Middle District of Georgia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Con Artist at the Heart of Columbus Grand Reserve Scam Sentenced to 96 Months Imprisonment on 22 CountsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – An Alabama woman found guilty by a citizen jury on 22 counts of fraud and conspiracy for her role in stealing large amounts of money from a Columbus business was sentenced to eight years in prison by a U.S. District Judge today, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Honorable Clay D. Land sentenced Dorita Clay AKA Dorita Browning/Dorita West/Dorita Mial/Dorita Moultrie/Dorita Mobley/Dorita Brooks, 51, of Selma, AL to 96 months in prison on each of the 22 counts for which she was found guilty on January 9, 2019, all to run concurrently. The defendant will also serve three years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. In sentencing the defendant, the Court noted the defendant’s total lack of remorse and sentenced her above the calculated guideline range.
Evidence and testimony introduced at trial established that Ms. Clay conspired with her co-defendant, Darlene Corbett, to steal almost $1 million from Corbett’s employer, the Grand Reserve Columbus. Darlene Corbett took the stand at the January 2019 trial and testified that the money she embezzled all went to Ms. Clay and was in the service of various schemes that Ms. Clay had convinced her were legitimate, to include a pending multi-million dollar estate settlement and a multi-million lawsuit settlement that Ms. Clay claimed she was about to receive. Ms. Corbett further admitted at trial that she had conspired with Ms. Clay to steal the money from the Grand Reserve, to then conceal the theft, and then deceive the FBI with a false story about business loans. Ms. Corbett also testified that both she and her elderly mother had liquidated their life’s savings and taken out personal loans to “invest” in the schemes.
“This skilled con artist, who had no problem concocting lies in order to steal money to support a lavish lifestyle and gambling habit will finally face the consequences for her criminal actions,” said Charlie Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Protecting businesses and the elderly from fraud remains a high priority for the Office. I want to thank the FBI for their work unraveling this scheme, and bringing an end to Ms. Clay’s ruinous lies and criminal actions.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals is prosecuting the 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.
U.S. District Judge Sentences Three Defendants Involved in Warner Robins Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MACON – The defendant believed to be the ringleader in a mail theft and check cashing ring in the Warner Robins community was sentenced to more than seven months imprisonment followed by six months of home confinement by a U.S. District Judge today, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Mozell Wright, Jr., 36, of Warner Robins previously pleaded guilty to Bank Fraud on April 9, 2019 before The Honorable Tilman E. Self in U.S. District Court in Macon. Mr. Wright’s term of confinement will be followed by three years of supervised release. Two of Mr. Wright’s co-defendants – Bradley Rumph, Jr. 26, of Warner Robins, and Tara Blanks, 46, of Warner Robins – also pleaded guilty on bank fraud charges and were sentenced today to two years of supervised release. Defendants are also required to make restitution payments to the victim in this case. Charges against the five remaining co-defendants are pending.
According to facts in the signed plea agreement, Mr. Wright obtained the personal information of a victim and beginning on March 30, 2017, attempted to deposit or cash approximately $15,795.85 worth of fraudulent checks, along with Mr. Rumph, Ms. Blanks, and their co-defendants, at various banks in Houston County, Georgia from the victim’s bank account until May 17, 2017, the day before Mr. Wright was taken into custody. Investigators found hundreds of pieces of mail that included the identifying information of 23 separate victims, check stock and partially completed personal checks with illegally obtained personal information, financial document printing instructions and gauges for printing documents to scale, a computer with electronic versions of these phony checks and several hand-written notes with bank account and routing numbers.
“The use of an unsuspecting individual’s personal identifying information to commit crimes is a growing concern in the Middle District,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to prosecute criminals involved in identity theft. I want to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Warner Robins Police Department for their work uncovering this fraud and protecting our citizens.”
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Warner Robins Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker 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.
Two Defendants Sentenced in Columbus on PSN Charges, A Third Enters Guilty Plea on PSN ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – Two defendants involved in separate felony gun cases were sentenced for their crimes this morning, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Devante Patterson, 25, of Columbus, pleaded guilty to one count of Theft for a Federal Firearms Licensee and was sentenced today to 27 months imprisonment by the Honorable Clay D. Land plus three years supervised release and $3,793 in restitution for stealing nine guns from an area firearms dealer in 2017. Corneilous Hixson, 22, of Columbus, was sentenced to 57 months imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Land for one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon for a 2018 shooting in a Columbus neighborhood. There is no parole in the federal system. Another defendant, Dadge William Parrish, 33, of Columbus, pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon before Judge Land today. All three separate cases fall under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime.
Mr. Patterson admitted that in the early hours of November 24, 2017, he broke into Shooters of Columbus, a business possessing a federal firearms license to deal in firearms. Once inside, the defendant stole a total of nine firearms, including pistols and rifles. Later that same day, the defendant was arrested attempting to sell some of the stolen firearms at a Columbus pawn shop.
In April 2018, Mr. Hixson was apprehended by police shortly after it was reported that he had opened fire on a nearby residence. A loaded .380 caliber pistol was removed from his waistband. At the time of his arrest, Hixson had three separate prior felony convictions in the state system for which he was on active probation.
Mr. Parrish admitted in his signed plea agreement that he was found in possession of a semiautomatic pistol when police pulled him over following a chase in March 2018. Mr. Parrish was convicted in August 2004 on the felony charges of Hijacking by Motor Vehicle and Kidnapping in Treutlen County Superior Court.
“Removing guns from the hands of violent criminals is an essential piece of our effort to reduce violent crime in Columbus and across the Middle District,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our office will remain focused on PSN related cases, with the goal to ultimately make our communities safer. I want to especially thank the Columbus Police Department for their good work in both cases, and protecting the citizens of Columbus from further harm.”
All 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. Patterson’s case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Columbus Police Department (CPD) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Solis prosecuted this case for the Government. Mr. Hixson’s case was investigated by CPD and ATF and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals. Mr. Parrish’s case was investigated by Georgia State Patrol and ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Helmick is prosecuting the 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.
Career Cocaine Dealer in Athens-Clarke County Sentenced to 151 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON – A defendant with a lengthy criminal history will spend 151 months in federal prison for distributing cocaine in the Athens area, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Patrick O’Neal Kennedy, 43, of Athens was sentenced Wednesday by the Honorable C. Ashley Royal in U.S. District Court, Macon, on the charge of Distribution of Cocaine Base. There is no parole in the federal system.
On March 23, 2018, a confidential source exchanged a series of text messages with Mr. Kennedy regarding a crack cocaine deal. FBI agents, along with Athens-Clarke County Police Department officers, worked with the confidential source, providing the source with $600 for the purchase of the illegal drugs. Under surveillance, the source purchased crack cocaine from the defendant, who admitted he knowingly possessed 8.25 grams of cocaine with the intent to distribute them.
Mr. Kennedy has three prior drug convictions, all in Athens-Clarke County Superior Court:
1. July 6, 2017, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute;
2. September 19, 2014, Possession of Cocaine; and
3. August 23, 2006, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute.
“This individual has been a menace to the peace and safety of citizens in Athens-Clarke County, and he will now spend more than 12 years behind federal prison bars,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners, including the FBI and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, for rooting out a career criminal who thought he was above the law.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Leary 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.
New Top 15 Most Wanted in Macon Area AnnouncedRead the Press Release
MACON – The new list of the 15 Most Wanted fugitives in the Macon area was released today, announced United States Attorney Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler. U.S. Attorney Peeler joined law enforcement leadership from across the Middle District of Georgia in support of the region’s collective efforts to make communities safer and deter crime. 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 the Top 15 Most Wanted within an eight-county area. The second quarter Top 15 Most Wanted lists defendants wanted on charges including Child Molestation, Aggravated Assault and Voluntary Manslaughter. U.S. Attorney Peeler joined Bibb County Sheriff David Davis, Monroe County Sheriff Brad Freeman, U.S. Marshall John Carey Bittick, and Bibb County District Attorney David Cooke to urge the community to spread the word and help capture these dangerous individuals.
“Thanks to our citizens’ willingness to step up, our dedicated law enforcement partners were able to capture 14 out of the 15 Most Wanted from last quarter, and I know we can have that kind of success again,” said Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank Crimestoppers for the important work they are doing to curb criminal activity in Middle Georgia, and the men and women who are putting their lives on the line to apprehend these dangerous individuals.”
“The success of our Top 15 initiative has been astounding. We have located 14 of the 15, and will find number 15. This partnership, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement, has noticeably reduced the violence in our community,” said Warren Selby, Jr., Chairman of Macon Regional Crimestoppers.
“The first Most Wanted initiative was a huge success and it showed that when local, state and federal law enforcement agencies partner together with the community, we can make Middle Georgia a safe place to live, work and enjoy our families. I am confident the second edition of the Most Wanted will also have a positive impact on our community,” said John Cary Bittick, U.S. Marshal, Middle District of Georgia.
“The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is committed to keeping dangerous criminals off our streets. The Crimestoppers 15 Most Wanted initiative has been a great help towards that goal. We look forward to the continued success of this innovative program which gives citizens the opportunity to become involved in our efforts to put violent criminals behind bars,” said David Davis, Bibb County Sheriff.
“Criminals who think they can terrorize our community with violence should take this as a wake-up call. You can’t run forever with all these agencies hot on your trail. And when we catch you, we’re bringing justice with us,” 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 the Bibb, Baldwin, Houston, Jones, Twiggs, Crawford, Monroe, and Peach regional areas. 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.
Judge Sentences Macon Man Found Guilty of Fraud in Multi-Million Dollar Bibb County School District Computer CaseRead the Press Release
MACON – A businessman convicted in a complex scheme to defraud the Bibb County School District (BCSD) will spend 50 months in prison for his crime, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Dave Carty, 49, of Macon, was found guilty on February 1, 2019 of one count of Wire Fraud following a week-long trial in federal court. Today, the Honorable Marc Treadwell sentenced Mr. Carty to 50 months in prison and 3 years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Carty was charged in connection to the sale of 15,000 NComputing devices for $3.7 million to upgrade classroom technology for BCSD in 2012. Mr. Carty prepared the template for an invoice that was ultimately presented to the BCSD to purchase the devices for $3.7 million. The actual cost of the devices was $1.7 million. Mr. Carty’s invoice did not reflect the donation of 4,000 devices that NComputing intended for the BCSD. The invoice also included charges for services provided by NComputing at no cost. A co-defendant, Isaac Culver, was found guilty in July 2018 by a jury of his peers for Conspiracy to Commit Wire and Mail Fraud, Mail Fraud, Conspiracy to Launder the Proceeds of Unlawful Activity and ten counts of Wire Fraud. Mr. Culver was sentenced to 87 months in prison and three years of supervised release in November.
“The defendants’ scheme defrauded the Bibb County School District of millions of dollars, but the real victims are the school children who were deprived of educational opportunities as a result of this fraud,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our office will continue to vigorously pursue criminals who attempt to steal from taxpayers. I want to thank the FBI and IRS for their exemplary efforts in this case.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth Howard and Danial Bennett are prosecuting the case for the Government with participation and cooperation of Special Assistant U.S. Attorney David McLaughlin from the Georgia Office of the Attorney General.
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.
U.S. Attorney Stands with Peace Officers in Honor of Police Week 2019Read the Press Release
MACON – Federal prosecutors in Middle Georgia are joining their fellow law enforcement partners in events across the state commemorating National Police Week 2019, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. National Police Week was enacted by Congress in a joint resolution issued in October 1962, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice. According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018. As a stark reminder of the dangers police officers face while keeping us safe, on Saturday night, Sgt. Kelvin Ansari, a Savannah, Georgia police officer, who was born in Albany, Georgia and attended Early County High School in the Middle District of Georgia, was gunned down while responding to a robbery.
“As our state continues to mourn the recent loss of Sgt. Ansari, we are reminded that when an officer falls, our entire community suffers the loss of a true hero devoted to serving and protecting our citizens,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “This week, please join us in taking a moment to thank a law enforcement officer for their service and sacrifice.”
Events honoring Police Memorial Week are occurring across the Middle District. Personnel with the U.S. Attorney’s Office have participated in memorials at Albany Technical College in Albany and at the Government Center in Columbus this week. On Friday, May 17, there is a memorial service at 8:30 a.m. on the corner of Mulberry and Second Streets in downtown Macon. The public is invited to attend. For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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.
Guilty Verdict on All Counts in Trial of Physician Convicted for Defrauding the Government in Medicare SchemeRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA – A Valdosta doctor was found guilty of health care fraud following a seven-day trial in federal court, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The verdict was announced late in the day yesterday, May 14, 2019, after the jury deliberated for approximately two hours. The trial for Dr. Douglas Moss, 58, of Valdosta, began Monday, May 6, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson. 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). The defendant faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on each count. The sentencing date is scheduled for August 14, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Lawson. There is no parole in the federal system.
Dr. Moss was a practicing physician at South Georgia Health Group, LLC, (SGHG) in Valdosta, Georgia, since July 16, 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 the attending physician for 80 percent of the residents at those facilities. Dr. Moss was also the Medical Director of Grant Medical Clinic in Valdosta, an after-hours clinic. Dr. Moss enlisted a co-conspirator, Shawn Tywon, who worked as a Physician’s Assistant (PA) in Dr. Moss’ practice. Mr. Tywon was indicted in this case, and entered a guilty plea to Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud on April 11, 2019, before Judge Lawson. Sentencing for Mr. Tywon is scheduled for July 10, 2019. Mr. Tywon testified in the trial as a witness for the Government.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Dr. Moss bilked the U.S. Government out of more than $2.5 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 casinos during at least two periods of time when he submitted bills for services in Valdosta when he was actually in Las Vegas.
“Over a period of four years, Dr. Moss stole in excess of $2.5 million by fraudulently billing the U.S. Government for work he claimed to personally perform at the four nursing homes in Valdosta. The jury’s verdict makes it clear that the citizens of our district will not stand for defrauding the government,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the US Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their hard work.”
“Our Medicaid Fraud Control Division will remain vigilant in efforts to uncover fraud and abuse,” said Attorney General Chris Carr. “The case gave us an opportunity to work hand-in-hand with our federal partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, and we are proud that our joint efforts led to this successful result.”
“The level of greed shown by Dr. Moss in this case is astounding, as he lined his pockets at the expense of our government funded healthcare programs,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Just as one example, Dr. Moss claimed to have seen 175 patients on one particular day, falsely billing Medicaid and Medicare for services that were never provided. Actions like this went on for over three years affecting every tax paying citizen, in particular, those who rely on federally funded programs for their health care needs.”
“Dr. Moss was convinced that defrauding taxpayers was his path to riches,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Instead he will pay a heavy price for his actions as we will work with our law enforcement partners to protect vital government health programs.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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 Attorney General 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.
18 Offenders Arrested in DCS-Led Operation MayhemRead the Press Release
MACON – Operation Mayhem, a multi-agency roundup targeting validated gang members and/or violent parolees/probationers in the Macon area, resulted in the arrest of 18 offenders, announced United States Attorney Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler. Operation Mayhem was conducted during the early hours of Thursday, May 9, 2019, and was a coordinated effort led by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) in partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office, the United States Marshals Task Force, the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force (SERFTF), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), the Bibb County Sherriff’s Office, and the District Attorney’s Office for the Macon Judicial Circuit, along with support from additional local law enforcement agencies. Operation Mayhem’s goal was to locate and arrest the most wanted parole/probation fugitives in the Macon Judicial Circuit. The DCS Criminal Intelligence Unit and the DCS Macon office identified and located these fugitive offenders. As a result of this intelligence-driven effort, best known locations were identified for the targeted parolee/probationer absconders with outstanding warrants for Violation of Parole or Violation of Probation.
“This was a tremendously successful operation led by DCS and a great service to law-abiding Macon residents,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “In the course of just a few hours, 18 dangerous individuals wanted for violating the law were brought into custody, making our community safer. I want to thank the DCS, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and our other law enforcement partners for their total commitment to improving community safety for people living in Middle Georgia.”
“Stopping and dismantling gang activity is an important priority as we seek to protect our communities from violent offenders,” said James Bergman, the Special Operations Unit Director for DCS. “An operation of this breadth requires collaboration across many agencies--it is impossible to do alone. DCS is grateful for the agencies and departments who have partnered with us to make this operation successful.”
“I am proud that Operation Mayhem was a very effective mission, capturing 18 offenders. This collaborative effort sends a message to our citizens and to the criminals that law enforcement agencies tasked with protecting our community are united and committed to making a difference,” said Sheriff David Davis, Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.
The United States Attorney’s Office support of Operation Mayhem 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. 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.
Former Treasurer of Non-Profit Aiding Families of Slain Soldiers Sentenced for Stealing Donated MoneyRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – The former treasurer of a non-profit dedicated to helping families of soldiers killed in the line of duty was sentenced Tuesday for stealing money from the organization, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Dustin Campbell, 36, of Knoxville, Tennessee previously pleaded guilty to one count of Wire Fraud and was sentenced by the Honorable Clay Land Tuesday to 15 months in prison. Mr. Campbell will also have to pay $38,000 in restitution to the Army Sniper Association. There is no parole in the federal system.
Created in December 2001, the Army Sniper Association (ASA) earned 501(c)(3) status in 2008, operating solely to benefit families of current and former Army snipers. Based in Columbus, GA near Ft. Benning, Mr. Campbell served as the unpaid, volunteer treasurer from April 2015 to October 2016. According to his signed plea agreement, Mr. Campbell had sole signatory authority over the account, which was located, with the approval of the ASA, at a Tennessee bank where Mr. Campbell lived. An audit of the account showed that when Mr. Campbell began his tenure as treasurer there was a balance of $62,021.46 in the account. On October 27, 2016, the Defendant was terminated as treasurer, and five months later, the balance of the account had diminished to $647.05. An audit of the account revealed that Mr. Campbell had used ASA funds for personal expenses including fast food, gas, clothing and utility bills. Mr. Campbell also made at least 150 automatic teller machine cash withdrawals, converting more than $40,000 in ASA funds for his own personal use.
“The integrity of non-profit organizations is at risk anytime there is theft within this goodwill system, and these rogue players must be rooted out and held accountable for their crimes,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Taking from our military families, who have given so much, will not be tolerated. I want to thank the FBI who lead this investigation and uncovered the truth.”
“The work that non-profit organizations do is invaluable to our society, and we cannot allow anyone driven by personal greed to misdirect funds away from the people who need them,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Some of these stolen funds would have gone to families of soldiers who gave their lives for our country. Campbell must now pay the price for putting his personal gains before those families’ needs.”
The case was investigated by the FBI. 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.
210 Months Prison Sentence for Oregon Sex Offender Caught Luring, Threatening Young Columbus Girl OnlineRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A federal judge handed down a 210-month sentence today to an Oregon man guilty of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Colby Ray Cochran, 24, of Warrenton, Oregon, is a registered sex offender in his home state, having been convicted in July 2016 of the state felony charge of Luring a Minor. Mr. Colby was on probation, and was active on the Oregon sex offender registry, at the time he committed the federal sex crime in Georgia. The Honorable Clay Land presided over Tuesday’s sentencing in Columbus federal court, additionally sentencing Mr. Cochran to 15 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Cochran admitted in his plea agreement to first interacting with the 15-year-old female victim “Jane Doe” on Instagram, a popular social media application. Jane Doe, who was living on Fort Benning, a military installation in Columbus, first became active on Instagram and Snapchat in August 2017, and shortly thereafter made contact with Mr. Cochran on Instagram, under the username “utopic_ecchi” with a profile picture of a distinctive Japanese female anime character. They initially engaged in typical friendly small talk, but as their online relationship progressed, Mr. Cochran began asking Jane Doe for risqué photos of herself. Jane Doe told Mr. Cochran she was 15 years old and had a boyfriend. Mr. Cochran stated he was 19 years old. On October 17, 2017 he asked her to send nude photos on Snapchat, under the username “happycannon”. Mr. Cochran also sent Jane Doe several photos of his genitalia. Jane Doe soon regretted her actions, exited Snapchat, and blocked him.
At this point, Mr. Cochran began to threaten Jane Doe on Instagram, demanding more nude photos. She refused. Mr. Cochran threatened to spread her photos “all over” and share with her boyfriend. She replied that if he wanted to remain friends, he had to delete the photos. He warned her that he had an app that saved all the photos and again threatened to send them to her boyfriend. Mr. Cochran then proposed an arrangement where he would delete the photos if she agreed to continue to exchange nude photos occasionally. Jane Doe feigned interest in the arrangement while unsuccessfully trying to convince Mr. Cochran to delete the photos she had sent. Around this time, Jane Doe’s mother walked into a room and found her child crying. After being assured she wasn’t in trouble, Jane Doe told her mother what happened and described how she had been threatened by someone she met online. The mother, posing as Jane Doe’s father, confronted Mr. Cochran on Snapchat, stating the police had been contacted. The mother reported the incident to Fort Benning law enforcement, who turned the investigation over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Following an investigation, Mr. Cochran was located and taken into custody.
“This case paints a picture of what many parents fear most in today’s world—their children being lured by online predators into making terrible choices that threaten their safety and their future,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to commend the victim’s mother, who was attentive to her child’s distress and immediately notified authorities. I also want to recognize the excellent investigative work of the FBI. These agents quickly and methodically tracked down a predator and stopped him from potentially harming other children. Protecting our children in today’s technological environment is a difficult task, but our Office will do our part and hold child predators accountable for their criminal actions.”
“The FBI will always make it a top priority to protect the most vulnerable in our society, our children,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “It is clear from this sentencing that Cochran’s actions will not be tolerated by our justice system, and hopefully, it will send a message to anyone with similar perverse intent.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Clatsop County (Oregon) Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals 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.
Man Pleads Guilty Following Bank Robbing Spree Across GeorgiaRead the Press Release
MACON – A defendant linked to bank robberies in three Middle and Southwest Georgia cities during September 2017 entered a guilty plea in Macon federal court Thursday, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Clifford Terrell, 44, of Barnesville, GA pleaded guilty to one count of Bank Robbery on May 2, 2019 before the Honorable Marc Treadwell. Mr. Terrell will be sentenced on August 7, 2019 by Judge Treadwell in federal court in Macon.
According to his signed plea agreement, Mr. Terrell admitted to committing three bank robberies in the Middle District of Georgia. 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. During all three robberies, the defendant entered the bank and slid a note to the teller demanding $2500 cash. During the third robbery in Macon, the SB&T teller did not realize at first that the bank was being robbed, and communicated to Mr. Terrell that he had filled out the wrong slip for a withdrawal. After a brief exchange, Mr. Terrell said to the teller, “I’m not teasing, I want you to give me $2500… I don’t want to hurt anybody and I don’t want to see any police.” The teller handed over the cash in a small bag containing a dye explosive. Mr. Terrell was identified as the suspect following the Macon robbery after witnesses told the investigator the tag number to his vehicle. A search warrant was obtained, and agents found dye stains in Mr. Terrell’s car matching the dye explosive. Agents also found clothes in his home matching the clothes worn during the bank robberies as captured by security footage. The defendant was arrested at his Barnesville residence.
“I want to thank our local and federal law enforcement partners who worked quickly to identify and arrest a serial bank robber,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “The safety and well-being of our citizens is our highest priority, and we are committed to making sure people who commit violent crime and disrupt the peace are held accountable.”
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.
Judge Hands Down 88 Months Prison Sentence to Tifton Woman Caught Hauling Kilos of Meth, Cocaine on I-75Read the Press Release
MACON – A Tifton woman was sentenced to 88 months in prison Wednesday on a drug charge after she was arrested carrying four kilos of meth and cocaine in her car with the intent to distribute the illegal drugs, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Anna Maria Lopez-Vazquez, 32, of Tifton, GA was sentenced by the Honorable Marc Treadwell in Macon federal court this morning. She had previously entered a guilty plea to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine on February 13, 2019. There is no parole in the federal prison system.
According to her signed plea agreement, on May 18, 2017, Anna Maria Lopez-Vasquez was driving a Yukon SUV southbound on I-75 in Peach County, Georgia. A Peach County deputy on patrol in the area spotted the SUV with an obscured license and failing to maintain its lane of traffic, both traffic infractions in Georgia. During the traffic stop, the deputy smelled a strong odor of marijuana. Following a legal search of the vehicle, 2,942 grams of methamphetamine and 999 grams of cocaine were found in three containers, sealed with plastic wrap, hidden inside a sports bag. Ms. Lopez-Vasquez was arrested. In a post-arrest interview, she admitted that the drugs belonged to her.
“Methamphetamine is killing more and more Georgians,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “It is imperative that we get this poison off our streets. Our office will continue to work with federal, state and local law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute those who choose to sell illegal drugs in our communities. Make no mistake: if you choose to sell methamphetamine, you will go to federal prison for a long time. I applaud the good work of the Peach County Sheriff’s Office in this matter.”
“Routine traffic stops are valuable. In this case, we were able to get 3 kilos of meth and 1 kilo of cocaine out of our communities,” said Sheriff Terry Deese, Peach County Sheriff’s Office. “Ms. Lopez-Vasquez is from a small town in South Georgia, and taking that much dope off the streets will have a big impact on the drug problem in that town. Our deputies are trained to properly and legally identify certain conditions in a traffic stop that might alert them to illegal activities. In this case, our deputies found a massive amount of deadly poison that will no longer be peddled to our children.”
The case is being investigated by The Drug Enforcement Agency and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Calhoun 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, DEA Ask Georgians to Clear Out Unused Prescription Medications, Fight Growing Opioid EpidemicRead the Press Release
MACON— The 17th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is this weekend, and collection sites will be open across the Middle District of Georgia, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. People can safely and anonymously dispose of their expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Approximately 6,000 collection sites manned by nearly 5,000 partner law enforcement agencies will be open across the country. In Georgia, people can find their closest collection site online at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 1-800-882-9539. Collection sites are open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Liquids, needles and sharps will not be accepted, only pills and patches.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began this free service to remove opioids and other addictive medicines from homes, where they are vulnerable to misuse, theft or abuse by family members and visitors, including children and teens. DEA has collected a total of nearly 11 million pounds (more than 5,400 tons) of medicines since Take Back Day’s inception in 2010. The rate of prescription drug abuse in the United States continues to be alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. The majority of prescription drug abusers say they get their drugs free from friends and family, including from the home medicine cabinet. Take Back Day is a unique opportunity for Americans to protect their homes and medicine cabinets from theft and abuse.
“The societal problems created by opioid addiction are serious and widespread, and we are dealing with the negative effects in our justice system every day,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Doing something as simple as cleaning out your medicine cabinet of unwanted prescription drugs, and properly disposing of them, will have a positive impact in our communities. The goal is to decrease opioid addiction, and we all need to work together to end easy access to these highly addictive drugs.”
“Addressing the problem of the abuse of controlled pharmaceuticals continues to be one of DEA’s top priorities,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division, DEA. “One way to address this issue is to encourage the public to properly remove their unwanted, unused and dated prescription medications from their homes. DEA and its law enforcement, tribal and community partners are holding its seventeenth take-back event in order to child proof and teen proof homes so that these medications cannot be abused. I invite you to do your part in the midst of this opioid crisis as we strive to make our communities safer.”
Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. Take Back Day provides a free and anonymous way to safely dispose of millions of medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse or abuse. Last October, Americans turned in 457 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs on National Take Back Day. It’s quick and easy to locate a disposal site by visiting www.DEATakeBack.com and scrolling down to Collection Site Locator, then entering your zip code or County/City/State to see the collection sites nearest you.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, and 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.
Inmate Sentenced to 300 Months for Dealing Meth in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY— A methamphetamine broker inside Calhoun State Prison has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for his crime, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Edwin Murillo, 27, of Gwinnett County, was sentenced to 300 months in prison consecutive to his state sentences set to expire in 2034 by United States District Judge Louis Sands on Thursday, April 16, 2019. A co-conspirator, Peggy Bentley, a/k/a “Peggy Cowart”, 48, of Watkinsville, GA has pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and is scheduled to be sentenced for her crime on May 22, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Ashley Royal in Athens federal court. Ms. Bentley faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10 million fine. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Murillo was an inmate at Calhoun State Prison in Morgan, Georgia. On November 5, 2017, correctional officers found a contraband cell phone hidden under Mr. Murillo’s bunk inside the prison and he was consequently put in more restrictive housing. Officers conducted a shakedown in Mr. Murillo’s newly assigned housing unit a few days later, on November 8. As Mr. Murillo was being moved to a temporary holding location for the unit search, officers observed him attempting to conceal an item by holding his hands in front of his pants. A pat down uncovered an Irish Spring Soap box sealed with duct tape in his pants containing 76 grams of pure methamphetamine, as well as a small amount of marijuana, tobacco and a cell phone charger. A download of Mr. Murillo’s cell phone had numerous text messages related to drug distribution and directing payments for drugs to others, including text messages with co-conspirator Ms. Bentley.
According to her signed plea agreement, law enforcement first discovered Ms. Bentley was distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in several northeast Georgia counties in June 2017. In April 2018, a confidential informant notified law enforcement that Ms. Bentley was still dealing methamphetamine. At the time, Ms. Bentley was out on bond for two separate state arrests involving the distribution of methamphetamine in July 2017 and December 2017. While under surveillance, Ms. Bentley was observed traveling to the Perimeter Inn Motel located on Atlanta Highway in Athens-Clark County, and walking into a motel room with a dark colored bag then leaving a few minutes later without the bag and driving to her home in Oconee County. A K-9 unit was called in to walk the open-air hallways leading to the parking lot, and the K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics at the door of the room Ms. Bentley was seen walking in and out of with the dark bag. A search warrant was obtained. Ms. Bentley and another co-conspirator in this case, Jonathan Green, who was on probation, arrived back to the motel and walked into the room when law enforcement detained them. Officers found a large amount of cash, a drug ledger, a brown bag with Western Union and Walmart money transfer receipts, cell phones, four money cards and several car tiles on Ms. Bentley. Mr. Green was carrying a plastic Easter egg with methamphetamine inside. During the legal search of the motel room, a plastic bag filled with a large amount of methamphetamine was found, along with two digital scales and a glass jar with pills.
Ms. Bentley was arrested, and while out on bond yet again, law enforcement learned on May 24, 2018 that she was in possession of a large amount of methamphetamine. A confidential informant told law enforcement that Ms. Bentley had drugs inside of a black duffel bag and a Mountain Dew can with a false bottom, and that she could be found driving on Timothy Road in Athens-Clarke County. A patrol unit executed a traffic stop, and a K-9 unit immediately alerted to the odor of narcotics in Ms. Bentley’s vehicle. Inside, Ms. Bentley had several ounces of methamphetamine, three digital scales and drug packaging materials, as well as the Mountain Dew can with the false bottom containing several pills.
Ms. Bentley told investigators her methamphetamine source was Mr. Murillo. Ms. Bentley said she would talk to Mr. Murillo by phone, and he would connect her with dealers for methamphetamine. In exchange, Ms. Bentley paid Mr. Murillo $500 per connection or “plug”, sending the money to different places Mr. Murillo directed via MoneyGram, Western Union or Walmart money transfers. Ms. Bentley paid $8,000 per kilogram of methamphetamine purchased, profiting between $3,000 and $4,000.
“Our office is cracking down on inmates orchestrating criminal dealings from behind bars. As importantly, we are also cracking down on those who support an inmate’s criminal conduct from outside prison walls,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Stopping inmates’ criminal conduct is a collaborative effort involving law enforcement agencies at every level, and I want to recognize their efforts, and thank them for their service. This is dangerous, difficult work, but we must not allow inmates the ability to conduct crimes and continue to cause harm in our communities from behind bars.”
“This investigation exemplifies DEA’s commitment to investigate and attack drug traffickers and drug trafficking organizations no matter where they operate,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division, DEA.
This case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, Georgia State Patrol, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County Sheriff’s Office and Parks White, the District Attorney for the Northern Judicial Circuit. Assistant United States Attorneys Tamara Jarrett and Leah McEwen are prosecuting these cases for the United States.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, and 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.
Defendant with Lengthy Criminal Record in Dougherty County Sentenced to 135 Months on Federal Drug, Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, GA – A defendant with four prior criminal convictions in Dougherty County was sentenced today on federal gun and drug charges, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Gordon Price, Jr., 35, of Albany, GA, was sentenced to 135 months for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute by the Honorable Leslie Gardner in Albany federal court. Prior to his federal conviction, Mr. Price was convicted in Dougherty Superior Court for Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute (case number 01-R-298), Possession of Cocaine (01-R-440), Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (08-R-561) and Possession of Cocaine (12-R-720), all felony offenses. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the plea agreement, officers with the Albany-Dougherty Drug Unit (ADDU) executed a search warrant at a room Mr. Price, Jr. was renting at the Townhouse Motel on February 24, 2017. The search was based on three controlled purchases of crack cocaine at that location by a confidential informant who identified the seller as the Defendant. As officers approached the motel, Mr. Price, Jr. was seen exiting the motel room. He was immediately taken into custody based on a parole violation warrant. The defendant had approximately $1127 in cash, and inside his room officers found crack cocaine, cocaine and marijuana, two digital scales, a box of plastic sandwich bags, and a loaded Glock 9 mm handgun.
“Our Office is working closely with law enforcement to capture and prosecute repeat felons that do nothing but bring ruin to families and neighborhoods,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank the agents with the Albany-Dougherty Drug Unit and the Dougherty District Attorney’s Office for their good work investigating this case and getting a career criminal off the streets.”
“The defendant is a known criminal in our community and has been creating havoc for years. He has shown no respect for our city and the laws that protect our citizens. Mr. Price, Jr. is hard core, and has to be dealt with in a hard core manner with prison time. I hope this strong sentence will deter others from trying to emulate his criminal choices,” said Greg Edwards, the District Attorney for the Dougherty Judicial Circuit.
The defendant’s arrest and prosecution is a result of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Albany-Dougherty Drug Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Dasher 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.
U.S. Attorney, IRS Warn Taxpayers to Be on the Lookout for Fraud and Remain Tax CompliantRead the Press Release
MACON – As many people scramble to file their individual taxes prior to Monday’s deadline, federal officials are warning people to be on the lookout for tax scams, carefully protect their personal information from theft, and comply with federal tax laws to avoid penalties, criminal prosecution and even jail time. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation are actively investigating tax fraud cases in Middle and South Georgia, and are holding criminals accountable for identity theft and tax fraud.
“Tax cheats are becoming more sophisticated in their schemes and are finding new ways to swindle the system and even access unsuspecting victims’ personal and tax information for nefarious purposes,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our Office is working closely with our law enforcement partners at the IRS and local agencies to stop this criminal activity that has far-reaching consequences for both individual victims and our country.”
“We have IRS Special Agents located here in Georgia working around the clock to uncover, stop and work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in prosecuting tax crimes. With the filing season coming to an end, it’s important that the public be aware of various tax schemes and report the scheme to either the IRS or their local police department,” said Thomas J. Holloman, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI, Atlanta Field Office.
Since last tax season, approximately twenty-two defendants have been sentenced for fraudulent tax schemes beginning in May 2018 in the Middle District of Georgia. Here are two recent examples of tax fraud cases prosecuted in the Middle District of Georgia during 2018:
1. Portia Powell of Columbus, GA, was sentenced in November 2018 to 18 months in federal prison, three years supervised release plus $159,000 restitution to the IRS in a stolen identity tax refund scheme. Between August and October 2013, Powell received approximately 71 stolen U.S. Treasury checks written to various taxpayers. These treasury checks were taxpayer refunds for the 2012 tax year totaling $159,000. The victims were all either students, disabled or unemployed.
2. Belinda Harris, Cynthia Clarkston and Susie Sherman Hall, all of Valdosta, GA, were involved in a tax fraud scheme. In 2018, Ms. Harris and Ms. Hall were each sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, and Ms. Clarkston was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment. All of the defendants were ordered to pay $258,914 to the IRS in restitution. The three defendants admitted to filing numerous fraudulent tax returns using stolen personal information, including 100 names obtained from an individual employed at Valdosta State University. IRS investigators determined 222 fraudulent federal income tax returns, filed for the 2010 and 2011 years, were directly linked to the conspiracy, claiming refunds totaling $670,860.00. Actual refunds of $258,914.00 were issued on those fraudulent returns. A number of victims said that the federal income tax returns filed in their names were completely false and that they did not authorize anyone to file or accept a tax refund in their names.
To learn more, visit https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-concludes-dirty-dozen-list-of-tax-scams-for-2019-agency-encourages-taxpayers-to-remain-vigilant-year-round for information about the “Dirty Dozen” for the 2019 filing season. The deadline for taxpayers to file their income taxes is Monday, April 15, 2018 at midnight.
For in person interview requests or questions, please contact the Atlanta Field Office IRS-Criminal Investigation Public Information Officer at [email protected]. Additional 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.
Retired Navy Vet Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Attempted Online Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
MACON – A Dodge County resident was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to one count of Attempted Online Enticement of a Minor, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Honorable Marc Treadwell sentenced Bryan Alan Asbell, Sr., 56, of Chester, Georgia in federal court in Macon on Wednesday. Mr. Asbell pleaded guilty to his crime in January. Mr. Asbell will be required to register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the plea agreement, on March 15, 2018, Mr. Asbell responded to an online post by agents with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) posing as a 14-year-old girl living on Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins. The post read, “Nuthing 2 do after school, can you get on base? wanna hang out or chat? hit me up!” On the same day, Mr. Asbell responded, “Must ask age? I am a veteran 55yoa white male.” The AFOSI undercover agent responded that it was a 14-year-old girl, and Mr. Asbell acknowledged the undercover agent’s age and continued to talk with the agent via email and cellular messages. Mr. Asbell discussed meeting up and what he would do if they did meet up, and indicated he would perform sexual acts. Mr. Asbell agreed to meet on Robins Air Force Base on April 5, 2018, when told that the undercover agent’s “mother” would be out of the house. Mr. Asbell was arrested when attempting to enter the meeting place, with a necklace and fast food as gifts for the agent he believed to be a young girl he was meeting for sex.
“Predators are online, seeking vulnerable children for their perverse sexual gratification,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “This Office will pursue these predators and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law. I want to express my gratitude to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations for their excellent work protecting minors.”
This case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shanelle Booker and Michael Solis are prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
U.S. Attorney Supports Georgia Storm Victims, Urges Citizens "Do Not Let Disaster Strike Twice"Read the Press Release
ALBANY - On the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Michael, a historic storm that caused billions in damage across Georgia, a Public Service Announcement (PSA) from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia (USAO MDGA) is educating citizens about the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF). The Department of Justice manages and tracks complaints of fraudulent activity, including sham charities and people posing as government officials or contractors who prey on storm victims, looking to steal identities or storm benefits. In the PSA, U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler urges citizens to not let “disaster strike twice” and report storm related fraud 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to the Justice Department’s NCDF Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or at [email protected].
When a storm victim makes a complaint, NCDF investigators review the complaint and, as appropriate, refer the complaint to the proper federal, state, or local agency in the relevant jurisdiction. Since NCDF’s creation in 2005, more than 95,000 complaints have been received. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Georgia has an assigned prosecutor to review complaints referred to this Office since Hurricane Michael made landfall in Georgia on October 10, 2018. Hurricane Michael was the strongest hurricane on record to hit the Florida panhandle, crossing into Georgia as a Category 3+ hurricane, the first time a major hurricane has directly impacted Georgia in nearly 130 years. Damage estimates to the agricultural industry alone are estimated at $2.5 billion. Millions of dollars in federal disaster relief has poured into Georgia in the wake of Hurricane Michael.
“The impact of Hurricane Michael is still being felt in South Georgia, and the disastrous effects will continue to be felt for years to come” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I am concerned that residents don’t know there are protections in place when they think they have been victims of fraud, or when they see others taking advantage of federal disaster relief dollars. I promise that this Office will pursue criminals who are trying to scam storm victims who have already suffered so much.”
The National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) is the result of a partnership between the U.S. Department of Justice and various law enforcement and regulatory agencies to form a national coordinating agency within the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice to improve and further the detection, prevention, investigation and prosecution of fraud related to natural and man-made disasters, and to advocate for the victims of such fraud. NCDF operates a call center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to take disaster fraud complaints through a national hotline number (1-866-720-5721) and via email at [email protected]. The Disaster Fraud Hotline PSA can be viewed and shared at the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia’s Facebook Page @usaomdga. 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.
Stolen I.D., Personal Information Lifted from Victims' Mailboxes in Bank Fraud CaseRead the Press Release
MACON - A Warner Robins man, believed to be the ringleader in a scheme to steal mail to obtain people’s identifying information and use it to make and cash fraudulent checks, has pleaded guilty for his crime, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Mozell Wright, Jr., 36, of Warner Robins entered a guilty plea for Bank Fraud on April 9, 2019 before The Honorable Tilman E. Self in U.S. District Court in Macon. This charge carries a maximum sentence of 30 years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Mr. Wright is set to be sentenced on June 4, 2019.
According to facts in the signed plea agreement, Mr. Wright, with the assistance of seven other co-defendants, obtained the personal information of a victim and beginning on March 30, 2017 attempted to deposit or cash approximately $15,795.85 worth of fraudulent checks at various banks in Houston County, Georgia from the victim’s bank account until May 17, 2017, the day before Mr. Wright was taken into custody. During this time, Mr. Wright lived in the same neighborhood as the victim in Houston County. Mr. Wright used stolen mail sent to the victim from Bank of America to produce fraudulent checks for his co-defendants to cash. Mr. Wright was arrested on May 18, and following a search of his home, investigators found hundreds of pieces of mail that included identifying information of 23 separate victims, check stock and partially completed personal checks with illegally obtained personal information, financial document printing instructions and gauges for printing documents to scale, a computer with electronic versions of these phony checks and several hand-written notes with bank account and routing numbers. Mr. Wright admitted his guilt following his arrest by the Warner Robins Police Department.
“Our office is committed to combating personal identity theft in the Middle District, and there is no doubt that this defendant intended to scam more citizens using their private information,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I commend the investigators with the U.S. Postal Service and the Warner Robins Police Department for stopping this fraud.”
Two of Mr. Wright’s co-defendants – Bradley Rumph, Jr. 26, of Warner Robins, and Tara Blanks, 46, of Warner Robins – have also entered guilty pleas on bank fraud charges and are also set for sentencing on June 4, 2019. Charges against the five remaining co-defendants are still pending.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Warner Robins Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker 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.
Physician Sentenced for His Role in Prolific Georgia Pill MillsRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA - The final defendant involved in a multi-city pill mill conspiracy was sentenced to 72 months in prison Wednesday, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Dr. Vinod Shah, 69, of Salisbury, NC previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to dispense controlled substances outside the usual course of medical practice and a legitimate medical purpose and was sentenced to prison on April 3, 2019 by the Honorable Hugh Lawson. Dr. Shah will serve three years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Dr. Shah joins seven other co-defendants who have been sentenced for their roles in operating pill mills at The Wellness Center of Valdosta and The Relief Institute of Columbus, where tens of thousands of prescriptions for highly addictive opioids were dispensed to people and more than $2 million dollars in cash was paid out by patients seeking prescriptions. Dr. Shah was recruited after a long career in medicine and was employed from 2012-2013, first training in Valdosta under co-defendant Dr. William Bacon, 83, of St. Johns, FL. There, he was taught to prescribe “cocktails” of Oxycodone and Alprazolam (commonly known as Xanax). In Columbus, Dr. Shah saw, at most, 45 patients a day, and the clinic stayed open late into the evening to see patients coming in from out of state. The clinics operated on a “cash only” basis. Patients paid $325 in cash for the first visit, $250 for subsequent visits. Almost every patient seen by Dr. Shah had a diagnosis of low back pain and was prescribed large quantities of two different dosages of Oxycodone and Alprazolam. Dr. Shah admitted in his plea agreement that many of the patients he saw were seeking drugs and many had no legitimate need for the prescriptions that were written. Dr. Shah also admitted that he did not adequately examine the patients and deliberately ignored obvious signs that the clinics were operating outside the legitimate practice of medicine. Dr. Shah was paid $1200 a day during his employment.
“There is no excuse for doctors and health care professionals who turn away from their oath to ethically care for sick people and instead prescribe opioids to addicts in return for cash,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District. “The opioid epidemic is a scourge, and is creating serious harm in every pocket of our society. Law enforcement is working to root out those in the medical field illegally profiting from others’ destruction.”
A total of seven co-defendants in this case were sentenced in December 2018. Dr. Bacon was sentenced to 72 months in prison and the forfeiture of over $95,000. Dr. Donatus O. Mbanefo, 65, of Columbus, GA was sentenced to 96 months in prison. Following a two-week trial that began on May 29, 2018, a Valdosta jury found both Dr. Bacon and Dr. Mbanefo guilty of conspiracy to dispense controlled substances outside the usual course of medical practice and a legitimate medical purpose. Dr. Mbanefo was also convicted of two additional counts of unlawful dispensation of controlled substances.
Five co-conspirators previously entered guilty pleas for their involvement in or knowledge and concealment of the conspiracy, and were sentenced in federal court on Thursday, December 6, 2018.
On charges of conspiracy:
1. Carol Neema Biggs a/k/a Carol Johnson, 33, of Hollywood, FL: 60 months imprisonment, plus 36 months consecutive in prison for a total of 96 months imprisonment
2. Junior Alexander Biggs, 40, of Hollywood, FL: 50 months imprisonment, plus 36 months consecutive in prison for a total of 86 months imprisonment
3. Nilaja C. Biggs, 36 of Hialeah, FL: 36 months imprisonment
On charges of knowledge and concealment of the conspiracy:
4. Shavonta Devon Bright, 35 of Miami, FL: 3 years probation
5. Ionie Whorms, 55 of Goose Creek, SC: 3 years probation
Evidence presented during the 2018 trial of Dr. Bacon and Dr. Mbanefo showed that co-conspirators Carol Biggs, Nilija Biggs and Junior Biggs formed the Wellness Center of Valdosta (WCV) in June 2011, located at 2016 E. Adair Street, to operate as a pain clinic. Dr. Bacon began working there in September 2011 and saw patients until the clinic closed. The clinic saw unrealistically large numbers of patients daily, including people from out of state, and accepted no forms of insurance or government benefits but took cash payments only. No diagnostic testing was offered and no alternative treatments outside prescribing large quantities of a “cocktail” of pain medications and other controlled substances were offered to patients. The “cocktail” generally included such highly addictive controlled substances as Oxycodone and Xanax, but also included Hydromorphone, Hydrocodone, Soma, Valium and Ambien. During the approximately 27 months during which Dr. Bacon worked at the Wellness Center of Valdosta, he wrote more than 29,000 prescriptions for controlled substances.
In June 2012, Carol and Junior Biggs opened another pain clinic in Columbus known as the Relief Institute of Columbus. The Relief Institute of Columbus operated in the same fashion as the Wellness Center of Valdosta by unlawfully dispensing controlled substances. Dr. Mbanefo saw patients at the Relief Institute between mid-March 2013 and mid-June 2013. During that three month period of time, Dr. Mbanefo wrote more than 2,900 prescriptions for controlled substances, including prescribing large quantities of Oxycodone and Xanax to an undercover agent, who had no legitimate medical issues. The doctors at both clinics were paid $1200 to $1400 per day to see patients, with a bonus for Dr. Bacon when he saw more than 40 patients in a single day. During the operation of the two clinics, patients made cash payments of more than $2 million.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Robert D. McCullers and K. Alan Dasher 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.
Large Volume Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 125 Months for His Role in South Georgia Drug Crime NetworkRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA— A cocaine distributor in South Georgia involved in trafficking hundreds of kilograms will spend more than ten years in prison for his crimes, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Henry “Poochie” Austin, II, 49, of Valdosta was sentenced on April 3, 2019 to 125 months in prison and six years supervised released by United States District Judge Hugh Lawson. Mr. Austin was convicted in October 2018 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base following a three day trial and just one hour of jury deliberations. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Austin was involved in a cocaine and crack cocaine distribution ring between 2013 and 2014 stretching from Atlanta to South Georgia, including Tifton, Valdosta, Omega, Hahira, Adel, Moultrie, and other nearby communities. Austin and 18 co-conspirators, all who previously pled guilty and have been sentenced, distributed hundreds of kilograms of cocaine sold as powder and also manufactured into crack cocaine, averaging between 10 to 15 kilograms of cocaine per week. Mr. Austin’s drug dealing career dates back to the 1990s.
“A dangerous drug ring moving hundreds of kilos of cocaine across our state is ended, and all involved have now faced the consequences of their crimes,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners who are tracking down and stopping these illegal and deadly drug networks from causing more harm in our communities.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), Mid-South Narcotics Task Force, and the Tift, Crisp, Cook, Colquitt and Lowndes County Sheriff’s Offices. Assistant United States Attorneys Julia Bowen and Michael Solis prosecuted the case for the United States.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, and 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.
Thomasville Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Importing and Distributing Thousands of Counterfeit Car PartsRead the Press Release
MACON— A Thomasville business owner trafficking in counterfeit car parts made in China pled guilty Friday for his crime, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. Drexel C. Benton, 71, of Thomasville entered a guilty plea for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods on March 29, 2019 before The Honorable Hugh Lawson. This charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a $2,000,000 maximum fine and up to three years supervised release. A sentencing date has not been set.
According to facts in the signed plea agreement, in January 2017 a special agent with the Department of Homeland Security Investigative Division (HIS) began an investigation on leads showing that the defendant was importing and selling counterfeit car parts from Chinese manufacturers at his Thomasville business, EZ Dealin, as well as on Ebay, where EZ Dealin was listed as a tire and rim “power seller” with a 20,000 square foot warehouse selling replica car parts from American car companies. EZ Dealin had more than 7,000 positive feedbacks on Ebay, indicating thousands of transactions. HSI conducted an undercover operation at EZ Dealin in February 2017, noting a much smaller warehouse than advertised, an estimated 24 feet long by 24 feet wide, filled to a quarter of its capacity with numerous brand wheels and tires. An employee showed the agents two types of GMC wheels with center caps displaying the GMC emblem.
Concurrently, United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conducted three separate legal seizures of parcels from China to EZ Dealin from November 2016 to April 2017. The individual parcels contained 540 automotive wheel center caps with counterfeit General Motors Truck Company (GMC) and Chevrolet emblems, 560 automotive wheel center caps with counterfeit GMC and Chevrolet emblems and 300 automotive rim center caps with counterfeit Chevrolet and Cadillac emblems.
Brand Protection Investigators from both Ford Motor Company and General Motors cooperated in the investigation. In March 2017, a private investigative firm hired by Ford conducted an Ebay online purchase of rims and center caps from EZ Dealin for $1,978. The purchased items bore counterfeit Ford emblems. GMC’s brand investigator reviewed and provided a list of 21 counterfeit Chevrolet and GMC parts then listed for sale by EZ Dealin on Ebay.
Financial analysis of subpoenaed PayPal information indicates that Mr. Benton conducted approximately $590,553.32 in transactions from April 12, 2017 until August 8, 2017. There were 26 transfers of funds from the PayPal account number into Mr. Benton’s private bank account totaling $688,000.00 during that period. On December 5, 2017, HSI and Thomas County Sheriff’s deputies executed search warrants at three locations associated with Mr. Benton and EZ Dealin, finding a multitude of automotive items bearing the registered trademarks of Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Ford and Dodge, numbering 5,782 parts.
“Legitimate businesses work hard and invest significant resources to build a brand. Those who choose to deal in counterfeit goods are stealing the brand recognition and goodwill that businesses work so hard to develop,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “This office has made it a priority to protect businesses and consumers from counterfeit goods, whether from China or anywhere else in the world. I want to thank the investigative efforts of the Department of Homeland Security and the United States Customs and Border Protection for helping close down this illegal operation.”
“Criminal networks are working daily to fool the public with illegally imported counterfeit goods, some of which pose a grave threat to public safety,” said Nick Annan, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta. “Anyone who may think counterfeiting is a victimless crime need look no further than cases such as this. Persons rely on automotive parts, and when inferior counterfeit parts fail, the drivers who were exploited may be involved in accidents causing serious injury or death. HSI is appreciative of the U.S. Attorney’s partnership in this case and will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute criminal counterfeiters who threaten public safety.”
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and the United States Customs and Border Protection, with assistance from the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States 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.
Jury Returns Guilty Verdict Involving Multi-Kilo Cocaine Distributor with Criminal HistoryRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A Columbus man found guilty for attempting to sell 11,995 grams of cocaine to an undercover agent could spend up to life in prison for his crime, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Kenneth James, 51, of Phenix City, AL is guilty of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Due to the large amount of cocaine, more than five kilograms, Mr. James faces a minimum 10 years to a maximum life imprisonment and a $10,000,000 fine. The trial began Monday, March 11, 2019 in a Columbus federal courtroom, presided over by the Honorable Clay D. Land. The jury returned the verdict after an hour and a half of deliberations Wednesday afternoon. Following the verdict, Mr. James was taken into custody and will be sentenced in July. There is no parole in the federal system. Mr. James was convicted in December 1999 on the charge of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute in the Middle District of Alabama.
An undercover agent working with the Columbus Police Department (CPD) identified Marcus Marshall, 35, of Columbus, GA, a co-defendant in this case, as a large quantity cocaine distributor in September 2017. In a series of recorded calls, Mr. Marshall agreed to meet with the undercover agent to sell 10 kilos of cocaine at $27,500 per kilo. On October 16, 2017, law enforcement documented Mr. James meeting Mr. Marshall at a motel and moving a large box (later discovered to be carrying 11,995 grams of brick form cocaine) from the trunk of his Mercedes Benz to Mr. Marshall’s BMW SUV. Mr. James and Mr. Marshall then drove a short distance to the Welcome Center parking lot on Williams Road in north Columbus to meet the undercover agent. The defendants were arrested during the transaction with the undercover agent. Mr. Marshall has a criminal past, and was convicted in the Middle District of Georgia in July 2004 for Distribution of Cocaine Base and was sentenced to 78 months in prison. For this crime, Mr. Marshall pleaded guilty in December 2018 and was sentenced to ten years in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
“Good police work stopped these career criminals from distributing a large amount of a deadly drug into the Columbus community,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Law-abiding citizens do not want dangerous drugs circulating in their communities, and law enforcement across Middle Georgia are successfully joining together to investigate and prosecute these crimes. Thank you to the Columbus Police Department and the DEA for their work in this matter.”
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.
Inmate, Co-Defendants Plead Guilty in Prison Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY – Three defendants involved in scheme to deliver illegal drugs to inmates in prison will be sentenced for their crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Crystal Avery, 37, of Lithia Springs, GA, Timothy Bailey, 31, of Lawrenceville, GA and Cody Brousshard, 35, of Lawrenceville, GA have all pleaded guilty to criminal charges related to a drug ring operating out of Calhoun State Prison, where Mr. Brousshard was an inmate. Mr. Brousshard entered a guilty plea in December 2018 to one count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances. Ms. Avery pleaded guilty on Monday, March 11, 2019 to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Mr. Bailey pleaded guilty on Tuesday, March 12, 2019 to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances. Avery and Bailey entered their pleas before the Honorable W. Louis Sands and Brousshard entered his plea before the Honorable Leslie A. Gardner in Albany federal court. These charges carry a minimum 10 years to a maximum life term imprisonment and a $10,000,000 fine. The sentencing dates have not been finalized.
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. On May 21, 2018, Calhoun County deputies located Ms. Avery and Mr. Bailey stuck in field behind Calhoun State Prison in a white ford F-250. The deputies noticed packaging material including saran wrap, vacuum seal bags, and electrical tape inside the truck, all commonly used to disguise contraband being smuggled into the prison. The field is commonly used as a place to hide contraband for inmate work details to retrieve. The deputies were directed to two bundles by Ms. Avery, camouflaged in grass, containing 57 grams of methamphetamine. Mr. Bailey admitted to four deliveries of drug bundles directed by inmate Brousshard, the first two at Dooly State Prison where Mr. Broussard was an inmate before being transferred to Calhoun State Prison.
“Smuggling illegal drugs and other paraphernalia into our prisons is a serious and ongoing problem that puts our prison employees and other inmates in danger. We are targeting these inside jobs, and we will ferret out those inmates attempting to continue their criminal ways while incarcerated, and those on the outside who choose to engage in this unlawful conduct,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
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 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.
10 Co-Defendants Plead Guilty in Historic Warner Robins Drug Ring BustRead the Press Release
MACON— The co-defendants involved in what is considered to be the largest heroin and fentanyl bust ever in Warner Robins have all pleaded guilty to their crimes in federal court, said U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler. These defendants entered pleas in February and March 2019. The final co-defendant, Jonathan Haslem, entered a guilty plea on Friday, March 8, 2019 in Macon federal court before The Honorable Marc Treadwell. Sentencing dates have not been set. The co-defendants are as follows:
- Travis Cyntelle McKenzie a/k/a “Showtime”, 39, of Warner Robins, GA (Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances)
- Thomas Jeffery Locke, 53, Taylor County, GA (Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Heroin)
- Justin High, 31, of Warner Robins, GA (Possession with Intent to Distribute more than 50 Kilos of Marijuana)
- Clarence Bogan a/k/a “Bush”, 39, of Warner Robins, GA (Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine)
- Jonathan Haslem, 38, of Warner Robins, GA (Conspiracy)
- Tamika Lashawn Hickey, 36, of Warner Robins, GA (Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine)
- Esha Hill, 29, of Warner Robins, GA (Misprision of a Felony)
- Kimseing Le, 30, of Warner Robins, GA (Conspiracy with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine)
- LaTray McKenzie, 20, of Warner Robins, GA (Two Counts of Use of a Communications Device to Facilitate Drug Trafficking)
- Kaelin Varrett, 24, of Warner Robins, GA (Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine)
Travis “Showtime” McKenzie was the ring leader of the operation, according to his signed plea agreement. Mr. McKenzie admitted to leading a drug trafficking organization in Warner Robins, primarily storing and distributing large quantities of crack cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, alprazolam and marijuana. The Houston County Sheriff’s Office began investigating this conspiracy in December 2014, and from March 2015 until the time of Mr. McKenzie’s arrest on June 28, 2017, more than seventy undercover controlled drug purchases were made, often with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
The drugs came from various sources and were sold in multiple locations in Warner Robins. Mr. McKenzie directly controlled the sale of these narcotics, and also supplied and facilitated other co-conspirators selling directly from these locations, with near daily sales. When search warrants were executed at these and other locations connected with the drug trafficking organization, large quantities of narcotics, currency, firearms and items connected with the distribution of narcotics were found. Inside the trunk of Mr. McKenzie’s BMW 750LI, agents found $33,500, 2.8 kilograms of marijuana, 355 grams of crack cocaine, 700 alprazolam pills, 3051 grams of fentanyl, 1276 grams of heroin mixed with fentanyl, 3178 grams of meth, an AK47-style assault pistol, a 9mm semi-automatic pistol along with a number of items related to the packaging and sale of narcotics. In Mr. McKenzie’s storage unit, law enforcement seized $187,996 cash, 21.2 kilograms of marijuana, 1864 grams of fentanyl, 634 grams of crack cocaine, 276 grams of heroin, as well as ammunition and 16 firearms including rifles, shotguns and pistols.
“A thriving illegal drug ring has been put to an end in Middle Georgia,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our law enforcement partners with the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the Perry Police Department, the Warner Robins Police Department and the FBI spent more than two years investigating this dangerous operation. Middle Georgia is safer because of their efforts, and I thank them for it. Dismantling drug trafficking operations continues to be a priority of this office.”
“It’s now ‘Showtime’ for Travis McKenzie and members of his drug organization as they face a federal judge to learn how long they will be separated from society,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Thanks to the combined investigative efforts of the U.S. Attorney Middle District of Georgia, the FBI’s Macon Resident Agency and the Houston County Sheriff’s Office this organization will no longer wreak havoc on the good citizens of Warner Robins.”
“A joint investigation between the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the Perry Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations has resulted in dismantling the Travis McKenzie Drug Organization. This case is a perfect example of a successful collaboration between local and federal agencies,” said Cullen Talton, Houston County Sheriff. “This operation seized what I believe to be the most heroin and fentanyl in the history of Houston County. I want to thank all of the law enforcement and judicial agencies who contributed to this successful operation.”
This case was investigated by the Houston County S.O., the Perry Police Department, the Warner Robins Police Department and the FBI, with assistance from the DEA. Assistant United States 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.
Elementary School Custodian and Bus Driver Found Guilty of Child Sex EnticementRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A citizen jury has returned a guilty verdict against a North Carolina elementary school custodian charged with enticing a child for sex, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. William Pruitt, 49, of Franklin, North Carolina, was found guilty late Thursday afternoon on one count of Enticing a Minor for Sex. The charge carries a minimum ten years to a maximum life in prison and a $250,000 fine. The trial began Monday, March 4, 2019 in a Columbus federal courtroom, presided over by the Honorable Clay D. Land. There is no parole in the federal system. Mr. Pruitt will be sentenced in June.
According to facts presented at trial, on November 10, 2017 Mr. Pruitt began communicating with an undercover agent posing as a 14-year-old girl named “Brianna” on Craigslist, a popular classified advertisements website. The undercover agent was working on a larger Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) sting that operated from November 9, 2017 until November 13, 2017 centered in Columbus, Georgia, targeting on-line child predators willing to pay to have sex with a child. Approximately 20 individuals were arrested during this operation, including Mr. Pruitt. The undercover agent posted an ad in the personals section on November 9, 2017, and Mr. Pruitt responded the next day. During the online conversation, the undercover agent informed Mr. Pruitt several times that “Brianna” was 14 years old. The online chatting became sexual in nature, with Mr. Pruitt making lewd comments and stating directly that he wished to have sex with the girl, asking the girl to send nude photos of herself and even offering to pay money for the child to send her used underwear to his mother’s house for his personal graphic use. During the correspondence, Mr. Pruitt made clear he was traveling from North Carolina to Columbus to meet the child for sex. On November 12, 2017, Mr. Pruitt was arrested at the front door of the undercover house. Following the arrest, Mr. Pruitt made a voluntary, post-Miranda statement, admitting he knew the child was under the age of consent, that he was meeting the child for sex and that he had been battling sexual fantasies with similar age girls. At the time, Mr. Pruitt was the custodian at a North Carolina elementary school and a school bus driver.
“Sexual crimes against children, particularly when the perpetrator is in a position of trust, are truly the most deplorable crimes in our society today. The defendant’s conviction is part of a much larger effort in Georgia to fight the child sex and pornography trade on the internet,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Law enforcement agencies at every level are successfully working together to arrest and prosecute people who intend to hurt children. This collaboration directly results in children being protected in Georgia.”
“The Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the agencies that are members of the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force will continue to work together to diligently and proactively seek out those who wish to do harm to our children,” said Debbie Garner, Commander of the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Special Agent in Charge of the Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit at the GBI.
The Georgia ICAC Task Force is comprised of 200+ local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, other related criminal justice agencies and prosecutor’s offices. The mission of the ICAC Task Force, created by the U. S. Department of Justice and managed and operated by the GBI in Georgia, is to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in developing an effective response to cyber enticement and child pornography cases. This support encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, prevention and community education. The ICAC Program was developed in response to the increasing number of children and teenagers using the internet, the proliferation of child pornography, and the heightened online activity by predators searching for unsupervised contact with underage victims. By helping state and local law enforcement agencies develop effective and sustainable responses to online child victimization and child pornography, the ICAC program delivers national resources at the local level.
This case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CEACC), the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, the Columbus Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Georgia, with assistance from the District Attorney’s Office for Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Crawford Seals 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.
Defendant Charged with Assaulting A South Georgia Postal Worker Has Initial Hearing in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
ALBANY, GA – A man charged in the assault of a federal postal employee Wednesday had an initial appearance today, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Traveyon Devante Wilcox, of Donalsonville, GA, had his initial appearance before The Honorable Thomas Q. Langstaff, U.S. Magistrate Judge. Mr. Wilcox is facing one count of Assault on a Federal Employee, a charge that carries up to 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Mr. Wilcox is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. A bond hearing before Judge Langstaff is expected within three business days.
According to the facts presented to the Court, Mr. Wilcox is accused of assaulting a postal worker on Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at approximately 9:00 a.m. while the postal worker was on the job in Donalsonville (Seminole County), delivering mail in an official capacity. The defendant is accused of entering the postal vehicle during the assault.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Donalsonville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting 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.
Judge Hands Down Strong Sentence to Convicted Felon on Illegal Gun Possession ChargeRead the Press Release
ATHENS – A federal judge in Athens on Tuesday sentenced a convicted felon to 110 months in prison for illegally possessing a gun, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Honorable C. Ashley Royal sentenced Dontavious Maurice Jackson, 30, of Athens to 110 months in federal prison, plus three years supervised release. Mr. Jackson pled guilty in October 2018 to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. There is no parole in the federal system.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department executed a legal search at Jackson’s residence in August 2017. Law enforcement recovered 202.2 grams of marijuana, three digital scales and other drug paraphernalia, plus a loaded Ruger .38 special revolver, a loaded Ruger 9 millimeter semi-automatic pistol, a loaded H&R Model 929 .22 caliber revolver, as well as ammunition. Mr. Jackson has a lengthy criminal history and was previously convicted of Entering an Automobile, Forgery in the First Degree, and Possession of a Controlled Substance out of Athens-Clarke County and Jackson County, respectively.
“This sentence demonstrates that convicted felons with illegal weapons will face serious consequences in the Middle District. Removing firearms from the hands of dangerous criminals remains a top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to thank the Athens-Clarke County Police Department for their partnership, as we continue to work closely together to decrease violent crime.”
This case is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and the Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Easterling prosecuted the case for the Government.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Former Bank Tellers Sentenced to Prison, Ordered to Pay Back $1.6 Million to the Peoples Bank in EatontonRead the Press Release
MACON – Two former bank tellers were sentenced today to prison and ordered to pay more than $1.6 million dollars to the institution they defrauded, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Vicky Martin, 60, of Buckhead (Morgan County), and Brandy Mize, 42, of Eatonton, pled guilty in December to one count of Conspiracy to Defraud a Financial Institution. The Honorable Tillman E. “Tripp” Self sentenced Ms. Martin to 21 months imprisonment and Ms. Mize to 41 months imprisonment, five years supervised release and were ordered to pay restitution jointly and severally to The Peoples Bank in Eatonton, Georgia the entire amount stolen, $1,663,205.25. There is no parole in the federal prison system.
According to the plea agreement, Ms. Mize was the Head Teller and Ms. Martin was employed as the Assistant Head Teller at The People’s Bank. The defendants used their positions of trust starting sometime during 2012 or 2013 to embezzle and misapply bank money by transferring bank funds into their personal bank accounts or into the accounts of family members and associates. The defendants took cash from their teller drawers and, in Ms. Mize’s case, directly from the vault. The defendants also issued cashier’s checks for their benefit, all without valid checks or cash being deposited to the bank to support these transactions. The bank began their internal investigation in March 2016, following reports from colleagues regarding suspicious activity on the bank’s general ledger. The defendants were suspended on March 14, 2016. In all, $1,663,205.25 was stolen from The Peoples Bank.
“Scheming to make money by lying and defrauding others will land you in prison,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “It’s a top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect law abiding citizens and businesses from fraud. The money these defendants stole should have been used to benefit the bank and its employees, shareholders and account holders, not to enrich Ms. Mize and Ms. Martin. With the assistance of our law enforcement partners, we will continue to uncover these conspiracies and prosecute people who abuse their positions of trust.”
“Greed got the best of these two bank employees and this sentencing should make it clear that it wasn’t worth it,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “People in positions of trust must realize if they violate that trust the FBI and federal prosecutors will use every resource possible to make sure they are held accountable.”
"Today's sentence demonstrates the importance of holding people accountable for their crimes, especially those in positions of trust that financial institutions and customers rely on daily to ensure the safety and soundness of banks," said FDIC OIG Special Agent in Charge Kyle A. Myles. "We thank our law enforcement partners for their cooperation in bringing this case to justice.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Atlanta and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), Atlanta. Assistant United States Attorney Paul McCommon is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
U.S. Attorney Broadcasts Call-To-Action, Asking Citizens to Report Criminal Activity to 1-800-CALL-FBIRead the Press Release
MACON— A new call to action in the fight to decrease violent crime in Middle and South Georgia was issued today with the release of a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia. In the PSA, U.S. Attorney Charles “Charlie” Peeler, discusses the impact of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by bringing law enforcement and community stakeholders together to tackle the problem. Mr. Peeler asks citizens to report criminal activity in their neighborhoods by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. In recent years, violent crime rates have remained at or above the national average in some cities in the Middle District of Georgia. Violent crime statistics dropped in Albany and Columbus in 2018, indicating a measure of progress.
“This call to action is a critical next step in the fight to decrease violent crime in our communities,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Law enforcement agencies often rely on tips from courageous citizens who are willing to step up and report dangerous activity. We deserve to raise our families in safe neighborhoods and live our lives without fear of harm. I promise that the United States Attorney’s Office, working with our dedicated law enforcement partners, will relentlessly pursue the most dangerous criminals menacing our society and put them behind bars.”
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) 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. The new PSA can be viewed and shared on the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia’s Facebook Page @usaomdga.
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 Stands with Middle District Law Enforcement, Crimestoppers for Safer CommunitiesRead the Press Release
MACON –United States Attorney Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler stood alongside law enforcement leadership from across the Middle District of Georgia today in support of the region’s collective efforts to make communities safer and deter crime. Macon Regional Crimestoppers, a community-run organization dedicated to increasing the safety of citizens, announced on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 a new quarterly initiative offering a $1,000 reward for the Top 15 Most Wanted within an eight-county area. U.S. Attorney Peeler joined Bibb County Sheriff David Davis and U.S. Marshal John Cary Bittick in vocal support of the non-profit’s dedicated efforts to reduce criminal activity.
“It is imperative that our citizens know there are safe ways for them to report criminal activity, and that many times our cases are founded on the courage of one citizen willing to report a crime,” said Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I am thankful for community groups like Crimestoppers who demonstrate a high level of support for our law enforcement. Crimestoppers relentlessly keeps a spotlight on the most dangerous wanted individuals in our community, and they are making a difference.”
“The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney, U.S. Marshals and Macon Regional Crimestoppers in this new crime fighting initiative,” said David Davis, Bibb County Sheriff. “We owe it to our communities to make every effort to keep innocent citizens out of harm’s way by putting dangerous perpetuators behind bars.”
“Reducing violent crime is a priority for the USMS. I believe that partnerships with the community and our state, local and federal law enforcement partners are the backbone of any effort that will significantly reduce crime,” said John Cary Bittick, U. S. Marshal for the Middle District of Georgia. “I am committed to providing the time and resources of my office to this and any other program that will accomplish this task for middle Georgia.”
“Macon Regional Crimestoppers is committed to helping keep our Communities safe,” said Warren Selby, Jr., Chairman of Macon Regional Crimestoppers. “The removal of these individuals, from our Neighborhoods, will help us achieve this goal. We need our Citizens to help us locate these Criminals. Make the Call!"
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 the Bibb, Baldwin, Houston, Jones, Twiggs, Crawford, Monroe, and Peach regional areas. 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.
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 Grand Jury Indicts Defendant on Bankruptcy Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
MACON – An Albany man was indicted on bankruptcy fraud charges this month by a federal grand jury, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Timothy Wayne Giles, 39, of Albany, GA was indicted on one count of False Bankruptcy Declaration for allegedly making false statements in a bankruptcy petition and one count of False Statements Under Oath in Bankruptcy for allegedly making false statements under oath at a 341 Creditors meeting. An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Mr. Giles faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on each count.
“Citizens need to be aware that any fraud or falsehood in connection with bankruptcy undermines the integrity of the system,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Bankruptcy provides important and necessary protections for those who honestly seek it in times of need. The abuse of that shelter endangers its reliability and does a disservice to creditors, debtors, and the general public. My office will continue to work aggressively with the United States Trustee and our law enforcement partners to protect the fair and legal operation of this financial safety net.”
The case is being investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Trustee’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. McCullers. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Jury Returns Guilty Verdict in Bank Robbery TrialRead the Press Release
ALBANY – The first of two co-defendants charged in the armed robbery of an Albany bank was found guilty following a four day trial, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. A citizen jury found Kamilyah Whitlock, 25, of Albany guilty late Thursday afternoon on all charges, Bank Robbery and Brandishing a Firearm. The trial began Monday, February 18, 2019 and was presided by the Honorable Leslie Gardner, U.S. District Judge. A sentencing date has not been scheduled. The penalties for these crimes are a maximum 25 years in prison for Bank Robbery, and a maximum of life in prison for Brandishing a Firearm.
Ms. Whitlock was masked when she robbed The Renasant Bank at 721 N. Westover Blvd., Albany, GA on November 6, 2017 with more than a dozen customers and employees inside, 1:30 p.m. on a Monday. A co-defendant in this case, Shataz Hampton, 25, of Albany, is charged with one count of Bank Robbery and one count of Brandishing a Firearm. No date has been set for Mr. Hampton’s trial.
“This armed robbery struck fear in the hearts of the people of this community. I want to thank the FBI, Albany Police Department and other state and local law enforcement for their hard work investigating this matter” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “The people of Southwest Georgia want a safe place to raise their families. This conviction sends a message that law enforcement is committed to providing safe neighborhoods to all of our citizens.”
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.
Judge Sentences Final Defendant in Air Force Base Fraud Case; Individuals, Businesses Ordered to Pay Back MillionsRead the Press Release
MACON— The defendant in the center of a scheme to award millions of dollars in military contracts in exchange for illegal kickbacks at Robins Air Force Base was sentenced in federal court Wednesday, announced Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Honorable Marc Treadwell sentenced Mark Cundiff, 60, of Macon, to 36 months in prison followed by two years supervised release, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amounts of $110,050 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and $270,000 to the U.S. Treasury. Two co-defendants and businesses previously entered guilty pleas and were sentenced in this case. Co-defendant Raymond F. Williams of Canton, OH, was sentenced in Albany federal court on January 8, 2019 by the Honorable Leslie Gardner to 60 months in prison, 3 years supervised release and restitution in the amount of $870,000 to the U.S. Department of Defense on the charge of Conspiracy to Bribe a Public Official. In addition, two businesses owned by Mr. Williams, US Technology Corporation (UST) and US Technology Aerospace Engineering Corporation (USTAE) were ordered by Judge Gardner to pay $1,500,000 in fines plus $870,000 in restitution apiece on Money Laundering Conspiracy charges. Co-defendant John Christopher Reynolds of Macon, was sentenced in August 2018 by Judge Treadwell to 12 months and a day for Aiding and Abetting the Giving of a Gratuity to a Public Official. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mr. Cundiff was a long-term Department of Defense employee at Robins Air Force Base (RAFB), working from 1982 until his retirement in January 2014. He was responsible for technical engineering support to military aircraft maintenance operations, and part of his official duties was to prepare a Performance Work Statement (PWS) when RAFB was soliciting bidders for new contracts. A PWS is a document that describes the requirements necessary for a bidding company to meet the needs of the US Air Force on a particular job, and is in place to ensure fairness in the federal bidding process, where contracts can be worth tens of millions of dollars. Sometime in 2004 or 2005, Mr. Williams requested that Mr. Cundiff provide inside help with winning contracts. In exchange for cash payments, Mr. Cundiff wrote each PWS so that the contract requirements could only be met by Mr. Williams. Starting in 2011, Mr. Reynolds funneled payments to Mr. Cundiff from Mr. Williams, by submitting fake invoices to Mr. Williams’ company, UST. Mr. Reynolds was hired by UST to provide engineering support for $40,000 a month, but no work was involved in this sub-contract beyond a few small items. At the time, Mr. Cundiff was living in a home owned by Mr. Reynolds. Mr. Reynolds would take the monthly invoice payment from UST, subtract the rental money he used to pay down the mortgage on the property he owned, and give the remaining balance to Mr. Cundiff. In all, Mr. Cundiff would receive amounts of between $2,000 and $8,000 dollars in kickbacks monthly from when the scheme began in 2004 or 2005 until November 2013. Mr. Cundiff retired from RAFB in January 2014. During the course of the conspiracy, Mr. Williams directed payments from UST in the amount of $870,000 to pay bribes to Mr. Cundiff and to reward Mr. Reynolds and others for serving as intermediaries in the payment of brides to Mr. Cundiff. Mr. Williams received benefits from Mr. Cundiff’s efforts amounting to at least $14,450,000.
“Millions of dollars in federal contracts was directed to one company in exchange for cash bribes—this is not the American way,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “It is a gross injustice for all hard-working, rule-abiding people when a few individuals cheat the system for their benefit. It isn’t fair, and government fraud won’t be tolerated by this Office, especially when it impacts our military.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and Department of Defense/Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Paul C. McCommon, III prosecuted the case for the United States.
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 District Prosecutor Recognized with Shield Award for Work on Kadar Bomb Threat CaseRead the Press Release
MACON – The First Assistant United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia was recognized for his role in the current investigation and prosecution of a U.S./Israeli man indicted for hate crimes and threats to Jewish institutions at the Anti Defamation League’s (ADL) annual SHIELD Awards, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Peter Leary is one of 23 individuals recognized with a SHIELD award in the Michael Kadar case (to learn more about this case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/usisraeli-man-indicted-hate-crime-and-threats-jewish-community-centers-israeli-embassy).
A SHIELD award is an expression of gratitude for law enforcement who courageously protect citizens and uphold the United States constitution, especially recognizing those who successfully respond to hate crimes, extremism, genocide, terrorism and other malicious, illegal acts that undercut our nation’s freedom. Created by ADL in 2010, the name of the award is an acronym for the core values of the law enforcement profession: Service, Honor, Integrity, Excellence, Leadership and Dedication. Recipients are chosen by a committee of more than 20 agency heads in the Washington, DC region, representing more than 90,000 personnel.
“Our office is extremely proud of Peter Leary, who joins a team from across the nation investigating crimes that terrorize our communities and disturb the freedoms that our nation holds dear,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I join our entire office serving the citizens of Middle Georgia in saluting Peter and our other dedicated law enforcement partners for this very worthy recognition.”
The SHIELD awards ceremony was held at the National Press Club, in Washington, DC on Wednesday, February 13, 2019. 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.
Tifton Defendant Pleads Guilty on Drug Charge, Hauling Kilos of Meth, Cocaine on I-75Read the Press Release
MACON – A Tifton woman pled guilty Wednesday on a drug charge after she was arrested carrying four kilos of meth and cocaine in her car with the intent to distribute the illegal drugs, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Anna Maria Lopez-Vazquez, 32, of Tifton, GA entered a guilty plea to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine before the Honorable Marc Treadwell in Macon federal court on February 13, 2019. This charge carries a penalty of ten years up to life in prison, a $10 million fine, and five years supervised release. A sentencing date for Ms. Lopez-Vasquez has not been scheduled.
According to her signed plea agreement, on May 18, 2017, Anna Maria Lopez-Vasquez was driving a Yukon SUV southbound on I-75 in Peach County, Georgia. She was accompanied by a passenger, who was not charged in this crime. A Peach County deputy on patrol in the area spotted the SUV with an obscured license and failing to maintain its lane of traffic, both traffic infractions in Georgia. During the traffic stop, the deputy smelled a strong odor of marijuana. Following a legal search of the vehicle, 2,942 grams of methamphetamine and 999 grams of cocaine were found in three containers, sealed with plastic wrap, hidden inside a sports bag. Ms. Lopez-Vasquez and the passenger were arrested. In a post-arrest interview, Ms. Lopez-Vasquez admitted that the drugs belonged to her. She denied any involvement by the passenger.
“Methamphetamine is one of the most addictive, destructive drugs of our day, and people who profit from its sale will be caught and held accountable in the Middle District of Georgia,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Getting this volume of illegal drugs off the streets saved countless lives. I am grateful for the good work of our local law enforcement teams who continue to do everything in their power to stop the distribution of meth into our communities.”
The case is being investigated by The Drug Enforcement Agency and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Calhoun is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Convicted Felon with Criminal Past Sentenced to 100 Months by Federal Judge on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
ALBANY – A convicted felon with an extensive criminal history was sentenced to 100 months for possession of a firearm today in federal court, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. James T. Parker, 36, of Leary, GA, was sentenced to 100 months, plus three years supervised release, by the Honorable Leslie Gardner. Mr. Parker pled guilty to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon in September 2018. There is no parole in the federal system.
An Albany Police Department officer responded to a report of a robbery by snatching, and witnesses directed the officer to Mr. Parker. During a lawful search of the defendant, the officer immediately felt a weapon, a Jennings .22 caliber pistol with six rounds of ammunition in the gun. Mr. Parker was previously convicted on Possession of Cocaine and Escape charges in Dougherty County Superior Court in January 2017. The defendant was on probation at the time of the arrest.
“Today’s strong sentence shows that our justice system has zero tolerance for dangerous felons who pick up guns and create havoc in our communities,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to applaud the good work of the Albany Police Department, for quickly apprehending a dangerous person, and for their partnership helping making our region safer.”
The case was investigated by the Albany Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Crane 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.
Drug Dealer Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 1,980 Grams of MethRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A defendant caught in a drug sting with almost 2,000 grams of methamphetamine and more than $11,000 in cash was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Amber Hass, 30, of Columbus, GA was sentenced to 96 months for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute by the Honorable Clay D. Land in Columbus federal court. Ms. Hass pled guilty to this charge in November 2018. There is no parole in the federal system.
Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Columbus Police Department received information regarding a large delivery of meth that would occur near a local restaurant on Bradley Park Drive in Columbus on December 5, 2017. Agents established surveillance in the general vicinity, and monitored Ms. Hass exiting her vehicle, carrying a bag which contained $11,720 and entering a car occupied by co-defendant Maria Lopez, 22, of Atlanta. Ms. Hass admitted that she attempted to exchange the cash for 1,980 grams of meth, which agents found located inside Ms. Lopez’s center console. Ms. Lopez is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.
“Methamphetamine is destroying lives in our communities every single day,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Ms. Hass was directly involved in distributing an enormous quantity of this illegal drug across the Columbus area, and I am grateful our dedicated law enforcement partners were able to stop this significant drug deal. Our office will continue to stand with law enforcement agents who are putting their lives on the line daily to protect our communities from meth, and the terrible harm this drug creates.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Columbus Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melvin Hyde is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Defendant Involved in Defrauding Stepson's Business of Close to One Million Sentenced on Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A defendant who testified last month that she was duped by an Alabama woman into conspiring to steal money from a Columbus business was sentenced today in Columbus federal court, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Honorable Clay D. Land sentenced Darlene Corbett, 65, of Phenix City, Alabama to 24 months in prison on Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, a charge she pled guilty to in July 2018. There is no parole in the federal system.
In her plea agreement, Ms. Corbett admitted she embezzled over $950,000 as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of The Grand Reserve of Columbus, an apartment complex owned by her stepson. Ms. Corbett later testified at the trial of her co-defendant, Dorita Clay, 51, of Selma, Alabama, in January 2019. Under oath, Ms. Corbett testified that the money she embezzled all went to Ms. Clay and was in the service of various schemes that Ms. Clay had convinced her were legitimate, include a pending multi-million dollar estate settlement and a multi-million lawsuit settlement that Ms. Clay claimed she was about to receive. Ms. Corbett further admitted at trial that she had conspired with Ms. Clay to embezzle the money, to then conceal the theft and deceive the FBI with a false story about business loans.
Both at trial and in her signed plea agreement filed with the court, Ms. Corbett admitted that the business loan story was not true and she had been induced to steal from her employer by Ms. Clay, who promised Corbett a future financial windfall. Even after being fired by The Grand Reserve in 2016, Ms. Corbett admitted to giving Ms. Clay her life’s savings, which she estimated was approximately $500,000. A Columbus jury found Ms. Clay guilty on 21 counts of Wire Fraud and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud on January 9, 2019. Ms. Clay will be sentenced for her crimes on April 9, 2019.
“The scheme of lies and theft concocted by Ms. Clay, and supported by Ms. Corbett, caused great harm to a reputable business and numerous individuals,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Today, Ms. Corbett has been held accountable for her role in this illegal racket, and soon Ms. Clay will have to face the consequences of swindling large amounts of money from her victims. I want to recognize the good investigative work of our law enforcement partners in helping bring an end to this fraud.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals 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.
Second Defendant Convicted in Multi-Million Dollar Scheme Defrauding Bibb County Schools, TaxpayersRead the Press Release
MACON— A panel of citizen jurors returned a guilty verdict this evening following a one week trial of a man involved in a complex scheme to defraud the Bibb County School System (BCSD), said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Dave Carty, 49, of Macon, was found guilty on one count of wire fraud Friday evening. The Honorable Marc Treadwell presided over the trial, which began Monday, January 28, 2019 in Macon federal court. Mr. Carty was charged in connection to the sale of 15,000 NComputing devices for $3.7 million to upgrade classroom technology for BCSD in 2012. A co-defendant, Isaac Culver, was found guilty in July 2018 by a jury of his peers for conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, ten (10) counts of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, and conspiracy to launder the proceeds of unlawful activity. Mr. Culver was sentenced to 87 months in prison and three years supervised release in November. Today’s wire fraud conviction carries a maximum 20 years imprisonment and $250,000 fine. A sentencing date has not been set for Mr. Carty.
“The conviction of Dave Carty affirmatively denounces the greed and corruption of two businessmen who stole from the Bibb County School System. The damage done was more than money. These individuals stole the opportunity for an improved education for Bibb County school children. Mr. Carty will now be held accountable for his crime, just as Isaac Culver, who sits behind bars today, was held accountable for his crimes. Today’s verdict offers our citizens a measure of justice and brings to a close what has been a difficult period for the Bibb County School System and the entire Macon community,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth Howard and Danial Bennett are prosecuting the case for the Government with participation and cooperation of Special Assistant U.S. Attorney David McLaughlin from the Georgia Office of the Attorney General.
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.
Judge Denies Bond for Defendant Charged in Renasant Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
ALBANY – The man charged with holding up an Albany bank at gunpoint has been denied bond today by a Federal Magistrate Judge, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Shataz Hampton, 25, of Albany is charged with one count of Bank Robbery and one count of Possession of a Firearm, along with co-defendant Kamilyah Whitlock, 25, of Albany. The two defendants are charged in the armed robbery of the Renasant Bank at 721 N. Westover Blvd., Albany, GA on November 6, 2017. The Honorable Thomas Langstaff, U.S. District Magistrate Court, detained Mr. Hampton on January 30, 2019 until trial. No date has been set.
“I am pleased the Court granted our motion to detain Mr. Hampton, a man alleged to have brandished a gun and robbed a bank in broad daylight, with innocent customers and employees inside,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Rest assured, we will prosecute those accused of violent acts to the fullest extent of the law, and we will continue to vigorously seek the highest level of punishment for people who commit the most egregious crimes.”
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.
Four Convicted Felons Plead Guilty or Sentenced in Albany on Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY – Four defendants in four unique cases entered guilty pleas or were sentenced in Project Safe Neighborhoods related cases today, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN) is a Department of Justice initiative to partner with local law enforcement to reduce violent crime rates, remove guns from the hands of convicted felons and ultimately make communities safer. In the Middle District of Georgia, the federal prosecutions of gun crimes increased by 25% in 2018 over 2017.
The four defendants are as follows:
Rontavis Davis, 39, of Albany, Georgia, was sentenced to 120 months and three years supervised release by the Honorable Leslie Gardner on one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. According to the plea agreement, drugs and a pistol were found on Mr. Davis during a routine traffic stop in Dougherty County in February 2018. Mr. Davis was previously convicted of Theft by Receiving Stolen Property and Forgery on June 13, 1997, Child Molestation on May 5, 1997, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon on August 1, 2002, Possession of Cocaine on August 20, 2007, Failure to Register as a Sex Offender on August 20, 2007, and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute on September 13, 2013, all cases in Dougherty County Superior Court. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen is prosecuting this case for the Government.
Isiah Price, 28, of Dawson, GA, was sentenced to 48 months and three years supervised release by the Honorable Leslie Gardner on one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. According to the indictment, Mr. Price was illegally in possession of a 9mm caliber handgun. A police report reveals that the handgun was found in Mr. Price’s possession during the investigation of an aggravated assault. Mr. Price was previously convicted of the felony offense of Theft by Taking Motor Vehicle in Terrell County Superior Court. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Dasher is prosecuting this case for the Government.
LaFabian Savage, 23, of Cordele, GA, was sentenced to 30 months and three years supervised release by the Honorable Leslie Gardner on one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and one count of Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute. According to the plea agreement, Mr. Savage fled from police on foot when law enforcement officers were attempting to execute a warrant at a Cordele business in January 2017. When Mr. Savage was apprehended, he had two bags of marijuana weighing a total of 51 grams, scales and a loaded revolver. Mr. Savage was previously convicted of Theft by Taking in Crisp County Superior Court. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Dasher is prosecuting this case for the Government.
Kenneth Diamond Fountain, 28, of Valdosta, GA entered a guilty plea before the Honorable Louis Sands on one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. According to the plea agreement, Mr. Fountain was arrested on April 5, 2018 in Valdosta on two violent felony warrants, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Possession of Firearm or Knife During the Commission or Attempt to Commit Certain Felonies. These charges stem from an assault with a handgun on June 24, 2017 in which Mr. Fountain was allegedly the shooter, and authorities had been searching for Mr. Fountain since the incident. While a fugitive, there were a series of shootings in which Mr. Fountain was mentioned as a person of interest. Mr. Fountain was previously convicted of Assault with a Deadly Weapon in Lowndes County Superior Court. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Bowen is prosecuting this case for the Government.
“Guns do not belong in the hands of criminals, and as evidenced by the number of gun-related federal prosecutions in Albany today, law enforcement in our communities are relentless in their pursuit of stopping criminal activity by repeat felons,” said Charles Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Reducing violent crime is a priority for this Office, and we will continue to be ready to assist our local law enforcement partners in this mutual goal.”
“I appreciate the fact we have the teeth with a felony prosecution to go after the most dangerous people in our community who carry armed weapons,” said Greg Edwards, District Attorney for the Dougherty Judicial Circuit (Albany). “These are convicted felons, with guns, and it is vital to take away guns from people that shouldn’t have them. Convicted felons with guns will get serious time, and I hope this message sinks in for those out there who want to break the law.”
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) 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 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.
Four Plead Guilty to Filing Hundreds of Fake Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS — Four defendants pleaded guilty Tuesday to a scheme defrauding the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by using stolen identities to file tax returns and obtain refunds, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Erica D. Wise, 33, Ciourziae Weaver, 27, Linda Weaver, 52, and April Byrd, 40, all of Columbus, GA, entered guilty pleas to Conspiracy to Defraud the United States in the Collection of Income Taxes on January 22, 2019 before the Honorable Clay D. Land. The crimes are punishable to a term of imprisonment of up to five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both, and up to three (3) years of supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for April 11, 2019 before Chief Judge Land.
According to the plea agreements, the defendants conspired together to file multiple fraudulent tax returns from March 2012 to September 2013 under the business Wise Tax, using the names and personal information of real taxpayers, unknown to those victims. The defendants used four addresses around Columbus to accept mailed refunds, totaling 316 fraudulently filed refunds. The defendants conspired together to deposit the tax refunds, and further shielded their illegal activity by using stolen identities as named income tax return preparers. None of the preparers had any knowledge of, or involvement with, the scheme.
“This tax return scheme enacted in Columbus is vast, with several layers of fraud concocted to not only steal people’s identities but also defraud the government,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “With tax season in full swing, I want to remind would be criminals that our office will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those defrauding the government through tax schemes. I want to applaud the good work of the IRS in helping unravel this conspiracy.”
This case was investigated by the IRS and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mel Hyde.
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.
A Mexican National, with Prior Drug Convictions in Metro Atlanta, Pleads Guilty to Distributing Meth Behind BarsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, GA – A Mexican citizen serving a sentence in a Georgia prison, pleaded guilty Thursday on a federal charge of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Jose Calderon, 40, of Mexico entered a guilty plea on January 10, 2019 before the Honorable Leslie Gardner in Albany federal court. Prior to his federal plea, Mr. Calderon was convicted in Gwinnett County Superior Court on January 22, 2004 for Trafficking in Methamphetamine. He was convicted again in Clayton County Superior Court on December 22, 2010 for Trafficking in Cocaine and Trafficking in Methamphetamine. Mr. Calderon will be sentenced by Judge Gardner on April 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in Albany. Mr. Calderon’s possible federal sentence will increase to a minimum of 15 years in prison as a result of his state convictions, including deportation.
According to the plea agreement, Mr. Calderon was actively serving sentences for both state offenses at the Wheeler Correctional Facility. In 2016, while an inmate, Mr. Calderon used a contraband cell phone to broker the illegal distribution of kilos of methamphetamine to known major drug dealers across the state, including Borris Fuller, of Moultrie, GA, and Antron Miles of Tifton who were each previously sentenced to 360 months in federal prison in October 2018 Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Federal agents obtained authorization to wiretap cell phones, and use visual and electronic surveillance, in order to identify Mr. Calderon’s illegal activities from prison. Several of these operations resulted in the seizure of kilos of methamphetamine before they hit the streets for distribution. Mr. Calderon directed another inmate to distribute ½ to 1 kilogram of meth, three times a week, to Mr. Fuller. Under Mr. Calderon’s orders, meth was distributed in communities across the state, including Atlanta, Moultrie and Tifton, and parts of Florida.
“Mr. Calderon was orchestrating major meth deals behind bars, and thanks to the combined efforts of DEA, GBI and the Georgia Department of Corrections, law enforcement put an end to his illegal dealings and the illegal dealings of his distributers,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our law enforcement agencies do not tolerate illegal activities happening within our jails and prisons, and we will continue to pursue and prosecute prisoners engaging in criminal behavior while serving prison sentences.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Georgia Bureau of Investigations, and Georgia Department of Corrections. Assistant United States Attorney Leah E. McEwen 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.
Macon Educator Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Possessing Hundreds of Child Pornography ImagesRead the Press Release
MACON – A Macon resident was sentenced to 90 months in prison, followed by 25 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to one count of Possession of Child Pornography, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The Honorable Marc Treadwell handed down the sentence to Robert Anthony Smith, 44, in Macon federal court Wednesday morning. Mr. Smith will be required to make restitution payments to the victims identified in the images he possessed and register as a sex offender.
According to the plea agreement, the Atlanta office of Homeland Security Investigations was notified by the New Zealand Digital Child Exploitation Team in August 2017 about individuals using an online forum called “Chatstep” to post images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children. The investigation led to the execution of a federal search warrant at Mr. Smith’s home, where six computers, an iPad, iPhone, and two external hard drives were seized on December 1, 2017. Forensic examiners found that three of the devices contained 454 image files and 19 video files of minors being sexually exploited. Some images involved children under the age of twelve, including infants and toddlers being sexually abused. At the time, Mr. Smith was a special education teacher at Central High School in Macon.
“Here we have a teacher, charged with protecting young people, viewing hundreds of scenes of children being sexually exploited in the most heinous ways imaginable. The sexual exploitation of children is a crime that will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I want to acknowledge the excellent investigative work of Homeland Security in rooting out Mr. Smith’s criminal activities.”
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker 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.
An Illegal Aggravated Felon with A Prior Meth Conviction Sentenced to 24 Months for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
ATHENS – An illegal aggravated felon was sentenced to 24 months today for re-entering the United States after being deported in 2014, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Dionicio Garcia Aguirre, of Mexico, was sentenced in Athens, Georgia federal court by the Honorable C. Ashley Royal. Mr. Aguirre will be deported for a second time following this latest term of imprisonment.
Mr. Aguirre was first convicted in Athens federal court on March 10, 2010 of Possession with Intent to Distribute more than 500 grams of Methamphetamine. After serving a prison sentence, Mr. Aguirre was deported in June 2014. On November 2, 2017, U.S. Probation filed a petition to revoke Mr. Aguirre’s supervised release on the methamphetamine conviction after gaining knowledge of his illegal presence in Franklin County, Georgia. In February 2018, Mr. Aguirre was arrested for a traffic offense, and was later taken into federal custody.
“This convicted felon was deported by the government after serving a sentence for distributing a large quantity of illegal meth in our state, and then completely ignored the clear direction of the United States to never cross illegally into our country again,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “The illegal re-entry of criminals into our country is a serious offense, and we will continue to protect our citizens by enforcing the law. I want to thank investigators with Immigration and Customs Enforcement for their work in this matter.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett 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.
Mauk Man Sentenced to 121 Months on Child Porn ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A man who pled guilty in September for child pornography was sentenced to 121 months in a federal prison Wednesday, said Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Steven Derek Dukes, 35, of Mauk, Georgia, located about 30 miles away from Columbus, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Clay D. Land on January 2, 2019. As a condition of his sentencing, Mr. Dukes will be required to register as a sex offender and will also have ten (10) years supervised release.
Mr. Dukes admitted that he had exchanged emails with an individual under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The two discussed their past sexual experiences and fantasies involving young boys. Mr. Dukes also admitted to exchanging files of child pornography with the individual under FBI investigation. On May 5, 2018, FBI agents executed a search warrant and seized Mr. Dukes’ computer. Subsequent forensic analysis revealed numerous depictions of child pornography on electronic devices seized from Mr. Dukes’ residence. Mr. Dukes waived his Miranda rights and confessed to receiving child pornography. He pled guilty to one count of Receipt of Child Pornography in front of Judge Land on September 5, 2018.
“Sex crimes involving children are despicable, and the use of pornographic images of kids for a person’s sexual gratification is abusive and only proliferates this sick business,” said Charles Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Mr. Dukes’ case required skilled investigators to piece together his involvement in child porn. We will track down and prosecute criminals engaging in child sex crimes. I want to commend the FBI for their good work.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Crawford Seals is prosecuting 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.
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments Charging 25 Individuals in DecemberRead the Press Release
MACON— A federal grand jury has returned indictments during the month of December. Charles “Charlie” E. Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announced Monday, December 31, 2018 that the grand jury true billed indictments charging 25 new individuals. 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.
“The successful collaboration between law enforcement at every level helped bring these cases before a federal grand jury,” said U.S. Attorney Peeler. “I want to thank our local, state and federal law enforcement for their dedication and hard work.”
Indictment #1
JANARVIS TUCKER, 21, of Sandy Springs, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Tucker faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years up to the possibility of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Howard.
Indictment #2
CLIFFORD TERRELL, 43, of Barnesville, Georgia is charged with the following:
1-3) Bank Robbery
If convicted on Counts 1-3, Mr. Terrell faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison on each count.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Forsyth Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. Keyes.
Indictment #3
MARCRESS WILLIAMS a/k/a “BEAST”, 26, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
2-4) Distribution of Methamphetamine
5) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
STEPHANIE THOMAS, 25, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
2-4) Distribution of Methamphetamine
5) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
If convicted on Count 1 and/or Count 5, Mr. Williams and Ms. Thomas face maximum sentences of life in prison, a $10,000,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Counts 2-4, the defendants face a maximum of 40 years in prison, a $5,000,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts.
Indictment #4
CLAUDIA WASHINGTON, 59, of Valdosta, Georgia is charged with the following:
1 and 4) Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin
2) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methadone and Hydrocodone
3) Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin
If convicted on Counts 1-4, Ms. Washington faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine, or both, on each count.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit.
Indictment #5
RANDY ANGELO HILL, 32, of Tifton, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Bank Robbery
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Hill faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tifton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael T. Solis.
Indictment #6
RUSBELY LUCAS-CARBAJAL, 33, of Mexico is charged with the following:
1) Illegal Reentry into the United States
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Lucas-Carbajal faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
Indictment #7
HECTOR BAROJAS-SANCHEZ, 33, of Mexico is charged with the following:
1) Illegal Reentry into the United States
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Barojas-Sanchez faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
Indictment #8
MARCOS LEON-CRUZ, 46, of Mexico is charged with the following:
1) Illegal Reentry into the United States
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Leon-Cruz faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
Indictment #9
GILBERTO AMBROSIO-RAMIREZ, 28, of Mexico is charged with the following:
1) Illegal Reentry into the United States
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Ambrosio-Ramirez faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
In addition to the above indictments, the following individuals were indicted for firearms offenses. All of these cases were brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN was launched in 2001 by the Office of the Attorney General.
Indictment #10
LAXAVIER PATTERSON, 39, of Valdosta, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee
2) Possession of a Stolen Firearm
3) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Counts 1-3, Mr. Patterson faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on each count.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Valdosta Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit.
Indictment #11
JOHMAR CHANDLER, 40, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
2) Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
3) Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute
4) Simple Possession of a Controlled Substance
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Chandler faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Chandler faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Chandler faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $2,000,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 4, Mr. Chandler faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison, a minimum $2,500 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Williams.
Indictment #12
FREDDIE CLARK, 42, of Columbus, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
2) Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute
3) Possession of a Firearm in furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Clark faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Clark faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $8,000,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Clark faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbus Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Williams.
Indictment #13
ARRINGTON CULPEPPER, 33, of Columbus, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Culpepper faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Community Supervision and the Columbus Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Williams.
Indictment #14
CALVIN AMOS, 35, of Albany, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine
2) Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana
3) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
4) Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Amos faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Amos faces a maximum of five (5) years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Amos faces ten (10) years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted on Count 4, Mr. Amos faces five (5) years to life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Albany Dougherty Drug Unit and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Crane.
Indictment #15
DADGE PARRISH, 32, of Columbus, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession with Intent to Distribute Xanax
2) Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
3) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Parrish faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Parrish faces a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of five (5) years with a maximum of life in prison and a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Parrish faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Georgia State Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
Indictment #16
JOSHUA WAYNE COKER, 37, of Hartwell, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
2) Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Coker faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Coker faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, consecutive to any time imposed for Count 1, a $250,000.00 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Hartwell Sheriff’s Office, with collaboration from Parks White, District Attorney for the Northern Judicial Circuit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett.
Indictment #17
IDRIS SHAMSID-DEEN, 32, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Person who has been Convicted of a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Shamsid-Deen faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. Keyes.
Indictment #18
BRANDON WILLIAMS, 25, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
2) Simple Possession of a Controlled Substance
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Williams faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Williams faces a maximum sentence of one (1) year in prison, a $1,000 minimum fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the 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 Will R. Keyes.
Indictment #19
RONNIE LEE HUGHES, 38, of Griffin, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted, Mr. Hughes faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Lamar County Sheriff’s Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCommon.
Indictment #20
TYLAUN RASHARD MULLINS, 19, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee
2) Possession of a Stolen Firearm
CHRISTIAN JABARI BLACK, 19, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee
JACQUES STEWART, 20, of Macon, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Mullins, Mr. Black and Mr. Stewart face a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000.00 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Mullins faces the same additional penalties.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCommon.
Indictment #21
ISAIAH WALKER, 34, of Valdosta, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Walker faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. McCullers.
Indictment #22
DAVEY BARGE, JR., 37, of Moultrie, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Barge faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Moultrie Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. McCullers.
Questions concerning this release should 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.
Repeat Violent Felon with 31 Prior Arrests Sentenced to 22 Years on Meth, Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS – A repeat felon with 31 prior arrests and three prior felony convictions was sentenced Tuesday in federal court on drug and gun charges, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Clint Walker, 35 of Columbus, GA was sentenced to 264 months for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute and 120 months concurrent for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon by the Honorable Clay D. Land on December 18, 2018.
According to the plea agreement, Mr. Walker was stopped by the Columbus Police Department on December 19, 2017 for not wearing a seat belt. The vehicle Mr. Walker was driving also did not have proper tag lights. Mr. Walker exited the car, appeared agitated, and told the officer he had no license, was driving a relative’s car and was a convicted felon on probation. During an officer safety pat down, marijuana was found on Mr. Walker and he was placed under arrest. Inside the vehicle, 111 grams of 77% pure methamphetamine was found, along with a scale, baggies and small quantities of other drugs. Wedged between the driver’s seat and the center console was a Star 9mm semi-automatic pistol. The entire incident was captured by the officer’s body camera.
Mr. Walker has been convicted of the following felony crimes, all in Muscogee County (GA) Superior Court:
1. On or about 10/6/05, Robbery by Force
2. On or about 3/15/11, Possession of a Sawed Off Shotgun, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
3. On or about 7/18/14, Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Xanax with Intent to Distribute
“A career criminal with a violent history will spend the next two decades behind bars, no longer causing havoc and misery for Muscogee County citizens” said Charles Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Violent, repeat offenders are not welcome in our communities, and keeping them off our streets will continue to be a primary focus of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Thank you to the good work of the Columbus Police Department and our law enforcement partners for helping in this case.”
Mr. Walker’s case 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. 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, with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals 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.