Middle District of Georgia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
200+ Military, JAG, Prosecutors Attend SVI Civil Rights Training at Fort BenningRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. — Active duty military, veterans and their families joined with federal government employees in a specialized civil rights training today at Fort Benning, a significant U.S. Army installation located along the Georgia-Alabama border, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The U.S. Attorney’s Office hosted the half-day training, delivered by subject matter experts from the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Civil Rights Division, Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative (SVI).
The training focused on legislation protecting servicemembers, veterans and their families, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), the Uniformed Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The training was also given to attorneys and staff from the Ft. Benning Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, along with Assistant United States Attorneys from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, the Southern District of Georgia, the Northern District of Alabama and the Middle District of Alabama.
“Our military does not hesitate to defend our citizens, and we are ready and prepared to go to battle protecting our brave service members when their civil rights are violated,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Protecting the rights of our military and their families is a high priority for our office. In order to effectively do our job, it is important that we educate servicemembers about the laws that protect them and how to report a problem. We also want to make sure that the federal teams supporting our servicemembers can respond quickly to any violations. I want to thank SVI for providing this critical training, and for their dedication to protecting the civil rights of our servicemembers, veterans and their families.”
“Patriots have protected and defended our nation for nearly 250 years. Many of them made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives for all of us, others suffered severe injuries, and all made sacrifices for our country,” said Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Eric Dreiband, “We owe these valiant Americans our eternal gratitude, and the U.S. Department of Justice will aggressively continue to enforce the federal law protections that Congress enacted to protect servicemembers.”
"As a servicemember and a Legal Assistance attorney working in the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, I can attest to the many issues that arise concerning servicemembers, veterans and their families. These issues at times involve events that can only be described as life altering. It is absolutely imperative for our clients to be fully informed of the numerous protections that are available based on sacrificial military service to this great nation. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to organize and attend the training event which brought Mr. Peeler and the trainers from the SVI to Fort Benning,” said Elizabeth Paillere, Legal Assistance Attorney, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, U.S. Army Maneuver Center of Excellence, Fort Benning.
Cases filed on behalf of servicemembers and veterans involve many issues, including unlawful home foreclosures, lease agreements, auto repossessions and job termination due to military service. The Department of Justice’s cases and settlements under the SCRA has resulted in $470 million in monetary relief for over 119,155 servicemembers and veterans who experienced violations of their financial and housing rights. The Department has also filed 106 USERRA lawsuits regarding violations of servicemembers and veterans’ civilian employment rights, and favorably resolved 193 USERRA complaints through consent decrees and private settlements.
SVI coordinates with Department of Justice components, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and federal agencies to build a comprehensive legal support and protection network focused on serving servicemembers, veterans and their families. The Initiative builds upon this critical enforcement work, as well as the work of other Department components that serve the military community, by sharing information, identifying servicemember and veteran needs and coordinating the distribution of resources. SVI’s mission is to support the Department in its efforts to protect those who protect us all. Additional information on SVI, including recent cases, can be found at www.justice.gov/servicemembers.
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.
Shooters of Columbus Scammers, Two with Prior Felony Convictions, Sentenced in Online Gun Purchase SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. —The defendants involved in an online illegal gun purchase scheme targeting a Columbus firearms store have been sentenced for their crimes, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Clay Land handed down the sentences on November 5, 2019. Keith Jones, 43, of Columbus, was sentenced to 75 months in prison, consecutive to any pending state revocation, three years of supervised release and $2890 restitution, after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to make false statements and one count of aggravated identity fraud. Bruce Kennebrew, 31, of Columbus, was sentenced to 63 months in prison, consecutive to any state sentence, three years of supervised release and $2890 restitution, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Demarcus Dixon, 24, of Columbus, was sentenced to ten months in prison, three years of supervised release and $2890 restitution, joint and severally with the other defendants, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to make false statements. There is no parole in the federal system.
The three defendants admitted they were involved in a scheme to obtain firearms illegally at Shooters of Columbus in which weapons were purchased online using stolen credit card and personal information. Mr. Jones obtained the stolen information and made the purchases online; Mr. Kennebrew knowingly provided the transportation necessary to accept delivery of the firearms; Mr. Dixon knowingly was used to make the illegal purchases because he did not have a criminal record and could lawfully obtain the firearms, which were purchased under his name. Two pistols and a rifle were purchased by Mr. Jones online between April 1, 2017 and April 3, 2017. One of the identity theft victims called Shooters of Columbus on April 3, 2017 to question unauthorized transactions made on a credit card at the exact moment Mr. Dixon was inside the store to pick up another illegally obtained firearm purchased by Mr. Jones online. Mr. Dixon was detained. Mr. Kennebrew was driving Mr. Dixon’s car at the time of the arrest.
Mr. Jones has a lengthy criminal history, with three prior felony convictions for financial identity fraud (Fayette County Superior Court), theft by taking (Rockdale County Superior Court) and theft by conversion (Clayton County Superior Court). Mr. Kennebrew has at least two prior criminal convictions for theft by receiving stolen property, as well as convictions for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Harris County Superior Court) and possession of MDMA (Muscogee County Superior Court).
“It is illegal for convicted felons to have firearms. Removing guns from the hands of convicted felons is a priority of our office, and part of a common sense strategy to decrease violent crime in Columbus and across the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the investigators with the Columbus Police Department and the ATF for their good 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 Columbus Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Melvin 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.
Convicted Felon and Co-Defendant, Caught with Stolen Weapons, Plead Guilty to Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A felon with a conviction from the Middle District of Pennsylvania entered a guilty plea to an illegal firearms charge this week after being found with a stolen gun and other firearms in the Middle District of Georgia, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Anthony Rodriguez, 33, of Valdosta, Georgia, entered a guilty plea for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon before U.S. District Court Judge Louis Sands on October 29, 2019. A co-defendant, Andrew Wilson Scott, 20, of Lake Park, Georgia entered a guilty plea to possession of stolen firearms before Judge Sands on October 28, 2019. Both defendants face a maximum ten years imprisonment, a maximum fine of $250,000 and three years’ supervised release. Both defendants will be sentenced on January 16, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Federal Courthouse in Albany. There is no parole in the federal system.
Lowndes County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call that a vehicle had run off I-75 on January 10, 2019. Mr. Rodriguez was found alone inside the vehicle. Officers observed marijuana in plain sight, and smelled its odor emanating from the vehicle. Mr. Rodriguez consented to a search, and the officers found four handguns, two of which were confirmed stolen from burglaries in Ware County, Georgia and Waycross, Georgia. Officers also recovered ammunition, as well as a dozen bags of marijuana and a quantity of methamphetamine. Mr. Rodriguez admitted he illegally possessed the guns and drugs. Mr. Rodriguez was convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine on December 6, 2012 in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. It is illegal for convicted felons to possess firearms. During the course of the investigation, Defendant Scott admitted to hiding additional weapons in the trunk of his car that Mr. Scott said belonged to Mr. Rodriguez. Mr. Scott also admitted that he unsuccessfully attempted to sell the weapons. Two sawed-off shotguns were discovered in Mr. Scott’s vehicle, as well a 9mm pistol, confirmed stolen in a burglary in Ware County. Mr. Scott knew the weapons were stolen.
“It is a priority of our office to remove illegal firearms from the hands of convicted felons and other criminally minded individuals,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Prosecuting convicted felons in possession of firearms remains at the forefront of our strategy to reduce violent crime in the Middle District of Georgia. I want to thank the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF for their excellent work in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit 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.
Illegal Drone Operator Sentenced for Attempting to Drop Drugs into A Georgia State PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Georgia man who was illegally operating an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to drop contraband into Autry State Prison was sentenced to 48 months in prison this afternoon for his crime, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Eric Lee Brown, 35, of Lithonia, Georgia pleaded guilty to one count of operating an aircraft eligible for registration knowing that the aircraft is not registered to facilitate a controlled substance offense before U.S. District Court Judge Louis Sands on Thursday, July 25, 2019. The Honorable Judge Sands sentenced the defendant to 48 months in prison, followed by 3 years supervised release on Thursday, October 31, 2019. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Brown admitted in his signed plea agreement that he attempted to use a drone to drop a large bag of marijuana into Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia. Mitchell County deputies responded to a call on March 29, 2018 about a vehicle impeding the flow of traffic near the prison. Mr. Brown was inside the vehicle, and deputies smelled marijuana and observed the drone. They also saw two clear plastic bags containing a green, leafy substance that later was confirmed to be 294 grams of marijuana. Mr. Brown was taken into custody. Search warrants revealed detailed conversations about using the drone to drop drugs into the prison. Mr. Brown did not register the DJI Phantom 4 drone which was found in his possession, and he also did not have a valid FAA Airman’s Certificate or Remote Pilot Certificate, both actions required by law.
“Smugglers using drones, or other means, to move illegal contraband and drugs into our prisons will face prosecution and penalties in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “The public needs to be aware that the use of drones is regulated by federal criminal statutes. Our office will enforce those laws in order to keep illegal contraband and drugs out of our prisons. I want to thank the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Department of Corrections and Department of Transportation--OIG for their excellent work in this matter.”
“The smuggling of drugs into the state prison is an ongoing battle. It is good that we can prosecute these kind of cases at the federal level and put an end to this kind of activity,” said Sheriff W.E. Bozeman, Mitchell County Sherriff’s Office.
“Today’s sentencing sets a new precedent for the federal criminal investigation and prosecution of unlawful UAS operations and sends a strong message that such activities will not be tolerated,” said Todd Damiani, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG) Regional Special Agent in Charge. “As the use of UAS proliferates, DOT-OIG special agents, working alongside our federal, state and other law enforcement partners, will continue to bring to justice individuals who violate UAS regulations and engage in criminal use of this technology.”
“The GDC is pleased to see this case come to a close, with Brown receiving justice for his role in jeopardizing the safety of our staff, our facilities and the public,” said Commissioner Timothy C. Ward of the Georgia Department of Corrections. “We are hopeful this outcome will serve as a warning to others considering introducing contraband into our facilities, and we are proud of the work of our special agents and the continued collaboration of our law enforcement partners.”
The case was investigated by the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG), the Georgia Department of Corrections and the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen 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.
Pelham Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. — A Pelham, Georgia man has pleaded guilty to federal child pornography charges, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Michael S. King, 41, of Pelham, entered a guilty plea today to count one of his indictment charging him with distribution of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner. The defendant faces a maximum sentence of twenty years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and a term of supervised release of up to life for his crime. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
Mr. King’s illegal activity was discovered on August 13, 2018 during an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Using the name “SilentDream1977”, the defendant uploaded and distributed images of child pornography on the Kik App, an online instant messaging application. The defendant also used the name “Silent Dream 78” on the Kik App. HSI agents, with assistance from the Pelham Police Department, executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence on January 17, 2019. Mr. King had two desktop computers, a laptop, iPad, iPhone and two thumb drives, all containing child pornography. Mr. King admitted he had been possessing, downloading and viewing child pornography “for forever.”
“The distribution of child pornography online is in our own backyards, not just in a distant city in another country,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “These are not nameless victims, but real children who are being horribly abused and hurt. These children are victimized every time the images are shared and viewed. We will prosecute child pornography distributors to the fullest extent allowed by law. I want to thank HSI and the Pelham Police Department for their work protecting children and tracking down child perpetrators.”
“While shutting down this defendant’s heinous activity will never bring back the innocence that these children lost, it should serve as a message that these types of criminals cannot hide behind the anonymity of a computer screen,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in Alabama and Georgia. “HSI and its law enforcement partners throughout the country have the tools to identify and shutdown these perpetrators who re-victimize these children every time they share these disgusting images.”
The case was investigated by HSI and the Pelham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Crane 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.
Valdosta Doctor, Physician’s Assistant Sentenced to Prison for Medicare-Medicaid Fraud, Ordered to Repay Millions in RestitutionRead the Press Release
Valdosta, Ga. — A Valdosta doctor guilty of defrauding the federal and state Medicare and Medicaid health care programs of more than $2.2 million was sentenced to 97 months in prison today, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. A citizen jury returned a guilty verdict against Dr. Douglas Moss, 58, of Valdosta, on May 14, 2019 following a seven-day trial in federal court. Dr. Moss was found guilty on all seven counts that he was charged with: conspiracy to commit health care fraud (Count 1) and health care fraud (Counts 2-7). U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson imposed an additional 3 years of supervised release. A co-conspirator, Shawn Tywon, 50, of Valdosta, who worked as a Physician’s Assistant (PA) in Dr. Moss’s practice, entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit health care fraud on April 11, 2019 and was sentenced today to 24 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Dr. Moss and Mr. Tywon were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $2,256,861.32 to Medicare and Georgia Medicaid. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Stealing from Medicare and Medicaid programs undermines our government’s mission to assist providing healthcare to senior citizens and vulnerable members of our society. Enriching oneself on the backs of law-abiding, tax-paying citizens will not be tolerated, and the punishment is prison time,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Dr. Moss stole more than $2.2 million by billing the government for work he did not perform. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to end government fraud. I want to thank HHS, FBI and the Office of State of Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr for their hard work in this matter.”
“The ability to combine resources with our federal partners is critically important as we work together to prosecute those who break the law and take advantage of government programs for their own personal gain,” said Attorney General Chris Carr. “We remain committed to protecting the integrity of the Georgia Medicaid program, its members and the taxpayer dollars used to provide this service, and, as identified by today’s action, we will remain vigilant in our efforts to recover any and all funds spent illegally.”
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates that when medical professionals choose to break the law and corrupt the system to line their pockets with taxpayer dollars, we will work relentlessly to bring those individuals to justice,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Protecting precious Medicare and Medicaid funds remains a top priority for the Inspector General and our law enforcement partners.”
“When health care professionals choose to defraud federally funded programs like Medicare and Medicaid there are many victims, including American taxpayers and the people who are rightly entitled to those funds,” said Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta Chris Hacker. “Health care costs are driven up when doctors and staff bill for unnecessary and unfulfilled services and the FBI and our partners will continue to use every resource in our power to stop it.”
Dr. Moss was a practicing physician at South Georgia Health Group, LLC, (SGHG) in Valdosta, Georgia, since 2002. Dr. Moss was also the Medical Director of four Heritage Health (which became Pruitt Health) facilities (Holly Hill Nursing Home, Valdosta Nursing Home, Lakehaven Nursing Home, and Crestwood Nursing Home) between January 2011 and May 2016, where he served as an attending physician for residents at those facilities. Dr. Moss was also the Medical Director of Grant Medical Clinic in Valdosta, an after-hours clinic. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Dr. Moss bilked the U.S. government out of more than $2.2 million dollars by falsifying Medicare and Medicaid claims, either by billing for services he actually did not perform, or by utilizing his PA, Mr. Tywon, as an “extender” (a non-physician practitioner) to render services that were billed as if Dr. Moss had performed them himself, netting a larger reimbursement. The evidence showed that Dr. Moss routinely did not render the services he billed under his name, and even visited Las Vegas casinos during at least two periods of time when he submitted bills for services in Valdosta.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – OIG. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sonja Profit and Lyndie Freeman from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, and Assistant Director Jim Mooney from the Georgia’s Office of the Attorney General 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.
Maximum Prison Sentence for South Carolina Felon Guilty of Human Sex Trafficking in GeorgiaRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. — A South Carolina man with an extensive criminal history was sentenced to 120 months in prison for human sex trafficking, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Kenneth Hutto, 46, of Summerville, South Carolina entered a guilty plea on January 10, 2019 to two counts of transportation for illegal sexual activity. On Wednesday, October 23, 2019, U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson sentenced Mr. Hutto to 10 years in prison and twenty years supervised release, the statutory maximum sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
Between approximately March 2017 and continuing until February 13, 2018, Mr. Hutto transported a person identified in the signed plea agreement as “E.B.” in interstate commerce between South Carolina and Georgia so E.B. could engage in prostitution for his profit. On June 13, 2017, a Valdosta deputy working undercover responded to an advertisement on a well-known human sex trafficking website, backpage.com, showing a female with bruising to her backside. The deputy was directed via a text message to a Valdosta motel, where Mr. Hutto met him, collected a cash payment, and directed him to a motel room where E.B. was waiting. The deputy observed visible bruising to E.B.’s eyes, neck and arms. Subsequent interviews with E.B. and Mr. Hutto revealed that the pair met while Mr. Hutto was in federal prison, and connected in March 2017 when Mr. Hutto was released from prison. E.B. told investigators she suffers from mental illness and was abused by her husband, who broke her back. On July 20, 2017, Mr. Hutto was released on a state bond and ordered not to have any contact with E.B. Mr. Hutto was rearrested on February 13, 2018 in South Carolina, and cell phone records and witness statements established that Mr. Hutto was again trafficking E.B. for his profit.
“This is just one tragic example of the types of abuse and manipulation that all too often accompany human sex trafficking. Orchestrating the sale of sex through coercion will not be tolerated in the Middle District of Georgia, as reflected by this lengthy prison sentence,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office for their excellent work on this case.”
The case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Bowen 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.
Vaping Devices, Cartridges will be Accepted During Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. —The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Atlanta Divisional Office will accept vaping devices and cartridges for the first time at any of its drop off locations during the 18th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time. This one-day event will make it convenient for the public to rid their homes of potentially dangerous prescription drugs. At the event, Georgians will be able to drop off their expired, unused and unwanted pills at sites across the state free of charge, no questions asked. By doing so, they will help prevent prescription drug abuse and theft. Georgians participating in the DEA’s last take-back held on April 27, 2019, yielded 11,114 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at sites set up throughout the state. The public can find a nearby collection site at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539.
“The disposal of unwanted/unused prescription medication is a common sense way to prevent medicine from being abused or diverted from its intended use. I encourage all citizens to take advantage of this free service offered by the DEA,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “If your community does not have a nearby Take Back Day location, there are several year-round safe drug disposal sites located across the Middle District that citizens can seek out, including in courthouses, outside law enforcement offices and other locations. We all need to work together to end easy access to these highly addictive drugs.”
“DEA’s 18th Prescription Drug Take Back event will allow Americans to safely and properly dispose of their unwanted/unused prescription medications,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “During Saturday’s Take Back event, DEA is taking a proactive step by collecting vaping devices and cartridges as we work with our partners to combat this emerging public health threat to the nation’s youth.”
Vaping devices and cartridges will be accepted at any of the Georgia drop-off locations during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. It is important to note that the DEA cannot accept devices containing lithium ion batteries. If batteries cannot be removed prior to drop-off, individuals should consult with stores that recycle lithium ion batteries. Concerns have been raised across the United States over illnesses and death caused by vaping and the high youth vaping initiation rates. In an effort to support a healthy lifestyle and energetic population, especially amongst America’s youth, the DEA is committed to doing all it can to help safely dispose of vaping devices and substances.
Now in its tenth year, DEA has collected a total of more than 11 million pounds (almost 6,000 tons) of expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications through its Take Back Day events. DEA is continuing to register law enforcement partners and collection sites for the upcoming Take Back Day. As of Oct. 15, more than 4,500 registered law enforcement partners will assist with more than 5,250 registered sites and 135 tribal locations across the country, with more being added each day. Collection sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time. The public can find a nearby collection site at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539.
For more information about the harms of youth vaping, please visit: https://www.justthinktwice.gov/facts/vaping-what-you-should-know. The DEA also encourages parents, along with their children, to educate themselves about the dangers of legal and illegal drugs by visiting DEA’s interactive websites at www.justhinktwice.com, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com and www.dea.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.
212 Month Prison Sentence for Convicted Felon Guilty of Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute While on Federal Supervised Release, State ParoleRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga.— A Monroe County, Georgia man with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced Tuesday to 212 months in federal prison after admitting he possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it while serving both a federal supervised release sentence and a state parole sentence for drug related crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self sentenced Chadwick Brown, 38, of Forsyth, Georgia to 188 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for his most recent crime of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Mr. Brown was further sentenced to 24 months imprisonment for violating the terms of his federal supervised release by possessing the methamphetamine with intent to distribute it, that term of imprisonment to run consecutive, for a total of 212 months in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Brown entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on May 29, 2019, nearly a year after he ran from two Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) officers attempting to execute a state parole violation. After a foot chase, Mr. Brown was apprehended in possession of methamphetamine, other drugs, a digital scale and cash. Mr. Brown admitted he was attempting to distribute methamphetamine.
“It is critical that released offenders comply with any and all conditions post release from their prison sentence. Failure to do so can lead to prosecution and additional prison time,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the Department of Community Supervision for their efforts ensuring that those returning to society post-prison are in compliance while protecting the safety of our citizens.”
“DCS officers work tirelessly to protect our communities by ensuring those whom we supervise remain in compliance with the conditions of their supervision. We recognize this cannot be done alone and appreciate the support of our fellow partners in law enforcement,” said Brian Tukes, External Affairs Director, Georgia Department of Community Supervision.
Two Georgia DCS officers executed a parole warrant on Mr. Brown on May 9, 2018 at a Forsyth residence. Mr. Brown took off running after being approached by the DCS officers. When he was apprehended in a neighbor’s yard, officers discovered numerous illegal drugs on him, including methamphetamine, a digital scale and $1,579 in cash. Mr. Brown is a career offender with multiple drug related convictions dating back to 2002. Mr. Brown was sentenced in 2012 to 48 months in prison and three years supervised release after pleading guilty in 2011 to one count maintaining drug involved premises in U.S. District Court, Middle District of Georgia. Also in 2012, Mr. Brown was sentenced to 20 years in state prison, with the first eight years in confinement and the balance on probation, for possession with intent to distribute cocaine in Meriwether County Superior Court. Mr. Brown was actively on federal supervised release and state probation at the time of his 2018 arrest in this case.
The case was investigated by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts 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.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 130 Months for Multiple Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga.— A Columbus man with a prior felony conviction was sentenced to 130 months in prison after pleading guilty to three firearm charges, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Anthony Kimbrough, 24, of Columbus, Georgia previously pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. U.S. District Judge Clay Land sentenced Mr. Kimbrough on Tuesday, October 15, 2019 to 130 months in federal prison for his crimes. After he is released from federal prison, Mr. Kimbrough will serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
“To all convicted felons: It is illegal for you to possess guns. Felons caught with guns and those who possess guns in furtherance of drug trafficking will be prosecuted in Middle Georgia, and the punishment is severe” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to reduce violent crime in our communities, and removing guns from the hands of convicted criminals and drug traffickers is a common sense step toward achieving this goal. I want to thank the Columbus Police Department and the FBI for their work in this case.”
According to the signed plea agreement, Mr. Kimbrough was arrested in April and August 2018. During each encounter with law enforcement, the defendant was the passenger in a car stopped for a traffic violation. Mr. Kimbrough was found each time to be in possession of at least one gun (a 9mm FMK Patriot in April 2018 and a Glock 22 and a 9 mm pistol in August 2018), several different smaller amounts of drugs, including fentanyl, heroin and crack cocaine, and drug distribution paraphernalia. At the time of his arrests, Mr. Kimbrough was on probation for a prior felony drug conviction in Muscogee County Superior Court. He admitted to possessing the Glock 22 and 9 mm pistol while trafficking drugs.
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 Columbus Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. 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.
Federal Drug Trafficking Indictments Unsealed, Search Warrants Executed in Dougherty, Henry, Muscogee and Worth CountiesRead the Press Release
Albany, GA— A multi-agency investigation has resulted in the execution of search warrants today in Dougherty, Henry, Muscogee and Worth Counties, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Additionally, federal indictments charging six individuals for drug trafficking were unsealed today.
The search warrants were executed in the following locations:
- 948 South Street, Albany, Dougherty County
- 3 Simmons Way, Ellenwood, Henry County
- 204 Whitehead Drive, Albany, Dougherty County
- 710 Johnson Road, Apartment C, Albany, Dougherty County
- 1718 Nelms Road, Albany, Dougherty County
- 7794 Leaning Pine Court, Midland, Muscogee County
- 202 Glade Lane, Albany, Dougherty County
- 610 Johnson Road, Albany Dougherty County
- 101 Gurr Drive, Albany, Dougherty County
- 202 Pecan Street, Sylvester, Worth County
The following defendants were indicted by the September 2019 federal grand jury. An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct. All of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Willie Keith Ware, 32, of Albany, is facing six charges. Mr. Ware is charged with four counts of distribution of methamphetamine in an amount exceeding 50 grams. If convicted on any of these charges, Mr. Ware faces a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Mr. Ware is also charged with one count of distribution of heroin. If convicted on this charge, Mr. Ware faces a maximum 20 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine. Mr. Ware is also charged with one count of distribution of MDMA. If convicted on this charge, Mr. Ware faces a maximum 20 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine.
- Jamie L. Keith, 38, Albany, is charged with one count possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in an amount exceeding 50 grams. If convicted, Mr. Keith faces a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $10 million fine.
- Quade’ Z. Barrett, 25, of Albany is charged with one count of distribution of MDMA. If convicted, Mr. Barrett faces a maximum 20 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine.
- Demarcus Cook, aka GA Boy, 37, of Sylvester, is facing two charges. Mr. Cook is charged with one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in an amount exceeding 50 grams. If convicted, Mr. Cook faces a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Mr. Cook is also charged with one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted, Mr. Cook faces a mandatory minimum 5 years in prison consecutive to any other conviction, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
- Addy Cook, aka Frost, 36, of Sylvester, is facing two charges. Ms. Cook is charged with one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in an amount exceeding 50 grams. If convicted, Ms. Cook faces a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Ms. Cook is also charged with one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted, Ms. Cook faces a mandatory minimum 5 years in prison consecutive to any other conviction, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
- Artarius Davis, aka Showboat, aka Boat, 38, of Albany, is facing two charges. Mr. Davis is charged with one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in an amount exceeding 50 grams. If convicted, Mr. Davis faces a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Mr. Davis is also charged with one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted, Mr. Davis faces a mandatory minimum 5 years in prison consecutive to any other conviction, up to a maximum of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
“These search warrants and indictments are part of a multi-month, multi-agency investigation,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Our office is grateful for the strong partnership exhibited between our local, state and federal law enforcement in the Middle District of Georgia.”
The case was investigated by the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, Thomas County Sheriff’s Office, Worth County Sheriff’s Office, Albany Dougherty Drug Unit, the GBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration (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.
Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Operating Ponzi Scheme on University of Georgia’s CampusRead the Press Release
A former University of Georgia undergraduate student pleaded guilty today for his role in a $1 million Ponzi scheme that targeted investors, including his fellow students.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Charles Peeler of the Middle District of Georgia and Special Agent in Charge J.C. Hacker of the FBI’s Athens, Georgia Field Office made the announcement.
Syed Arham Arbab, 22, of Augusta, Georgia, pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with securities fraud before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal of the Middle District of Georgia. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2020, before Judge Royal.
As part of his guilty plea, Arbab admitted that from May 2018 through May 2019, while enrolled as an undergraduate student at the University of Georgia campus in Athens, Georgia, he solicited investors, many of whom were his fellow students, to invest in his entities, Artis Proficio Capital Management and Artis Proficio Capital Investments (collectively, APC), which he told investors were “hedge funds.” Arbab admitted that he convinced approximately 117 investors in Georgia and other states to invest funds with him and APC.
Arbab admitted that he made a number of misrepresentations in order to persuade victims to invest with him, including misrepresenting the funds’ returns, the number of investors, the total funds invested and the nature of the investment plays being made. He also admitted fabricating account statements. Victims invested approximately $1 million with Arbab in the course of his scheme, with Arbab falsely promising rates of returns as high as 22 percent or 56 percent, when his overall returns were nowhere near these amounts. Arbab offered some investors a seemingly risk-free “guarantee” on the first $15,000 invested, and the majority of investors, especially those who were students or younger professionals, invested less than this amount, believing that even if Arbab’s investment choices proved unsound or the market behaved unpredictably, they would still be paid back their entire principal investment.
Arbab admitted that knew he did not have the liquid capital to make good on these guarantees when he made them, but he did not disclose this to his investors. Further, when Arbab learned that some prospective investors were UGA football fans, he told them that a famous NFL player and UGA alumnus was an investor in the fund, when in fact the football player had never invested with APC. Arbab also misrepresented that he was an MBA candidate at UGA’s Terry College of Business. In fact, ARBAB had applied to and been rejected by UGA’s MBA program and was operating the fund primarily from his fraternity house as an undergraduate.
Arbab further admitted that he spent investor funds on personal expenses, including clothing, shoes, retail purchases, fine dining, alcoholic beverages, adult entertainment and interstate travel, including spending thousands of dollars gambling during three trips to Las Vegas in 2018 and 2019.
The FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Katie Rasor and Assistant Chief Justin Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman of the Middle District of Georgia are prosecuting the case. The Department of Justice appreciates the substantial assistance of the Enforcement Division of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Arbab is also the subject of a previously filed civil complaint by the SEC alleging a Ponzi scheme and offering fraud.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in this case should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
Former Student Admits Running Ponzi Scheme from Fraternity House at the University of GeorgiaRead the Press Release
Macon, GA-- A former University of Georgia undergraduate student admitted to operating a Ponzi scheme which collected approximately $1 million in investments and defrauded 117 investors, including fellow students and their families. Syed Arham Arbab, 22, of Augusta, pleaded guilty on Friday, October 11, 2019 to a one-count information charging him with Securities Fraud before United States District Judge C. Ashley Royal. In his guilty plea, Mr. Arbab admitted he spent investor funds on personal expenses, including clothing, shoes, retail purchases, fine dining, alcoholic beverages, adult entertainment and interstate travel, including spending thousands of dollars gambling during three trips to Las Vegas in 2018. Mr. Arbab faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, three years supervised release and is subject to any restitution ordered by the Court. He will be sentenced on January 8, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. at the Federal Courthouse in Athens. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The defendant engaged in a pattern of deceit to gain the trust of unwitting investors who gave him their hard-earned money for what they believed was a sound investment. Instead of investing the victims’ money, the defendant funded a lavish lifestyle,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our office is committed to protecting investors who are duped by fraudsters. I want to thank the FBI and the SEC for their efforts working together to bring justice for the victims.”
“Unfortunately this case is a stark reminder to investors to be very careful where they entrust their hard earned money, and always be skeptical of offers that sound too good to be true,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The victims of this scheme, many of them students, will never recover their losses, but can rest assured that Arbab’s greed will not go unpunished.”
Mr. Arbab admitted that from May 2018 through May 2019, while enrolled as an undergraduate student at the University of Georgia, he solicited investors, many of whom were his fellow students, to invest in his entities, Artis Proficio Capital Management and Artis Proficio Capital Investments (collectively “APC”), which he told investors were “hedge funds.” Arbab admitted that he convinced approximately 117 investors in Georgia and other states to invest funds with him and APC.
Mr. Arbab made a number of misrepresentations in order to persuade victims to invest with him. The defendant also fabricated account statements, misrepresented the fund’s returns, the number of investors, the total funds invested and the nature of the investment plays being made. Victims invested approximately $1 million with Mr. Arbab in the course of his scheme, with Mr. Arbab falsely promising rates of returns as high as 22% or 56%, when his overall returns were nowhere near these amounts. Mr. Arbab offered some investors a seemingly risk-free “guarantee” on the first $15,000 invested, and the majority of investors, especially those who were students or younger professionals, invested less than this amount, believing that even if Mr. Arbab’s investment choices proved unsound or the market behaved unpredictably, they would still be paid back their entire principal investment. Mr. Arbab admitted that knew he did not have the liquid capital to make good on these guarantees when he made them, but he did not disclose this to his investors. Further, when Mr. Arbab learned that some prospective investors were UGA football fans, he told them a famous NFL player and UGA alumnus was an investor in the fund, when in fact the football player had never invested with APC. Mr. Arbab also misrepresented that he was an MBA candidate at UGA’s Terry College of Business; in fact, he had applied to and been rejected by UGA’s MBA program and was operating the fund primarily from his fraternity house as an undergraduate.
Trial Attorney Katie Rasor, Assistant Chief Justin Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman of the Middle District of Georgia are prosecuting the case for the Government. The criminal investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Arbab is also the subject of a previously filed civil complaint by the Securities and Exchange Commission alleging a Ponzi scheme and offering fraud; the May 31, 2019, civil action is filed at 3:19-CV-00055. The Department of Justice appreciates the substantial assistance of the Enforcement Division of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in this case, and are not receiving notifications, please contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness Specialist by calling the Victim Assistance phone line at 1-888-549-3945 or by emailing [email protected].
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer for the Middle District of Georgia, at (478) 621-2603, or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
"ThePedoMan" Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Child PornRead the Press Release
Athens, Georgia— A Walton County, Georgia man, known as “ThePedoMan” on child pornography websites, was sentenced in federal court to 41 months in prison, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. John McCurdy, a/k/a John McCurdy-Walker, 27, of Loganville, Georgia previously pleaded guilty to the indictment charging him with one count possession of child pornography, and was sentenced on October 9, 2019 by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Law enforcement at every level remain relentless in tracking down and arresting the makers and the possessors of child pornography in Georgia, and we will continue to prosecute these criminals to the fullest extent allowed by the law,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Predators who view child pornography are victimizing the innocent and directly fueling abhorrent abuse. I want to thank the FBI and the GBI for their work protecting Georgia children.”
“The victimization of a child doesn’t end when that child’s pornographic images are recorded. Every time an individual like McCurdy possesses those images and views them for personal gratification, that child is victimized again, and again,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI will always make it a priority to protect our most vulnerable assets, our children.”
“The GBI and the Georgia ICAC Task Force will continue to diligently work with our local, state and federal partners to protect our children,” said Debbie Garner, Special Agent in Charge and Commander, Georgia ICAC Task Force. “The committed network of law enforcement officers that investigate the possession, distribution and production of online child sexual abuse material is dedicated to finding and prosecuting those who sexually exploit our children.”
According to the stipulation of fact entered in court, at or around December 3, 2015, Mr. McCurdy used a computer or interactive computer service to access, possess and view videos and still photos of between 150 and 300 images of child pornography, including images featuring prepubescent minors. According to information presented in court, Mr. McCurdy admitted that he has been looking at child pornography since he was 14-years-old and that he accessed child pornography through the dark web under the user name “ThePedoMan”. Mr. McCurdy’s defense argued for a downward variance on the federal sentencing guidelines recommended for the charge. That request was denied by the Court.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation ICAC Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie M. 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.
"Showtime," Leader of Massive Middle Georgia Drug Operation, Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Macon—The final two of ten defendants involved in a large-scale illicit drug operation based in Warner Robins, Georgia 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 Marc Treadwell sentenced Travis McKenzie a/k/a “Showtime,” 38, of Warner Robins, GA on Thursday, October 3, 2019 to 300 months in prison. On February 15, 2019, Mr. McKenzie pleaded guilty to one count conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, “crack” cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, alprazolam and more than 50 kilograms of marijuana. Co-defendant Clarence Bogan, 40, of Warner Robins, GA, entered a guilty plea on February 25, 2019 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He was sentenced to 130 months in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The curtain has closed on Showtime and his entire criminal organization,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I am proud of the seamless effort displayed by our partner law enforcement agencies to coordinate the successful take-down of a massive drug trafficking operation that was ruining lives in Middle Georgia. Mr. McKenzie’s unique business model allowed him to gain substantial profits by directly controlling many points of sale, all at the expense of addicted Georgians, their wounded families and our society, gravely harmed by the drug epidemic. I want to commend our partner law enforcement agencies for their role in ending this insidious drug trafficking network.”
“This case highlights the joint commitment, dedication, and partnership between our state and federal partners in combatting drug trafficking in our community,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Hacker of the FBI Atlanta field office. “McKenzie wreaked havoc on his community and fueled the flames of the drug epidemic in this country. This sentence sends a message that the FBI and its law enforcement partners are devoted to taking drug traffickers off our streets to clean up our neighborhoods.”
“It was an extensive investigation that was a collaborative effort between many agencies. Travis McKenzie was a major drug dealer in Houston County, and we are very pleased with the sentence,” said Captain Jon Holland, Chief Investigator, Commander, Criminal Investigations Division, Houston County Sheriff’s Office. “The successful result in this case shows what happens when local, state and federal agencies work together. We want to thank the other agencies working with us to investigate this case and move forward with a successful prosecution.”
“This was a very large scale drug operation responsible for many overdoses in Middle Georgia,” said Stephen Lynn, Chief of Police, City of Perry, Georgia. “It was a tremendously successful take down, involving multiple agencies, which shows the importance of partnership and teamwork.”
“The show is finally over for ‘Showtime’ and his ring of criminals who flooded the Warner Robbins area with dangerous drugs,” said Robert J. Hammer, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta. “Georgia law enforcement at both the state and federal level is committed to removing both the illicit drugs and those criminals that sell them from our streets.”
Mr. McKenzie admitted in his guilty plea to orchestrating a large-scale illicit drug trafficking operation based in Warner Robins, Georgia. From December 18, 2014, until his arrest on June 28, 2017, Mr. McKenzie and his co-conspirators were documented storing and distributing large quantities of illegal drugs, including cocaine, crack, methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl from various sources. The drugs were sold in smaller quantities to sellers with their own customers or directly to users from various locations, including “trap houses” located in Warner Robins, where Mr. McKenzie resided. Mr. McKenzie not only directly controlled the sale of narcotics at each of the trap houses, but also supplied and facilitated other co-conspirators selling directly from those locations. Law enforcement conducted more than 70 controlled buys during the course of the investigation, and surveillance, including wire and electronic telephone interceptions, documented the near daily purchase and sale of controlled substances by Mr. McKenzie and the organization to a large number of different people.
The co-conspirators are as follows:
Jonathan Haslem, 38, of Warner Robins, GA, entered a guilty plea on March 8, 2019 to one count conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, “crack” cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, alprazolam and more than 50 kilograms of marijuana. He was sentenced on June 27, 2019 to 220 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
Kimseing Le, 31, of Atlanta, GA, entered a guilty plea on February 27, 2019 to one count conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He was sentenced on August 14, 2019 to 121 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
LaTray McKenzie, 20, of Warner Robins, GA, entered a guilty plea on February 27, 2019 to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. He was sentenced on June 13, 2019 to 84 months in prison and one year of supervised release.
Tamika Lashawn Hickey, 37, of Perry, GA, entered a guilty plea on March 4, 2019 to one count possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. She was sentenced on June 27, 2019 to 50 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
Justin High, 32, of Warner Robins, GA, entered a guilty plea on February 27, 2019 to one-count conspiracy to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana. He was sentenced on June 13, 2019 to 42 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
Esha Hill, 30, of Warner Robins, GA, entered a guilty plea on March 4, 2019 to one count misprision of a felony. He was sentenced on June 13, 2019 to 33 months in prison and one year of supervised release.
Kaelin Varrett, 25, of Warner Robins, GA entered a guilty to plea to one count possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He was sentenced on June 13, 2019 to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
Thomas Jeffrey Locke, 52, of Reynolds, GA entered a guilty plea on February 20, 2019 to possession with intent to distribute, cocaine and heroin. He was sentenced on June 13, 2019 to three years of probation.
The case was investigated by the Perry Police Department, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI, with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations, ICE. 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.
Record Attendance at Cybersecurity Roundtable, 100+ Business, Tech, Law Enforcement Leaders ParticipateRead the Press Release
Columbus — Leaders from several of west Georgia’s largest companies discussed the most pressing cybersecurity threats facing businesses at a roundtable meeting held in Columbus, Georgia on Friday. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia (USAO MDGA) and the Columbus Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) organized a joint Cybersecurity Roundtable, a half-day event on September 27, 2019 featuring presentations from law enforcement agencies that fight cybercrimes as well as opportunities for key leaders within these organizations to speak frankly about the threats they face. This was the first IIA Columbus Chapter Cybersecurity Roundtable, and the largest attendance ever at an IIAColumbus Chapter meeting.
“Cybercrime is on the rise in the United States and in the Middle District of Georgia. Our office is committed to working with our business community and law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute cybercriminals, wherever they are. The first step in fighting cybercrime is to educate businesses, individuals and law enforcement on the landscape of threats, how to prevent an incident and how to best respond to threats,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank the Columbus Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors and the Columbus business community for their support in this important conference. Working together, we can better protect our citizens and businesses from cybercrime."
“The IIA Columbus Chapter was proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present the Cybersecurity Roundtable in Columbus. As evidenced by our record attendance of over 100 people, cybersecurity is a key risk to businesses in Columbus and important topic of interest to the IIA Columbus Chapter,” said Matt Jones, President, IIA Columbus Chapter. “The IIA Columbus Chapter would like to thank U.S. Attorney Peeler and his office for all of their hard work in preparation for the conference and for providing the subject matter experts for the cybersecurity conference.”
Industry experts and business leaders joined law enforcement experts from the FBI, Secret Service, Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Georgia Cyber Crime Center (G3C), and the Department of Justice’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section at the Cybersecurity Roundtable. 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 Jury Returns Guilty Verdict in Illegal Firearm, Methamphetamine TrialRead the Press Release
Columbus—A convicted felon with an extensive criminal history in both Alabama and Georgia was found guilty late Tuesday on illegal gun and drug charges, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. After deliberating approximately two hours, a citizen jury found Freddie Clark, 42, of Phenix City, AL guilty on all three charges, 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. Mr. Clark faces a combined maximum 512 months imprisonment for his crimes and will be sentenced on February 4, 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The penalties for serial criminals in the Middle District of Georgia are severe. Repeat, dangerous offenders will not be tolerated by law-abiding citizens or law enforcement,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “It is a priority of this office to target and prosecute violent offenders who harm the safety of our communities. I want to thank the Columbus Police Department and the ATF for their 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.
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.
U.S. Attorney, Law Enforcement Leaders Announce New Top 15 Most Wanted in Middle GeorgiaRead the Press Release
MACON – Macon Regional Crimestoppers released a new list of the Top 15 Most Wanted fugitives, announced United States Attorney Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler. U.S. Attorney Peeler joined law enforcement leadership from across the Middle District of Georgia to make the announcement at a location known as “The Field”, a former gathering place and launching pad for criminal activity in the Unionville neighborhood, a section of Macon with the highest violent crime rates. Macon Regional Crimestoppers, a community-run organization dedicated to increasing the safety of citizens, first announced on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 a new quarterly initiative offering a $1,000 reward for a tip leading to the arrest of a Top 15 Most Wanted. The third quarter Top 15 Most Wanted has defendants charged with the most violent crimes, including Child Molestation, Aggravated Assault and Voluntary Manslaughter. The defendants are wanted in counties associated with Macon Regional Crimestoppers. For a complete list, visit www.crimestop.us.
“Strong citizen support coupled with strong law enforcement collaboration has resulted in the apprehension of some of the most violent offenders in our region through this initiative,” said Charlie Peeler, U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners and Macon Regional Crimestoppers, a community-led effort to curb violent crime, for not backing down from our shared goal to make our neighborhoods safer and eliminate violent crime.”
“We’ve had great success since we launched this program in February. The results of our efforts have resulted in the capture of 27 violent offenders and this has made our community a much safer place,” said Warren Selby, Jr., Chairman of Macon Regional Crimestoppers. “Our success is due to the partnership of the different agencies working together for the good of the community.”
“The Fifteen Most Wanted initiative has been a huge success for all of Middle Georgia,” said John Cary Bittick, United States Marshal, Middle District of Georgia. “The information provided by the public to Macon Regional Crimestoppers is oftentimes the key to making high profile arrests and disrupting criminal activity. When the public and law enforcement work hand in hand with one another, we can make our communities a better place for everyone.”
“This year, as a result of the 15 Most Wanted initiative, many dangerous offenders have been removed from our neighborhoods,” said David Davis, Bibb County Sheriff. “This united effort from Crimestoppers, law enforcement, and, most importantly, the public has helped to make our region safer. We look forward to the continued success of this innovative program.”
“The Baldwin County Sheriff’s office has enjoyed a great relationship with Macon Regional Crimestoppers. This joint venture has given us a great media platform to publicize our wanted persons,” said Bill Massee, Baldwin County Sheriff. “It provides the opportunity to give the public notice of our crime situations and ask for their assistance. Crimestoppers additionally offers rewards to entice the public to provide their assistance. What a phenomenal partnership!”
“We won’t tolerate those who commit acts of domestic violence, child molestation or violent gang crime. With the tips that led to arrests from the past Top 15 lists, our community has shown that they won’t either,” said David Cooke, Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney.
This quarter’s Top 15 Most Wanted can be viewed at the Macon Regional Crimestoppers website at www.crimestop.us. All of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. 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.
Milledgeville Tax Preparer Enters Guilty Plea in Tax Fraud Case, Investigators Marked 5K+ "Suspicious" ReturnsRead the Press Release
MACON – The former owner of Mr. Tax, Etc., a tax preparation business, admitted to manipulating and falsifying client information on filed tax returns in federal court on Thursday, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Willie Moore, Jr., 48, of Braselton, Georgia, entered a guilty plea to one count of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States on Thursday, September 12, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Tilman “Tripp” Self. A co-defendant in the case, James Prather, 47, of Douglasville, Georgia, previously 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. The total loss to the United States Government caused by Mr. Moore will be determined at his sentencing. The Conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of five years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release. Both defendants agreed to be permanently enjoined from preparing or filing federal tax returns for anyone other than themselves. A sentencing date has not been set.
“Both defendants criminally manipulated the tax system for their benefit, ultimately stealing a vast sum of money from taxpayers,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “We will continue to work vigorously to protect taxpayers from government fraud. I want to commend the investigating agents with the Southeast Scheme Development Center and the IRS for their work.”
“Mr. Moore used a foundation of fraud and deceit in order to cheat the government and victimize innocent taxpayers and is now being held accountable for his egregious behavior,” said IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office Special Agent in Charge, Thomas J. Holloman. “We want the individuals who engage in these schemes to know that we will pursue prosecution and seek to hold them accountable for their corrupt endeavors to rob the nations’ taxpayers. IRS – Criminal Investigation is particularly appreciative of the partnership we enjoy with the Office of the United States Attorney in the investigation and prosecution of tax crimes.”
"Together with U.S. Attorney Peeler and our law enforcement partners, we will continue to pursue fraud and abuse in bankruptcy cases,” said Nancy J. Gargula, U.S. Trustee for Georgia, Florida, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (Region 21).
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.
Truck Driver Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Dumping 3,000 Gallons of Diesel Fuel, Prompting Evacuation of Elementary SchoolRead the Press Release
ALBANY – 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, entered a guilty plea for his crime in federal court Tuesday, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Jaron Coleman, 40, of Oakville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of Unauthorized Discharge of Oil in the Waters of the United States on Tuesday, September 10, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Louis Sands. Mr. Coleman’s sentencing date has not been scheduled.
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.
“Illegal dumping into our waterways damages one of our most precious resources. Its harmful repercussions flow well beyond the confines of the initial dump site,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “We want the public to know that dumping is illegal and can carry serious consequences, including federal prosecution. I want to thank the EPA for its efforts to quickly respond to, investigate and clean up this mess.”
“The illegal discharge of fuel can threaten human health and damage the environment,” said Andy Castro, Special Agent in Charge of EPA's criminal enforcement program in Georgia. “EPA and our law enforcement partners are committed to enforcing environmental laws to protect our communities.”
The case was investigated by the EPA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers 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.
Bookkeeper Admits Stealing $300K+ from Physical Therapy BusinessRead the Press Release
ALBANY – The former bookkeeper of a Valdosta based physical therapy business entered a guilty plea to two counts Bank Fraud in federal court today, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Heather Nicole Gray, 32, of Norman Park, Georgia, entered her guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Louis Sands. The charges each carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. Ms. Gray’s sentencing date has not been scheduled.
According to the stipulation of fact, Ms. Gray began doing financial work for Sutherland Physical Therapy, Inc. (SPT), in Valdosta, Georgia in September 2014 as an employee of Quick Consulting of Adel. In her capacity as bookkeeper, Ms. Gray also had access to the financials for Sutherland Yoga Studio, LLC (SYS). Ms. Gray was hired directly by SPT three years later, in September 2017. Very shortly after beginning work with SPT, in December 2014, Ms. Gray began to make automated clearinghouse (ACH) payments via the internet and mobile access from two bank accounts belonging to SPT without authorization, to pay-off credits cards that she and her ex-husband used. In August 2017, her scheme intensified when she began creating fraudulent checks without authorization, using SPT bank accounts, payable to herself or her ex-husband. She used several methods to hide her scheme, including removing pages of the monthly bank account statement that showed unauthorized checks written to her from the office and changing the “payee” field in the QuickBooks system from her name to a named legitimate expense to hide the true payee, herself. Ms. Gray made a total of 317 fraudulent payments enriching herself or her ex-husband from SPT and SYS accounts until her fraud was discovered in April 2018. In all, the fraud totaled $321,854, including $4,971.62 lost by SYS and $316,882.38 lost by SPT.
“Ms. Gray went to great lengths to avoid detection, carefully hiding her tracks so she could continue pilfering from a locally-owned business, gravely betraying the owners trust,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Our office is focused on protecting small businesses from theft and the banking system from nefarious individuals who commit fraud. I want to commend the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and the Secret Service for uncovering this crime and helping bring a measure of justice to the victims.”
“It is a bad situation when a person you trust takes advantage, and in this case, the defendant was both a friend and an employee of the victim. I appreciate the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we can always count on them to find justice for the victim,” said Ashley Paulk, Lowndes County Sheriff.
“Defendant Heather Gray used her position as a book keeper for a locally owned business in Valdosta, Georgia to steal over $321,000 from her employer. Ms. Gray took advantage of those small business owners who provided her a job and betrayed those who gave her a position of trust within their company. The United States Secret Service remains committed to working with our local law enforcement partners in protecting our nation’s financial security, to include aggressively investigating and bringing to justice those responsible for using the banking system to defraud the taxpayers and small businesses who provide the majority jobs in this nation,” said Clint A. Bush, Resident Agent in Charge, Albany, Georgia Resident Office, United States Secret Service.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers 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.
Lengthy Prison Sentences for Three Middle Georgia Illegal Drug DealersRead the Press Release
MACON – Three Middle Georgia defendants involved in three different criminal drug distribution operations were each sentenced to more than 100 months in prison for their crimes, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. United States District Judge Marc Treadwell handed down the sentences in Macon federal court on September 4, 2019. John Dimitri Jordan, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia was sentenced to 140 months in prison followed by four years supervised release for Distribution of Crack Cocaine. Justin Hunt aka “Big Boy”, 34, of Macon, Georgia was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by four years supervised release for Distribution of Methamphetamine. Larry Cumbie, 39, of Danville, Georgia was sentenced to 114 months in prison followed by three years supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal prison system.
“Individuals who choose to profit from dealing large amounts of deadly, illegal drugs in the Middle District of Georgia will face serious penalties and long prison sentences,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners in our shared effort to eradicate the sale of illegal drugs across the region. Thank you to the many law enforcement agencies involves in these cases.”
The Jordan case was investigated by the DEA, the Ocmulgee Drug Task Force, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. The Hunt case was investigated the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The Cumbie case was investigated by the DEA, the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ocmulgee Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts prosecuted all three cases 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.
Albany Meth Dealer Sentenced to 16 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY – A known methamphetamine dealer was sentenced to 16 years in prison for his crimes, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Terrence Lamont Brooks, 36, of Albany, Georgia previously entered a guilty plea in May 2019 to Distribution of Methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner sentenced Mr. Brooks to 192 months in prison and five years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Brooks admitted in his signed plea agreement that he arranged to meet a Confidential Informant (CI) on August 22, 2018 in a high-traffic area of Northwest Albany for the purpose of selling methamphetamine. Mr. Brooks met the CI in the 2700 block of Dawson Road, and under audio and visual surveillance, sold the CI 55.6 grams of 97% pure d-methamphetamine hydrochloride. During the course of two months, from August 2018 until September 2018, the CI made a total of four undercover buys from Mr. Brooks in various locations across Albany, totaling 226.3 grams of methamphetamine.
“I am proud of the excellent coordination by the investigating agencies that resulted in removing a well-known methamphetamine dealer from the streets of Albany,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Our office will remain focused on supporting our law enforcement partners as they battle to keep our communities safe and free of deadly, illegal drugs.”
The case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Albany-Dougherty Drug Unit, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen 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.
Florida Drug Distributor Arrested on I-75 with 2.5 Kilos of Meth Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON – A Florida resident was sentenced to 46 months in prison for attempting to distribute 2,593 grams of ice methamphetamine, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Carlos Mendez, 45, of Orlando, Florida, previously pleaded guilty to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self sentenced Mr. Mendez to 46 months imprisonment on Thursday, August 29, 2019, followed by three years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the signed plea agreement, Mr. Mendez was pulled over on I-75 in Dooly County, Georgia for a traffic violation on January 19, 2017. Mr. Mendez did not immediately pull over, but exited the interstate abruptly, and acted nervously, giving conflicting information to the deputy. During a legal search of the vehicle, two hidden compartments were found, containing a total of 2593.9 grams of 99% pure d-methamphetamine hydrochloride.
“The methamphetamine trade is a dangerous business for all involved, and drug traffickers will face prison time in Middle Georgia,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Georgia’s highways are too commonly used to move large amounts of illicit drugs. Our county deputies and state troopers face an especially difficult job keeping our roads safe. I want to thank the Dooly County Sheriff’s Office for their continued hard work protecting our citizens.”
“It is a priority for my office to take drugs off our highways, as most of our crimes are drug-related in some way. Once you take drugs off the roads, you cut down on crime. I want to commend my officers for a job well done, and thank the DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their work in this case,” said Craig Peavy, the Dooly County Sheriff.
The case was investigated by the Dooly County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlies Calhoun 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.
Pen Gun Possessor Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
MACON – A Macon, Georgia man who admitted to making and concealing a small, single-round gun in the shape of a pen entered a guilty plea to a federal firearm charge, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Billy Christopher Evans, 28, of Macon, Georgia, entered a guilty plea on August 22, 2019 to one count of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell. The charge carries a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. Sentencing has been scheduled for November 20, 2019.
According to the proffer of facts presented at court Thursday, Bibb County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call on November 12, 2017 involving a man waving a lawn mower blade and acting erratically outside a local hotel. Deputies found Mr. Evans waving the blade, and the defendant promptly dropped the blade when instructed by officers. Mr. Evans was placed in handcuffs for the officers safety, and during a pat-down for weapons, deputies discovered a small pen gun, powered by a spring and trigger mechanism. The pen gun was approximately 4 and 5/8 inches in length and did not have any brand, mark of identification, or serial number displayed. It had a cocking handle, spring, bolt with a fixed firing-pin, bolt handle, and a blue cap measuring approximately 3/4 of an inch in length which held a .22 caliber round in place. This device was successfully test fired at the ATF test range in Martinsburg, West Virginia on February 28, 2018.
“This case illustrates the variety of dangers that officers face every day while keeping us safe,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank all officers that serve the citizens of the Middle District of Georgia for their bravery, professionalism, and commitment to protecting all of us.”
The case was investigated by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. 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.
Sextortion Warning from U.S. Attorney, Georgia's Internet Crimes Against Children DirectorRead the Press Release
MACON – As Georgia children begin a new school year and some take on new social media habits, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, Charles “Charlie” Peeler, and the Special Agent in Charge of Georgia’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, Debbie Garner, are warning parents and educators about sextortion, a growing cyber-crime against children. Sextortion is when an adult predator coerces or entices a child to produce a sexually explicit image and send it over the internet. The predator will often use that image to extort the child to produce more sexually explicit images under threats of sending that image to friends and parents. The young victims often report feeling that there was no way out and that they were going to get into trouble.
In May, a convicted, registered sex offender living in Oregon was sentenced to 210-months in federal prison in the Middle District of Georgia for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor after posing as a teenager and sextorting a 15-year old girl living on Fort Benning, a military installation in Columbus, Georgia. The defendant, Colby Ray Cochran, 24, also admitted to interacting with other children online across the country, requesting nude photos from them and threatening to expose their nude images if they refused to send more. At the time of his offense, Mr. Cochran was on probation for a sex crime, was active on the sex offender registry and was prohibited from possessing and using internet-capable devices. You can read more about this case, and how the victim’s mother discovered the threats against her child and reported it to law enforcement, by visiting https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/210-months-prison-sentence-oregon-sex-offender-caught-luring-threatening-young-columbus.
“Sextortion is a rapidly growing, insidious cyber-crime targeting children. Parents are the first line of defense against these predators,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I promise that the U.S. Attorney’s Office will do its part and prosecute child predators to the fullest extent of the law. But, we need parents and guardians to educate themselves and the children in their care about the threats online, take the proper precautions to protect their families, and report suspected crimes to the authorities. Sextortion causes grave and lasting harm to young victims. Together, we can protect vulnerable children from evil, manipulative predators.”
“Those who sextort often manipulate and subsequently continually taunt vulnerable child victims, sometimes for years. It is one of the most disturbing and monstrous crimes we investigate,” said Debbie Garner, the Special Agent in Charge of ICAC. “The actions of someone who sextorts a child can often trigger a range of negative outcomes for and emotions in that child including hopelessness, fear, and severe anxiety and depression. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force will continue to work aggressively to find and stop those that prey on our children in this manner.”
The Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force suggests several best practices for parents when it comes to a child’s online use and access:
- Teach your child not to friend or follow anyone on social media they do not personally know.
- Teach your child not to talk to anyone online that they do not personally know.
- Know what your child is doing online and educate yourself. If your child has an Instagram or Snapchat account, then you, the parent, need an Instagram or Snapchat account and you must know how to use these accounts. Be educated about what your child is doing online, who they are following, and who they are talking to on social media.
If you suspect your child is in trouble online, talk to your child. Then, report inappropriate or illegal contact to local law enforcement. Parents can also contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) at www.missingkids.com or 1-800-THE-LOST. The Georgia-based incident reports will be directed to investigators with the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI). There is no stereotypical predator. Many children are victimized be people they know, even online. Teach children to trust their instincts. Parents and guardians can learn more by visiting www.thorn.org/sextortion and www.netsmartz.org.
Child crime prosecutions in the Middle District of Georgia are part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.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.
Jury Convicts Armed Bank Robber After Two-Day TrialRead the Press Release
ALBANY – The final defendant charged in the armed robbery of an Albany, Georgia bank was found guilty by a federal jury late Tuesday afternoon following a two-day trial, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Shataz Hampton, 25, of Albany, was found guilty of one count Bank Robbery and one count Brandishing a Firearm. Mr. Hampton’s trial began on Monday, August 19, 2019 and was presided over by U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner. Earlier this year, Mr. Hampton’s co-defendant, Kamilyah Whitlock, 25, of Albany, was found guilty by a citizen jury on the same criminal charges following a four-day trial in February. The penalty for these crimes are a maximum 25 years for Bank Robbery and a maximum of life in prison for Brandishing a Firearm. Ms. Whitlock will be sentenced on September 4, 2019 at 10 a.m. A sentencing date has not been set for Mr. Hampton. Mr. Hampton and Ms. Whitlock were masked and armed when they robbed The Renasant Bank on North Westover Boulevard in Albany, Georgia on November 6, 2017. There were more than a dozen customers and employees inside.
“The citizens of Southwest Georgia will not stand for violence in their community. With this final conviction, both offenders will be held accountable for their crimes” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the investigators with the Albany Police Department and the 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.
Columbus Tax Preparers Plead Guilty to Fake Tax Return SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A Columbus, Georgia tax preparer pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud and identity theft charges, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Keven Walker, 33, of Columbus, Georgia was the owner of Walker Tax Financial Group, an income tax preparation business operating in Columbus. Mr. Walker pleaded guilty to one count of Wire Fraud and one count of Identity Theft in front of U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Tuesday, August 13, 2019. Mr. Walker’s co-defendant, Tiffany Gist a/k/a Tiffany Walker, 46, of Columbus, Georgia, entered a guilty plea on July 23, 2019 to one count Wire Fraud and one count Identity Theft. Both defendants face up to twenty years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine for Wire Fraud and a mandatory two year prison sentence for Identity Theft. They will be sentenced at a later date.
Mr. Walker and Ms. Gist e-filed tax returns with Walker Tax Financial Group. During the 2013 tax year, Internal Revenue Service 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.
“Dishonest tax return preparers will be held accountable for filing fictitious returns and stealing from taxpayers,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Protecting the integrity of our tax system is important, and all citizens must play by the same rules. I want to thank the IRS investigators for their good work in this case, and helping shut down these unscrupulous tax return preparers.”
“IRS Criminal Investigations Division is sworn to protect the tax system and bring to justice those who would steal from the Treasury,” said Thomas J. Holloman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Would-be criminals should know: we are committed to combating identity theft related refund fraud. We understand that in these types of cases, the government is not the only victim. Identity theft can have a catastrophic emotional and financial impact on its victims. Our agents are determined to keep up the fight to eradicate identity theft and protect the honest taxpayers who would otherwise personally shoulder the immense burden of this crime.”
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. 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.
Convicted Felon, Arrested on Fort Benning, Sentenced for Gun, Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A Macon, Georgia resident with a violent criminal history in Muscogee County, Georgia was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison for gun and drug charges, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Johmar Chandler, 40, of Macon, Georgia pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and one count of Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Today, U.S. District Judge Clay Land sentenced Mr. Chandler to 13 years in federal prison for his crimes. Mr. Chandler has two prior convictions in Muscogee County Superior Court and one prior conviction in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Chandler was taken into custody by an officer with Fort Benning’s Directorate of Emergency Services on July 31, 2018, after the defendant was pulled over for driving at a high rate of speed on Highway 520, a public-access highway located on the perimeter portion of Fort Benning, just outside Columbus, Georgia. Mr. Chandler was carrying a 9mm pistol holding seven rounds of ammunition. Inside the car, a bag full of various drugs was discovered, including two smaller bags containing a total of 145 methamphetamine pills. Mr. Chandler admitted to agents, and in his signed plea agreement, that the gun and the drugs belonged to him, and that he knew it was illegal for a convicted felon to possess a gun.
“We are cracking down on convicted felons in possession of dangerous weapons in the Middle District of Georgia. It is illegal for convicted felons to have a gun, and if they are caught with one, they will be prosecuted,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank the law enforcement agents with Fort Benning and ATF for their assistance with this case.”
The defendant was convicted in Muscogee County Superior Court on December 4, 2003 for Criminal Damage in the Second Degree and November 29, 2004 for Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Crime, and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. The defendant was convicted in U.S. District Court, Middle District of Georgia on April 9, 2012 for Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris 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.
Columbus, Macon Bank Robber Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON – A federal judge sentenced a bank robber to 48 months in prison for his crimes, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Clifford Terrell, 44, of Barnesville, GA previously pleaded guilty to one count of Bank Robbery on May 2, 2019. U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell sentenced Mr. Terrell in Macon federal court on August 7, 2019. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Terrell admitted to committing three bank robberies in the Middle District of Georgia. In each instance, the defendant used force and intimidation, threatening bank tellers verbally and using written demand notes. The first occurred on September 5, 2017 at the BB&T on North Lee Street in Forsyth. The second happened ten days later, on September 10, 2017, at the CB&T on Milgen Road in Columbus, and the third bank robbery was on September 22, 2017, at the SB&T on Zebulon Road in Macon. The defendant was arrested on September 27, 2017 at his Barnesville residence.
“Over a period of 17 days in September 2017, this individual terrorized hard working employees and citizens at three banks in the Middle District of Georgia. The defendant will now pay the consequence for his crime spree by spending the next four years in federal prison,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to commend the multiple law enforcement agencies that joined forces to quickly shut down and arrest this serial bank robber.”
The case was investigated by the Forsyth Police Department, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. 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.
220 Months' Imprisonment for Macon Man Guilty of Conspiring to Distribute Nearly One Kilo of MethRead the Press Release
MACON – A Macon man was sentenced to 220 months in prison today after admitting he conspired to possess with intent to distribute nearly one kilo of methamphetamine, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Donald Frederick Meeks, 36, of Macon, Georgia, was sentenced on August 7, 2019 by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell. Mr. Meeks pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in his signed plea agreement, filed on August 30, 2018.
On June 9, 2017, a Confidential Informant (CI) advised U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents that Mr. Meeks was traveling from Macon to an apartment complex in Norcross, Georgia to obtain methamphetamine. When agents attempted to detain Mr. Meeks following his return to his Fulton Mill Road residence in Macon, Mr. Meeks fled the scene carrying a backpack. He was captured. Inside the backpack was 990.80 grams of methamphetamine. Mr. Meeks had another 5.01 grams in his left front pocket. A federal search warrant of his residence uncovered three rifles, a pistol, and an additional 28.66 grams of methamphetamine.
“From behind bars for the next 18 years, this individual will have the opportunity to reflect on his decision to become a drug dealer in Middle Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Methamphetamine ruins the lives of the people who choose to sell it and the people who choose to take it. Rest assured: Our office will continue to work hand-in-hand with law enforcement to hold those peddling this poison accountable for their crimes.”
The case was investigated by the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Calhoun 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.
Convicted Felon Wanted for Aggravated Assault in Valdosta Is Sentenced for Gun Crime in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
ALBANY – A Valdosta man with a violent criminal history in that community was sentenced in federal court today after admitting he illegally possessed a firearm, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Kenneth Diamond Fountain, 28, of Valdosta, Georgia previously entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and was sentenced on August 1, 2019 by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands to 70 months in prison, plus three years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to his signed guilty plea, on April 5, 2018, Mr. Fountain was apprehended inside a vehicle on College Street in Valdosta, wanted on two violent felony warrants in Lowndes County, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Possession of Firearm or Knife during the Commission or Attempt to Commit Certain Felonies. Mr. Fountain was in possession of a semi-automatic handgun, loaded with a round in the chamber and rounds in the magazine. A loose round was also in the pocket of a backpack and two additional rounds of 9 mm ammunition were found in the driver’s door. Mr. Fountain admitted to purchasing the handgun two weeks prior from a criminal associate. Mr. Fountain was previously convicted of Assault with a Deadly Weapon in Lowndes County Superior Court.
“This week alone, three convicted felons with violent criminal histories in the Valdosta area faced federal-level consequences for illegally possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Removing deadly weapons from known dangerous players in the Valdosta community is a priority for law enforcement, and we will hold convicted felons accountable for illegally possessing firearms. I want to thank the Lowndes County Sherriff’s office and the FBI for their partnership.”
The case is being 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 and Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia C. Bowen. Questions concerning this case 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.
Two Convicted Felons Admit Guilt in Separate Felony Gun CasesRead the Press Release
ALBANY – Two defendants with lengthy criminal histories involved in separate felony gun cases in the Valdosta, Georgia area entered guilty pleas for their crimes this afternoon, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Clifford Timothy Bradley, II, 38, of Valdosta, Georgia, and Paul A. Bradford, 48, of Lakeland, Georgia, entered guilty pleas to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon before U.S. District Judge Louis Sands. Both defendants face a maximum sentence of ten years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine, or both. The defendants will be sentenced on October 24, 2019 at 3:00 p.m.
According to a statement of fact submitted by the Government, Mr. Bradley was pulled over for speeding in a Valdosta residential area on August 17, 2018. Mr. Bradley was taken into custody, and Lowndes County deputies discovered a loaded semi-automatic pistol in the center console. Mr. Bradley has three prior felony convictions in Lowndes County, including pleading guilty to a 2006 robbery for which he was imprisoned. Mr. Bradley admitted he knew at the time of his 2018 arrest that he was illegally in possession of a firearm.
According to a statement of fact submitted by the Government, Mr. Bradford was arrested at his home in Lakeland, Georgia on July 18, 2018 during the service of an arrest warrant for another individual living in his home. Deputies discovered a 12-gauge shotgun, and Mr. Bradford admitted that the firearm belonged to him, and that he was in possession of it illegally. Mr. Bradford had prior felony convictions in Lanier County Superior Court, including a 1990 Burglary and Theft by Taking conviction and a 1998 Statutory Rape conviction.
“Our office remains relentless in its pursuit to remove guns from the hands of convicted felons with violent criminal histories,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “We are working alongside law enforcement agencies across the Middle District to curb violent crime, and holding felons accountable for illegally possessing dangerous weapons is a common-sense approach to meeting our shared goal.”
Both cases were 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.
Mr. Bradley’s case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. Mr. Bradford’s case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lanier and Berrien County Sheriff’s Offices. Both cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers.
Questions concerning this case 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.
Illegal Drone Operator Pleads Guilty After Attempting to Drop Drugs into A Georgia State PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY – A Georgia man who was illegally operating an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to drop contraband into Autry State Prison has pleaded guilty for his crime, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Eric Lee Brown, 35, of Lithonia, Georgia pleaded guilty to one count of Operating an Aircraft Eligible for Registration Knowing that the Aircraft is Not Registered to Facilitate a Controlled Substance Offense before U.S. District Court Judge Louis Sands on Thursday, July 25, 2019. Mr. Brown is facing a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, three years supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.
Mr. Brown admitted in his signed plea agreement that he attempted to use a drone to drop a large bag of marijuana into Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia. Mitchell County deputies responded to a call on March 29, 2018 about a vehicle impeding the flow of traffic near the prison. Mr. Brown was inside the vehicle, and deputies smelled marijuana and observed the drone. They also saw two clear plastic bags containing a green, leafy substance that later was confirmed to be 294 grams of marijuana. Mr. Brown was taken into custody. Search warrants revealed detailed conversations about using the drone to drop drugs into the prison. Mr. Brown did not register the DJI Phantom 4 drone which was found in his possession, and he also did not have a valid FAA Airman’s Certificate or Remote Pilot Certificate, both actions required by law.
“Working with state, local and federal authorities, our office will aggressively prosecute those who choose to smuggle cellphones, drugs or any other contraband into our state prisons. The use of drones is regulated by federal criminal statutes, and our office will not hesitate to use those statutes in the fight against prison contraband,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I applaud the Department of Transportation, the Georgia Department of Corrections, and our local law enforcement for thinking creatively to bring this defendant to justice.”
“Mr. Brown’s guilty plea should be a very clear warning to anyone who chooses to illegally operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for unintended purposes,” said Todd Damiani, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG) Regional Special Agent in Charge. “DOT OIG special agents, along with our federal, state, and prosecutorial law enforcement partners, will actively pursue those who unlawfully use federally-regulated modes of transportation for the distribution of controlled substances or contraband.”
“We are pleased to see justice being served on this individual, and we hope that his actions, and subsequent prosecution in the first-known criminal prosecution under this drone registration law, will serve as a warning to others considering introducing contraband into our facilities,” said Timothy C. Ward, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections. “We applaud the work of our Special Agents, and we appreciate the commitment and collaboration of our law enforcement partners in their efforts to help ensure the safety of the public.”
The case was investigated by the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG), the Georgia Department of Corrections, and the Mitchell County 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.
Judge Hands Down 128 Month Sentence in Columbus Welcome Center Multi-Kilo Cocaine CaseRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS - A Phenix City, Alabama man found guilty of attempting to sell 10 kilos of cocaine to an undercover agent was sentenced to 128 months imprisonment and five years supervised release, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. A federal jury found Kenneth James, 51, guilty of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute on March 13, 2019, following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Clay D. Land. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. James was arrested at the Columbus Welcome Center parking lot on Williams Road in October 2017, during an undercover surveillance operation conducted by the Columbus Police Department. The defendant was carrying 11,995 grams of cocaine in brick form with the intent to sell 10 kilos of cocaine at $27,500 per kilo. A co-defendant, Marcus Marshall, 35, of Columbus, Georgia was also arrested during the sting, pleaded guilty to his crime, and was previously sentenced. Mr. James has a criminal past, and was convicted in December 1999 on the charge of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute in the Middle District of Alabama.
“The penalty is severe for career criminals who traffic large quantities of illegal drugs in the Middle District of Georgia,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “The Columbus Police Department stopped a tremendous amount of cocaine from being distributed in their city by two known, high-quantity drug traffickers. I want to personally thank them for their efforts in this case.”
This case was investigated by the Columbus Police Department and the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mel Hyde and Chris Williams 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 Synovus Employee Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Bank and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
MACON – A former commercial banker for Synovus was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison this morning after he admitted to defrauding the bank and evading taxes on his illegal earnings, said Charles E. Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. John D. Evans, 48, of Columbus, Georgia was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Clay D. Land to 24 months imprisonment, three years supervised release plus $166,480.94 in restitution to Synovus and $221,357 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Mr. Evans admitted guilt to four counts of Bank Fraud and four counts of Tax Evasion on November 28, 2018. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Evans admitted in his signed plea agreement that the fraud occurred between July 2, 2013 and May 24, 2017 while he worked as a commercial banker for Synovus. Mr. Evans managed some of the largest clients for Synovus and diverted $1,046,602 in Synovus client funds into a personal account he opened at another bank. Financial records revealed that Evans used these funds to pay for a wide assortment of his personal expenses, including payments on vehicles, credit card bills, vacations, jewelry, and cash withdrawals. In addition, Mr. Evans failed to pay income taxes on the stolen money, amounting to $221,357.
“This defendant will pay a high price for breaching the trust of his clients and his employer. Fraud and tax evasion are serious crimes that carry serious punishment. Our office stands with corporate and citizen victims by prosecuting these crimes and holding fraudsters accountable for their conduct,” said Charlie Peeler, U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the FBI and the IRS for their outstanding work on this matter. I also want to thank Synovus for partnering with law enforcement to ensure this defendant is brought to justice.”
“We are grateful to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia for bringing this matter to a conclusion, and we are pleased that no customer incurred a loss as result of Mr. Evans’ actions,” said Lee Underwood, Communications Director for Synovus.
“Because of the cooperation between the FBI and our law enforcement partners, and the cooperation of Synovus, Evans is being held accountable for his greed-driven actions,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Anyone who tries to take advantage of a trusted position by illegally profiting from it should see this sentencing as a warning that the FBI is determined to pursue justice for the companies who are victimized.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Assistant United States Attorney Melvin Hyde prosecuted the case for the United States.
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 Lengthy Criminal History, Is Guilty on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
MACON – A federal jury has found a convicted felon with a lengthy criminal history guilty for an illegal gun possession charge, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Ronnie Lee Hughes, 39, of Griffin, Georgia was found guilty on one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. The jury returned the guilty verdict Wednesday, July 17, 2019, following a day-long trial before the Honorable Marc Treadwell. The federal government has filed a notice of sentencing enhancement due to the defendant’s eight prior convictions (see below) and, therefore, the defendant faces a minimum 15 years imprisonment up to life in prison, five years supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Mr. Hughes will be sentenced on October 22, 2019.
According to facts presented at trial, 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. Hughes thought the buyer would be an associate of the CI, and Hughes would pay the CI a commission for arranging the sale. 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. Mr. 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. Mr. Hughes last conviction was in Monroe County Superior Court in December 2008 for Burglary. Mr. Hughes was on parole when he was taken into custody by Lamar County deputies on August 31, 2016.
“We are making it a priority in Middle Georgia to get guns out of the hands of dangerous felons,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “To all convicted felons: DO NOT POSSESS A GUN. Law enforcement will find you and our office will prosecute you. The unlawful possession of guns by convicted felons leads to violence in the streets. Getting guns out of the hands of convicted felons is a proven strategy to reduce violence in communities. I want to thank the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office and ATF for their hard work in this case.”
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.
Jury Convicts Twiggs County Meth TraffickerRead the Press Release
MACON – A Twiggs County woman is facing a maximum of life in prison after a jury found her guilty for attempting to sell more than 300 grams of methamphetamine, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Tiffany Sauls, 25, of Danville, Georgia, was convicted on July 16, 2019 for 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. She will be sentenced October 22, 2019.
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 the 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.
“Be assured, Ms. Sauls did not win the lottery when she attempted to distribute more than three-hundred grams of methamphetamine in our state. She has earned significant prison time for her crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “The consequences of trafficking this illegal, deadly poison are severe, and we will continue to prosecute those who endanger our communities. I want to thank the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office for their work 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.
DOJ Grant Will Fund New Gang Deterrent Program for Southwest Georgia's YouthRead the Press Release
ALBANY – The City of Albany has been awarded a substantial federal grant to pay for public safety and educational programs geared toward young people, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia and Michael Persley, the Chief of Police for the Albany Police Department. The Department of Justice approved a $60,378 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) grant for the City of Albany for the period of July 1, 2019 - June 20, 2020. The money will be used to fund three programs administered by APD, which include a new Juvenile Intervention Gang Deterrent counseling program, a new Youth Leadership Development program, and funding for the popular Teen Police Academy.
“This grant is one component of our collaboration with Albany’s law enforcement community to support purposeful actions that contribute to the overall safety and well-being of our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Project Safe Neighborhoods is the Justice Department’s initiative to reduce violent crime. One part of its approach is administering grants directly to local communities who know just where they can make the biggest impact. I am confident that these PSN funded programs will positively influence at-risk youth and, therefore, the entire community.”
“We are excited to be recipients of this Project Safe Neighborhoods grant and will use the funds to address some social service challenges that our juvenile population is facing. We will continue to partner with the Federal Government in the investigation, apprehension, and prosecution of the more dangerous persons within our community, however this opportunity gives us a chance to reach a segment of our juvenile population by doing intervention and prevention methods. We are thankful for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for partnering with us to help provide additional resources in our efforts to combat crime and the perception of crime in Albany,” said Michael Persley, Chief of Police.
Earlier this week, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office (Macon, Georgia) made public their PSN grant award for the same time period in the amount of $44,640 to pay for a board-certified National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) firearms examiner, training for the gang unit, ammunition, and general supplies for the in-house NIBIN system. This grant combines with a 2017 PSN grant in the amount of $200,000 that paid for the Bibb County S.O. Crime Lab’s NIBIN machines. This technology is the only interstate automated ballistic imaging network in the United States, making it possible for local law enforcement to search against evidence from across the country, improving the outcomes of criminal investigations. The NIBIN technology is considered a valuable tool by law enforcement in the effort to reduce gun crimes across the Middle District.
Project Safe Neighborhoods is 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 regarding the grant awards 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.
Serial Bank Robber Sentenced to Lengthy Prison TermRead the Press Release
ALBANY – A Florida man who robbed the Peoples South Bank in Albany, Georgia in 2016 was sentenced to 78 months in prison for his crime, the upper range calculated under the federal sentencing guidelines, announced U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Avery Williams, 38, of Quincy, Florida, was sentenced on Thursday, July 11, 2019 by U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands in Albany, Georgia. Mr. Williams is currently serving time in a Florida prison on a prior bank robbery conviction, and his federal sentence will run concurrently. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to facts in the signed plea agreement, Mr. Williams admitted that he robbed the Peoples South Bank at 701 N. Westover Boulevard in Albany on September 9, 2016. Mr. Williams was recorded on security video walking into the bank and passing a demand note to the teller. The defendant escaped with cash. Following the robbery, agents were able to quickly determine that the suspect was likely the same person responsible for a robbery a month earlier in Dothan, Alabama, on August 18, 2016. Eight months after the Albany bank robbery, Mr. Williams was arrested on May 3, 2017 for a bank robbery in Sarasota, Florida. Under oath, he admitted to the Florida robbery, and said “he had a few more things to get off his chest” and told agents he robbed banks in Albany and Dothan.
“Law enforcement caught up to this serial bank robber well before his conscience did,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank our strong law enforcement community that stopped a dangerous man who repeatedly caused havoc in communities across the southeast.”
The case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen 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.
Convicted by Jury, Two Defendants Sentenced to Prison on Multiple Drug-Related ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY – Two defendants found guilty by a citizen jury on multiple drug related charges earlier this year were sentenced today by a federal judge, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Thyrone Jones, 44, of Pelham, GA was convicted on eight counts of Distribution of Cocaine and one count of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute following a three day trial that began on March 18, 2019. His co-defendant, Kareda McGee, 31, also of Pelham, GA, was convicted on two counts of Distribution of Cocaine and one count of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. The jury deliberated for approximately 90 minutes before returning a guilty verdict on all charges. Tuesday afternoon, The Honorable Leslie Gardner sentenced Mr. Jones to 240 months imprisonment plus nine years supervised release and Ms. McGee to 21 months to serve consecutive to any probation revocation imposed by Mitchell County Superior Court for her 2015 conviction for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Mr. Jones has a prior federal conviction for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the facts presented at trial, Mr. Jones sold various amounts of cocaine to confidential informants under surveillance on eight separate occasions from February 2018 to July 2018, all within Pelham city limits. Ms. McGee was involved in the illegal transactions during three of those sales. When a search warrant was executed in July 2018 at the residence shared by Mr. Jones and Ms. McGee, Pelham Police found more than $15,000 in cash, quantities of cocaine and a set of digital scales, along with multiple text messages requesting illegal drugs.
“Today’s sentencing shows that drug dealers who continue to endanger the public will face serious federal prison time in Middle Georgia” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to commend the Pelham Police Department, and thank those officers for their commitment to making their hometown a safer place for people to live and work.”
The case was investigated by the Pelham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen 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.
Bass Pro Shop Gun Thieves Admit Guilt, Await SentencingRead the Press Release
MACON – All three defendants involved in the theft of nine firearms from a Macon-based federal firearms licensee are now awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to their crimes, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Tylaun Rashard Mullins, 19, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 before the Honorable Marc Treadwell. Mr. Mullins’ two co-conspirators, Christian Jabari Black, 19, of Macon, and Jacques Stewart, 20, of Macon, entered guilty pleas on April 16, 2019 and May 22, 2019, respectively, also to one count of Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee. Mr. Mullins will be sentenced on September 4, 2019, Mr. Black will be sentenced on July 10, 2019, and Mr. Stewart will be sentenced on August 7. The defendants each face a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, a $250,000.00 fine, or both, and three years of supervised release.
According to Mr. Mullins’ signed plea agreement, the three defendants and one juvenile (who was not charged), were spotted by an employee exiting the Bass Pro Shops building on 500 Bass Pro Avenue in Macon on the evening of April 3, 2018. Shortly thereafter, surveillance video captured the three defendants breaking into the store and stealing nine firearms, including pump shotguns and rifles, in order to sell the firearms. Officers took the defendants into custody the next day, on April 4, 2018.
“The theft and sale of stolen firearms in our country is dangerous business, and runs counter to our efforts to remove firearms from the hands of convicted felons and criminals who use these stolen weapons to disrupt our communities,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF for quickly finding the defendants and preventing these firearms from getting into the wrong hands.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCommon. 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.
Three Day School Safety Conference for Teachers, Officers, and First Responders Begins Tuesday at UGA’s Tifton CampusRead the Press Release
MACON – A three-day conference instructing educators, law enforcement officers, and first responders on the latest threats facing our schools, and how best to respond, will begin on Tuesday, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District, in a joint announcement made today with Homer Bryson, the Director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency and Richard Woods, the State School Superintendent of the Georgia Department of Education. The conference will be held on June 25-27, 2019 at the UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center.
More than 500 educators, school resource officers, state and local law enforcement officers, and emergency responders are expected to receive 16 hours of training during the three-day conference. The instructors are front-line experts in their field, and will deliver rich commentary on topics including Active Shooter Response, School Bus Safety, Opioid Awareness, and Cyber-Bullying/Sexting. This is the tenth year of the “Safety in Our Schools” conference.
“It is more important than ever that our teachers and first responders are prepared to act quickly and decisively when there is a threat to the safety of students and staff,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “This training allows them to learn from experts and each other about techniques and strategies that reduce the likelihood of school tragedies and increase the effectiveness of those who respond to emergencies at our schools. We want our schools to be the safest place possible for children to learn and grow, and this important training helps facilitate that goal.”
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.
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Drug Runner Admits He Attempted to Distribute Three Kilos of Meth Across State LinesRead the Press Release
MACON – A Florida man who was caught moving 2,980 grams of methamphetamine during a traffic stop on I-75 admitted his guilt in federal court Monday, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Daniel Carachure, 31, of Bradenton, FL pleaded guilty to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine before the Honorable Marc Treadwell on June 24, 2019. Mr. Carachure faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both, and up to three years supervised release.
According to the facts in his signed plea agreement, Mr. Carachure was a passenger in a vehicle that was pulled over during a routine traffic stop along I-75 in Butts County on January 14, 2019. A Butts County deputy smelled marijuana, and during a legal search of the vehicle, the smell of burnt marijuana grew stronger and marijuana residue was seen on the floor of the vehicle. The officer then found a red shopping bag with three bundles wrapped in plastic wrap. The bundles were later tested by the DEA laboratory and confirmed to be 2,980 grams of d-Methamphetamine Hydrochloride with a purity of 100%. Mr. Carachure admitted the narcotics belonged to him and that he was moving three kilos of methamphetamine from Atlanta to Florida, where he had a buyer waiting to purchase the illegal drugs.
“The defendant was caught moving a large quantity of methamphetamine for his profit, at the ruin of many others who are hooked on this drug, and will now have to pay the price for his crime,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Getting illegal, deadly drugs out of our communities is a constant battle for the law enforcement community. I want to thank the Butts County Sheriff’s Office for their work protecting our citizens.”
The case was investigated by the Butt’s County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA. Assistant United States 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.
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Trio Sentenced in Scheme to Smuggle Methamphetamine into Calhoun State PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY – The final defendant involved in a scheme to smuggle drugs to inmates in prison was sentenced late Thursday afternoon, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District. Crystal Avery, 37, of Lithia Springs, GA was sentenced on June 20, 2019 by the Honorable W. Louis Sands to 48 months imprisonment on her admission of guilt to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Two co-conspirators have already been sentenced. Former Calhoun State Prison inmate, Cody Brousshard, 35, of Lawrenceville, GA previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and was sentenced on April 30, 2019 to serve 144 months imprisonment consecutive to his state sentences by the Honorable Leslie A. Gardner. Timothy Bailey, 31, of Lawrenceville, GA was sentenced to 36 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine by U.S. District Judge Sands. Mr. Bailey also previously pleaded guilty to his crime. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the facts in the plea agreements, Mr. Brousshard was an inmate in Calhoun State Prison and directed the acquisition, packaging and delivery of methamphetamine to two Georgia prisons on several occasions. Mr. Brousshard admitted to using a cell phone, illegally hidden inside the prisons, to direct the methamphetamine deliveries inside both Dooly State Prison and Calhoun State Prison, where he was transferred. Mr. Bailey and Ms. Avery were caught by Calhoun County deputies in May 2018 shortly after hiding a camouflaged bundle containing 57 grams of methamphetamine in a field behind Calhoun State Prison for an inmate work detail to retrieve and smuggle inside the prison.
“Contraband cellphones are being used by inmates to control the activity of large criminal networks operating outside the prisons, and we consider this a major threat to the safety of citizens not only in the Middle District, but throughout the nation,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “These cell phones are weapons being used by incarcerated, convicted criminals to continue to wreak havoc both inside and outside prison walls. I am proud of the work our office and our law enforcement partners are doing to combat this emerging threat.”
The case was investigated by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department, the Georgia Department of Corrections and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Leah McEwen 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.
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Following Tragic Shooting Death of Jones County Toddler, U.S. Attorney, Sheriff Announce Free Gun Locks for CitizensRead the Press Release
MACON – Hundreds of free firearm locking devices are available for citizens, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia and Jones County Sheriff R.N. “Butch” Reece. U.S. Attorney Peeler and Sheriff Reese made the joint announcement Wednesday, a week after a Jones County two-year-old was accidentally shot to death by his five-year-old sibling. The firearm used was loaded and left unattended inside the home when the children began to play with the gun and it was fired. Sheriff Reese will have 100 free gun locks available for citizens to pick up at the Jones County Sheriff’s Office beginning today, Wednesday, June 19.
“This tragic accident serves as a reminder for all gun owners to make it a practice to lock up a firearm, and potentially save a child from injury or death,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Free gun locks are available across the Middle District. If you need one, please pick one up at one of the distribution sites. I am grateful for our law enforcement partners who have agreed to distribute the locking devices, and help protect our children.”
“We promote responsible gun ownership in Jones County. It only takes a moment to prevent a lifetime of pain and suffering at the loss of a family member. Gunlocks save lives,” said Jones County Sheriff Butch Reece.
Citizens can pick up a free gun lock at the main offices of the following law enforcement agencies across the Middle District, during their normal business hours:
- Jones County Sheriff’s Office, 123 Holmes Hawkins Dr., Gray, GA 31032
- Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff’s South Substation (next to Texas Barbecue Grill), 5797 Houston Rd., Macon, GA 31216
- Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, Government Center, 100 10th Ave., 4th Floor, Columbus, GA 31902
- Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office (two locations, locks available Friday, June 21, 2019), Dougherty County Jail Facility, 1302 Evelyn Ave., Albany, GA 31701 or Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, 225 Pine Ave., Albany, GA 31701
This initiative is 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.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia received the firearm safety kits from Project ChildSafe. Since 1999, Project ChildSafe has partnered with more than 15,000 law enforcement agencies to distribute more than 37 million firearm safety kits nationwide. You can learn more about Project ChildSafe and the National Shooting Sports Foundation by visiting www.projectchildsafe.org.
Questions concerning this case 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.
Smuggler Pleads Guilty to Transporting Illegals Across Country in Exchange for CashRead the Press Release
ATHENS – A Honduran national who admitted to transporting people entering the United States illegally from South America to other areas of the country pleaded guilty to his crimes in federal court Monday, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Carlos Aguilera-Espinal, 28, of Honduras, pleaded guilty to one count of Transporting an Illegal Alien and one count of Illegal Reentry in front of U.S. District Court Judge C. Ashley Royal on June 10, 2019. On the charge of Transporting an Illegal Alien, Mr. Aguilera-Espinal faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of three years. On the charge of Illegal Reentry, he faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of one year. entencing is scheduled for September 11, 2019 in Athens, Georgia.
Mr. Aguilera-Espinal was pulled over on April 3, 2019 by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) on I-85 due to a lane change violation and improper window tint. Deputies discovered a total of thirteen people, a number including Mr. Aguilera-Espinal, inside the SUV being driven by the defendant. Special agents with the Atlanta office of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) determined that all thirteen people were illegally present in the United States. One of the occupants was a sixteen year old male juvenile, who was unaccompanied by a guardian or relative. Mr. Aguilera-Espinal and four passengers had been previously removed from the United States by court order and did not have permission to return. Mr. Aguilera-Espinal admitted in his plea agreement that he transported illegal aliens in the United States to further their unlawful presence and for his own private financial gain.
“Smuggling human beings for cash is a dangerous business. Cramming thirteen people, including a minor, in an automobile built for half that many occupants and driving that vehicle on I-85 only compounds the dangers. Our office will continue to enforce laws that prohibit transporting illegal aliens in the United States,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and HSI for their excellent work in this matter.”
This case was investigated by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and HSI, Atlanta. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Helmick prosecuted this case for the Government.
Questions concerning this case 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.
Search Warrants Executed in Grady, Thomas CountiesRead the Press Release
MACON – Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announced today that multiple federal search warrants were executed in Grady and Thomas Counties on June 12, 2019 in a joint law enforcement operation involving DEA, GBI, Grady County SO, Thomas County SO, Thomas Vice/Narcotics Squad and Cairo PD.
Warrants were executed at:
- 159 Alison Drive, Cairo, Grady County, Georgia;
- 274 Temple Terrance Circle, Cairo, Grady County, Georgia;
- 628 Marshall Street, Thomasville, Thomas County, Georgia;
- 2848 Bark Avenue, Cairo, Grady County, Georgia;
- 1094 Woodland Road, Cairo, Grady County, Georgia;
- 91 13th Avenue, SW, Cairo, Grady County, Georgia.
As a result of the execution of these warrants, methamphetamine, marijuana, approximately $20,000 in US currency, firearms and illegally possessed prescription medications were recovered. Tobias Sanders was arrested in Thomas County and remains in the Thomas County Jail. Orry Bell, Joseph Jones, and Kentrail Brown were arrested in Grady County and remain in the Grady County Jail. Those arrested are presumed innocent unless and until convicted beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Questions concerning this case 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.
Middle Georgia Compounding Pharmacy Agrees to Pay $365,000 to Resolve Fraud ClaimsRead the Press Release
ATHENS – A civil settlement has been reached with Lake Country Pharmacy and Compounding Center (Lake Country) and its principals Chris and Carey Vaughan, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District. Lake Country agreed to pay to the United States and the State of Georgia $365,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act and the Georgia False Medicaid Claims Act by submitting bills for compounded medications dispensed to Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE beneficiaries that were made with non-reimbursable bulk powders, but were billed as if they were made from reimbursable tablets. Additionally, Lake Country has entered into an Integrity Agreement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General.
The settlement marks the end of a 36-month investigation into Lake Country’s compounding pharmacy business that began with a lawsuit filed by a former pharmacist employed at Lake Country, under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act and the Georgia False Medicaid Claims Act, which allow private citizens to bring civil actions on behalf of the Government and share in any recovery obtained. The case is captioned United States ex rel. Christopher Coleman and the State of Georgia ex rel Christopher Coleman v. Lake Country Pharmacy & Compounding Center, Chris Vaughan and Carey Vaughan, 3:16-cv-53. As a result of this investigation, on March 11, 2019, the United States and the State of Georgia chose to intervene in the complaint and litigate the case in District Court. Today’s settlement resolves the pending litigation. Lake Country fully cooperated in the investigation, after which the parties agreed to resolve the allegations described herein. The claims covered by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
“Compounding medications are necessary for many Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE patients. Pharmacies who choose to make and sell these medications have to play by the rules or they will face severe consequences,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank the Department of Health & Human Services and the State of Georgia Attorney General’s Office for their hard work exposing this fraud. I also want to thank the Relator for pursuing this fraud as a citizen whistleblower.”
The case was investigated by Special Agent Alexander Hinton of the Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General, attorney Christina McGarvey of the Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Counsel to the Inspector General, and Investigators Enedelia Bostrup and Shaketia Morgan of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia. The United States’ civil settlement was reach by Assistant United States Attorney Todd P. Swanson. The State of Georgia’s civil settlement was reached by Assistant Attorney General Richard Tangum of the Medicaid Fraud Division (MFD).
Questions concerning this case 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.
Task Force Protecting Children from Internet Sex Crimes in Georgia Arrests 81 Offenders During Operation "Broken Heart"Read the Press Release
MACON – The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force in Georgia arrested 81 alleged offenders as part of a two-month, nationwide operation, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District. The Department of Justice announced earlier today that almost 1,700 suspected online child sex offenders were arrested during Operation Broken Heart, a coordinated effort during the months of April and May 2019 between 61 ICAC task forces in America.
During the course of the operation, the task forces investigated more than 18,500 complaints of technology-facilitated crimes targeting children and delivered more than 2,150 presentations on internet safety to over 201,000 youth and adults. A significant portion of the total arrests (308 defendants) are alleged to have either produced child pornography or committed child sexual abuse. The task forces were able to identify 357 children who suffered recent, ongoing or historical sexual abuse or were exploited in the production of child pornography.
Georgia’s ICAC Task Force is housed within the Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CEACCU) at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). There are more than 240 local, state and federal law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies that make up the Georgia ICAC Task Force. The mission of the ICAC Task Force is to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in developing an effective response to cyber enticement, child pornography and the commercial sexual exploitation of children.
“Sexually exploiting children is pure evil, and our Office will continue to bring the full weight of our prosecutorial powers to ensure that offenders are brought to justice,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “To the victims of child exploitation: we support you and we will continue to target, arrest and prosecute those who have hurt you. I want to acknowledge the heroic efforts of Georgia’s ICAC Task Force members who are unwavering in their work to capture child sex predators and prevent the further exploitation of children. Thank you for protecting Georgia’s children.”
“The dedicated law enforcement professionals that are part of the Georgia ICAC Task Force will not cease searching for those who are producing, trading and collecting this graphic material – many of whom are also molesting children and causing them irreparable harm,” said Debbie Garner, the GBI Special Agent in Charge of the GBI’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit and Commander of the Georgia ICAC Task Force. “We will continue to work together to find, investigate and prosecute these predators. While the arrests made during the time frame encompassed by Operation Broken Heart represent phenomenal work, these are the types of investigations being worked every day by task force members across the state.”
The operation targeted suspects who: (1) produce, distribute, receive and possess child pornography; (2) engage in online enticement of children for sexual purposes; (3) engage in the sex trafficking of children; and (4) travel across state lines or to foreign countries and sexually abuse children. The ICAC Program is funded through the Department’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) within the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). In 1998, OJJDP launched the ICAC Task Force Program to help federal, state and local law enforcement agencies enhance their investigative responses to offenders who use the internet, online communication systems or computer technology to exploit children. To date, ICAC task forces have reviewed more than 922,000 complaints of child exploitation, which have resulted in the arrest of more than 95,500 individuals. In addition, since the ICAC program's inception, more than 708,500 law enforcement officers, prosecutors and other professionals have been trained on techniques to investigate and prosecute ICAC-related cases.
Those arrested are presumed innocent unless and until convicted beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Questions concerning this case 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.