aka “Cheese,” aka “Meke,” was sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base.
On January 15, 2020:
Brenton Miller, 32, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 180 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
Regina Miller, 36, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 84 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
Ramon White, 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 36 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine;
James Fielder, 35, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
On January 14, 2020:
Josh Whaley, 38, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 54 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Tony Stamper, aka “Buggie,” 31, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 60 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to cocaine and marijuana;
Bryant Pittman, aka “John Gotti,” 36, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 200 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On January 13, 2020:
David Spradley, aka “ManMan,” 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 218 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Johntavious Johnson, aka “Mikey,” 33, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one county conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Jarvis West, 32, of Moultrie, was each sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one county conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Ricardo Bodiford, aka “Rico,” 34, of Moultrie, was sentenced on January 13, 2020 to 260 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
In earlier proceedings:
Stacy McLellan, 50, of Norman Park, was sentenced on May 13, 2019 to 160 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Eric Lamar, 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced on October 16, 2019 to 24 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana;
Brad Tuff, 39, of Moultrie, was sentenced on March 13, 2019 to 21 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana.
Investigators began a court-authorized wiretap on Bodiford’s cell phones on April 9, 2018. The wiretap investigation continued until law enforcement agents executed search warrants on several locations across Moultrie, Georgia from May 7-8, 2019, locating large amounts of illicit drugs, including two pounds of methamphetamine, one kilogram of cocaine, 13 pounds of marijuana, loaded firearms and cash, among other amounts of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.
“I cannot overstate the good work of the GBI partnering with other dedicated federal and local law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation for their work shutting down a dangerous methamphetamine ring. Their effort directly resulted in large amounts of harmful narcotics taken off our streets, saving countless lives and making our communities safer,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Dealers be warned: Criminals caught violating federal drug laws will be prosecuted, and the penalties are steep.”
The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, the Moultrie Police Department and the Leon County Florida Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
"Operation Benchwarmers" Nets Nearly $1 Million in Illegal Narcotics, 16 Defendants in Custody, One Remails At-LargeRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. — More than 300 law enforcement members from 23 agencies and task forces participated in “Operation Benchwarmers,” a coordinated take-down capturing 16 of 17 defendants wanted on federal gun and drug charges, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The operation, believed to be the largest law enforcement operation in the history of the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, took place on Tuesday, January 21, 2020 in the Athens-Clarke County, Georgia region, netting an estimated street value of $955,986 in illegal narcotics, including heroin and methamphetamine, along with 43 firearms and assault rifles, plus $84,013 in cash. One defendant remains at-large, Andrew Bravo Jimenez, aka “Droopy,” 25, of Athens and Texas. In addition, six individuals were taken into custody on state charges (see below). The investigation was conducted by the FBI Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, with the assistance of the following agencies:
- Athens-Clarke Fire Department
- Banks County Sheriff’s Office
- Clarke County Sheriff’s Office
- DeKalb County Police Department
- FBI
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation
- Georgia Department of Community Supervision
- Georgia Department of Corrections
- Georgia State Patrol
- Greene County Sheriff’s Office
- Gwinnett County Police Department
- Homeland Security Investigations
- Madison County Sheriff’s Office
- Oconee County Sheriff’s Office
- City of Statham Police Department
- United States Marshals Service
- United States Probation Office
- Walton County Sheriff’s Office
Federal indictments charging 17 individuals have been unsealed. An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. The following individuals are charged and have been taken into custody, unless otherwise noted:
16 of the individuals are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin and crack cocaine. The penalty is a mandatory minimum ten years in prison up to a maximum life term in prison, a $10 million dollar fine and five years supervised release:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One”
Jamian Huff, aka “Dunk,” 34, of Athens
Andrew Bravo Jimenez, aka “Droopy” (at-large)
Manuel Gonzalez Romero, of Athens and Mexico
Steven Ricole Scott, aka “Black,” aka “Unc,” 43, of Athens
Antonio M. Mitchell, aka “Tonio,” 30, of Athens
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
Christopher Sanders, aka “Chris,” 33, of Athens
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens
Maquila Jones, aka “Qui,” 20, of Athens
Nicholas Jackson, aka “Nick Bean,” 26, of Athens
Terrell Bush, aka “T-Rock,” 45, of Athens
Shaddrick Cox, aka “Shad,” 24, of Athens
Robert Bolton, Jr., aka “Rob,” 31, of Athens
10 individuals are charged with distribution of cocaine base/crack cocaine. The penalties range from a maximum 20 years in prison to a maximum 40 years in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens (15 counts)
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One” (9 counts)
Jamian Huff, aka “Dunk,” 34, of Athens
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens (2 counts)
Shaddrick Cox, aka “Shad,” 24, of Athens
Steven Ricole Scott, aka “Black,” aka “Unc,” 43, of Athens (3 counts)
Christopher Sanders, aka “Chris,” 33, of Athens
Robert Bolton, Jr., aka “Rob,” 31, of Athens
Antonio M. Mitchell, aka “Tonio,” 30, of Athens
Maquila Jones, aka “Qui,” 20, of Athens
8 individuals are charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The penalty is a mandatory minimum five years in prison up to a maximum life term in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens (12 counts)
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One” (7 counts)
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens (3 counts)
Christopher Sanders, aka “Chris,” 33, of Athens
Antonio M. Mitchell, aka “Tonio,” 30, of Athens
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
Shaddrick Cox, aka “Shad,” 24, of Athens
3 individuals are charged with distribution of heroin. The penalty is a maximum 20 years in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens (5 counts)
Jaquavious T. Turner, aka “Take One” (3 counts)
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens (2 counts)
6 individuals are charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin. The penalties range from a maximum 20 years in prison to a maximum 40 years in prison:
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
Terrell Bush, aka “T-Rock,” 45, of Athens
Nicholas Jackson, aka “Nick Bean,” 26, of Athens
Manuel Gonzalez Romero, of Athens and Mexico
Andrew Bravo Jimenez, aka “Droopy” (at-large)
2 individuals are charged with distribution of methamphetamine. The penalty is a maximum 20 years in prison:
Rickshun Willigham, aka “Teddy,” 32, of Athens
Bernard Barnett, aka “Nard,” 22, of Athens
2 individuals are charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The penalty is a maximum 20 years in prison:
Marques Ward, aka “YG,” 31, of Athens
Ttajia Forney, 19, of Athens
1 individual is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The penalty is a maximum ten years in prison:
Armand Payne, 39, of Athens
The following subjects were taken into custody during “Operation Benchwarmers” on state charges:
Luis Besave-Lagunas (Charged in Madison County with Trafficking Heroin, Trafficking Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony)
Zenon Carrera-Ferrer (Charged in Athens-Clarke County with Trafficking Methamphetamine, Trafficking Heroin and Possession of Cocaine)
Dwight Moreland (Probation Violation)
Andreas Lane (Charged in Madison County with Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Probation Violation)
Adian Mapp (Charged in Madison County with Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon)
Leonard Jackson (Charged in Athens-Clarke County with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon)
The following firearms, cash and illegal drugs were seized:
- 43 firearms seized (including 8 assault rifles)
- $84,013 U.S. Currency seized
- 8.34 kilograms of heroin (Street Value: $667,200)
- 4.3 pounds of crystal methamphetamine (Street Value: $195,400)
- 26.1 ounces of crack cocaine (Street Value: $78,200)
- 2.4 pounds of marijuana (Street Value: $4,376)
- 3.31 ounces of power cocaine (Street Value: $9,400)
- 94 controlled pharmaceuticals (Street Value: $940)
- 40 grams of oxycodone (Street Value: $470)
“This operation represents the best of what law enforcement can accomplish when federal, state and local agencies come together with the unified goal of eradicating drug trafficking from a community,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Our message to drug traffickers and gang members and other criminals in Athens is clear: Law enforcement is committed to protecting the citizens of Athens from illegal guns, gangs and drugs. I want to thank all participating agencies involved in this historic operation.”
“This case is a perfect example of how the FBI’s partnerships with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are integral to protecting law abiding citizens in our communities,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The results of this operation speak for that. There is no question that our community is safer today than it was before these arrests.”
“The broad collection of law enforcement agencies allowed for an aggressive offense to be waged against a well-established poly-drug distribution network,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “Drug traffickers ultimately bring misery and destruction to communities. Consequently, DEA, its law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are committed to serving and protecting these communities. The city of Athens, Georgia and surrounding areas are safer because these criminals have been removed from our streets.”
“With these arrests, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department is demonstrating its commitment to work with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to remove violent felons from our community,” said ACCPD Chief Cleveland Spruill. “These suspects, with extensive criminal histories, face significantly long sentences in federal prison. It further indicates that the ACCPD does not tolerate gun violence and drug trafficking within our community. We are grateful for the efforts of our officers who have worked countless hours on this case and acknowledge the support of the many federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.”
The investigation was conducted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Probationers Caught Breaking into Cars in Macon Plead Guilty to Federal Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Two armed probationers caught breaking into multiple vehicles in a Macon residential area admitted to their crimes and will be sentenced on April 1, 2020, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Quenshon Travez Robinson, 23, and Deshae Amondai Floyd, 23, both of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count conspiracy to receive and possess stolen firearms before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell. Robinson entered his guilty plea on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 and Floyd entered his guilty plea on Friday, January 10, 2020. Each defendant is facing a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Robinson and Floyd admitted that they broke into multiple cars in residential areas during the morning hours of Saturday, February 16, 2019. Bibb County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a citizen’s call reporting a break-in, and the deputies arrested the defendants as they attempted to flee from the scene. The men were caught with two stolen pistols and ammunition. At the time, Robinson was serving five years’ probation for Criminal Damage to Property in the Second Degree under the First Offender Act and Floyd was serving ten years’ probation for Cruelty to Children in the Second Degree under the First Offender Act. As probationers under First Offender status, it is unlawful for them to possess firearms.
“Removing firearms from the hands of criminals who disrupt the peace and safety of our communities is a high priority for our office and our law enforcement partners, and we will prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to commend the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office for quickly arresting these defendants and then partnering with ATF to stop them from potentially doing more harm with the guns they stole.”
“This case illustrates the commitment of our federal prosecutor’s work to assure that offenders are held responsible for their criminal deeds. We can be grateful for the quick work of the Bibb deputies and the thorough follow up investigation by the sheriff’s office and ATF which ended with these hardened criminals entering a guilty plea for their actions,” said Bibb County Sheriff David Davis.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
The case was investigated by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCommon is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Leader of Extensive Drug Ring Operating Across Middle, South Georgia Sentenced to More Than 21 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – The ring-leader of an illicit drug operation that reached into communities across middle and south Georgia was sentenced to more than 21 years in prison earlier today, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner sentenced Ricardo Bodiford, aka “Rico,” 34, of Moultrie, Georgia, to 260 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Bodiford’s indictment, filed in July 2018, lists a total of 23 defendants (including Bodiford) charged with various drug crimes related to the illegal drug operation. All 23 defendants have entered guilty pleas for their crimes, and all 23 defendants are expected to be sentenced this month. Today, co-defendant David Spradley, aka “ManMan,” 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 218 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Co-defendants Johntavious Johnson, aka “Mikey,” 33, and co-defendant Jarvis West, 32, both of Moultrie, were each sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one county conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system.
Investigators began a court-authorized wiretap on Bodiford’s cell phones on April 9, 2018. Within two days, agents determined that Spradley worked closely with Bodiford in obtaining various controlled substances from two sources. The wiretap investigation continued until law enforcement agents executed search warrants on several locations across Moultrie, Georgia from May 7-8, 2019, locating large amounts of illicit drugs, including two pounds of methamphetamine, one kilogram of cocaine, 13 pounds of marijuana, loaded firearms and cash, among other amounts of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.
“Agencies at the federal, state and local level worked seamlessly to shut down a major drug operation that was infecting communities across our District,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Our office is committed to fighting the rise of meth throughout Georgia. As reflected by these strong sentences, anyone who chooses to deal illicit drugs will face severe consequences. I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their excellent work.”
“Today’s sentencing illustrates the seriousness that comes when drug traffickers distribute large volumes of poison to the community, as was the case in this investigation. This defendant’s lengthy prison sentence appropriately fits the high level of criminal activity he was engaged in,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “The investigation of this case was a success because of the unified efforts between DEA, its law enforcement partners and the subsequent prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
“This sentencing illustrates that drug trafficking at any level will not be tolerated in the state of Georgia. It is paramount that violators of drug laws be held accountable. The GBI is fully committed to working with our local and federal partners in drug enforcement to address these types of crimes,” said Vic Reynolds, Director of the GBI.
“We are very appreciative of the support of our federal partners. These criminals have been causing havoc in our community for a long time. The only way to meaningfully curb drug-related crime of this magnitude in the Moultrie area is with the assistance of the federal government,” said Sheriff Rod Howell, Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office.
“The individuals prosecuted in this case all have extensive criminal histories and have committed multiple criminal offenses within our community. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all the agencies that were involved, especially to our state and federal partners. Successful drug enforcement practices must be a coordinated effort within the purview of all law enforcement agencies, and this case is an outstanding example of that. Colquitt County and the City of Moultrie is safer because Mr. Bodiford and Mr. Spradley, along with their co-conspirators, are off the streets,” said Chief Sean Ladson, Moultrie Police Department.
The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, the Moultrie Police Department and the Leon County Florida Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Athens Couple Sentenced to 17+ Years in Prison for Distributing Meth Through the Mail ServiceRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A married couple engaged in a drug trafficking scheme moving methamphetamine through the U.S. mail service was sentenced for their crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Amy Berg, 46, and Joshua Woodey, 39, both of Athens-Clarke County, were sentenced to federal prison on January 8, 2020 by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal. Berg was sentenced to 210 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Woodey was sentenced to 235 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. There is no parole in the federal system.
The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) was informed that Berg was mailing a package containing suspected methamphetamine on March 1, 2018. A search warrant was executed and investigators discovered the package contained 42 grams of methamphetamine and 16 grams of heroin. Again, the USPIS was told on September 7, 2018 about a second packed Berg was sending, containing more suspected methamphetamine. A legal search revealed the contents contained three grams of methamphetamine. A search warrant of the couple’s shared Athens home was issued on September 12, 2018. Police discovered methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana as well as five other illegal substances. In addition, police located a Winchester .22 rifle, a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol, ammunition, tally sheets referencing amounts sold and owed in drug transactions, a marijuana grow room and other items used in drug trafficking. The defendants’ cellphones contained evidence of drug transactions. Both Berg and Woodey admitted to drug trafficking.
“Drug dealers need to know that if they use the U.S. mail service to deal drugs, they will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to commend the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Northeast Regional Drug Task Force and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department for their excellent work in this case which resulted in these two drug dealers going to federal prison for a long time.”
"The Postal Service has no interest in being the unwitting accomplice to anyone using the U.S. Mail to distribute illegal drugs or other harmful substances,” said David M. McGinnis, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge of the Charlotte Division. “I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all the law enforcement agencies."
“The Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and its law enforcement partners are committed to protecting our citizens and community by eradicating dangerous drugs such as methamphetamine and heroin,” said Lt. Mark Malueg, Athens-Clarke County Police Department and Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force. “These dangerous drugs and their criminal enterprises are a leading cause to violent crime, and we will not allow our citizens and community to be victimized by their destructive effects.”
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Northeast Regional Drug Task Force and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly S. Easterling. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
200 Month Prison Sentence for Smuggler Caught Moving Contraband into Georgia Prisons Through a Meat Packing PlantRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Jackson, Georgia man caught dropping off a large amount of illicit drugs and contraband at a Georgia Correctional Industries (GCI) meat packing plant was sentenced to 200 months in prison, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Brandon Ray, 39, of Jackson, was sentenced to 200 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 after he pleaded guilty to one count possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system.
Two anonymous tipsters reported to authorities that Ray would be dropping contraband at the GCI meat packing plant in Milledgeville, Georgia on May 6, 2018 after dark. Under surveillance, officers observed Ray enter the GCI plant at 4:00 a.m. on the morning of May 7, 2018 through an unlocked gate. Ray was observed hiding contraband underneath dumpsters next to the GCI building. The defendant was arrested, and officers seized 1,287.2 grams of marijuana, 38 cell phones, 25 cell phone chargers, two blue tooth ear pieces, a quantity of cigarette tobacco, a digital scale and more than five grams of methamphetamine.
“The smuggling of drugs and contraband into our prison system is a direct threat to the safety of prison employees and prisoners, and undermines the very purposes of incarceration – deterrence, punishment and rehabilitation,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “As reflected by this stiff prison sentence, we will prosecute those engaged in distributing contraband into our prisons to the fullest extent of the law. I want to thank DEA and the Georgia Department of Corrections for investigating this case, and helping stop the movement of a large quantity of contraband into our prison system.”
“The punishment in this case clearly fits the crime. This defendant brazenly attempted to smuggle contraband, which included marijuana and methamphetamine, into a prison,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “DEA is committed to keeping dangerous and potentially deadly drugs out of our society, period. Because of the hard work and dedication of investigators in this case, this criminal will have time to think about the crimes he committed.”
“Contraband in the hands of inmates gives them the ability to continue their criminal enterprise, so the support and efforts of our law enforcement partners in stopping those who attempt to introduce these items is paramount in our commitment to public safety,” said GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward. “We are pleased to see that justice has been served on this individual for his role in jeopardizing the safe and secure operations of our facilities.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Georgia Department of Corrections with the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office housing the defendant. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Howard prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Pair Indicted for Violent Convenience Store Robberies Plead Guilty to CrimesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – Two defendants indicted for a string of convenience store robberies in Albany, shooting and injuring two clerks, have pleaded guilty for their crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Anthony Parks, 29, and Javarius Mallory, 27, both of Albany, entered guilty pleas today before U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner. Parks pleaded guilty to counts four and ten of his indictment, each charging him with possession and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence. Parks is facing a minimum ten years in prison to a maximum life sentence for each charge, a fine of $250,000 and a maximum five years’ supervised release. Mallory pleaded guilty to counts six and fourteen of his indictment, each charging him with possession and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence. Mallory is facing a minimum ten years in prison to a maximum life sentence for each charge, a fine of $250,000 and a maximum five years’ supervised release. At minimum, it is anticipated both defendants will be sentenced to twenty years in prison for their crimes, up to a maximum life term in prison. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. There is no parole in the federal system.
The pair were involved in a violent robbery spree across Albany during 2016, the defendants admitting guilt in a total of four of the seven robberies charged in the indictment. Parks and Mallory, armed and masked, robbed the Neighborhood Grocery on West Gordon Avenue close to midnight on September 6, 2016 (count four). During the course of the robbery, Parks fired three shots into a locked office door, stealing a total of $8,702. A little more than two weeks later, on September 23, 2016, Mallory admitted he held up the same Neighborhood Grocery Store on West Gordon Avenue, armed with a loaded 9mm pistol (count six). Every time Mallory demanded more money from the store clerk, he would discharge his weapon into the ceiling. Five spent 9mm shell casings were found inside the store, and Mallory ran off with $3,923. The defendants held up the BP store on Dawson Road in the early morning hours of October 6, 2016 with two clerks inside (count ten). One clerk, who got on the floor when the pair walked in, armed and masked, was shot by Parks in the buttocks. The other clerk chased the defendants after they ran off on foot with cash stolen from the store, and fired his own gun at them, shattering the back windshield of a customer’s vehicle. Both Parks and Mallory, armed with handguns and wearing ski masks to cover their faces, robbed the Dawson Food Mart on Dawson Road on November 3, 2016 (court fourteen). $8916.13 was stolen from the store, plus $400 from the clerk. Mallory shot the clerk in his leg.
“The citizens in the Middle District of Georgia deserve to live in safe neighborhoods, and our office will not stop prosecuting violent crime until all violent criminals, like these two individuals, are brought to justice,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “We are committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners at the local and state level to ensure violent criminals are captured and put behind bars. I want to thank the FBI and the Albany Police Department for their excellent work in this investigation which removed two more violent criminals from the streets.”
“The victims of these violent offenders feared for their lives and will never recover emotionally from the terror they faced,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “To those victims, including two injured by gun shots, no sentence will justify what they went through. Hopefully they will take some solace in knowing no one else will have to go through what they did while these defendants are in prison.”
"This is another example of the collaborations with our state and federal partners in the effort to keep our community safe. I am thankful for the men and women of the Albany Police Department who worked tirelessly in bringing these subjects to justice. Special thanks to U.S. Attorney Peeler and his office for prosecuting this case and helping send the message that crime is not beneficial,” said Chief Michael Persley, Albany Police Department.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Albany Police Department. U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Dasher are prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Florida Man Pleads Guilty in High-Profile Macon, Georgia Mail Theft CaseRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Miami, Florida man pleaded guilty to stealing mail and checks out of a Macon mailbox, an action that triggered the victim to hold the defendant at gunpoint in an effort to prevent his escape, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Jeremy Brown, 31, entered a guilty plea to one count of theft of mail before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell today. Defendant Brown is facing a maximum term of five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and three years supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for April 1, 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the stipulation of fact entered in court, the victim observed a white Ford Mustang driven by Brown stopping at the mailboxes at his home and his parents’ home next door on June 12, 2018. Suspecting the individuals inside the vehicle were stealing mail, the victim reviewed his personal security camera footage, which confirmed that mail was being stolen from his mailbox. The victim alerted his mail carrier the following day. The mail carrier called the victim before delivering the mail on June 13, 2018. The victim positioned his vehicle in a neighbor’s driveway so he could block the individuals he suspected were stealing his mail if they came again. Brown returned in the same white Mustang, and again removed mail from the mailbox. The victim blocked the road with his vehicle, called law enforcement and held the suspects at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived. Brown admitted to stealing mail, which included a $1,041 check made payable to the victim, as well as two additional checks in the amount of $15,555.02 and $700, made payable to other individuals.
“Theft of mail is a serious federal offense and violators will be prosecuted,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office for quickly responding to this situation, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their excellent work in this matter.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Cash Rewards for Tips Leading to the Arrest of Six Most Wanted FugitivesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Authorities in Middle Georgia are actively searching for six Most Wanted fugitives, individuals named as the most dangerous wanted persons by Macon Regional Crimestoppers during the 2019 calendar year, announced Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. In February, the U.S. Attorney’s Office made a public commitment with Macon Regional Crimestoppers to release a quarterly list throughout 2019 of the Most Wanted violent offenders. Macon Regional Crimestoppers, a community-run organization dedicated to increasing the safety of citizens, has provided rewards up to $1,000 for tips leading to the arrest of the Most Wanted fugitives. To date, 39 of 45 fugitives have been arrested. Law enforcement is searching for six remaining wanted persons. All of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. They are:
- Larry M. Bryant, 25, Bibb County, wanted for criminal street gang participation, probation violation;
- Abel Salas De’Leon, 32, Baldwin County, wanted for child molestation and aggravated child molestation;
- Tia Hill, 34, Houston County, wanted for aggravated assault against a peace officer;
- Diego A. Martinez, 41, Bibb County, wanted for child molestation;
- Martin Martinez, 43, Houston County, wanted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and cruelty to children;
- Moses A. Rodriquez, 34, Houston County, wanted for aggravated assault and battery.
“The success of Macon Regional Crimestoppers’ Most Wanted effort demonstrates that law enforcement and law abiding citizens in Middle Georgia are teaming up to make our communities safer,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “39 Most Wanted violent offenders have been successfully apprehended in 2019, with only six fugitives still on the run. With the public’s help, authorities will capture them. I want to thank Crimestoppers, our law enforcement partners and the public for their commitment to our collective mission to curb violence, and permanently change our communities for the better.”
“Coming off 43 homicides in Macon-Bibb in 2018, our law enforcement community knew we had to develop an even stronger partnership in 2019 to reduce violence. We established the Top 15 Most Wanted to identify and capture the most violent offenders, and the results have been hugely successful. We will continue this partnership in 2020, and continue to work side-by-side with law enforcement to track down the most violent offenders and develop ways to decrease violent crime in the Macon region,” said Warren Selby, Jr., Chairman of Macon Regional Crimestoppers.
The six remaining Most Wanted defendants are charged with some of the most violent crimes, including child molestation, gang activity and aggravated assault. The defendants are wanted in counties associated with Macon Regional Crimestoppers. For a complete list, and more information about Crimestoppers, visit www.crimestop.us. Macon Regional Crimestoppers is a local non-profit serving Bibb, Baldwin, Houston, Jones, Twiggs, Crawford, Monroe, and Peach counties. The organization partners with law enforcement agencies and community groups to provide anonymous rewards for tips that lead to criminal arrests. Citizens can safely and anonymously report tips at 1-877-68CRIME.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office partnership with Macon Regional Crimestoppers is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
- Larry M. Bryant, 25, Bibb County, wanted for criminal street gang participation, probation violation;
Former CB&T City Bank President, Co-Conspirators Involved in $5+ Million Fraud Scheme Sentenced to Prison, Ordered to Pay Back MillionsRead the Press Release
Macon, Ga. – Three co-conspirators involved in a multi-million dollar scheme to defraud millions from Citizens Bank and Trust (CB&T) have been sentenced for their crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. On Monday, December 16, 2019, former CB&T City Bank President McDonald Hardin, 57, of Kathleen, Georgia was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, three years supervised release and ordered to pay $1,437,651.07 in restitution to CB&T and $1,900,000 in restitution to Progressive Insurance after pleading guilty on May 2, 2019 to count one of a 14 count indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. His co-conspirator, Steve Stokeling, 55, formerly of Warner Robins, Georgia, was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment, five years supervised release and ordered to pay $28,832.15 in restitution to CB&T after pleading guilty on May 2, 2019 to count nine of a 14 count indictment charging him with bank fraud. This morning, the third co-conspirator, Joseph Askew, 43, of Perry, Georgia, was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, one year supervised release and ordered to pay $1,437,651.07 in restitution to CB&T and $120,765.10 in restitution to Progressive Insurance after pleading guilty on January 30, 2018 to one count information charging the defendant with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell presided over the sentencings. There is no parole in the federal system.
Beginning in February 2008 through August of 2010, Hardin, the City President and Senior Lending Officer at the CB&T Warner Robins branch, participated in a loan scheme designed to generate loan proceeds from fraudulent loans to Stokeling and Askew, their friends and family members, and borrowers recruited by Stokeling and Askew who would sign loan documents without any expectation of receiving the loan proceeds. Hardin approved the loans, and CB&T would issue checks. The loan money was distributed to various persons, including defendant Stokeling for his personal gain, and not used for the intended purposes of the loan, like the purchase of cars or homes. In all, CB&T was defrauded of $5,067,333.17.
“Community banks are a cornerstone of our local economy. They employ our citizens, fund local businesses, support local organizations and bank our families. When criminals defraud local banks our office will prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “The FDIC-OIG initiated this investigation after a tip from within CB&T. The FBI and FDIC-OIG did a tremendous job getting to the bottom of this complex loan scheme, and helping root out the fraud.”
“These sentencings hold the conspirators accountable for defrauding the bank of more than $5 million in a scheme designed to line their pockets,” said FDIC Inspector General Jay N. Lerner. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to preserve the integrity of the banking system against insiders who abuse their positions to commit fraud.”
“The sentencing of these three subjects brings to a close a lengthy investigation and prosecution of a criminal enterprise that obtained fraudulent loans that caused extensive damage to a local community bank,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This case is an example of the FBI’s commitment to combatting such criminal actions that defraud hard working citizens.”
The case was investigated by the FDIC-OIG and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Truck Driver Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Illegally Dumping 3,000 Gallons of Diesel FuelRead the Press Release
Albany, Ga. – The driver of a diesel fuel truck who dumped thousands of gallons of diesel fuel onto land draining into a Thomasville, Georgia creek in 2018, shutting down a school and causing a federally-led clean-up, was sentenced for his crime on Thursday, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Jaron Coleman, 40, of Oakville, Georgia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison on December 12, 2019 by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands. Defendant Coleman previously pleaded guilty to one count of Unauthorized Discharge of Oil in the Waters of the United States on Tuesday, September 10, 2019. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the Statement of Fact entered in Court, on April 19, 2018, Mr. Coleman admitted that he dumped approximately 3,000 gallons of fuel on the ground near a gas station in Thomasville, Georgia after he realized he had loaded the wrong product for a delivery in Pelham, Georgia. Mr. Coleman, who was working for Eco Energy, did not have any permit or authorization to discharge the diesel fuel. The diesel fuel dumped on the ground migrated into an adjacent storm water drainage system that flows directly into a creek. The unnamed creek is a tributary of Good Water Creek which flows into Oquina Creek and then into the Ochlockonee River, a traditionally navigable water of the United States, and protected by the Clean Water Act. Under the Clean Water Act, diesel fuel is considered “oil” and the amount discharged was a harmful quantity. The discharge caused the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to engage in a costly clean-up and caused the evacuation of Garrison Pilcher Elementary School in Thomasville, Georgia on the same day as the incident, after school officials discovered a large amount of diesel fuel had swelled in ditches around the school.
“This defendant harmed the environment, endangered children at a nearby school and caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in cleanup costs when he selfishly dumped fuel into the waterways of the United States. Our office is committed to enforcing federal laws protecting our natural resources, especially when the health and safety of our citizens are jeopardized. As reflected in this case, the consequences for violating environmental laws can include significant prison time,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the EPA for their rapid response cleaning up our waterways and investigating this incident.”
“The defendant’s disregard for the law resulted in an oil spill that contaminated a local stream and triggered the evacuation of an elementary school,” said Special Agent in Charge Andy Castro of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Georgia. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates that EPA and our law enforcement partners are committed to enforcing laws designed to protect the health of our communities and our natural resources.”
The case was investigated by the EPA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
$1.7+ Million in DOJ Grants Awarded to Fight the Opioid Crisis in the Middle District of GeorgiaRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Athens and Columbus, Georgia governments were awarded significant federal funding to support their efforts combatting drugs and crime, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) today announced awards totaling more than $333 million to help communities across the nation affected by the opioid crisis. In the Middle District of Georgia, the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County was awarded $600,000 under the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program. The Columbus Consolidated Government received a $735,360 grant under the Family Drug Court Program and a $400,000 grant under the Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program. In addition, the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, which supports law enforcement efforts across Georgia, received $2,000,000 under the Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program. Another statewide impact recipient is the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, awarded $1,250,000 under the Statewide and Regional Mentoring Initiatives for Youth Impacted by Opioids, one of only four states to receive this funding targeting youth. Information about these programs and awards announced today is available here.
“The opioid crisis has destroyed far too many lives and left too many Americans feeling helpless and hopeless,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “This epidemic—the most deadly in our nation’s history—is introducing new dangers and loading public health responsibilities onto the public safety duties of our law enforcement officers. The Department of Justice is here to support them during this unprecedented and extremely challenging time.”
“These grants reflect the Department of Justice’s commitment to helping local communities fight the opioid crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “As our state continues to grapple with opioid abuse, these grants will support effective treatment for abusers, develop stronger court programs and bolster mentoring for young people. Thank you to our law enforcement partners, local government, and community leaders for your help fighting this historic epidemic.”
With more than 130 people dying from opioid-related overdoses every day, the Department of Justice has made fighting addiction to opioids—including heroin and fentanyl—a national priority. The Trump Administration is providing critical funding for a wide range of activities—from preventive services and comprehensive treatment to recovery assistance, forensic science services and research—to help save lives and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
The awards announced today support an array of activities designed to reduce the harm inflicted by these dangerous drugs. Grants will help law enforcement officers, emergency responders and treatment professionals coordinate their response to overdoses. Funds will also provide services for children and youth affected by the crisis and will support the nationwide network of drug and treatment courts. Other awards will address prescription drug abuse, expand the capacity of forensic labs and support opioid-related research.
For more information about OJP awards, visit the OJP Awards Data webpage. The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training and technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Former Walton Co. Probate Judge Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Attempted Online Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A former Associate Probate Judge and Family Law attorney in Walton County, Georgia was sentenced to prison for attempted online enticement of a minor, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. George Randolph “Randy” Jeffery, 59, of Monroe, Georgia was sentenced to 180 months in prison and ten years supervised release today by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal after pleading guilty on September 10, 2019 to one count attempted online enticement of a minor. Defendant Jeffery will have to register as a sex offender, and comply with all sex offender requirements, when he is released from prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
In October 2018, the FBI was notified of a cyber-tip from the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) involving a possible juvenile female engaging in an online sexual relationship with an adult male based in Monroe, Georgia. Investigators discovered Jeffery communicated with an individual from February 2018 to August 2018 that he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, discussing various sexual acts in detail, her molestation by her father, as well as exchanging several nude photographs of the minor, plus an additional seven photos of others who appeared to be minors. Jeffery, who worked as an attorney practicing in the areas of child support, adoption and family law, sometimes communicated with the victim from the child support office located behind DFACS in Covington, Georgia and while he was at church. In actuality, Jeffery was unknowingly communicating with the girl’s father, who was contemporaneously molesting his daughter and posing as her online, sending pornographic images of her to Jeffery. A search warrant executed at Jeffery’s home recovered multiple electronic devices with numerous images and videos of child pornography, including prepubescent minors and items portraying the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler.
“I believe this multi-agency investigation ultimately stopped a deviant criminal, posing as a law-abiding Judge, from doing additional irreparable damage to innocent children,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Defendant Jeffery, who once swore to uphold the law, will experience the full weight of justice for his unconscionable crimes. I want to thank the GBI, LBI and the FBI for their excellent investigative work and partnership.”
“This case is particularly disturbing because it is an example that child predators come from all walks of life, even from a position in our justice system,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Now, instead of sitting behind a bench judging right from wrong, Jeffery will be sitting on the other side of the bench in a prison cell paying for what he did wrong.”
“One of the worst types of offenders we come in contact with are those that hold a position of trust in our community. This case proves once again there is no demographic for people who hurt children. When someone with whom we have placed our trust violates that trust in this manner, a child and a community are damaged,” said Vic Reynolds, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI). “The GBI and the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force will continue to work diligently to ensure all people who seek to harm our children and our communities are found and stopped.”
The case was investigated by the GBI, LBI and FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Georgia Man Masking as Purple Heart, Silver Star Recipient Pleads Guilty to Stolen ValorRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A discharged veteran of the military who reaped monetary benefits for faking a mental health condition triggered by a combat experience that did not occur, and who falsely claimed to have earned two of the highest honors bestowed for military service entered a guilty plea in federal court Wednesday for his crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Gregg Ramsdell, 61, of Columbus, entered a guilty plea to one count of false statements and one count of violation of the Stolen Valor Act before U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Wednesday, December 4, 2019. Defendant Ramsdell is facing a maximum five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for false statements and a maximum one year in prison and a $250,000 fine for stolen valor. Sentencing is scheduled for March 23, 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
Defendant Ramsdell admitted that he falsely claimed to have suffered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when he applied for disability payments from the Veteran’s Administration (VA) on September 7, 2014. Defendant Ramsdell wrote that he witnessed horrible atrocities during deployment in Afghanistan from October 2008 to March 2009. Among other stressors, he stated he had seen "men, women and children being executed. Women holding babies while detonating themselves. IED explosions causing severe bodily injuries and death. Retrieving body parts and bagging them. Having blood and body excrements being blown onto my uniform." He also falsely claimed that these experiences made him “unable to live a normal life.” As a result of Defendant Ramsdell’s false claims, the VA gave him added PTSD benefits retroactive to his military discharge date of June 1, 2014 totaling $76,000. In truth, Defendant Ramsdell was not in Afghanistan during that period of time that he claimed to witness the atrocities that supported his false PTSD claim, and he admitted to investigators that he lied about having PTSD. In addition, Defendant Ramsdell applied for and attained a coveted civilian position at U.S. Army Fort Benning in 2017, in part because his resume listed that he was both a Silver Star and Purple Heart with Cluster recipient. He never received these honors.
“Faking serious wartime injuries to gain undeserved benefit, and claiming valor where there is none, do a disservice to our brave veterans and service members who selflessly risk their lives protecting this country,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Fraud of this kind and theft of taxpayer money will not be tolerated, and we will continue to prosecute those who commit such crimes. I want to thank the FBI investigators assigned to this case for their excellent work.”
“Ramsdell’s actions are an insult to every veteran who has served our country, and in particular every veteran who suffered physical or mental trauma because of their honorable commitment and valor,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI is committed to seeking justice for anyone who lies about serving our country, and who illegally takes money from federal programs that help veterans who rightfully deserve it.”
The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 makes it a crime for people to pass themselves off as war heroes in order to claim money, employment, property or other tangible benefits. The Silver Star medal is the third highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Army. The Purple Heart medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded or killed in battle. An additional Oak Leaf Cluster is given to Army and Air Force service members to indicate being wounded in combat on more than one occasion.
The case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melvin Hyde is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Richland Felon Pleads Guilty to Stolen Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Richland, Georgia convicted felon entered a guilty plea in federal court for possessing a stolen weapon while on probation, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Michael R. Stephens, 27, from Richland, Georgia pleaded guilty to one count possession of stolen firearm before U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Monday, December 2, 2019. As part of the plea agreement, Defendant Stephens is facing a possible sentencing range of between 92 to 115 months imprisonment, with a maximum term of ten years in prison. In addition, both parties request the Court impose mental health and domestic violence counseling as part of Defendant Stephens’ supervision conditions. Sentencing is scheduled for March 23, 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
Defendant Stephens admitted in his plea agreement that he was involved in several criminal incidents involving handguns in the months leading up to his arrest on July 3, 2018. The Richland Police Department executed a violation of probation arrest warrant for Defendant Stephens, and took him into custody without incident. A legal search of a book bag belonging to Defendant Stephens recovered a stolen Hi-Point, .380 caliber pistol with five cartridges. The weapon was reported stolen in Columbus, Georgia in September 2013.
“Enforcing firearms law remains a top priority for our office, as we continue to work hand-in-hand with our law enforcement partners to reduce violent crime across the Middle District of Georgia,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the Richland Police Department and the FBI for their work in this case.”
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Richland Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Mexican National with Prior Aggravated Battery Conviction Sentenced to Federal Prison after Multiple Illegal ReentriesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Mexican national with a violent criminal history was sentenced to the maximum imprisonment term for illegal reentry into the United States, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Jose Zamudio-Jimenez, 34, of Mexico, was sentenced to 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Wednesday, November 20, 2019. Defendant Zamudio-Jimenez has been returned to Mexico four times since 2010. On June 11, 2016, Defendant Zamudio-Jimenez was arrested in Lee County, Georgia, for aggravated battery and cruelty to children, and was convicted on those charges and sentenced to twenty years in prison. The defendant was released by the Department of Corrections on June 11, 2019 and taken into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) custody. The defendant entered a guilty plea in U.S. District Court on August 11, 2019 to a one-count indictment charging him with illegal reentry. Following his release, the defendant will be removed to Mexico. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Enforcing immigration laws remains a priority of this office, particularly when the offender has engaged in violent criminal acts in our country,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and ERO for their excellent work in this case.”
“We are thankful to our partners in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their hard work and dedication in ensuring this dangerous criminal alien, who has no regard for U.S. laws, is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said ICE Atlanta Interim Field Office Director John Tsoukaris. “Arresting criminal aliens and protecting the integrity of our nation’s immigration laws remains the highest priority of the dedicated women and men of ICE. This case is another example of the important work they do daily to keep our communities safe.”
The case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Helmick prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Multi-Kilo Meth Trafficker Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Twiggs County woman found guilty of attempting to sell more than 300 grams of methamphetamine was sentenced to prison Wednesday, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Tiffany Sauls, 25, of Danville, Georgia, was convicted on July 16, 2019 of one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine following a two-day trial before the Honorable Marc Treadwell. It took the jury only an hour and a half to return the guilty verdict. U.S. District Judge Treadwell sentenced Ms. Sauls to 97 months in prison and five years of supervised release on Wednesday, November 20, 2019. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the facts presented at trial, Ms. Sauls was arrested on September 29, 2018 in Twiggs County along I-16 during a traffic stop. Officers smelled marijuana and, during a subsequent legal search, located 302.61 grams of methamphetamine with 99% purity. A digital scale as well as baggies were found during the search. A witness testified that Ms. Sauls bragged about hitting the “lottery” when she picked up the drugs from her Atlanta supplier.
“Ms. Saul won prison time when she made the choice to deal methamphetamine in Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Methamphetamine trafficking and abuse harms every aspect of society, and the people who are involved in the distribution of this illicit, dangerous drug will be held accountable for their crimes. I want to thank the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office, the GBI and the DEA for their assistance in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys C. Shanelle Booker and Steven Ouzts are prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Convicted Felon with Illegal Guns: Sentenced to 210 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A felon with eight prior convictions, caught running an underground illegal gun trade while out on parole, was sentenced to 210 months in prison, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. There is no parole in the federal system. Ronnie Lee Hughes, 39, of Griffin, Georgia was sentenced on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell to 210 months of imprisonment and five years supervised release. Defendant Hughes was found guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon by a federal jury on July 17, 2019. Defendant Hughes has eight prior felony state convictions beginning in 1999, including four separate entering auto convictions, three separate burglary convictions and one theft by taking conviction. His past crimes occurred in Upson, Laurens, Pike and Monroe counties, all charged in Superior Court. His last conviction was in Monroe County Superior Court in December 2008 for burglary. Defendant Hughes was on parole when he was taken into custody by Lamar County deputies on August 31, 2016, arrested during an undercover operation into his illegal gun trade.
“The penalty is steep for convicted felons found with guns in Middle Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Stopping the underground illegal gun trade is crucial in our efforts to remove guns from dangerous persons and decrease violent crime in our communities. We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and arrest felons with guns, and we will continue to prosecute these offenders.”
A Confidential Informant (CI) told Lamar County deputies that Mr. Hughes, a convicted felon on parole, was selling guns. Lamar County deputies worked with the CI to set up a meeting on August 31, 2016, with the intent of the CI to arrange a purchase of the guns from Mr. Hughes. In one conversation between the CI and Mr. Hughes, the defendant warned that the buyer arranged by the CI “better not be a cop” because he was a convicted felon and it was illegal for him to sell guns. At the appointed time and place for the sale, Lamar County deputies met Mr. Hughes and took him into custody, seizing four weapons and ammunition.
This prosecution is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Lamar County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Keyes and Paul McCommon are prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Former Georgia Youth Softball Umpire Pleads Guilty in Child Sexual Exploitation CaseRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga.— A former youth softball umpire arrested during “Operation End Game,” a multi-agency effort targeting and arresting adult perpetrators seeking sex with children, entered a guilty plea in federal court this morning, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. James Hughes Morriss, 50, of Dacula, Georgia entered a guilty plea before Judge C. Ashley Royal in U.S. District Court to one count of use of facilities in interstate and foreign commerce to transmit information about a minor. Defendant Morriss is currently in federal custody and faces a maximum five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and at least three years supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for February 12, 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Law enforcement’s effort to end child sexual exploitation in Georgia is unceasing, and is happening at every level. We are working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and arrest adults seeking to sexually abuse children, and we will prosecute these offenders to the fullest extent allowed by law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to commend the leadership of the GBI in this coordinated effort to end crimes against children, as well as the FBI and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, both of which are invaluable partners in Operation End Game. This operation is a perfect example of what federal, state and local law enforcement can accomplish when we all come together.”
“Operation End Game did exactly what it was tasked to do: Put an end to criminal attempts of predators to irreversibly harm young children,” said Debbie Garner, GBI Special Agent in Charge and Commander of the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. “The GBI and the Georgia ICAC Task Force will work tirelessly with our partners to protect our children against those who seek to harm them.”
“The ACCPD is proud to partner with the FBI, GBI and other federal, state and local area law enforcement agencies in these continuing efforts to identify and apprehend those who prey on our most vulnerable victims,” said Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) Chief Cleveland Spruill. “Thanks to this coordinated three-day effort, multiple predators have been removed from our streets and are no longer free to victimize our children.”
“This case is an example of the importance of our law enforcement partnerships in our efforts to rid our communities of those who would choose to do harm to the most vulnerable in our society,” said Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta, Chris Hacker. “Those who prey on our children must be held accountable to send a message that this behavior will not be tolerated.”
“Operation End Game” was a three-day proactive effort centered in Athens, Georgia beginning July 25, 2019 to arrest adults communicating with children on-line and then traveling to meet them for the purpose of having sex. On July 26, 2019, an undercover officer communicating with perpetrators online under a profile named “Lizzie” with a photo of a young girl, received notification in the mobile application Skout from an individual later identified as Defendant Morriss. Within the first few exchanges, Defendant Morriss, who was 49 at the time, asked “Lizzie” her age and was told she was only 14-years-old and attended a school in Georgia. Defendant Morriss, familiar with many schools in Georgia due to his work around the state as a youth softball umpire, recognized the named school. Defendant Morris initiated a sexually explicit discussion and suggested an in-person meeting with the child; he also requested and received photos of the purported 14-year-old. Morriss then traveled to meet the 14-year-old child in Athens for sexual purposes, and was arrested at the designated meeting place shortly after midnight on July 27, 2019.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CEACC), the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), the FBI and the Athens-Clarke County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Operation Peacekeeper Targets Gang Members in SWGA, 20 Offenders in CustodyRead the Press Release
Albany, Ga. — Federal, state and local agencies took 20 offenders into custody during Operation Peacekeeper, a three-day effort to capture offenders involved in shootings, homicides and other violent crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Operation Peacekeeper was spearheaded by U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force (SERFTF), in coordination with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Georgia Bureau of Investigations, the Albany Police Department Gang Unit, Pelham Police Department, Camilla Police Department, Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office and Dougherty County District Attorney’s Office. Additional agencies involved include U.S. Marshals Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Marshals Middle District of Georgia and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The wanted offenders were taken into custody on November 13-15, 2019, the majority in Dougherty and Mitchell Counties. Operation Peacekeeper focused on individuals wanted on active felony warrants for violent crimes, as well as conducting proactive patrols to disrupt and ultimately dismantle criminal enterprises and individuals involved in violent crimes.
“This operation is part of law enforcement’s relentless commitment to reduce violent crime in Southwest Georgia, and across the Middle District,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Operation Peacekeeper is a coordinated effort involving law enforcement agencies at every level, and was planned and executed with precision. I commend our law enforcement partners for the bravery and professionalism they exhibit every day when fighting crime across our region, and making our communities safer.”
“Operation Peacekeeper targeted gang members and violent criminals. The resources of the U.S. Marshals Service and its Regional Fugitive Task Forces coupled with the expertise of our local law enforcement partners make it difficult for wanted offenders to remain concealed from arrest,” said Supervisory Inspector Chris Wright, U.S. Marshals Service-Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force.
“As part of an ongoing effort to combat crime in our community, the Albany Police Department utilizes the partnerships that we have with federal and state agencies to locate those persons who have active warrants for their arrest. In order for victims to receive the justice that they deserve, law enforcement must ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions,” said APD Chief Michael Persley. “This partnership with the United States Marshals Service could not have been possible without the efforts of the U.S. Attorney of the Middle District of Georgia, Charlie Peeler. Together we are doing everything within our efforts to keep the community and Southwest Georgia safe.”
All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until convicted in a court of law. The following individuals were arrested during Operation Peacekeeper:
- Eric Bell, Albany, Georgia Possession of Cocaine, Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Drug Related Object, Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute
- Kaninja Carroll, Albany, Probation Violation
- Jaboris Cato, Albany, Probation Violation (Aggravated Assault)
- Michael Chapman, Albany, Interference with City Officer
- Nykiria Childs, Pelham, Georgia Theft by Taking Motor Vehicle
- Demetrius Davis, Albany, Probation Violation (Aggravated Assault/Armed Robbery), Possession of Marijuana
- Jah’Varee Dawson, Pelham, Possession of Marijuana
- Jonathan Gonzalas, Milledgeville, Georgia, Agg. Child Molestation (three counts)
- James A. Green, Albany, Probation Violation (Aggravated Assault), Aggravated Assault
- Brandon Johns, Bainbridge, Georgia, Aggravated Assault
- Kenneth Lyles, Albany, Probation Violation (Fraud), Terroristic Threats and Acts
- Bennie Mainor, Ft. Valley, Georgia, Aggravated Assault on Peace Officer, Fleeing/Attempting to Elude, Reckless Driving, Fail to Yield, Suspended or Revoked Driver’s License, Failure to Maintain Lane, Stop Sign Violation, Stop Sign Violation
- John Morgan, Albany, Probation Violation (Aggravated Assault)
- Dontavious Mosley, Macon, Georgia, Parole Violation (Aggravated Assault)
- Carl Randle Jr., Albany, Aggravated Assault
- Roosevelt Washington, Albany, Probation Violation (Felony Obstruction), Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon
- Roderick Williams, Pelham, Georgia, Reckless Conduct, Simple Battery
- Saderick Williams, Donaldsonville, Georgia, Aggravated Assault, Discharging Firearms on Property of Another, Discharging of Firearm on/near Public Highway, Possession of Pistol by Person under 18, Criminal Damage to Property 2nd Degree, Criminal Trespass, Reckless Conduct
- Zuminique Williams, Albany, Probation Violation
- Shavaka Zachery, Albany, Trafficking in Ecstasy, Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute, Entering Automobile
Operation Peacekeeper was conducted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Convicted Felon with A Violent Past Found Guilty in Federal Firearms TrialRead the Press Release
Valdosta, Ga. – A convicted felon with a violent criminal past was found guilty this afternoon of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. After deliberating approximately one hour, a citizen jury convicted David Earl Butler, 30, of Valdosta. U.S. District Judge Louis Sands presided over the federal jury trial in Valdosta that began on Tuesday, November 12, 2019. Defendant Butler faces a maximum ten years imprisonment, a maximum $250,000 fine and three years supervised release. Sentencing has not been scheduled. There is no parole in the federal system.
Defendant Butler was taken into custody by Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office deputies on April 3, 2018, arrested on an outstanding felony warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. During a lawful search of the residence where Defendant Butler was taken into custody, deputies found a loaded .40 caliber Desert Eagle handgun and a box of .40 caliber ammunition. Defendant Butler was previously convicted of aggravated assault and terroristic threats in the Superior Court of Lowndes County, Georgia. The Defendant is currently on felony probation in Lowndes County. It is illegal for convicted felons to possess firearms.
“This case illustrates our multi-agency effort to enforce gun laws that prohibit convicted felons from possessing firearms, particularly when the convicted felon has a history of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “It is a priority of this office to identify and prosecute violent offenders who jeopardize the safety of our communities. I want to thank the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision for their work in this case.”
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julia Bowen and Michael Solis are prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
New DOJ Plan Announced to Reduce Gun Violence in Georgia, NationwideRead the Press Release
Macon, Ga.— Today, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Project Guardian, a new initiative designed to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws across the country. Project Guardian focuses on investigating, prosecuting and preventing gun crimes. Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws have always been among the Department’s highest priorities. In order to develop a new and robust effort to promote and ensure public safety, the Department reviewed and adapted some of the successes of past strategies to curb gun violence. Project Guardian draws on the Department’s earlier achievements, such as the “Triggerlock” program, and it serves as a complementary effort to the success of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In addition, the initiative emphasizes the importance of using all modern technologies available to law enforcement to promote gun crime intelligence.
“Gun crime remains a pervasive problem in too many communities across America. Today, the Department of Justice is redoubling its commitment to tackling this issue through the launch of Project Guardian,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Building on the success of past programs like Triggerlock, Project Guardian will strengthen our efforts to reduce gun violence by allowing the federal government and our state and local partners to better target offenders who use guns in crimes and those who try to buy guns illegally.”
“Our office will use every means available to reduce violent gun crimes in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Project Guardian is a welcome fortification of our existing collaboration with local, state and federal law enforcement under Project Safe Neighborhoods to reduce violent crime rates across the Middle District of Georgia.”
“ATF has a long history of strong partnerships in the law enforcement community,” said Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “Make no mistake, the women and men of ATF remain steadfast to our core mission of getting crime guns off of our streets. ATF and U.S. Attorneys nationwide will leverage these partnerships even further through enhanced community outreach initiatives and coordination with local, state, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to cut the pipeline of crime guns from those violent individuals who seek to terrorize our communities. Project Guardian will enhance ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence, to include identifying, investigating and prosecuting those involved in the straw purchases of firearms, lying on federal firearms transaction forms, and those subject to the mental health prohibition of possessing firearms.”
Project Guardian’s implementation is based on five principles:
Coordinated Prosecution. Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will coordinate with state, local and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to consider potential federal prosecution for new cases involving a defendant who: a) was arrested in possession of a firearm; b) is believed to have used a firearm in committing a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime prosecutable in federal court; or c) is suspected of actively committing violent crime(s) in the community on behalf of a criminal organization.
Enforcing the Background Check System. United States Attorneys, in consultation with the Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in their district, will create new, or review, existing guidelines for intake and prosecution of federal cases involving false statements (including lie-and-try, lie-and-buy, and straw purchasers) made during the acquisition or attempted acquisition of firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees.
Particular emphasis is placed on individuals convicted of violent felonies or misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, individuals subject to protective orders and individuals who are fugitives where the underlying offense is a felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; individuals suspected of involvement in criminal organizations or of providing firearms to criminal organizations; and individuals involved in repeat denials.
Improved Information Sharing. On a regular basis, and as often as practicable given current technical limitations, ATF will provide to state law enforcement fusion centers a report listing individuals for whom the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has issued denials, including the basis for the denial, so that state and local law enforcement can take appropriate steps under their laws.
Coordinated Response to Mental Health Denials. Each United States Attorney will ensure that whenever there is federal case information regarding individuals who are prohibited from possessing a firearm under the mental health prohibition, such information continues to be entered timely and accurately into the United States Attorneys’ Offices’ case-management system for prompt submission to NICS. ATF should engage in additional outreach to state and local law enforcement on how to use this denial information to better assure public safety.
Additionally, United States Attorneys will consult with relevant district stakeholders to assess feasibility of adopting disruption of early engagement programs to address mental-health-prohibited individuals who attempt to acquire a firearm. United States Attorneys should consider, when appropriate, recommending court-ordered mental health treatment for any sentences issued to individuals prohibited based on mental health.
Crime Gun Intelligence Coordination. Federal, state, local and tribal prosecutors and law enforcement will work together to ensure effective use of the ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGICs), and all related resources, to maximize the use of modern intelligence tools and technology. These tools can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness in identifying trigger-pullers and finding their guns, but the success depends in large part on state, local and tribal law enforcement partners sharing ballistic evidence and firearm recovery data with the ATF.
Federal law enforcement represents only about 15% of all law enforcement resources nationwide. Therefore, partnerships with state, local and tribal law enforcement and the communities they serve are critical to addressing gun crime. The Department recognizes that sharing information with our state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners at every level will enhance public safety, and provide a greater depth of resources available to address gun crime on a national level. For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/project-guardian.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Armed Bank Robbery Instigator Sentenced to 130 Months PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – The final co-defendant found guilty in the armed robbery of an Albany bank was sentenced to 130 months behind bars for his crimes, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Shataz Hampton, 26, of Albany, Georgia was sentenced to a total of 130 months in prison (48 months for bank robbery and 84 months for brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime to be served consecutively), $2700 restitution to Renasant Bank and three years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner. A jury found Defendant Hampton guilty of bank robbery and brandishing a firearm charges on August 20, 2019 following a two-day trial in federal court. A co-defendant, Kamilyah Whitlock, 25, of Albany, was sentenced on September 4, 2019 to 48 months in prison by The Honorable Judge Gardner. Ms. Whitlock was also found guilty of bank robbery and brandishing a firearm after a four-day trial in February 2019. She testified against Defendant Hampton during his trial and received a reduced sentence. There is no parole in the federal system. Both defendants were masked and armed when they robbed Renasant Bank on North Westover Boulevard on November 6, 2017 with more than a dozen customers and employees inside.
“Violent crimes will not be tolerated in the Middle District of Georgia. I want the law-abiding public and our law enforcement partners to be assured that we will prosecute violent criminals to the fullest extent allowed by the law,” said U.S. Attorney Peeler. “Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly on our collective mission to decrease violent crime in our communities. I want to especially applaud the APD and FBI for their work in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Albany Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Department of Justice Awards Nearly $153 Million to Reduce Crime and Improve Public Safety in GeorgiaRead the Press Release
Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Claire Murray and Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan today joined Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp in announcing awards of almost $153 million to fight crime and improve community safety in Georgia. Nearly $4.3 million will help law enforcement officials and victim service providers in the state investigate and prosecute human traffickers and aid human trafficking survivors. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia Byung J. “BJay” Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia Charlie Peeler and Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr also participated in the announcement.
“Human trafficking is a cruel and barbaric practice that calls to mind the darkest moments of our history, and sadly it has left its mark on the communities of Georgia,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Murray. “Under the direction of Attorney General Barr, the Department of Justice is putting the full weight of its resources behind the brave men and women of the state who are fighting trafficking perpetrators and bringing relief to victims. We commend these courageous and compassionate professionals and are proud to lend them our full support.”
“Human trafficking is an obscene violation of human rights and human dignity, affecting millions of people worldwide, countless victims in this country and hundreds if not thousands of men, women and children right here in Georgia,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Sullivan. “We are so grateful to the law enforcement officers who pursue these vicious criminals and to the dedicated service providers who work around the clock to get survivors the help they so desperately need and deserve.”
Department officials and First Lady Kemp made the announcement at a press event alongside law enforcement officials, anti-trafficking advocates and members of the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. Georgia’s leaders have concentrated the state’s resources on fighting human trafficking, establishing a Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit in the Georgia Department of Law. First Lady Kemp co-chairs the Georgians for Refuge, Action, Compassion and Education, or GRACE, Commission, a task force of public officials, law enforcement and health care professionals, for-profit and non-profit organizations and subject matter experts dedicated to combating human trafficking in Georgia.
Many trafficking victims in Georgia are teenagers who are sexually exploited. Of the 375 cases reported from the state to the National Human Trafficking Hotline last year, most involved sex trafficking and almost a quarter involved a minor. During an FBI-led, month-long, nationwide operation focused on recovering child victims of sex trafficking, known as Operation Independence Day, the FBI, in cooperation with 400 law enforcement agencies, identified and/or recovered more than 100 child victims of sex trafficking, including seven in Georgia. Law enforcement officials also arrested 67 suspected traffickers. Grantee organizations that received previous Justice Department funding served 140 human trafficking clients in 2018.
The awards today support a range of activities designed to bring sex and labor traffickers to justice and provide critical services to victims. A grant to the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council will fund a multidisciplinary task force composed of law enforcement agencies, including the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and several victim service organizations. Funds will also support direct victim services provided under the auspices of the Georgia Coalition to Combat Human Trafficking. Other awards will help ensure that children and minors who are victimized receive counseling, case management and other critical services. Georgia Care Connection Office, Inc.; Wellspring Living, Inc.; Tapestri, Inc.; and the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy are among the grant recipients.
“Human and sex trafficking are not victimless crimes. These grants will go a long way in not just furthering our prosecutorial efforts for these terrible crimes, but also in providing much needed victim-centered services. Our office continues to be fully committed to eradicating human trafficking within the Northern District of Georgia,” said Byung J. “BJay” Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.
“In Georgia, the fight against human trafficking is a coordinated effort of federal, state and local law enforcement and prosecuting agencies working together to identify, arrest and prosecute those who choose to engage in this horrific industry,” said U.S. Attorney for the Middle District Charlie Peeler. “In the Middle District, we aggressively investigate and prosecute cases where offenders prey on vulnerable citizens, taking advantage of their age, their desire for love and affection, their financial status and their addictions. I am confident that these federal dollars will provide critical support to those who are dedicated to protecting victims and arresting perpetrators, which will lead to the end of human trafficking in our state.”
“Human trafficking is a pervasive, growing threat plaguing communities across our state and country,” said First Lady Kemp. “I applaud the federal, state and local partners who are committed to healing victims, seeking justice and holding bad actors accountable. By working together, we will end this criminal enterprise – once and for all.”
“We thank the Department of Justice for making it possible for us to continue and expand on our anti-trafficking efforts in Georgia,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. “The resources announced today, will help ensure more victims in Georgia get the support they need and help ensure that our law enforcement officials have every tool at their disposal to put buyers and traffickers behind bars where they belong.”
The remainder of the state’s awards cover a wide range of criminal justice, juvenile justice and victim service activities. Grants will support school safety initiatives, law enforcement hiring, services for domestic violence and sexual assault victims, inmate reentry services, youth mentoring and efforts to combat online child exploitation and manage sex offenders. Awards were made by the three grant-making components of the Department of Justice — OJP, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services and the Office on Violence Against Women.
A full list of OJP awards, organized under specific grant programs, is available online at https://ojp.gov/funding/Explore/OJPAwardData.htm. For COPS awards, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/grants. OVW awards can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ovw/awards.
About the Office of Justice Programs:
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
About the Office on Violence Against Women:
The Office on Violence Against Women provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
About the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services:
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 130,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Department of Justice Awards Nearly $153 Million to Reduce Crime and Improve Public Safety in GeorgiaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Claire Murray and Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan today joined Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp in announcing awards of almost $153 million to fight crime and improve community safety in Georgia. Nearly $4.3 million will help law enforcement officials and victim service providers in the state investigate and prosecute human traffickers and aid human trafficking survivors. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia Byung J. "BJay" Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia Charlie Peeler and Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr also participated in the announcement.
"Human trafficking is a cruel and barbaric practice that calls to mind the darkest moments of our history, and sadly it has left its mark on the communities of Georgia," said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Murray. "Under the direction of Attorney General Barr, the Department of Justice is putting the full weight of its resources behind the brave men and women of the state who are fighting trafficking perpetrators and bringing relief to victims. We commend these courageous and compassionate professionals and are proud to lend them our full support."
"Human trafficking is an obscene violation of human rights and human dignity, affecting millions of people worldwide, countless victims in this country and hundreds if not thousands of men, women and children right here in Georgia," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Sullivan. "We are so grateful to the law enforcement officers who pursue these vicious criminals and to the dedicated service providers who work around the clock to get survivors the help they so desperately need and deserve."Department officials and First Lady Kemp made the announcement at a press event alongside law enforcement officials, anti-trafficking advocates and members of the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. Georgia’s leaders have concentrated the state’s resources on fighting human trafficking, establishing a Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit in the Georgia Department of Law. First Lady Kemp co-chairs the Georgians for Refuge, Action, Compassion and Education, or GRACE, Commission, a task force of public officials, law enforcement and health care professionals, for-profit and non-profit organizations and subject matter experts dedicated to combating human trafficking in Georgia.
Many trafficking victims in Georgia are teenagers who are sexually exploited. Of the 375 cases reported from the state to the National Human Trafficking Hotline last year, most involved sex trafficking and almost a quarter involved a minor. During an FBI-led, month-long, nationwide operation focused on recovering child victims of sex trafficking, known as Operation Independence Day, the FBI, in cooperation with 400 law enforcement agencies, identified and/or recovered more than 100 child victims of sex trafficking, including seven in Georgia. Law enforcement officials also arrested 67 suspected traffickers. Grantee organizations that received previous Justice Department funding served 140 human trafficking clients in 2018.
The awards today support a range of activities designed to bring sex and labor traffickers to justice and provide critical services to victims. A grant to the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council will fund a multidisciplinary task force composed of law enforcement agencies, including the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and several victim service organizations. Funds will also support direct victim services provided under the auspices of the Georgia Coalition to Combat Human Trafficking. Other awards will help ensure that children and minors who are victimized receive counseling, case management and other critical services. Georgia Care Connection Office, Inc.; Wellspring Living, Inc.; Tapestri, Inc.; and the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy are among the grant recipients.
"Human and sex trafficking are not victimless crimes. These grants will go a long way in not just furthering our prosecutorial efforts for these terrible crimes, but also in providing much needed victim-centered services. Our office continues to be fully committed to eradicating human trafficking within the Northern District of Georgia," said Byung J. "BJay" Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.
"In Georgia, the fight against human trafficking is a coordinated effort of federal, state and local law enforcement and prosecuting agencies working together to identify, arrest and prosecute those who choose to engage in this horrific industry," said U.S. Attorney for the Middle District Charlie Peeler. "In the Middle District, we aggressively investigate and prosecute cases where offenders prey on vulnerable citizens, taking advantage of their age, their desire for love and affection, their financial status and their addictions. I am confident that these federal dollars will provide critical support to those who are dedicated to protecting victims and arresting perpetrators, which will lead to the end of human trafficking in our state.""Human trafficking is a pervasive, growing threat plaguing communities across our state and country," said First Lady Kemp. "I applaud the federal, state and local partners who are committed to healing victims, seeking justice and holding bad actors accountable. By working together, we will end this criminal enterprise - once and for all."
"We thank the Department of Justice for making it possible for us to continue and expand on our anti-trafficking efforts in Georgia," said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. "The resources announced today, will help ensure more victims in Georgia get the support they need and help ensure that our law enforcement officials have every tool at their disposal to put buyers and traffickers behind bars where they belong."
The remainder of the state’s awards cover a wide range of criminal justice, juvenile justice and victim service activities. Grants will support school safety initiatives, law enforcement hiring, services for domestic violence and sexual assault victims, inmate reentry services, youth mentoring and efforts to combat online child exploitation and manage sex offenders. Awards were made by the three grant-making components of the Department of Justice - OJP, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services and the Office on Violence Against Women.
A full list of OJP awards, organized under specific grant programs, is available online at https://ojp.gov/funding/Explore/OJPAwardData.htm. For COPS awards, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/grants. OVW awards can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ovw/awards.About the Office of Justice Programs:
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
About the Office on Violence Against Women:
The Office on Violence Against Women provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
About the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services:
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 130,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.