Southern District of Georgia

AUGUSTA, GA: Preston Q. Howard, 50, of Wright City, Missouri, was sentenced today by Chief United States District Court Judge J. Randal Hall, to 24 months in prison for obstructing persons in the free exercise of religious beliefs, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 247(a)(2). His sentence included an enhancement because he chose his victims based on their religion, thereby committing a hate crime. When imposing the sentence, Chief Judge Hall noted Howard’s “disturbing pattern of intolerance of many groups of people,” and the Court’s intent to afford a deterrent to similar criminal conduct by Howard and others who may believe and act as he did. 

“Threats of violence based on religious beliefs have no place in our country,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute hate crime offenders.”

“Threats made against houses of worship are abhorrent and this Office will work tirelessly to ensure that members of all faiths may worship in peace and without intimidation,” said U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine. “The United States Attorney’s Office, in concert with our law enforcement partners, will work tirelessly to protect our houses of worship.”

According to information presented at Howard’s guilty-plea and sentencing hearings, between June 22, 2017 and Aug 8, 2017, Howard made numerous telephone calls to the Islamic Society of Augusta (ISA), during which he threatened to “kill,” “bomb,” “shoot,” “behead,” “slaughter,” “execute,” “light on fire,” and “murder” members of the mosque, to “hunt down” and “zone in” on Muslims, and to “blow up the mosque.”  Howard admitted committing these acts and  obstructing or attempting to obstruct the mosque members’ free exercise of their religious beliefs.

“The FBI will not tolerate threats and intimidation against anyone because of their religion or their beliefs,” said Murang Pak, Acting Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “No one should feel they have the right to instill fear in our citizens and rob them of their sense of safety in their communities and particularly where they choose to practice their faith.”

In response to Howard’s threats, the ISA upgraded their security system, and hired off-duty officers to provide added security during services and community events. Howard was ordered to pay almost $30,000 in restitution to cover those costs. 

The FBI Atlanta Field Division investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Nancy Greenwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States, in consultation with the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA:    United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine announces the conviction and sentence of John Jordan, Jr. (52), of Bloomingdale, Georgia.  Today, United States District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood sentenced John Jordan, Jr. to 225 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Earlier this year, a jury deliberated less than an hour before finding him guilty of the charge.  When he is released from prison, he will be on Court supervision for three years.  There is no parole in the federal system. 

As outlined at the sentencing hearing and trial, on April 28, 2016, Savannah Chatham Police Officers responded to the scene of a one vehicle crash in Savannah, Georgia.  Upon arrival, they found John Jordan, Jr., trapped in the vehicle.  After first responders cut him loose from the vehicle, paramedics transported him to the hospital.  During transport, one of the paramedics observed a firearm tucked into Jordan’s waistband.  A paramedic secured it; and police later collected it as evidence.  Jordan was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was a convicted felon. 

At sentencing, federal prosecutors argued for a significant sentence based on the serious nature of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history that included over fifty prior convictions, including over 20 felony state convictions, over 33 misdemeanor state convictions, and multiple violations of parole and probation.  Among Mr. Jordan’s many crimes, he previously fought a female police officer and bent her finger back breaking the bone and tendons, rendering it useless.

In sentencing Mr. Jordan, Judge Wood emphasized that in her eleven years on the bench, Mr. Jordan had the second most extensive criminal history she had ever encountered.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine states:  “For decades Mr. Jordan has been a menace.  He has burglarized a home, stole vehicles, drove while intoxicated, threatened citizens and police officers, escaped from custody, beat people, obstructed justice, committed arson, and possessed a firearm in violation of the law.  Today, his decades of criminal activity have caught up with him; and now he has almost two decades of prison time to reflect on the life he has lived.  Let this sentence serve as a message to other menaces in our community:  Gun Crime Equals Jail Time.”   

ATF Resident Agent in Charge Tim Graden states:  “John Jordan Jr. has made a career out of breaking the law.  The sentence that Jordan received represents the seriousness of his crimes. ATF’s mission is to bring criminals like Jordan to justice.  We will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Savannah Police Department in order to reduce violent crime in our community.”

This case was investigated by the Savannah Police Department (previously Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Josephson and Greg Gilluly.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA:   The United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia entered a default judgment against Dr. Firoz Patka, of Martinez, Georgia, totaling $1.2 million.  In May 2017, the United States filed a complaint against Dr. Patka for violations of the Controlled Substances Act based on his pre-signing of prescriptions involving opioids and other controlled substances.   After being served with the complaint, Dr. Patka failed to answer or otherwise appear in the case.  After an evidentiary hearing related to Dr. Patka’s liability and damages, the Court ordered that Dr. Patka be held civilly liable to the United States for $1.2 million in penalties.  

DEA initiated an investigation into Dr. Patka’s practices in 2015 after receiving reports of his illegal prescription practices.  Dr. Patka practiced medicine in Louisville, Georgia; Hephzibah, Georgia; and Thomas, Georgia.  Based on its investigation, DEA determined that on no fewer than 299 occasions, Dr. Patka pre-signed a prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of a physician’s responsibilities under the Controlled Substances Act.  The entry of the $1.2 million judgment against Dr. Patka serves as the largest diversion penalty assessed against an individual physician for Controlled Substance Act violations in the history of the Southern District of Georgia and, based on information collected by DEA, the second largest penalty against a physician across the country for this type of conduct.   

 “Medical professionals—and particularly physicians—must serve as a bulwark against prescription drug abuse.  When physicians fail to meet their obligations, this Office, working together with our partners at DEA, will step in and use every tool we have available to protect the public,” said U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine. 

Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division commented on the case, “The sharp increase in consumption of opiates being distributed for non-medical reasons continues to be a major concern. Consequently, DEA Diversion Investigators will continue to pursue physicians and other medical practitioners who engage in egregious prescribing practices. This record-setting civil penalty in the state of Georgia shows that DEA, the entire law enforcement community, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are committed to making sure, that physicians and other medical practitioners are abiding by proper prescribing guidelines.”

U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the DEA Savannah Resident Office, which investigated the case.  Group Supervisor George M. Taylor and Diversion Investigator George Zuban led the investigation with assistance from Diversion Investigators Dwayne Jeffcoat and Michael Jones and Diversion Program Manager David M. Hargroder.  

The United States previously reached civil settlements with multiple physician assistants involved in the alleged scheme.  Assistant United States Attorneys Shannon H. Statkus (Civil Chief) and J. Thomas Clarkson (Deputy Chief) represented the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with assistance from Assistant United States Attorneys Bradford Patrick and Jonathan Porter. 

If you have any information regarding to potential illegal diversion of controlled substances, please contact Assistant United States Attorney J. Thomas Clarkson at (912) 652-4422 or DEA Group Supervisor George M. Taylor (912) 447-4430.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) Secretary Alex M. Azar III, announced today the largest ever health care fraud enforcement action involving 601 charged defendants across 58 federal districts, including 165 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes involving more than $2 billion in false billings.  Of those charged, 162 defendants, including 76 doctors, were charged for their roles in prescribing and distributing opioids and other dangerous narcotics.  Thirty state Medicaid Fraud Control Units also participated in today’s arrests.  In addition, HHS announced today that from July 2017 to the present, it has excluded 2,700 individuals from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs, which includes 587 providers excluded for conduct related to opioid diversion and abuse.  In the past fiscal year, the Department of Justice, including the Civil Division, has collectively won or negotiated over $2 billion in judgments and settlements related to matters alleging health care fraud.

Today’s enforcement actions were led and coordinated by the Criminal Division, Fraud Section’s Health Care Fraud Unit in conjunction with its Medicare Fraud Strike Force (MFSF) partners, a partnership between the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney’s Offices, the FBI and HHS-OIG.  In addition, the operation includes the participation of the DEA, DCIS, IRS-CI, Department of Labor, other various federal law enforcement agencies, and State Medicaid Fraud Control Units. 

The charges announced today aggressively target schemes billing Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE (a health insurance program for members and veterans of the armed forces and their families), and private insurance companies for medically unnecessary prescription drugs and compounded medications that often were never even purchased and/or distributed to beneficiaries.  The charges also involve individuals contributing to the opioid epidemic, with a particular focus on medical professionals involved in the unlawful distribution of opioids and other prescription narcotics, a particular focus for the Department.  According to the CDC, approximately 115 Americans die every day of an opioid-related overdose.  

As part of this national enforcement action, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia announced the district’s largest takedown in history, including following public enforcement actions:

• A federal grand jury in Savannah indicted Dr. Frank H. Bynes, Jr on thirty-nine counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances, including opioids, and nine counts of health care fraud.  The indictment alleges that Bynes knowingly and intentionally distributed and dispensed, and caused to be distributed and dispensed, controlled substances that were not prescribed for a legitimate medical purpose and were not distributed and dispensed in the usual course of professional practice in a number of ways, including by prescribing inappropriate combinations of opioids and other controlled substances and engaging in unprofessional conduct with female patients.  The indictment also alleges that health care programs paid for a number of substances improperly prescribed by Bynes during his “pill mill” operation.

• In Savannah, the United States charged Roderic Bain by criminal information with one count of making false statements relating to federal health care matters. According to the information, Bain fraudulently schemed from 2008 to 2018 to claim at least $1.5 million in reimbursements from Medicare for durable medical equipment that a physician never actually ordered.   

• In Augusta, the United States charged Jonathan Austin by criminal information with one count of health care fraud and one count of making a false statement for use in determining Social Security Administration disability benefits. Austin allegedly created false and fraudulent documentation from 2015 to 2017 to make it appear as if he had been prescribed certain medications by a physician and as if he had filled and paid for those prescriptions at several local pharmacies.  Austin claimed and received over $1.4 million in reimbursements from Tricare and Medicare for the purchase of these medications. However, as Austin knew, the prescriptions were never filled, and he had not incurred any of the claimed expenses.  Additionally, the information alleges that Austin also submitted false documentation to the Social Security Administration in support of his application for disability insurance benefits.

• In Statesboro, the United States charged Evelyn Gay by criminal information with two counts of theft from a program receiving federal funds. According to the information, Gay fraudulently obtained and misapplied over $79,000 belonging to the Georgia Legal Services Program and Aging & Disability Advocacy Group, Inc., both of which receive federal funds through grant programs offered by the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

• In Statesboro, the United States charged Christopher Dubois by criminal information with one count of making false statements relating to federal health care matters. Allegedly, Dubois created false prescriptions in 2013 in connection with claims submitted to the Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan.

• In Brunswick, the United States charged Paula Padgett by criminal information with one count of false statement for use in determining a federal health care benefit.  From 2013 to 2017, Padgett allegedly prepared and submitted certain “Medical Travel Refund Request” forms to the Office of Worker’s Compensation Programs under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act when Padgett knew that certain expenses claimed on the forms had not been incurred.

• In Savannah, the United States charged Kristian Hall by criminal information with one count of identity theft.  Hall allegedly used the name and Drug Enforcement Agency Registration Number of another individual without lawful authority to obtain controlled substances. 

• Recently in Augusta, Dr. John Glenn pled guilty to conspiring to falsify documents pertaining to Department of Transportation mandated medical examinations of holders of commercial driver’s licenses in exchange for cash.

• Earlier this month in Augusta, a federal jury convicted Eastman resident Dr. Mark Griffis following a three-day trial of conspiring to falsify documents pertaining to Department of Transportation mandated medical examinations of holders of commercial driver’s licenses.

• The United States and the State of Georgia reached a $739,711.15 civil settlement with Antioch Medical Associates, which does business as Antioch Foot & Ankle Group, based out of Savannah, Georgia. Based on its investigation, the United States and State of Georgia contended that Antioch Medical Associates improperly billed Medicare and Medicaid for nail debridement, evaluation, management, and therapy services for which Antioch was not entitled to reimbursement.

• The United States also reached either civil settlements or consent judgments with Austin, Gay, Dubois, and Padgett.

• In Brunswick, the United States and the State of Georgia filed a civil lawsuit against Miracle Home Care, Inc., Miracle Adult Day Care, Inc., Miracle Transportation, Shashicka Tyre-Hill, and Darlene Jackson.  As alleged in the complaint, the Defendants submitted thousands of false or fraudulent claims to Medicaid for non-emergency transportation and adult day health services that did not occur, and falsified thousands of records that Miracle submitted to the United States to cover up their false claims, resulting in more than $1 million in improper payments being made by Medicaid to the Defendants.

• The United States recently announced a civil settlement totaling $4.1 million with Effingham Health System, based out of Effingham County, Georgia, to resolve allegations of opioid diversion.

“Health care fraud is a betrayal of vulnerable patients, and often it is theft from the taxpayer,” said Attorney General Sessions.  “In many cases, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists take advantage of people suffering from drug addiction in order to line their pockets. These are despicable crimes. That’s why this Department of Justice has taken historic new steps to go after fraudsters, including hiring more prosecutors and leveraging the power of data analytics. Today the Department of Justice is announcing the largest health care fraud enforcement action in American history.  This is the most fraud, the most defendants, and the most doctors ever charged in a single operation—and we have evidence that our ongoing work has stopped or prevented billions of dollars’ worth of fraud. I want to thank our fabulous partners with the FBI, DEA, our Health Care Fraud task forces, HHS, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, Medicare, and especially the more than 1,000 federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers from across America who made this possible. By every measure we are more effective at finding and prosecuting medical fraud than ever.”   

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “By working together with our professional and dedicated partners in law enforcement, this Office just executed the largest health care fraud takedown in the history of the Southern District of Georgia.  Make no mistake:  if you are a physician who thinks they are above the law, a provider who thinks they can take advantage of federally-funded health care programs, a beneficiary who defrauds the very programs focused on providing assistance to millions, or anyone who thinks they can divert dangerous narcotics, you can expect to be hearing from us.”

“Fraud perpetrated against the Medicaid program harms every citizen of Georgia,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. “We are committed to eliminating activity that drives up the costs of providing healthcare, and through the actions of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, we will continue to pursue both criminal and civil enforcement to further this objective. Combining our resources with those of our valuable federal partners is a powerful tool in the ongoing fight to protect our government funded programs.”

“Health care fraud costs taxpayers billions of dollars and places our most vulnerable citizens at risk for harm and neglect,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General.  “Working with our law enforcement partners, we are dedicated to protecting patients and the federal health care programs intended to serve them.”

“Every tax paying citizen, especially those who use federally subsidized programs like Medicare, is a victim when providers are driven by personal greed,” said J.C. Hacker, Acting Special Agent in Charge (A/SAC) of the FBI Atlanta field office. “Improper billing inflates costs and causes unnecessary waste, and the FBI and its law enforcement partners are dedicated to weed out such abuse and hold those responsible accountable.”

 

“The 2018 National Health Care Fraud Takedown effort demonstrates that the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and our investigative partners are committed to protecting TRICARE, the U.S. military health care program from fraud and abuse,” said John F. Khin, Special Agent in Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service-Southeast Field Office (DCIS).  “As part of this nationwide joint operation, the DCIS Southeast Field Office contributed significant resources and efforts to achieve a successful resolution, while taking effective steps to combat widespread health care fraud and preserve the integrity of this vital Department of Defense (DoD) program.”

Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Atlanta Field Division stated, “The dispensing of addictive prescription pain medication under the guise of a licensed medical professional’s care is not about the good of the community or an individual’s specific health needs; it is about the greed of those involved in fraudulent schemes and illegal overprescribing. DEA and its law enforcement partners will continue to expend its time, energy, and resources in an effort to stem the tide against the growing opioid epidemic. The spirited level of law enforcement cooperation and the prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office made this investigation a success.”

“The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, aggressively investigates fraud against the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act program and will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to combat fraud against all Department of Labor’s benefits programs,” said Labor Inspector General Scott S. Dahl.

 “We often find that people who try to defraud Social Security are also taking advantage of other government benefit programs,” said Social Security Acting Inspector General Gale Stallworth Stone. “That’s why we maintain strong partnerships with other Federal, State, and local agencies, because our responsibility to taxpayers doesn’t end at Social Security. SSA OIG will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to detect and prevent benefit fraud across the country.”

“Working with the Department and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to prevent and detect fraudulent activities by medical professionals in the motor carrier industry is a top priority for our office and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the safety of the traveling public on our Nation’s roadways,” stated the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General.

“We hope the prosecution of Evelyn Gay offers a strong deterrent to others contemplating stealing funds from the Legal Services Corporation (“LSC”) that are intended to provide much needed legal services to an underprivileged population,” said Jeffrey E. Schanz, Inspector General of the LSC, Office of Inspector General.  “We appreciate the leadership offered by the U.S Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia in prosecuting individuals who steal funds meant to serve the civil legal needs of the poor in our country.”

“Today’s fine work by the Department of Justice, OPM OIG criminal investigators, and our other law enforcement partners demonstrates our office’s commitment to combatting fraud and abuse in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program,” said Norbert E. Vint, Acting Office of Personnel Management Inspector General (OPM-OIG).  “We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute all individuals who seek to steal taxpayer dollars and drive up health care costs for federal employees and their families.”

“Much like law enforcement, medical personnel should be held to a higher standard,” said Everett Ragan, director, Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team (CNT). “Doctor Frank Bynes and Medical Assistant Kristian Hall chose to dishonor their medical oaths and in doing so, committed criminal acts. Their job is to be here to help our community; not hurt it.”

The cases announced today were investigated by special agents, task force officers, and diversion investigations from HHS-OIG, FBI, DCIS, DEA, DOL-OIG, DHS-OIG, DOT-OIG, LSC-OIG, and OPM-OIG; Investigator Kimberly Reinken-Creamer of the United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Georgia; and; Investigative Auditor Denise Colson and Investigator Kevin White, Georgia Attorney General’s Office.

The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorneys J. Thomas Clarkson, Nancy Greenwood, Matthew A. Josephson, Karl Knoche, Bradford Patrick, and Jonathan Porter. The State of Georgia was represented by Assistant Attorney General James Mooney. For additional information, please call the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652- 4422.

A complaint, information or indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The claims resolved by civil settlements are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability. Investigations remain ongoing as to others arising out of these announced actions.

Additional documents related to this announcement will shortly be available here:

https://www.justice.gov/opa/documents-and-resources-june-28-2018.

Several of these investigations remain ongoing.  If you have any information regarding any of the prosecutions announced today or any other information regarding possible health care fraud, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

DUBLIN, GA: Federal indictments were unsealed today against 7 Dublin residents charged with federal firearms, drug distribution, and related offenses.  The charges are the result of joint federal, state, and local efforts to reduce violent crime and drug activities in the Dublin area. 

Increases in violence and drug activity in Dublin has become of serious concern to law enforcement and local residents alike.

To address the apparent increase in violent crime and drug activities, the Dublin Police Department (DPD) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), began a joint investigation to identify and arrest the criminals operating in and around Dublin. Law enforcement used a number of investigative techniques to identify the targets, including undercover purchases of drugs and firearms and extensive surveillance. 

In early June 2018, the federal grand jury for the Southern District of Georgia indicted 7 defendants identified as a result of this investigation.  Those indictments initially were returned under seal. 

On June 27, 2018, local, state, and federal law enforcement officers executed arrests warrants.  Today, the indictments and federal warrants were unsealed, and all of the charged defendants made their initial appearance in federal court.

The federal charges and maximum penalties include:

• Felon in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), which typically carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.  However, if a defendant has three prior convictions for violent crimes or serious drug offenses, then the minimum sentence is 15 years’ imprisonment and the maximum sentence is life imprisonment.  

• Distribution of Controlled Substances, and Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute, 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), which typically carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, but may carry increased minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment based on the quantity of controlled substances involved and the prior drug convictions of the defendant. 

• Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation To a Crime of Violence or Drug Trafficking Crime, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries a potential sentence of not less than 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, consecutive to any other sentence imposed.

        

During the investigation, law enforcement investigators seized firearms and ammunition.  Some of the firearms seized during this investigation had previously been stolen. Additionally, investigators seized quantities of numerous controlled substances, including cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana. 

The Dublin residents charged with federal crimes include:

          Lamar Cook, age 34,

          Trevolis Coney, age 29,

          Shanetra Coney, age 26,

          Alexander Johnson, age 31,

          Aldrickus T. Cuyler, age 23,

          Michael D. Stephens, age 40,

          Octavia M. Stephens, age 42.

At least one of the defendants was in possession of gang related literature when arrested on the charges that are alleged in the pending federal indictment. 

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “In concert with the FBI, state and local law enforcement partners including the Dublin Police Department and District Attorney Craig Fraser of the Dublin Judicial Circuit, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia has today struck a blow at the heart of violent street level criminal activity on behalf of the law abiding citizens of the greater Dublin community. This will not be the last action taken on this front as we together make this district safer!” 

“We believe these arrests will have an immediate impact on the safety of the law abiding citizens of the Dublin community,” said J.C. Hacker, Acting Special Agent in Charge (A/SAC) of FBI Atlanta. “Let this also be a warning to anyone else who believes they are above the law that the FBI, U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Dublin Police Department will continue working together to bring violent offenders to justice, and hold them accountable to stiff federal laws.”

DPD Chief Tim Chatman, said, “This is only the beginning. We will continue to collaborate with the FBI and federal prosecutors to rid our streets of this kind of behavior, gangs, drugs, etc. We thank the FBI and federal prosecutors for assisting us in this matter. We owe it to our citizens to look for better ways to make our streets safer.”

United States Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment or criminal complaint is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions previously announced a recommitment of the United States Department of Justice to Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program dedicated to bringing together federal, state, and local law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The United States Attorney’s Office incorporated key components of the PSN strategy into the Dublin operation, including strong federal involvement, the cultivation of partnerships with local law enforcement and community stakeholders, targeted enforcement in those areas most affected by violent crime, and outreach efforts designed to prevent violent crime before it occurs.  

Today's indictments arose out of a joint investigation led by the FBI and the Dublin Police Department, with assistance from the Laurens County Sheriff's Office, the District Attorney's Office for the Dublin Judicial Circuit, and the Georgia Department of Corrections K-9 Unit.  Assistant United States Attorneys Patricia G. Rhodes, Henry W. Syms, and Tara M. Lyons are prosecuting these cases for the United States.

For any questions, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

BRUNSWICK, GA: Rafeal Lateef Baker, also known as “Channel 4,” age 43, of Brunswick, Georgia, was sentenced to more than 16 years’ imprisonment, and Kenneth Anthony Moore, also known as “Smooth,” age 48, of Freeport, Texas, was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment, for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. 

The prosecution of Baker and Moore was part of “Operation Bloody Prince,” an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation targeting gang activity and drug trafficking in and around Brunswick.  Baker and Moore were among over twenty defendants in the Brunswick area convicted in this operation.  The OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General's drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations.

The evidence at their sentencing hearings established that beginning in or about 2014, Baker purchased kilogram quantities of cocaine from Moore, who was residing at the time in Freeport, Texas, and that Baker then distributed that cocaine in and around Brunswick, Georgia.  Baker and Moore took various steps to arrange the shipment of approximately 2 kilograms of cocaine per trip, from Texas to Georgia, and engaged in a variety of activities to evade detection by law enforcement. In all, the amount kilograms totaled a conservative 40 kilos of cocaine.

“Criminal street gangs and illegal drug distribution networks take note: you will be given no quarter in the Southern District of Georgia!” states Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “Side by side with the FBI and our law enforcement partners in coastal Georgia, we will pursue you until you are brought to justice.”

 “The fact that Baker and Moore will no longer be on the streets bringing drugs into our community and threatening our citizens is a direct result of the collaborative efforts of the FBI and its partners who are part of the FBI’s Coastal Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force,” said J. C. Hacker, Acting Special Agent in Charge (A/SAC) of the FBI Atlanta field office. “This is an example of our commitment to invest significant resources toward dismantling these types of criminal enterprises that do so much harm to our communities.”

The investigation of Baker and Moore and Atkinson was led by the FBI’s Coastal Georgia Violent Gang Task Force, the Glynn County Police Department, and the Brunswick Police Department, with assistance from the FBI in Houston, as well as the Houston Police Department.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

DUBLIN DIVISION, GA: On Wednesday, June 6, 2018, following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Dudley H. Bowen, a federal jury convicted Eastman resident Dr. Mark Griffis, age 61, of conspiring to falsify documents pertaining to Department of Transportation mandated medical examinations of holders of commercial driver’s licenses.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Griffis agreed with Jo Carol White to falsely certify medical examination forms without actually examining the driver. (On March 21, 2018, White was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment for her role in the scheme.) Griffis received $50 from White for every false certification. Between February 27, 2012 and September 13, 2013, Griffis falsely certified 271 bogus medical examinations. This allowed these drivers to renew their commercial driver licenses without undergoing the appropriate medical exams to assure their fitness to drive.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “Our nation’s highways are essential to our way of life and standard of living. Like it or not, we share these highways with large and sometimes intimidating commercial vehicles that deliver goods that are essential to our economy. There is a risk inherent in the operation of these very large vehicles and the potential for personal injury and property damage is real. No one wants this risk compounded by undetected medical issues affecting the drivers of these vehicles. The defendant’s actions in this case seriously undermined regulations designed to promote highway safety and placed the public at risk.”

Marlies T. Gonzalez, Regional Special Agent-In-Charge, United States Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG) added, “The successful prosecution of Dr. Mark Griffis demonstrates our commitment to ensuring safety on our nation’s roadways. Working with our federal, state and local law enforcement and prosecutorial partners, we will continue our vigorous efforts to prevent and root out fraud schemes which adversely affect the public trust and safety throughout the State of Georgia and elsewhere.”

DOT-OIG Special Agent Sara Oliver led the investigation of Griffis. She was assisted by investigators of the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Georgia Department of Driver Services also provided assistance.

Assistant United States Attorney Karl Knoche prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

 

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Brunswick, GA: Tracy Wayne Crosby, 42 of Waycross, entered a guilty plea on Friday, before the Honorable Lisa Godbey Wood to one count of sex trafficking of a minor. 

Evidence presented at the guilty plea revealed that up until his arrest in this case, Crosby was the criminal justice teacher at Ware County High School and a part-time police officer with Pierce County.  Evidence further revealed that Crosby used his cell phone to communicate with a sixteen-year-old boy online.  Crosby agreed to meet with the boy to have sex in exchange for $10.00.  Camden County law enforcement immediately responded and arrested Crosby when he was with the boy.  Crosby admitted to federal agents that he had sex with the boy more than once and that he arranged to have sex with the boy online. 

Crosby plead guilty to Sex Trafficking of a Minor, a federal crime and now faces not less than ten years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment.  If released from federal custody, Crosby will be required to register as a sex offender and will be under the Court’s supervised release for not less than five years up to life.  There is no parole in the federal system.  Crosby is incarcerated awaiting a sentencing hearing.

The indictment of Crosby arises out of an investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) in connection with the Camden County Sheriff Office and the Ware County Sheriff’s Office.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Anyone who pays to have sex with children will be brought to justice and will face substantial time in federal prison.  The United States continues its relentless work to protect our most precious and vulnerable citizens.  We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to rescue children and put traffickers and customers behind bars.” 

“The breach of trust committed by a former teacher and law enforcement officer in this case is beyond troubling and shows that HSI will investigate and hold accountable all persons who violate our nation’s laws,” said Nick S. Annan, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta. “Sparing children the unspeakable harm of sexual exploitation continues to be one of HSI’s highest priorities and we will continue to aggressively investigate leads to identity and arrest anyone seeking to harm children in violation of federal law.”

Camden County Sheriff Jim Proctor said, “It is justice well served.  These individuals that prey upon the young and innocent should pay for their deeds.  It is always a great privilege for the Camden County Sheriff’s Office to join forces with the Federal agencies to decrease human trafficking.”

Anyone who suspects instances of child sexual exploitation is encouraged to call 1-800-843-5678, which is operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in partnership with HSI, the FBI, and other law enforcement agencies. 

Assistant United States Attorney Tania D. Groover is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.  For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: On Wednesday, May 23, 2018, Betty Mclain, 66, pled guilty to aiding and assisting the preparation of a false tax return before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Dudley H. Bowen, Jr. 

According to the evidence presented at the plea hearing, Mclain operated Betty’s Tax Service next to her home in Uvalda, Georgia.  To increase her business and attract more clients, Mclain prepared tax returns that falsely claimed the taxpayer and dependents attended and spent money on colleges at which they were never enrolled.  The vast majority of the 2,000 returns filed by Mclain since 2011 claimed these education tax credits.   Following an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division into the accuracy of the returns, a grand jury in Savannah charged Mclain in February 2018 with twenty-four counts of preparing false tax returns for others and three counts of filing her own false tax returns.  In each count, Mclain was alleged to have prepared a tax return that claimed education credits to which the taxpayer was not entitled. 

As a result of the fraudulent tax returns she prepared, Mclain defrauded the IRS out of nearly $1,000,000.  Mclain pled guilty to one count of aiding and assisting the preparation of a tax return for a client whom she falsely claimed was entitled to education credits totaling $5,119.  In pleading guilty, Mclain agreed to never again prepare tax returns for anyone else. 

Mclain faces a statutory maximum sentence of 3 years in prison, 1 year of supervised release, and a $100,000 fine.  Parole has been abolished in the federal system.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “Teamed with our dedicated partners at IRS, our Office will work to ensure that corrupt tax return preparers are put out of business and behind bars.  Tax cheats have no place in the Southern District of Georgia.” 

"Mclain's plea is a victory for the United States Taxpayer. Not only did Mclain admit to the allegations against her, but she also agreed to never prepare tax returns again," said Thomas J. Holloman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation. "IRS, Criminal Investigation will continue to utilize its resources and stop these fraudulent return preparers in their tracks".‎

Return preparer fraud, identity theft, and inflated refund schemes are three of the Internal Revenue Service’s Dirty Dozen List of Tax Scams for 2018. The IRS has some information on its website about selecting a return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. Also, the IRS has a list of steps on its website that you can take in anticipation of filing your federal income tax return and ten tips for choosing a tax preparer.

The investigation was led by IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Savannah.  For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

AUGUSTA, GA: Calvin Devear Lawyer, 60, a retired Colonel in the United States Army, and Dwayne Oswald Fulton, 58, a former employee of a defense contracting firm, were sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Dudley H. Bowen, Jr., to 60 months’ imprisonment each for their roles in a bribery and kickback scheme. Both of the Defendants reside in Augusta, Georgia.

According to the evidence presented during their guilty plea and sentencing hearings, Fulton and Lawyer also made false representations to the United States Army and the Small Business Administration (“SBA”), which resulted in Lawyer’s company, known as CREC group, to be awarded 8(a) status under the SBA’s business development program. After fraudulently obtaining that status, beginning in 2008 and lasting almost a decade, Lawyer, Fulton and others conspired to pay cash bribes to coconspirator Anthony Roper, who was then an active duty Colonel in the United States Army, in in exchange for Roper steering the award of over $20 million in U. S. Army contracts to Lawyer and others.  Further, when law enforcement caught on to their scheme, Fulton, Lawyer and others conspired to obstruct justice by creating false and fraudulent documents as part of an effort to cover up Lawyer’s bribe payments to Roper. 

In addition to a sentencing of 60 months’ imprisonment, Lawyer and Fulton were also sentenced to serve a term of 3 years of supervised release.  There is no parole in the federal system.  Lawyer was also sentenced to pay a $100,000 fine, and Fulton was sentenced to pay a $50,000 fine.  Lawyer has already returned over $5 million to American taxpayers.  The Court orally approved an order of forfeiture against Fulton totaling $1,273,440.00.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “As a result of dramatic efforts by law enforcement and superb leadership at Fort Gordon, Lawyer and Fulton are now held accountable. To all would be fraudsters who think bribery in government contracting a get rich scheme, let these prison sentences be a lamp unto their feet.”

“These sentencings send a powerful message that fraud has no place in government contracting,” said Frank Robey, Director of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command's Major Procurement Fraud Unit. “As evidenced in this case, fraud victimizes not only the government but the individuals involved as well. I hope that today's sentence sends a strong message that we will bring all of our resources to bear in order to protect the U.S. government.”

“These sentencings should serve as a stern warning to public officials and contractors doing business with the Department of Defense - the Defense Criminal Investigative Service will relentlessly pursue and bring to justice those who engage in bribery, corruption, and other illegal acts. These defendants deliberately manipulated the DOD procurement process to divert and steal precious taxpayer dollars for their own personal gain, and will now face the consequences. DCIS will continue to work with our investigative partners to protect the integrity of DOD programs that provide critical products and services for our Warfighters,” said Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin, Southeast Field Office.

“Corruption and willful misrepresentation of business relationships are egregious actions and bear significant consequence,” said SBA OIG’s Eastern Region Special Agent-in Charge Kevin Kupperbusch.  “The conspiracy engaged in by the defendants, deprived legitimate disadvantaged companies of federal contracting opportunities.  I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their leadership and dedication throughout this investigation.”

The joint strike force that led to these convictions and Lawyer’s settlement involved agents, investigators, and auditors from the Department of Justice, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Army Criminal Investigation Command (Major Procurement Fraud Unit), and the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General.  The case was investigated by Special Agent Preston T. Johnson of the U. S. Army, Criminal Investigations Division; Special Agent Randall J. Temples of the U. S. Department of Defense, Criminal Investigative Service; and, Special Agent Bryan M. Cofer of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General.

For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: Juan Carlos Negron, 34, of Hinesville, Georgia, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr., to 151 months in prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute quantities of heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamine, Xanax, marijuana, and opioids such as OxyContin and oxycodone.  There is no parole in the federal system. 

Evidence presented during Negron’s guilty plea and sentencing hearings revealed that Negron began dealing drugs in 2001 and is a career criminal, having been convicted twice before for dealing narcotics in Liberty County.  Negron’s drug trafficking history began with Negron dealing marijuana, graduated to Negron dealing prescription pain medications, and culminated in the current case with Negron dealing heroin and other drugs out of his residence in Hinesville, Georgia.  Through its investigation, law enforcement identified Negron as the most prolific heroin dealer in the Liberty and Chatham County areas, between 2015 and 2016.  Negron, unemployed since 2012, supplied other local dealers and served individual customers from his home.  Negron occasionally sent his young son outside while users injected heroin in the kitchen; the child waited in a rocking chair as a stream of addicts passed him by.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “To all those who seek to profit illegally from the addiction of others, let the prosecution of Juan Carlos Negron serve as a stark reminder that the office of the United States Attorney will labor tirelessly to see that you are held accountable.”

"The GBI-SRDEO and its partners are committed to investigating and holding those persons involved in the illegal distribution of narcotics accountable,” Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lindsey Smith, of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, stated. “Today's sentencing of Negron was the culmination of hard work and dedication by law enforcement officers who seek to improve the communities they serve.”

Negron’s case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer G. Solari prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.  For additional information, please contact (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: On Thursday, May 17, 2018, following a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood, a federal jury convicted Savannah residents Joshua Scott, 22, and Victor Natson, 27, of conspiring to interfere with interstate commerce by robbing armored trucks.  Natson was also convicted of aiding and abetting robbery, attempted robbery, and the discharge and brandishing of firearms during crimes of violence.  Scott was convicted of robbery and firearm brandishing charges.

According to the evidence presented at trial, during the summer of 2016, Natson recruited a multi-convicted felon and gang member, Gregory Lamar Plair, 33, to rob armored trucks operated by Brinks, Inc. in Savannah.  After Natson encouraged Plair to commit the robberies with a firearm, Plair sought the assistance of his first cousin, Scott, who Plair knew had access to stolen firearms.  At the time that the defendants hatched their plan, Natson had worked for Brinks as a truck driver for nearly two years.  In furtherance of the conspiracy, Natson provided Scott and Plair with information about Brinks’ routes, personnel, and procedures.  On October 14, 2016, Natson drove the robbers to the intersection of White Bluff Road and Tibet Avenue so that they could rob Brinks employees servicing a SunTrust ATM near that location.  During the robbery, approximately $35,000 was stolen, and a semiautomatic pistol was discharged.  Natson received a share of the money and drove the getaway car.  On January 30, 2017, Scott and Plair attempted to rob a Brinks armored truck parked at a storage facility near the intersection of Abercorn Street and the Truman Parkway.  Minutes before Scott and Plair approached the truck with two loaded guns drawn, Natson sent a text message to Plair instructing him to “look for the truck with old white guy in it,” referring to the 71-year-old Brinks driver who Natson had set up to be robbed.  When Scott and Plair accosted the driver, another Brinks employee shot at and wounded both of the would-be robbers.  Plair drove himself to St. Joseph’s Hospital for treatment; Scott was transported to Memorial Medical Center by ambulance.  Both men were arrested shortly thereafter.  A federal grand jury indicted Natson in June 2017 for his role in conspiring with and aiding and abetting Scott and Plair.

In August 2017, Plair pled guilty to federal robbery, attempted robbery, and firearm brandishing charges.  Only Natson and Scott proceeded to trial.  All three defendants are awaiting sentencing.

On the conspiracy, robbery, attempted robbery, and aiding-and-abetting charges, the defendants face terms of imprisonment of up to 20 years, fines of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.  Scott and Plair also face at least seven years in prison for brandishing firearms during the January 2017 attempted robbery.  For aiding and abetting the discharge and brandishing of firearms, Natson will be sentenced to not less than 35 years in prison, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence.  Under federal law, each of the firearms offenses can be punished by life imprisonment, and parole has been abolished in the federal system.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “With inside information from Victor Natson, Joshua Scott and Gregory Plair thought armored cars easy targets.  Because of their criminal acts Scott and Plair were both shot, and now will serve lengthy prison sentences.  Victor Natson will go to prison for decades.  The prosecution of these three predators should put all criminals on notice that the United States Attorney’s Office will ensure those who perpetrate violence will serve hard time.”

“The brazen nature of these armed robberies created extraordinarily dangerous situations, putting the lives of the victims, innocent bystanders, and the robbers own lives at risk,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Because of the hard work of the FBI and its law enforcement partners, each of these suspects will serve lengthy prison sentences and will no longer be a threat to our hard working and innocent citizens.”

Mark Revenew, Interim Chief of the Savannah Police Department, said, “This prosecution and conviction portray the importance of our partnership with our federal law enforcement counterparts in eradicating dangerous individuals from our community.”

The investigation of Natson, Scott, and Plair’s crimes was led by FBI Southeast GA Violent Crimes Task Force and the former Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department. Various law enforcement agencies, including the Georgia Southern University Police Department Cyber Forensics Division, FBI Southeast Georgia Violent Crimes Task Force, FBI Cellular Analysis and Survey Team, U.S. Marshals Service, Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Division of Forensic Sciences, provided assistance.

Assistant United States Attorneys E. Greg Gilluly, Jr., and Theodore S. Hertzberg prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.  For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

 

SAVANNAH, GA: In the nation’s largest settlement of its kind involving allegations of drug diversion at a hospital, Effingham Health System has agreed to pay the United States $4.1 million to resolve allegations that Effingham Health System failed to provide effective controls and procedures to guard against theft and loss of controlled substances, leading to a significant diversion of opioids, and failing to timely report the suspected diversion to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

DEA launched an investigation in 2017 after receiving reports of diversion at Effingham Health System. DEA determined that tens of thousands of oxycodone 30mg tablets were unaccounted for, and were believed to have been diverted over more than a four-year period, in violation of the hospital’s responsibilities under the Controlled Substances Act. DEA also determined that Effingham Health System failed to notify DEA of the suspected diversion within the time required by federal law.

 “At a time when our country’s opioid crisis is ravaging communities across the country, hospitals like Effingham Health System have a critical responsibility to ensure that controlled substances are tracked and safeguarded from theft or loss and are not diverted for illegal uses,” said U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine.  “Hospitals must adopt and maintain effective safeguards as a bulwark against diversion—the risk to the public is simply too great to accept anything less than what the law demands.”

Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division commented, “Hospitals put lives at risk when they fail to maintain accurate recordkeeping of their inventory. Such careless behavior allows for substances to be diverted and sold on the black market with no true measure of accountability. This record-setting civil penalty is a proactive step that DEA Diversion and our partners in the U.S. Attorney’s Office can take to discourage other healthcare providers from engaging in such reckless behavior.”  

Effingham Health System cooperated with the DEA’s investigation and, prior to this investigation, overhauled its pharmacy operations to help ensure that it will avoid diversions in the future. Since the investigation began, Effingham Health System has worked cooperatively with the DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to finalize a plan to address the identified deficiencies in Effingham Health System’s handling of controlled substances, and entered into an agreement with the DEA to memorialize the plan. Components of the plan include quarterly internal accountability audits and requirements to keep detailed records that track all controlled substances within the hospital.

On February 27, 2018, Attorney General Sessions announced the creation of the Department of Justice Prescription Interdiction & Litigation (“PIL”) Task Force, to fight the prescription opioid crisis.  As Attorney General Sessions noted in his announcement, the Department of Justice will use all available remedies under the Controlled Substances Act against doctors, pharmacies, and others that break the law.  If you have information about any individual or entity that you believe may be unlawfully diverting or dispensing opioids for illegitimate purposes or committing health care fraud related to the opioid epidemic, please contact Assistant United States Attorney J. Thomas Clarkson (912-652-4422).

U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the DEA Savannah Resident Office, which investigated the case. Group Supervisor George M. Taylor and Diversion Investigator Matthew G. Reddish led the investigation with assistance from Diversion Investigators George Zuban and Tierra Singleton.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan A. Porter and Bradford C. Patrick led the investigation on behalf of the United States, with assistance from Civil Chief Shannon H. Statkus and Civil Deputy Chief J. Thomas Clarkson. The claims resolved by the settlement agreement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. This investigation remains ongoing.

For any questions about this release, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

AUGUSTA and SAVANNAH, GA: As part of a new emphasis on procurement fraud enforcement within the Southern District of Georgia, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia announced the results of a series of recent procurement fraud prosecutions.  Over the past several months, the strike force’s efforts resulted in five guilty pleas and twelve civil settlements, including the following publically available actions:

1. United States of America v. Dwayne Fulton (1:17-CR-35)
2. United States of America v. Calvin Lawyer (1:17-CR-35)
3. United States of America v. Anthony Roper (1:17-CR-35)
4. United States of America v. Audra Roper (1:17-CR-35)
5. United States ex rel. Major Contracting Services, Inc. v. Military Training Solutions, LLC and ADCO Holdings, Inc., et al. (4:16-cv-115)
6. United States of America v. Robert Obradovich (4:18-CR-47)

These prosecutions and civil settlements with the named individuals and entities, as well as others, stemmed from a wide variety of fraudulent conduct, including bribery of public officials, illegal kickbacks, illegal arrangements between large contracting companies and certified small or 8(a) businesses acting as “front” companies, and billing for services not rendered.  Each of the individuals who has pled guilty awaits sentencing.  The total financial recovery for the United States thus far has exceeded $7.4 million.  Several of these investigations remain ongoing. 

“The Southern District of Georgia is the proud home of several major military installations that serve a vital role both in our national defense and the district’s local economy,” said United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine.  “Those who do business with these installations should be on notice – ripping off the United States will not be tolerated! This office will bring to bear the full weight of our resources to hold fraudsters accountable.”   

The joint strike force that led to these convictions and settlements involved agents, investigators, and auditors from the Department of Justice, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Army Criminal Investigation Command (Major Procurement Fraud Unit), Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General.  Significant and critical assistance was also provided by civilian and military personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force stationed at affected military installations. 

“The American public expects the Department of Defense (DoD) to spend limited taxpayer funds efficiently and economically.  Bribery and other corrupt behavior by public officials and defense contractors diverts and wastes precious dollars intended to provide critical products and services for our Warfighters.  These results demonstrate the effectiveness of investigative efforts by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service to protect the integrity of all DoD programs,” said Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin, Southeast Field Office.

“These settlements stand as proof of the tenacity of our special agents,” said Frank Robey, director of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit. “It is important for those who conspired to profit from illegal payments take responsibility for their actions. The settlements hold the defendants accountable and send a message to others that these violations will be taken seriously.”

“Our partnership with the joint procurement fraud strike force ensures fair and open competition for U.S. Government contracts which support the training and readiness of Marine Corps personnel,” said H. Andrew Goodridge, Special Agent in Charge, NCIS Carolinas Field Office.

“SBA OIG will aggressively investigate allegations of fraud involving SBA’s preferential contracting programs, to include false statements made to gain access to contracting opportunities set aside for small businesses,” said SBA OIG Eastern Region Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kupperbusch.  “SBA’s preferential contracting programs are intended to promote the economy and grow and develop small businesses across the nation.  I want to thank the U.S Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and hard work throughout these investigations.”

SBA’s General Counsel, Christopher Pilkerton said, “These successful prosecutions demonstrate the tremendous results achieved through the combined efforts of federal agencies to uncover and forcefully respond to procurement fraud.  SBA is strongly committed to identifying and aggressively pursuing instances of fraud perpetrated by those participating in SBA's procurement programs.”

The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorneys Brian T. Rafferty, Shannon H. Statkus, J. Thomas Clarkson, Matthew A. Josephson, and Jonathan A. Porter.  Any claims resolved by the civil settlement agreements are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. 

Each of the civil settlements resolved potential liability under the False Claims Act.  Under the False Claims Act, whistleblowers can be entitled to a portion of the amount recovered by the United States.  The United States Attorney’s Office also reminds contractors that businesses and individuals that self-disclose potential violations can be eligible for significantly reduced penalties.  If you have any information regarding potential procurement fraud, please contact Assistant United States Attorney J. Thomas Clarkson at (912) 201-2601.

For additional information about this press release, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney David Estes at (912) 652-4422.

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Today, as the Department of Justice recognizes the 50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the nationwide rollout of an initiative aimed at increasing awareness and reporting of sexual harassment in housing. The announcement includes an interagency task force between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Justice Department to combat sexual harassment in housing, an outreach toolkit, and a public awareness campaign. This three-pronged approach will strengthen the Department’s efforts to combat sexual harassment in housing.

“Sexual harassment in housing is illegal, immoral, and unacceptable," said Attorney General Sessions. “It is all too common today, as too many landlords, managers, and their employees attempt to prey on vulnerable women. We will not hesitate to pursue these predators and enforce the law. In October, I ordered a new initiative to bring more of these cases, and we have already won relief for 15 victims. Today we announce three new steps to make the initiative more effective and to win more cases. I want to thank the dedicated and committed professionals in our Civil Rights Division and our partners in the Department of Housing and Urban Development for their hard work in this effort. We will continue to aggressively pursue harassers, because everyone has a right to be safe in their home.”

“All discrimination stains the very fabric of our nation, but HUD is especially focused on protecting the right of everyone to feel safe and secure in their homes, free from unwanted sexual harassment,” said Secretary Ben Carson. “No person should have to tolerate unwanted sexual advances in order to keep a roof over his or her head. Part of our mission at HUD is to provide safe housing and we will remain diligent in this mission to protect those we serve. I look forward to working with Attorney General Sessions and the Department of Justice as part of this task force to bring an end to this type of discrimination.”

U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Illegal discrimination of any type is not to be tolerated, and we will vigorously combat sexual harassment in housing – wherever it may be found in the Southern District of Georgia – using all available federal tools.”

In October 2017, the Justice Department announced an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing and launched pilot programs in D.C. and the Western District of Virginia. The initiative sought to increase the Department’s efforts to protect women from harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, security guards, and other employees and representatives of rental property owners. During the pilots, the Department developed and tested ways to better connect both with victims of sexual harassment in housing and with those organizations that victims may turn to first for help – including law enforcement, legal services providers, public housing authorities, sexual assault services providers, and shelters.  The Department also tested certain aspects of the initiative in other jurisdictions, including New Jersey, the Central District of California, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Michigan.

The two pilot programs generated an upswing in harassment reporting to the Department from both D.C. and the Western District of Virginia. In D.C., the Department generated six leads since the October 2017 launch. In Virginia, the Department generated three leads. While the Justice Department recognizes that leads and investigations do not always lead to enforcement actions, the pilot program’s results—when extrapolated across all the U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country—could lead to hundreds of new reports of sexual harassment in housing across the country.

Because of these promising results, the Department is rolling out three major components to the Initiative.

First, the new HUD-DOJ Task Force to Combat Sexual Harassment in Housing will drive a shared strategy between the Department and HUD for combatting sexual harassment in housing across the country. It will focus on five key areas: continued data sharing and analysis, joint development of training, evaluation of public housing complaint mechanisms, coordination of public outreach and press strategy, and review of federal policies.

Second, the outreach toolkit is designed to leverage the Justice Department’s nationwide network of U.S. Attorney’s Offices. The toolkit provides templates, guidance, and checklists based on pilot program feedback. It ultimately will amplify available enforcement resources and help victims of sexual harassment connect with the Department.

Third, the public awareness campaign has three major components: a partnership package with relevant stakeholders, launch of a social media campaign, and Public Service Announcements (PSAs) run by individual U.S. Attorney’s offices. The campaign is specifically designed to raise awareness, and make it easier for victims all over the country to find resources and report harassment.

More information about the Civil Rights Division and the civil rights laws it enforces is available at www.usdoj.gov/crt. Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment in housing should call the Department at 1-844-380-6178, send an e-mail to [email protected], or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777.  If you have information or questions about any other housing discrimination, you can contact the Department at 1-800-896-7743 or contact the United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Georgia at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: On March 22, 2018, Michael Brian Anderson, a local Tybee Island shrimper and fisherman, was convicted by a federal jury on three counts of false statements, four counts of mail fraud, and two counts of money laundering.  United States District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr. presided over Anderson’s three-day trial.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Brian Anderson submitted multiple false claims to Customs & Border Protection (CBP) seeking millions of dollars in subsidies under the Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000 (CDSOA).  The CDSOA protected American shrimp producers by imposing anti-dumping taxes on foreign producers and permitting domestic shrimpers to apply for the money they would have made but for unfair foreign competition.  Brian Anderson, an eligible domestic shrimper, completed and mailed multiple false certifications to CBP, stating that his shrimping business expenses for the years 2005 to 2007 were more than $24 million.  Anderson claimed that he spent almost all of this money on the purchase of 3.9 million pounds of raw shrimp from R&R Seafood, a small seafood store on Tybee Island.  However, the evidence showed that R&R Seafood never sold anywhere near that amount of shrimp in the entire time it was in business.  Anderson’s bank records and tax returns further debunked his claimed expenses.  Based on Anderson’s fraud, the U.S. government paid Anderson over $800,000 to which he was not entitled.  Anderson used those proceeds of his fraud to purchase boats, stocks and property.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “Brian Anderson submitted millions of dollars in inflated invoices, for one simple reason: greed.  The CDSOA was established to help protect our local American shrimpers from unfair foreign competition. Little did we know that the biggest threat to our honest shrimpers would come, not from across the seas, but from our own nearby creek.  By overinflating the amount he was entitled to receive under the CDSOA, Brian Anderson diverted money from the pockets of hard working shrimpers into his own pocket.  Our office is devoted to aggressively prosecuting anyone who seeks to steal public money by fraud.”   

U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and Customs and Border Protection, who jointly investigated the case.  

Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Kirkland and Tania Groover prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine announces the sentence of local minister Cedric Manior (44) of Rincon, Georgia, who was sentenced today to 10 years of incarceration by United States District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood.  Manior was convicted last August of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Crack Cocaine and to being a Felon in Possession of Firearms.

Evidence presented in court filings and at sentencing revealed that Cedric Manior, also known as “Preacher Man,” a minister of New Beginnings International Outreach Ministry, was involved in a major drug trafficking organization that sold cocaine and crack cocaine in the Southern District of Georgia and elsewhere.  Manior stored and sold drugs from his home located in Rincon, Georgia.  Manior also directed his adult son, Cameron Edwards, to sell illegal drugs on his behalf. 

In January 2017, Chatham County Narcotics Team (CNT) agents, along with the Savannah Chatham SWAT team executed a search warrant at Manior’s residence in Rincon, Georgia.  Agents seized marijuana, methamphetamine, prescription medication, drug scales, drug manufacturing and distribution tools, heat-sealing machine, baggies, beakers, body armor, cash, twenty (20) firearms, AR-style magazines and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.  On his bed, next to his bible, agents found a loaded semi-automatic pistol.  Near his church robe, agents found a Tec 9, assault semi-automatic style pistol with an extended magazine that is capable of holding over 15 rounds of ammunition.  Drug trafficking supplies and firearms were located throughout the residence.  Many of the weapons were stolen.  Manior was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because he was previously convicted of six (6) prior felony convictions for felonies committed on six separated dates.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine states: “Cedric Manior received a message from the United States government that nobody is above the law.  Our office is committed to working with local and federal law enforcement to dismantle criminal organizations and to sentence drug dealers to real time in prison.”

Upon release from federal prison, Manior will be on court supervision for three years.  There is no parole in the federal system.

Manior is one of over twenty (20) defendants who have been convicted in this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation.  In this investigation, agents have seized kilograms of cocaine, pounds of marijuana, dozens of firearms, and hundreds of thousands of dollars.  This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Counter Narcotics Team (CNT), the Savannah Police Department, Garden City Police Department, Effingham Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney E. Greg Gilluly, Jr. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

 

DUBLIN, GA: On March 23, 2018, the United States filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking the possession of 63 pit bull-type dogs that were allegedly involved in a dog fighting venture in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act.  Pursuant to a federal warrant, the animals were seized on March 19, 2018, in Eastman, Georgia, by United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) special agents working with the United States Marshals Service, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia State Patrol (GSP), Oconee Drug Task Force, Dodge County Sheriff’s Office, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

According to the complaint filed last week in federal court, the animals were seized after GSP troopers conducted a traffic stop involving a vehicle inside of which an injured dog was found.  The operator of the vehicle admitted to having been present at a dog fight in Eastman, Georgia, and provided law enforcement with the location of the fight.  At the reported location, agents discovered a disassembled dog fighting “pit” and more than 60 pit bull-type dogs staked to the ground by heavy chains.  The condition of a majority of the dogs, including scarring and aggression towards other dogs, was consistent with dog fighting and related training.

After obtaining a search warrant, agents found numerous indications of dog fighting at the Eastman property, including a treadmill with a rope attached to the front part of the machine, antibiotics and other injectable veterinary medications, and a jenny mill, which is used to develop a dog’s endurance and musculature by enticing the animal to run on a circular track.  From four grave areas, agents unearthed the remains of seven dogs, five of which had scarring consistent with dog fighting and one of which had a broken leg.  During the search, agents noted that none of the live animals had access to food, and most did not have access to water.

Following the seizure, the United States Marshals Service took custody of the animals.  K2 Solutions, Inc. and the Humane Society of the United States are assisting with the care of the dogs, at least some of which are pregnant.

“Dog fighting is a barbaric spectacle that has no place in any civilized society, and it will enjoy no quarter in the Southern District of Georgia,” United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said.  “We know that animal fighting ventures often entail other forms of illegal activity involving drugs, firearms, and gambling, and this Office will continue to work with its law enforcement partners at all levels to investigate and successfully prosecute those who contribute to the proliferation of crime and seek to profit off the abuse and suffering of helpless animals.”

USDA-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Karen Citizen-Wilcox stated, “The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General-Investigations, actively investigates allegations of animal abuse.  This agency has made animal fighting a high priority in order to demonstrate that these blatant acts of cruelty to animals will no longer be tolerated.  We would like to thank United States Attorney’s Office for aggressively prosecuting perpetrators of animal fighting.”

“The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division is pleased to have partnered with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, and federal and state law enforcement in this joint effort to remove these animals from harm’s way, pursuant to federal law, as quickly as possible,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We applaud the agents and attorneys who worked tirelessly and acted on very little notice to achieve this successful outcome.”

Dog fighting is a violent contest in which two dogs that are bred and conditioned for fighting are released by their owners or handlers in a controlled environment to attack each other and fight for purposes of entertainment or gambling.  Fights usually end when one dog withdraws, when a handler “picks up” his dog and forfeits the match, or when one or both dogs die.  Persons engaged in dog fighting typically use “pit bull”-type dogs, which dog fighters prefer for their compact muscular build, short coat, and the aggression that some display toward other dogs.

The federal Animal Welfare Act makes it a felony punishable by up to five years in prison to fight dogs or to possess, train, sell, buy, deliver, receive, or transport them for that purpose.  The statute further authorizes the seizure and forfeiture of animals involved in dog fighting.  Once the dogs are forfeited or surrendered to federal authorities, they can be evaluated and placed for adoption.  Although federal funds will be used to pay for the care of the dogs while they remain in law enforcement custody, the Animal Welfare Act empowers the government to recover those costs from the dogs’ owners.

Assistant United States Attorneys Theodore S. Hertzberg and Xavier A. Cunningham are pursuing the forfeiture of the dogs on behalf of the United States.  USDA-OIG is leading the related federal investigation.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

On March 23, 2018, the United States filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking the possession of 63 pit bull-type dogs that were allegedly involved in a dog fighting venture in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act. Pursuant to a federal warrant, the animals were seized on March 19, 2018, in Eastman, Georgia, by United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) special agents working with the United States Marshals Service, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia State Patrol (GSP), Oconee Drug Task Force, Dodge County Sheriff’s Office, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

According to the complaint filed last week in federal court, the animals were seized after GSP troopers conducted a traffic stop involving a vehicle inside of which an injured dog was found. The operator of the vehicle admitted to having been present at a dog fight in Eastman, Georgia, and provided law enforcement with the location of the fight. At the reported location, agents discovered a disassembled dog fighting “pit” and more than 60 pit bull-type dogs staked to the ground by heavy chains. The condition of a majority of the dogs, including scarring and aggression towards other dogs, was consistent with dog fighting and related training.

After obtaining a search warrant, agents found numerous indications of dog fighting at the Eastman property, including a treadmill with a rope attached to the front part of the machine, antibiotics and other injectable veterinary medications, and a jenny mill, which is used to develop a dog’s endurance and musculature by enticing the animal to run on a circular track. From four grave areas, agents unearthed the remains of seven dogs, five of which had scarring consistent with dog fighting and one of which had a broken leg. During the search, agents noted that none of the live animals had access to food, and most did not have access to water.

Following the seizure, the United States Marshals Service took custody of the animals. K2 Solutions, Inc. and the Humane Society of the United States are assisting with the care of the dogs, at least some of which are pregnant.

“The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division is pleased to have partnered with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, and federal and state law enforcement in this joint effort to remove these animals from harm’s way, pursuant to federal law, as quickly as possible,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We applaud the agents and attorneys who worked tirelessly and acted on very little notice to achieve this successful outcome.”

“Dog fighting is a barbaric spectacle that has no place in any civilized society, and it will enjoy no quarter in the Southern District of Georgia,” said United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine. “We know that animal fighting ventures often entail other forms of illegal activity involving drugs, firearms, and gambling, and this Office will continue to work with its law enforcement partners at all levels to investigate and successfully prosecute those who contribute to the proliferation of crime and seek to profit off the abuse and suffering of helpless animals.”

“The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General-Investigations, actively investigates allegations of animal abuse,” said Special Agent in Charge Karen Citizen-Wilcox for USDA-OIG. “This agency has made animal fighting a high priority in order to demonstrate that these blatant acts of cruelty to animals will no longer be tolerated. We would like to thank United States Attorney’s Office for aggressively prosecuting perpetrators of animal fighting.”

Dog fighting is a violent contest in which two dogs that are bred and conditioned for fighting are released by their owners or handlers in a controlled environment to attack each other and fight for purposes of entertainment or gambling. Fights usually end when one dog withdraws, when a handler “picks up” his dog and forfeits the match, or when one or both dogs die. Persons engaged in dog fighting typically use “pit bull”-type dogs, which dog fighters prefer for their compact muscular build, short coat, and the aggression that some display toward other dogs.

The federal Animal Welfare Act makes it a felony punishable by up to five years in prison to fight dogs or to possess, train, sell, buy, deliver, receive, or transport them for that purpose. The statute further authorizes the seizure and forfeiture of animals involved in dog fighting. Once the dogs are forfeited or surrendered to federal authorities, they can be evaluated and placed for adoption. Although federal funds will be used to pay for the care of the dogs while they remain in law enforcement custody, the Animal Welfare Act empowers the government to recover those costs from the dogs’ owners.

Assistant United States Attorneys Theodore S. Hertzberg and Xavier A. Cunningham are pursuing the forfeiture of the dogs on behalf of the United States. USDA-OIG is leading the related federal investigation. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

DUBLIN, GA: On March 21, 2018, gynecologist George “Mack” Bird, III, 59, entered a guilty plea before Senior United States District Court Judge Dudley H. Bowen, Jr. to charges of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, both federal felonies carrying up to five years of imprisonment without the possibility of parole.  Bird also conceded that approximately $2.7 million of seized assets and five parcels of land were traceable to proceeds of his crimes, and he agreed to forfeit the same to the United States. 

According to information presented at the March 21 hearing, Dr. Bird was the owner and operator of medical practices in Eastman and Dublin, Georgia, from which prescription drugs were sold to patients for cash and prescribed without a legitimate medical purpose.  Those drugs included but were not limited to opioids (such as hydrocodone combination products), alprazolam (Xanax), carisoprodol (Soma), phentermine (Adipex), and phendimetrazine (Plegine).  In the years leading to his arrest in 2015, Dr. Bird delegated many of his patient care responsibilities to employees who could not legally distribute or dispense controlled substances without a physician’s oversight.  To facilitate the distribution and dispensation of controlled substances, Dr. Bird directed his staff to use pre-signed prescription forms and pre-printed medical notes that were placed in patients’ files to give the appearance that the patients had been examined by Dr. Bird when, in fact, they had not been. 

Dr. Bird’s criminal conduct netted him millions of dollars.  Although he kept a significant portion of that money, Dr. Bird used some of his proceeds to pay his co-conspirators and purchase drugs for eventual distribution.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “Blinded by greed, Mack Bird broke the law, sold out his patients’ welfare, and violated his solemn oath to do no harm.  This Office takes seriously the opioid crisis in the United States and will continue to prosecute drug dealers who fuel addiction and poison the community, whether from the street or inside an exam room.”

U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the Oconee Drug Task Force, both of which investigated the case. 

Assistant United States Attorneys Patricia G. Rhodes and Theodore S. Hertzberg prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422

SAVANNAH, GA: Savannah resident Ernest Jackson, 36, was sentenced on March 12, 2018, by Senior District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr., for his role in a counterfeiting scheme spanning Chatham, Bryan, Bulloch, and McIntosh Counties, as well as for his possession of a firearm.  Judge Moore awarded Jackson 60 months’ confinement for the counterfeiting offense, and a concurrent term of 180 months’ confinement for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Evidence during the sentencing hearing emphasized that Jackson possessed the firearm at issue after earning multiple felony convictions for Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Carjacking, and Aggravated Assault upon a Police Officer.  Jackson’s violent criminal history placed him in the category of an “Armed Career Criminal,” which designation requires a mandatory minimum 15-year term of confinement.  Additionally, ballistics testing linked Jackson’s firearm to multiple unsolved Savannah-area shootings.

The case was investigated and prosecuted with assistance from the United States Secret Service, the Savannah Police Department, the Richmond Hill Police Department, the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia State Patrol.

Glen Kessler, the Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service said, “The U.S. Secret Service, with its local and state partners, will continue to work  towards protecting our communities from gun violence by aggressively targeting those gun carrying felons that come onto our radar for criminal offenses like counterfeiting, credit card fraud or other federal violations.”

United States Attorney Bobby Christine said, “Law enforcement’s top priority is the safety of our citizens.  We will bring the full force of justice on dangerous criminals who possess firearms.  Those dangerous felons who possess firearms will be investigated, prosecuted, and can expect to serve lengthy sentences in federal prison.”

Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer G. Solari prosecuted the case against Jackson for the United States.  For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: NATHANIEL THOMAS PUGH, III, 35, of Savannah, Georgia, was sentenced on March 15, 2018, to 200 months in federal prison by United States District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr.  Pugh was convicted on December 12, 2017, by a federal jury of possessing a firearm as a felon, possession of ethylone, commonly referred to as "Molly," with the intent to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Pugh was involved in a shooting in the Oak Forest neighborhood of Savannah on November 4, 2015.  After sustaining a gunshot wound, Pugh drove his bullet riddled car to the hospital.  Savannah Chatham-Metro Police recovered a Glock firearm, loaded with a 30-round extended magazine in the glove compartment, which had Pugh’s DNA on it.  Also in the car, officers recovered a treasure trove of drug paraphernalia, including almost an ounce of “Molly,” cocaine, pills, baggies and a scale. Text messages recovered from Pugh’s cell phone revealed that Pugh had engaged in several drug transactions prior to the shooting incident, and also revealed photographs of Pugh holding the firearm that was ultimately recovered from Pugh’s car.

Pugh’s criminal history dates back almost two decades and includes prior convictions for Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Controlled Substances, Terroristic Threats, Simple Battery and Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement.

U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Gun-toting drug dealers like Nathaniel Pugh have no place in our community, except behind bars. Pugh’s lengthy sentence should stand out as a stark example of our office’s determination and commitment to aggressively prosecute and disarm those who plague our neighborhoods with drugs and violence.”  

This case was brought as part of Project Ceasefire, a joint federal, state and local initiative to combat gun violence and ensure that repeat offenders are subject to stiffer federal sentences, all without the possibility of parole. 

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Savannah Chatham-Metro Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Kirkland and Carlton Bourne prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: On March 13, 2018, members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Southeast Georgia Violent Crimes Task Force arrested Robert Kimble, also known as “Bam” and “Ibn Yusuf,” on federal charges of armed bank robbery, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.  According to a superseding indictment that the federal grand jury returned last week, Kimble brandished a nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol and used force, violence, and intimidation to steal $15,647.00 from a Navy Federal Credit Union branch on October 11, 2017.

Kimble is the second of two individuals to be charged with offenses related to the Navy Federal Credit Union robbery.  On January 10, 2018, the federal grand jury charged Jerrell Antonio Roberts, also known as “Zaiky Abdul Nabil,” with the same offenses for which Kimble was indicted more recently.  Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department detectives and officers apprehended Roberts within approximately 30 minutes of the robbery.  Roberts was arrested in the backyard of Kimble’s home in the Forest Park neighborhood of Savannah after Roberts ran from a vehicle that he had crashed while attempting to flee from police.  From Roberts’s vehicle, police officers recovered $15,647.00 in cash and a loaded nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol.

If convicted of armed bank robbery, Kimble could be sentenced to 25 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  In addition, the defendant faces a consecutive sentence of seven years’ imprisonment for brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.  Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is punishable by 10 years in prison.  All federal sentences must be served without the possibility of parole.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine praised the FBI and Savannah Police Department for working together to combat firearms-related violence: “This Office remains committed to protecting the citizens of this community through its partnerships with federal law enforcement and local police to ensure that armed robbers and those who abet them are brought to justice swiftly.”

Savannah Police Chief Mark Revenew stated, “This is an excellent example of our partnership with federal counterparts who join us in our commitment to remove armed criminals from our community.”

U.S. Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt.  Both defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Assistant United States Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. FBI Task Force Officer Michael Rowan is leading the federal investigation. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

BRUNSWICK, GA – Federal indictments were unsealed yesterday revealing that sixteen (16) residents from Glynn County and McIntosh County, in the Southern District of Georgia, and elsewhere, have been charged with federal firearms and drug-trafficking offenses.  The Brunswick District Attorney’s Office has charged an additional eight defendants.

The federal and state charges are the result of joint federal and local efforts to dismantle a major cocaine trafficking organization that was operating in the Southern District of Georgia and elsewhere.  After law enforcement received information about a drug dealer who was selling large quantities of cocaine in Glynn County, the McIntosh Sheriff’s Office teamed up with the Glynn County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  Investigators from local and federal law enforcement worked together to identify the members of the drug trafficking organization (DTO), their methods of operation, and where they stored and sold drugs.  The team used a number of investigative techniques, including the use of informants, conducting surveillance, making undercover purchases of cocaine and crack cocaine, and the execution of search warrants.

Through search warrants and consensual searches conducted during this investigation, agents seized kilograms of cocaine, with a street value in excess of $150,000, over 30 pounds of marijuana, crack cocaine, over $60,000 cash, and dozens of firearms, including assault style rifles and substantial amounts of ammunition. 

On March 13, 2018, a team of federal and local law enforcement investigators simultaneously executed over twenty (20) arrest warrants in the Southern District of Georgia and the Middle District of Florida.  During the arrests, investigators seized an additional 21 firearms.

The following defendants have been charged in the thirty-six (36) page, thirty-six (36) count federal indictment:

 

JOHN EUGENE OVERCASH, a/k/a “Cowboy,” 52, Brunswick, GA,

KENNETH LEON BRADLEY, 50, Brunswick, GA,

JEREMY MCINTYRE, 37, Brunswick, GA,

RICHARD CARTER, 57, Brunswick, GA,

DARRIUS MERRELL, 38, Brunswick, GA,

ANDREW JACKSON, a/k/a “Drew,” 34, Orlando, FL,

KENEIL KING, 25, Brunswick, GA,

JESSICA TABUTEAU, 31, Orlando, FL,

TROY CROSBY, 49, Hortense, GA,

AMY MANSON, 37, Hortense, GA,

EDRIN TEMPLE, a/k/a “Pete McCiver,” 39, Darien, GA,

ANTHONY BERNARD LEWIS, a/k/a “Amp,” 46, Brunswick, GA,

     JOSEPH SIMMONS, a/k/a “Bug,” 48, Brunswick, GA,

TOMMY MURRAY, 50, Brunswick, GA,

CLIFTON FOSTER, 64, Brunswick, GA,

MARCUS MUNGIN, 33, Brunswick, GA

The federal charges and maximum penalties include:

-Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846, which carries a potential sentence of not less than 10 years of incarceration, up to life.  If a defendant has a prior felony drug conviction, then the charge carries not less than 20 years of incarceration up to life.  If a person has two or more prior felony drug convictions, then not less than life.

-The Distribution of Cocaine and Crack Cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), which carries up to 20 years of incarceration.  If a defendant has a prior felony drug conviction, then it carries not more than 30 years of incarceration.

-Felon in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), which carries a potential sentence of 10 years incarceration.  However, if a defendant has 3 prior convictions for violent crimes or serious drug offenses, then he/she faces not less than 15 years of incarceration up to life;

-Drug User in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), which carries a potential sentence of 10 years of incarceration;

-Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crimes, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries not less than 5 years of incarceration up to life;

-Use of a Communication Facility to Facilitate Drug Crime, 21 U.S.C. § 843(b), which carries not more than 4 years of incarceration.

The indictment also seeks to forfeit tools used in the crimes and proceeds from the crimes, including a residence located at 1199 West Shore Drive, Brunswick, Georgia.

The following individual was charged under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act with Conspiracy to Purchase Marijuana and Use of Communication Facility in Commission of a Felony Involving Controlled Substances:

Kenneth Bradley, Jr. (age 21) of Brunswick.

The following were charged under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act with Conspiracy to Purchase a Controlled Substance and Use of Communication Facility in Commission of a Felony Involving Controlled Substances:

Dana Smith (age 40) of Brunswick;

Clyde Underwood (age 58) of Brunswick;

Sarah Myrick (age 35) of Brunswick;

Eric Lashawn Hall (age 45) of Brunswick;

Antonio Givens (age 46) of Brunswick;

Doug Coffey (age 45) of Brunswick; and,

Travis Collins (age 39) of Brunswick.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “The federal government is committed to working with local law enforcement agencies to dismantle the drug trafficking organizations who are ruining our communities and endangering our citizens.  Let this indictment serve as another warning that we will hunt you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

ATF Resident Agent in Charge Timothy Graden states:  “These arrests are the product of concerted collaborative efforts on the part of ATF, the Glynn County Sheriff’s office, the McIntosh County Sheriff’s office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to target, investigate, and prosecute the perpetrators of a major drug trafficking organization. Many of the defendants are convicted felons with extensive criminal histories that date back more than 20 years. ATF and its law enforcement partners acted judiciously on information developed during this 1 ½ year investigation resulting in the seizure of large quantities of cocaine, marijuana, U.S. currency, firearms and ammunition. ATF is pleased with the success of this operation, but unfortunately this operation also highlights the persistence of narcotics traffickers and demonstrates that this type of crime must be continuously battled. ATF will continue to dedicate federal resources in partnership with other law enforcement agencies in the pursuit of reducing violent crime and armed drug trafficking.”

McIntosh County Sheriff Stephen D. Jessup states:  “I could not be more pleased with the results.  Even though the majority of those involved in the drug trafficking organization lived and operated in Glynn County, the amount of cocaine flowing into McIntosh County through this organization had a staggering effect on our community.  The work done here is exemplary of the type of partnerships and teamwork that I hope continues between these agencies.”

Glynn County Sheriff E. Neal Jump states:  “This has proven to be a very successful operation and I believe it will have a significant impact on the illegal drug trade here in Glynn County.  This case has led to one of the largest seizes of cocaine and marijuana in this area in quite some time.  I, along with the men and women of my office, look forward to partnering with these agencies as well as others to continue working towards a safer community for our citizens.”

Jackie Johnson, District Attorney for the Brunswick Judicial Circuit, stated “Narcotics abuse and distribution is the driving force behind violent crime, theft and many other social ills in Glynn County.  Our office is grateful for the work of our Sheriff, Federal law enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney in targeting this problem.”

United States Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The operation was investigated by ATF, the Glynn County Sheriff’s Office, and the McIntosh Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Josephson and Greg Gilluly are prosecuting these cases for the United States.  Assistant District Attorney Liberty Stewart is prosecuting these cases for the state of Georgia. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

AUGUSTA, GA: On March 12, 2018, Mark Winston Pickrell and Aubrey Dean Bullard were sentenced for their respective roles in a conspiracy to illegally possess and sell unregistered firearms.  The sentences were handed down by the Honorable Chief Judge J. Randal Hall, United States District Court. 

Pickrell and Bullard were two of five defendants indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2017 in an eighteen-count indictment charging controlled substance and firearms violations.  All five defendants – Pickrell, Bullard, Danny Lee Thomas, Ralph Guemell Poole, and Christopher Earl Duckworth – entered into plea agreements in which they acknowledged committing crimes related to the illegal possession and sale of firearms.  

According to his plea agreement, Pickrell admitted that between March 2, 2016 and May 10, 2016, he engaged in the business of dealing firearms without a license.  Specifically, Pickrell admitted that he was responsible for selling seven firearms, to include four machine guns, knowing that the weapons would likely end up in the hands of those who would commit crimes.  Pickrell pleaded guilty to one count of dealing in firearms without a license, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)(A). Judge Hall sentenced Pickrell to 56 months in prison and three years of supervised release. 

According to his plea agreement, Bullard admitted, that on May 10, 2016, he unlawfully possessed and transferred two Sten 9 mm machine guns, and that he test fired those machine guns in order to facilitate their illegal sale. Bullard pleaded guilty to one count of possession of an unregistered firearm, in violation of 26 U.S.C. §§ 5841, 5861(d) and 5871. Judge Hall sentenced Bullard to 33 months in prison and three years of supervised release. 

On February 26, 2018, Judge Hall sentenced Thomas, Poole, and Duckworth to 38, 120 and 188 months, respectively, for their roles in this conspiracy and related controlled substance violations.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “The United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Georgia is committed to aggressively prosecuting violations of gun laws currently on the books.”   

“This investigation serves as a textbook example of the success that can be achieved when we blend our investigative experiences with our state and local partners as we continue to aggressively address the crimes that plague our communities,” said Resident Agent in Charge Timothy Graden. “Individuals who are brazen enough to sell machine guns and drugs pose a clear and present danger and they must be removed from our street.”

U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the ATF, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO), North Augusta Department of Public Safety (NADPS), Aiken County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), Aiken Department of Public Safety (ADPS), Burke County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which investigated the case.  Special Agent Ronald Rhodes led the ATF’s investigation. 

Assistant United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: On February 28, 2018, Anthony Florence, a contractor for the Chatham Area Transit Authority (“CAT”), was convicted by a federal jury on twenty-two counts of mail fraud, two counts of wire fraud, and one count of bribery of a program receiving federal funds.  United States District Court Judge William T. Moore presided over Florence’s three-day jury trial.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Florence paid bribes and kickbacks to Chadwick L. Reese, formerly the Executive Director of CAT, and Joel T. Morris, formerly the Director of Maintenance of CAT.  Florence paid for over $100,000 worth of work on the personal residences of Reese and Morris.  In exchange, Reese awarded contracts to a company operated by Florence over a period of nearly two years.  Even though Florence and his company provided little to no work, Reese and Morris approved over $200,000 in payments by Chatham Area Transit to Florence’s company. 

Reese and Morris previously pled guilty and were sentenced to 84 months and 20 months, respectively.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “The lesson for contractors doing business in South Georgia is simple:  paying a public official to obtain ‘no show’ work is a good way to end up in federal prison.  This office will aggressively root out corruption at every level of government.”   

“Just because public officials are willing to violate the trust of the people they serve, doesn’t mean contractors can take advantage of their lack of integrity,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI will continue to make public corruption cases, and all of those involved, a priority. We ask anyone with information regarding such matters to contact their nearest FBI field office or resident agency.”

U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the FBI, which investigated the case.  Special Agent Joshua Hayes led the FBI’s investigation. 

Assistant United States Attorneys R. Brian Tanner and J. Thomas Clarkson prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: Earlier today, a federal grand jury in Savannah charged Jaquan Shakur Singleton, 23, with perpetrating an armed carjacking near Forsyth Park on February 12, 2018.  The indictment alleges that Singleton brandished a nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol and used force, violence, and intimidation to steal a Honda sedan before transporting the car into South Carolina.  Shortly after the robbery, Singleton was arrested at the scene of a single-vehicle accident involving the stolen sedan.  A South Carolina Highway Patrol (“SCHP”) trooper recovered a nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol from the vehicle.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Southeast Georgia Violent Crimes Task Force and the Savannah Police Department investigated the carjacking.  Along with SCHP, Jasper County Fire-Rescue responded to the accident.

If convicted of carjacking, Singleton could be sentenced to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  In addition, the defendant faces a consecutive sentence of seven years’ imprisonment for brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.  Transporting a stolen vehicle across state lines is punishable by 10 years in prison.  All federal sentences must be served without the possibility of parole.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “Working alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, this Office has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to gun violence.  We will respond – promptly and sharply – to those who threaten the safety and serenity of our community.”

U.S. Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Assistant United States Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Jeff Sessions and law enforcement partners announced today the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in history.   The cases involve more than two hundred and fifty defendants from around the globe who victimized more than a million Americans, most of whom were elderly.  The cases include criminal, civil, and forfeiture actions across more than 50 federal districts.  Of the defendants, 200 were charged criminally.  In each case, offenders engaged in financial schemes that targeted or largely affected seniors.  In total, the charged elder fraud schemes caused losses of more than half a billion dollars.  The Department coordinated its announcement with the FTC and state Attorneys General, who independently filed numerous cases targeting elder frauds within the sweep period.

Attorney General Sessions was joined in the announcement by FBI Acting Deputy Director David Bowdich; Chief Postal Inspector Guy Cottrell; FTC Acting Chairman Maureen Ohlhausen; and Kansas Attorney General and President of the National Association of Attorneys General Derek Schmidt.

“The Justice Department and its partners are taking unprecedented, coordinated action to protect elderly Americans from financial threats, both foreign and domestic,” said Attorney General Sessions.  “Today’s actions send a clear message:  we will hold perpetrators of elder fraud schemes accountable wherever they are.  When criminals steal the hard-earned life savings of older Americans, we will respond with all the tools at the Department’s disposal – criminal prosecutions to punish offenders, civil injunctions to shut the schemes down, and asset forfeiture to take back ill-gotten gains.  Today is only the beginning.  I have directed Department prosecutors to coordinate with both domestic law enforcement partners and foreign counterparts to stop these criminals from exploiting our seniors.”

The actions charged a variety of fraud schemes, ranging from mass mailing, telemarketing and investment frauds to individual incidences of identity theft and theft by guardians.  A number of cases involved transnational criminal organizations that defrauded hundreds of thousands of elderly victims, while others involved a single relative or fiduciary who took advantage of an individual victim.  The schemes charged in these cases caused losses to more than a million victims.

“Winners. That’s what so many of the people who received these solicitations in the mail thought they were. But they’re not. They are victims of scams that Postal Inspectors have seen and investigated for decades. In fact, some of the same operators we encountered 20 years ago are back. But so are we. Yesterday, Postal Inspectors around the country executed search warrants on 14 locations that some of these same operators used to run their scams. We’re letting the American public know – and especially our vulnerable older Americans – that Postal Inspectors are working hard to protect them and ensure their confidence in the U.S. Mail,” said Chief Postal Inspector Cottrell.

“Over the last year, the FBI has initiated more than 200 financial crimes cases involving elderly victims who were devastated financially, emotionally, mentally and physically. Picking up the pieces of these fraud schemes can be equally as traumatizing for the caregivers of these elderly victims,” said Acting Deputy Director Bowdich.  “The FBI reminds seniors and their caregivers to be vigilant. If any person believes they are the victim of, or have knowledge of fraud involving an elderly person, regardless of the loss amount, they should report it to the FBI.”

United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, Bobby L. Christine said, “Our office will aggressively prosecute fraudsters and financial criminals who target elderly Americans.  We take seriously our obligation to protect some of America’s most vulnerable citizens.”  During the sweep period, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, working with investigative agencies, prosecuted individuals who stole the identity of an elderly Chatham County resident and withdrew thousands of dollars from the victim’s bank account.  All of the participants in that scheme have pled guilty to felony offenses.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office also charged four individuals with their roles in a $15 million oil investment fraud scheme that bilked numerous elderly Americans out of hundreds of thousands of dollars; many of those victims lost their life savings. 

“One of the top priorities for the Secret Service continues to be combating the computer crimes and frauds perpetrated by domestic and international criminals that target the U.S. financial infrastructure,” said U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Glen Kessler. “When those crimes directly affect elderly victims, they don’t recover financially or emotionally. It can be devastating for them. The Secret Service, in conjunction with its many law enforcement partners across the United States and around the world, continues to successfully combat these crimes by working closely with experts from all affected sectors to constantly refresh and adapt our investigative methodologies.”
 

Actions against mass-mailing fraud industry

As part of the initiative, the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and others, brought numerous cases this past week in a coordinated strike against more than 43 mass-mailing fraud operators, including criminal charges against six individuals.  In addition, law enforcement agents executed 14 premises search warrants from Las Vegas to south Florida, served numerous asset seizure warrants, and coordinated with the Vancouver Police in Canada, who executed over 20 warrants, including search warrants on business premises.

“The defendants targeted elderly and vulnerable consumers both in the United States and abroad, using U.S. addresses and the U.S. mails to try to legitimize their fraudulent schemes,” said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Richard P. Donoghue.  “They sold false promises of life-changing prizes that never came true.  We will pursue the perpetrators of these mail schemes wherever they are located, and hold them accountable.”

These recently filed cases particularly targeted transnational criminal actors who collectively defrauded at least a million victims out of hundreds of millions of dollars.  Indeed, just one of the schemes prosecuted criminally by the Consumer Protection Branch operated from 14 foreign countries to cost American victims more than $30 million.  Click here for map showing a transnational, single fraud scheme.

Mass-mailing fraud inflicts hundreds of millions of dollars in losses to elderly U.S. victims each year.  Department prosecutors and U.S. Postal Inspectors have taken a comprehensive approach to combatting this fraud, disrupting and prosecuting individuals who manage the schemes, artists who draft the fraudulent solicitations, list brokers who supply victim lists, and individuals who collect victim payments.
 

Actions against other elder fraud schemes

Prosecutors across the country from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, the Consumer Protection Branch and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices have heeded the call to focus resources on elder fraud cases.  Over 50 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and Department Components filed elder fraud cases in the last year.  Some examples of the elder financial exploitation prosecuted by the Department include:

• “Lottery phone scams,” in which callers convince seniors that a large fee or taxes must be paid before one can receive lottery winnings;
• “Grandparent scams,” which convince seniors that their grandchildren have been arrested and need bail money;
• “Romance scams,” which lull victims to believe that their online paramour needs funds for a U.S. visit or some other purpose;
• “IRS imposter schemes,” which defraud victims by posing as IRS agents and claiming that victims owe back taxes;
• “Guardianship schemes,” which siphon seniors’ financial resources into the bank accounts of deceitful relatives or guardians.

Many of these cases illustrate how an elderly American can lose his or her life savings to a duplicitous relative, guardian, or stranger who gains the victim’s trust.  The devastating effects these cases have on victims and their families, both financially and psychologically, make prosecuting elder fraud a key Department priority.
 

Public education

            The Department has partnered with Senior Corps, a national service program administered by the federal agency the Corporation for National and Community Service, to educate seniors and prevent further victimization. The Senior Corps program engages more than 245,000 older adults in intensive service each year, who in turn, serve more than 840,000 additional seniors, including 332,000 veterans.

Using its vast network operating in more than 30,000 locations, Senior Corps volunteers will communicate about elder fraud to potential victims across the country and will use their skills, knowledge and experience to educate their peers and caregivers about the most prolific types of schemes and how to avoid them. Click here for information on Senior Corps’ efforts to reduce elder fraud.
 

Coordination with state officials

Kansas Attorney General Schmidt highlighted the cases filed by state Attorneys General targeting elder frauds within in the sweep period, and he emphasized efforts at the state level to combat elder abuse and protect seniors from fraud and exploitation.  He encouraged all of the state Attorneys General to devote enforcement and public education resources to preventing financial exploitation of senior citizens.
 

Coordination with foreign law enforcement

Exceptional assistance from foreign law enforcement partners amplified the effectiveness of the Department’s initiative.  The sweep announced today benefited greatly from the work of the International Mass-Marketing Fraud Working Group (IMMFWG), a network of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Europol, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.  The IMMFWG is co-chaired by the U.S. Department of Justice and FTC, and law enforcement in the United Kingdom, and serves as a model for international cooperation against specific threats that endanger the financial well-being of each member country’s residents.  Attorney General Sessions expressed gratitude for the outstanding efforts of the working group, including law enforcement action taken as part of the sweep by the Vancouver Police Department in Canada to halt mass mailing schemes that defrauded hundreds of thousands of elderly victims worldwide.

Elder fraud complaints

Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or at 877-FTC-HELP.  The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office of Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov. 

Savannah, GA – Bobby L. Christine, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, announced today that Savannah resident, Joseph Nathaniel Blake, 34, was sentenced yesterday by Senior Judge William T. Moore, Jr. to 151 months imprisonment for federal drug and weapons charges. He was also sentenced to serve 3 years supervised release upon his release from prison. 

Blake had previously pled guilty in October 2017, to the charges of possession of a firearm as a felon and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.  Evidence presented at the guilty plea and the sentencing hearing established that Blake had 6 previous drug convictions, 3 previous firearms convictions and 3 previous fleeing to elude convictions.  Blake was classified as a career offender under the federal sentencing guidelines.

United States Attorney Christine said: We will not tolerate those who continuously break the law like this defendant did. We will be relentless in our pursuit and prosecution of those who illegally possess firearms and narcotics.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted Blake as part of Project Ceasefire, a joint federal, state and local initiative to combat gun violence and ensure that repeat offenders are subject to stiffer federal sentences, without the possibility of parole.

The case was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Charlie Bourne prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

Brunswick, GA: James Martin Graham, 62, was sentenced on January 22, 2018, to 188 months in prison by United States District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood following his plea of guilty to possession of child pornography. The prison term will be followed by a 15-year term of supervised release. Graham will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. Graham faced a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of at least 10 years because of a prior conviction in the State of Michigan relating to sexual abuse involving a minor.

The Southeast Georgia Child Exploitation Task Force investigated this case.  Forensic examination of Graham’s computer identified more than 150 video files containing depictions of child pornography, some of which involved victims as young as four years old. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the U.S. Department of Justice that is designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims of those offenses.

Assistant United States Attorney Marcela C. Mateo prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: Anthony Jammoni Atkins, 26, a multi-convicted felon, was sentenced on January 16, 2018, by Senior U.S. District Judge William T. Moore, Jr. to 100 months in prison for possessing a loaded semiautomatic pistol.  Atkins used that pistol to threaten a mother and her two children during a rush hour road rage incident.  Upon completion of his prison sentence, Atkins will serve an additional three years on supervised release.

According to court documents and evidence presented at hearings, Atkins was traveling through Garden City, Georgia during the afternoon rush hour on November 4, 2016, when another motorist called 911 to report that the driver of an SUV had pulled alongside her car, pointed a gun at her and her two daughters, and slammed the gun into the SUV’s passenger-side window.  After locating and stopping the SUV, police officers identified Atkins as the driver.  Atkins admitted that there was a firearm inside the SUV, and officers recovered a semiautomatic 9mm pistol that was loaded with nineteen rounds of ammunition in a large capacity magazine.  As a convicted felon, Atkins was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

Atkins’ criminal history includes numerous convictions for violent and drug-related offenses.  In 2010, Atkins pled guilty to trafficking marijuana in Chatham County.  One year later, in 2011, Atkins was convicted of aggravated battery in connection with his attempt to rob a person to whom he had agreed to sell drugs.  During the attempted robbery, Atkins ran over the victim with his car.

U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Georgia is committed to ending the scourge of violent crime that has plagued Savannah for far too long, and we are partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement to do something about it.  A key element of our strategy is ensuring that convicted felons who possess firearms illegally are punished appropriately for their misconduct.  Make no mistake – this United States Attorney’s Office will not tolerate the possession and use of firearms by those who seek to threaten and endanger the community.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted Atkins as part of Project Ceasefire, a joint federal, state, and local initiative to combat gun violence and ensure that repeat offenders are subjected to stiff federal prison sentences, all of which must be served without the possibility of parole.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Garden City Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

Virginia-based home furnishings company, Bassett Mirror Company, has agreed to pay the United States $10.5 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly making false statements on customs declarations to avoid paying antidumping duties on wooden bedroom furniture imported from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Justice Department announced today.   

       

The United States alleged that between January 2009 and February 2014, Bassett Mirror evaded antidumping duties owed on wooden bedroom furniture that the company imported from the PRC by knowingly misclassifying the furniture as non-bedroom furniture on its official import documents.  Antidumping duties protect against foreign companies “dumping” products on the U.S. market at prices below cost.  The Department of Commerce assesses, and the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection collects, these duties to protect U.S. businesses and level the playing field for domestic products.  Imports of PRC-made wooden bedroom furniture have been subject to antidumping duties since 2004.  At the time of the alleged conduct in this case, wooden bedroom furniture from the PRC was subject to a 216 percent antidumping duty; non-bedroom furniture was not subject to an antidumping duty.

 

“Those who import and sell foreign-made goods in the United States must comply with the laws meant to protect domestic companies and American workers from illegal foreign trade practices,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler for the Justice Department’s Civil Division.  “The Department of Justice will pursue those who seek an unfair advantage in U.S. markets by evading the duties owed on goods imported into this country.”

 

“This Office will not tolerate anyone who seeks to stack the deck against American workers and products,” said U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine for the Southern District of Georgia.  “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners, as well as our colleagues in the Civil Division, to pursue those who believe that their own profit justifies evasion of federal antidumping duties.”

 

“CBP is appreciative of information received from the public regarding fraudulent trade activity.  This type of blatant disregard for trade laws and regulations severely impacts the US economy by giving these bad actors an unfair advantage over legitimate importers,” said Donald F. Yando Director of Field Operations for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Atlanta Field Office. “CBP is committed to working with our partners both inside and outside the government to help bolster the US economy by putting an end to this type of illegal activity.”

 

The settlement with Bassett Mirror resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery.  The civil lawsuit was filed in the Southern District of Georgia and is captioned United States ex rel. Wells v. Bassett Mirror Company, Inc. et al., Civil Action No. 4:13-CV-000165.  As part of today’s resolution, Ms. Wells will receive approximately $1.9 million.

 

The investigation was handled by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.   

 

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. 

SAVANNAH, GA – Virginia-based home furnishings company, Bassett Mirror Company, has agreed to pay the United States $10.5 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly making false statements on customs declarations to avoid paying antidumping duties on wooden bedroom furniture imported from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Justice Department announced today.   

The United States alleged that between January 2009 and February 2014, Bassett Mirror evaded antidumping duties owed on wooden bedroom furniture that the company imported from the PRC by knowingly misclassifying the furniture as non-bedroom furniture on its official import documents.  Antidumping duties protect against foreign companies “dumping” products on the U.S. market at prices below cost.  The Department of Commerce assesses, and the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection collects, these duties to protect U.S. businesses and level the playing field for domestic products.  Imports of PRC-made wooden bedroom furniture have been subject to antidumping duties since 2004.  At the time of the alleged conduct in this case, wooden bedroom furniture from the PRC was subject to a 216 percent antidumping duty; non-bedroom furniture was not subject to an antidumping duty.

“Those who import and sell foreign-made goods in the United States must comply with the laws meant to protect domestic companies and American workers from illegal foreign trade practices,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler for the Justice Department’s Civil Division.  “The Department of Justice will pursue those who seek an unfair advantage in U.S. markets by evading the duties owed on goods imported into this country.”

“This Office will not tolerate anyone who seeks to stack the deck against American workers and products,” said U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine for the Southern District of Georgia.  “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners, as well as our colleagues in the Civil Division, to pursue those who believe that their own profit justifies evasion of federal antidumping duties.”

“CBP is appreciative of information received from the public regarding fraudulent trade activity.  This type of blatant disregard for trade laws and regulations severely impacts the US economy by giving these bad actors an unfair advantage over legitimate importers,” said Donald F. Yando Director of Field Operations for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Atlanta Field Office. “CBP is committed to working with our partners both inside and outside the government to help bolster the US economy by putting an end to this type of illegal activity.”

The settlement with Bassett Mirror resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery.  The civil lawsuit was filed in the Southern District of Georgia and is captioned United States ex rel. Wells v. Bassett Mirror Company, Inc. et al., Civil Action No. 4:13-CV-000165.  As part of today’s resolution, Ms. Wells will receive approximately $1.9 million.

The investigation was handled by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.   

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.  

Savannah, GA – Boasso America, Inc., headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and with a facility in Garden City, Georgia was sentenced to 5 years of organizational probation last week by United States District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr. for its actions in the illegal transportation and dumping of hazardous waste.  Additionally, Boasso was ordered to pay full restitution, including cleanup costs; to pay the maximum criminal fine penalty of $500,000; and to establish, implement, and enforce an effective environmental compliance plan, so that future dumping incidents do not happen.

Boasso pled guilty to a felony violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), a law regulating the storage and transportation of hazardous waste. Boasso’s conviction follows the convictions of two of its former employees, Ray Mitchell, 52, of Pooler, Georgia, and Maurice Miller, 40, of Savannah, for their individual roles in the illegal transportation and dumping of hazardous waste.  Earlier this year, Miller was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison.  Mitchell was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison.

According to evidence presented during multiple guilty plea and sentencing hearings, Boasso provides transportation services for tank containers containing hazardous wastes.  Boasso’s Garden City facility stored and transported its customers’ tanks containing hazardous waste.  In 2015, rather than properly transporting and safely disposing of drums and totes at its Garden City facility that contained the hazardous chemical naphthalene, Boasso employees Mitchell and Miller illegally transported and dumped a significant amount of naphthalene into the ground of a nearby Savannah neighborhood.  Exposure to amounts of naphthalene, a main ingredient found in mothballs, can cause serious health issues.  Once discovered, law enforcement and environmental officials quickly removed the hazardous waste before it caused any health concerns.  Further investigation by law enforcement officials uncovered that Boasso employees fabricated invoices in an effort to hide their illegal dumping of hazardous waste. 

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “The Southern District of Georgia is an historic and beautiful land.  Companies doing business in our great District will be held accountable for any and all harm they cause and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to enforce our federal laws and keep Savannah beautiful.” 

“The actions of the defendants in this case resulted in hazardous waste being illegally dumped in Savannah’s Carver Village community,” said Andy Castro, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program for Georgia. “This case shows that EPA and its law enforcement partners will prosecute those who put public health at risk by avoiding the cost of handling or disposing of dangerous chemicals properly.”

The investigation of this case was led by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, with assistance from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department, and the Savannah Fire Department.  Assistant United States Attorneys Tania D. Groover and Charlie Bourne prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.  For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

Savannah, GA – Javel Roberts, 17, of Valdosta, Georgia, entered a guilty plea Thursday, December 14, 2017, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr., for the armed robbery of the SunTrust Bank in Garden City, Georgia, on September 7, 2017, and for brandishing a firearm during the bank robbery.  In addition to the SunTrust Bank robbery, Roberts was charged with the armed robberies of the Wells Fargo Bank at 10422 Abercorn Street in Savannah on July 25 and August 8, 2017.  Although a juvenile under federal law, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted Roberts as an adult.  He faces up to life imprisonment.

Roberts’ guilty plea follows the guilty pleas of India Janette Henderson, 31, and Ira King, 39, of Savannah, both of whom pled guilty before Judge Moore on November 28, 2017, to aiding and abetting the SunTrust armed robbery, and both of whom face up to twenty-five years in prison.  Jamal Henderson, 30, of Savannah, previously pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun and faces up to ten years in prison. 

Oraefein Jabre King, 20, of Savannah, Georgia, was arrested in Birmingham, Alabama on December 12, 2017.  King was charged in an eight-count indictment by a federal grand jury in Savannah with conspiring to rob the Wells Fargo Bank and SunTrust Bank, aiding and abetting the armed bank robberies committed on July 25, August 8, and September 7, 2017, aiding and abetting the carrying of a firearm during the bank robberies, and unlawfully transferring a handgun to a juvenile.  If convicted, King faces not less than 57 years in prison and up to life imprisonment.

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Our office will aggressively prosecute those who commit violent crimes in our neighborhoods and anyone who aids and abets them.  Those who think they may avoid federal prosecution because of their youth, let this prosecution serve notice.”

“It very disconcerting that anyone would brandish a weapon during a bank robbery, let alone a 17-year old youth,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta.  “The disregard for employees and customers is reprehensible. These arrests and prosecution of this case demonstrate the determination of the FBI Southeast Georgia Violent Crime Task Force and its local law enforcement partners to make our community a safer place.”

United States Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilty.  A defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

The investigation into the three bank robberies was led by the FBI Southeast Georgia Violent Crime Task Force, along with assistance from Savannah-Chatham Police Department, and Garden City Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Chris Howard is prosecuting these cases for the United States. For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

Augusta, GA – Vicky Vinson Capetillo, from Grovetown, Georgia, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Chief Judge J. Randal Hall to two federal felonies related to her embezzlement of nearly $900,000 from the City of Grovetown. 

According to the factual basis presented for her guilty plea, Capetillo worked for the City of Grovetown as the City Clerk.  Her duties as Clerk included the preparation of the regular bank deposits of the City.  Capetillo developed a scheme to steal the cash from the deposits:  first, she   intercepted checks sent in by citizens as payment for utility bills; then, after developing a cache of checks, she would pocket cash from the regular deposit and replace the stolen cash with the intercepted checks to make the deposit ticket balance. 

Between January 2011 and April 2016, Capetillo stole and deposited $890,000 in cash into her and her family’s accounts.

Capetillo faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000, and five years of supervision following release from prison.  Capetillo was released on bond pending sentencing, which will be set after the U.S. Probation Office completes a presentence investigation. 

U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “The citizens of this district should be able to rely on the honest service of their public officials.  Corruption and embezzlement by those in positions of government trust will be met with federal prosecution and jail time.”

The charges against Capetillo resulted from an investigation led by IRS Special Agent Jeff Hale and FBI Special Agent Charles McKee.  Assistant United States Attorney Patricia G. Rhodes prosecuted the case for the Government.  For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: NATHANIEL THOMAS PUGH, III, 35, of Savannah, Georgia, was convicted on December 12, 2017 by a federal jury after a two-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr. Pugh was convicted of possessing a firearm as a felon, possession of ethylone, commonly referred to as "Molly," with the intent to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Pugh was involved in a shooting in the Oak Forest neighborhood of Savannah on November 4, 2015.  After sustaining a gunshot wound, Pugh drove his bullet riddled car to the hospital.  Savannah Chatham-Metro Police recovered a Glock firearm, loaded with a 30-round extended magazine in the glove compartment, which had Pugh’s DNA on it.  Also in the car, officers recovered a treasure trove of drug paraphernalia, including almost an ounce of “Molly,” cocaine, pills, baggies and a scale. Text messages recovered from Pugh’s cell phone revealed that Pugh had engaged in several drug transactions prior to the shooting incident, and also revealed photographs of Pugh holding the firearm that was ultimately recovered from Pugh’s car.

Pugh’s criminal history dates back almost two decades and includes prior convictions for Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Controlled Substances, Terroristic Threats, Simple Battery and Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement.

For possessing a firearm as a felon, Pugh faces a sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.  Additionally, Pugh may be sentenced up to 20 years on the drug trafficking offense, and also faces a consecutive sentence of 5 years to life imprisonment, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.  There is no parole in the federal system.  Pugh’s sentencing date has yet to be scheduled. 

U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “The number one priority of this office is to keep our citizens safe, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Kirkland and Carlton Bourne are doing just that with this trial victory.   The Department of Justice and this United States Attorney’s Office will continue to partner with our local and federal agencies to work tirelessly to track down, apprehend, and bring to justice those who commit violent crimes, or threaten to commit violent crimes in this district.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Kirkland and Carlton Bourne prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

Savannah, GA – Preston Q. Howard, 49, of Wright City, Missouri, was indicted last week by a federal grand jury in Savannah for transmitting threats in interstate commerce to members of the Islamic Society of Augusta, Georgia.  Today, Howard was arrested on those charges, the indictment against him was unsealed, and he will make an initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge in Missouri.  

The indictment alleges that, between June 22, 2017 and August 8, 2017, Howard made numerous telephone calls to the mosque during which he threatened to “kill,” “shoot,” “behead,” “slaughter,” “execute,” “light on fire,” and “murder” members of the mosque, to “hunt down” and “zone in” on Muslims, and to “blow up the mosque.”  

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Those who make detestable and hateful threats against members of our community in violation of federal law will be held accountable, as we continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and bring to justice those who terrorize our citizens.”

“No one has the right to rob citizens of their sense of safety in their communities and where they practice their faith,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta.  “Threats intended to instill fear in religious communities are an attack on the very fabric of our society and will not be tolerated.  The FBI will continue to vigorously investigate anyone who engages in such violent acts.”   

The indictment against Howard charges ten counts of interstate communication with intent to threaten to injure.  If convicted, Howard faces up to five years’ imprisonment on each count.

Mr. Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

The indictment of Howard arises out of an investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Nancy Greenwood is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.  For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

Savannah, GA – Tracy Wayne Crosby, 42, of Waycross, Georgia, was indicted by a federal grand jury for his role in sex trafficking of a minor.  The indictment alleges that, from at least August 2017 to November 29, 2017, Crosby recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained, maintained, patronized, and solicited a minor to engage in commercial sex acts. 

Crosby is further alleged to have used facilities of interstate commerce, namely a cellular telephone and the internet, to persuade, induce, entice and coerce a minor to engage in prostitution and sexual activity, and to have possessed one or more images depicting a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.   

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Those who solicit children online and pay to have sex with them are a horrible, driving force behind the dark underground of child sex trafficking.  By holding these people accountable for their actions, we can help end this scourge.  We continue to relentlessly work with our law enforcement partners to strike blows against this sick industry, to rescue children, and to put traffickers and customers behind bars.”

“Sexual exploitation steals the innocence of children, and the criminals who engage in these acts often inflict life-long trauma on their victims,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Greg Wiest of the Atlanta field office of Homeland Security Investigation (“HSI”), a directorate of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”).  “As this case shows, ICE HSI is committed to investigating and seeking prosecution of child exploitation cases as one of the agency’s highest priorities.” 

The indictment against Crosby charges three counts:  sex trafficking of a minor, coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, and possession of child pornography.  If convicted, Crosby faces not less than 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life imprisonment. 

Mr. Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

The indictment of Crosby arises out of an ongoing investigation led by ICE HSI.  Anyone who suspects instances of child sexual exploitation is encouraged to call 1-800-843-5678, which is operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in partnership with HSI, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other law enforcement agencies. 

Assistant United States Attorney Tania D. Groover is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.  For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

 

Savannah, GA – Timothy Dequon Lewis, 34, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Judge William T. Moore, Jr. to 240 months in federal prison for his role in sex trafficking eight minor children between the ages of 13 and 17.         

Lewis was convicted of 19 felony counts by a federal trial jury in March 2017.  According to evidence presented at that trial, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) received a lead in October 2015 from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) that a thirteen-year-old child had run away and was missing. 

A telephone analysis conducted by NCMEC of telephone numbers previously associated with the missing child revealed various online escort advertisements with images that appeared to depict the missing child.  The FBI’s investigation led agents to the Gateway Hotel on Abercorn Street in Savannah, Georgia, where Lewis was staying. At the hotel, FBI located and rescued three children, including the missing thirteen-year-old.  The FBI arrested Lewis at the hotel, and agents ultimately located five additional minors victimized by Lewis.

Lewis created and posted online prostitution advertisements for all eight of his minor victims.  He transported these children to his customers and profited from the commercial sex acts they performed.  Lewis employed coercion and physical abuse to compel some of his victims to engage in this activity. 

United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “Lewis turned our most precious and most vulnerable citizens into property and sold them over and over again to satisfy his own depravity and greed.  I am proud of the swift, thorough, and professional work of our law enforcement partners and Assistant United States Attorneys Tania D. Groover and Carlton R. Bourne, who put Lewis behind bars where he belongs.  As demonstrated by this case, predators like Lewis will be brought to justice. We will fight day and night to ensure the safety of our nation’s children.” 

Anyone who suspects instances of child sexual exploitation is encouraged to call 1-800-843-5678, a hotline operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in partnership with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies. 

The investigation of this case was led by the FBI.  Assistant United States Attorneys Tania D. Groover and Carlton R. Bourne prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA – Federal indictments and criminal complaints were unsealed yesterday against 30 Savannah residents charged with federal firearms, drug trafficking, robbery, and related offenses.  The charges are the result of joint federal, state, and local efforts to reduce violent crime and drug activities in the Savannah area.  The focus of this joint operation was the historic Cuyler-Brownsville neighborhood, a small neighborhood near downtown Savannah that has seen a significant rise in crime in the past year. 

The Cuyler-Brownsville neighborhood is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Savannah, Georgia, roughly bounded by Anderson Lane, West 31st Street, Montgomery Street, Victory Drive, Ogeechee Road, and Hopkins Street.  It is a residential neighborhood that was designed shortly after the Civil War, and it is recognized as a National Register Historic District.  The neighborhood contains homes, churches, schools, and businesses.  Over the last year, there has been an increase in violence and drug activity in the neighborhood.  Some Cuyler-Brownsville residents have expressed to local police that they fear sitting on their own porches because of shootings.

To address the apparent increase in violent crime and drug activities, the Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department (SCMPD), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), began a joint investigation to identify and arrest the criminals operating in and around the neighborhood. Law enforcement used a number of investigative techniques to identify the targets, including undercover purchases of drugs and firearms and extensive surveillance. 

In early November 2017, the federal grand jury for the Southern District of Georgia indicted 13 of the 30 defendants identified as a result of this investigation.  Those indictments initially were returned under seal.  Last week, a federal Magistrate Judge issued sealed criminal complaints and arrest warrants against the other 17 defendants. 

On November 28, 2017, local, state, and federal law enforcement officers executed four federal search warrants, two state search warrants, and dozens of arrests warrants.  Federal detainers additionally were placed on a number of defendants who are presently incarcerated on state charges.  Today, the indictments complaints, and federal warrants were unsealed, and many of the charged defendants made their initial appearance in federal court.

The federal charges and maximum penalties include:

• Felon in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), which typically carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.  However, if a defendant has three prior convictions for violent crimes or serious drug offenses, then the minimum sentence is 15 years’ imprisonment and the maximum sentence is life imprisonment.  
   
• Drug User in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.
   
• Distribution of Controlled Substances, and Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute, 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), which typically carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, but may carry increased minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment based on the quantity of controlled substances involved and the prior drug convictions of the defendant. 
   
• Interference with Commerce by Robbery of a Business, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, which carries a potential sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.
   
• Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation To a Crime of Violence or Drug Trafficking Crime, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries a potential sentence of not less than 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
   

During the investigation, law enforcement investigators seized dozens of firearms, including semi-automatic pistols, revolvers, assault-style rifles, shotguns, and firearms with extended magazines, along with hundreds of rounds of ammunition.  Many of the firearms seized during this investigation had previously been stolen and were connected to prior shootings in Savannah.  One stolen firearm that was recovered was used in four separate shootings within the Cuyler-Brownsville neighborhood.  Another firearm recovered was used in eleven prior shootings in and around Savannah.  Additionally, investigators seized body armor and quantities of numerous controlled substances, including cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, MDMA (ecstasy), heroin, and oxycodone. 

The Savannah residents charged with federal crimes include:

Jamall Brightwell, age 22,

Frederick Brown, a/k/a “Freddie B,” age 36,

Derrick Butler, a/k/a “Rico,” age 29,

Animahaun Cole, age 43,

Trishon Collins, age 23,

Andre Cooper, a/k/a “Minuteman,” a/k/a “Coop,” age 30,

Deandre Davis, age 31,

Omesimus Franklin, 42,

Baheem Frazier, age 25,

Jadonte Gadsden, a/k/a “Jadonte Hood,” age 20,

George Graham, age 38,

Lorenzo Graham, a/k/a “Zo,” age 32,

Eshon Grant, age 25,

Dennis Grubbs, a/k/a “Lil Red,” age 33,

Julian Harris, a/k/a “Ju Ju,” age 50,

Nathaniel Harvey, age 20,

Darrell McRae, a/k/a “General,” a/k/a “Ghetto,” age 44,

George Truman Polite, age 29,

Joseph Price, age 32,

Emmitt Scott, a/k/a “Scooda,” 32,

John Scott, age 20,

Shawn Seibert, age 26,

Leonard Washington, a/k/a “Guzzi,” age 37,

Floyd Williams, a/k/a “Ricardo Williams,” age 65,

Raheem Williams, a/k/a “Bucket,” age 25,

Raynard Williams, age 20,

Tyrone Williams, a/k/a “T Y,” age 42,

Quentin Wright, age 35,

Deonta Young, a/k/a “Fluid,” a/k/a “Flow,” a/k/a “Lil D,” a/k/a “D,” age 27, and

Larry Young, age 39.

Some of the defendants are alleged in the pending federal charges to have actively employed firearms during criminal activity.  For example, Quentin Wright, is charged with brandishing and using a firearm during a robbery of a Savannah business.  Deonta Young is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition that he allegedly used to kill one victim and injure another at a Savannah residence.  (Mr. Young also faces additional state charges, including murder, arising from this incident.)

United States Attorney Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “The federal government is committed to working with local and state law enforcement agencies to make our neighborhoods safe again.  Families should be able to sit on their own porches and children able to play in front yards without fear of being hit by a stray bullet.  Citizens called for help, and we responded.  Let this prosecution serve as notice:  violent crime in Savannah will equal lengthy federal jail time.” 

“This operation has dismantled a serious criminal enterprise which funneled guns and drugs into our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Wayne Dixie.  “ATF and its law enforcement partners acted quickly and judiciously on information developed during this ten month long investigation.  The safety of the public is at the core of ATF’s mission, and we stand at the front line eradicating violent crime from our streets.”

GBI Special Agent in Charge Jamie Jones said, “Cases and outcomes like this are a true testament to the fortitude of agents to pursue and diligently investigate all avenues presented to them.  This case is also an example of the teamwork and collaborative efforts that exist among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.”

“This operation highlights the importance of the partnerships between law enforcement agencies,” said Chatham County District Attorney Meg Heap.  “I would like to thank them for the time and energy that went into making this project successful.  The dedication of all the partners has contributed to the reduction of crime in some of the most crime-ridden neighborhoods in our community.”

SCMPD Chief Joseph H. Lumpkin, Sr., said, “The SCMPD certainly appreciates the collaboration, cooperation, and engagement of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.  We value and appreciate the support of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office and their commitment to aggressively addressing violent criminals.  Many violent offenders were taken off the street in this joint operation, and those numbers will continue to climb.  We will keep a laser focus on criminals, groups, and gangs in this community that commit violent acts.  We will arrest and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law to make Savannah-Chatham a safer place.”

Everett Ragan, Director of the Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team, said, “The success of this investigation further solidifies the importance of partnerships in the fight to rid this community of dangerous drugs and individuals.”

United States Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment or criminal complaint is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The operation was investigated by ATF, GBI and SCMPD, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, the Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team (CNT) and the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorneys Greg Gilluly, Tania Groover and Matthew Josephson are prosecuting these cases for the United States. 

Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced last month a recommitment of the United States Department of Justice to Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program dedicated to bringing together federal, state, and local law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The United States Attorney’s Office incorporated key components of the PSN strategy into the Cuyler-Brownsville operation, including strong federal involvement, the cultivation of partnerships with local law enforcement and community stakeholders, targeted enforcement in those areas most affected by violent crime, and outreach efforts designed to prevent violent crime before it occurs.  

For any questions, please contact Appellate Chief R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

SAVANNAH, GA: Meadows Regional Medical Center, Inc. (“Meadows”) and others have agreed to pay the United States and Georgia a total of up to $12,875,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act.  The United States and State of Georgia contended that Meadows and others violated and conspired to violate the False Claims Act by submitting claims referred by physicians with whom Meadows had improper compensation arrangements, in violation of the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute.  As part of the settlement, Meadows has also entered into a corporate integrity agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). 

“This Office prioritizes the investigation of improper financial relationships between health care providers and referral sources because services reimbursed by federal health care programs should be based on the patients’ best interests, and not on the financial interests of their doctors.  We will continue to use all available resources at our disposal to pursue culpable providers, executives, and physicians,” said United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner.  “In the early stages of this investigation, Meadows made available its executive team, voluntarily produced large numbers of documents, self-identified potential issues, proposed monetary and non-monetary corrective actions, and followed through on those proposals.  Meadows should be commended for its response, which resulted in a resolution that acknowledged the substantial efforts Meadows made on its own accord.” 

“Once Meadows learned of payments to providers for hospital referrals they quickly acknowledged the wrongdoing and took positive steps to correct the problems,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  “It is essential that patients and taxpayers be confident medical decisions have not been tainted by illegal financial considerations.” 

“Georgia’s Medicaid program depends upon the integrity of referral sources for healthcare services,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. “Our office, through the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, will continue to safeguard our citizens from activity that places profits above patients. Providers like Meadows who voluntarily cooperate with investigations and take proactive remedial steps make protecting our programs much more effective.”

This investigation was conducted by Special Agent David Graupner, Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Investigator Kimberly Reinken, United States Attorney’s Office, and Law Clerk Alison Slagowitz.  The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney J. Thomas Clarkson.  The State of Georgia was represented by Assistant Attorney General James Mooney with assistance from Investigative Auditor Denise Colson.  The claims resolved by the settlement agreement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.  For additional information, please contact United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Jeff Sessions recognized 202 Department of Justice employees for their distinguished public service today at the 65nd Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony.  This annual ceremony recognizes individuals for their outstanding service and dedication to carrying out the missions of the Department of Justice. 

Four honorees received the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Heroism for their actions in Allenhurst, Georgia, on November 18, 2016.  That day, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, led by Deputy Commander Patrick T. Carothers, conducted an investigation to apprehend a fugitive at a residence in Allenhurst.  The fugitive was wanted in South Carolina on multiple counts of attempted murder of police officers.  When the fugitive was located in a room inside the residence, he opened fire on Deputy Commander Carothers, striking him multiple times.  Although mortally wounded, Deputy Commander Carothers gallantly continued to return accurate fire in an attempt to protect his team and himself from the fugitive’s attack.  As additional task force members entered the gunfight, others removed Deputy Commander Carothers from the residence and rendered medical aid.  Tragically, Deputy Commander Carothers succumbed to his wounds. 

For these events, the Attorney General presented the Award for Exceptional Heroism posthumously to Deputy Commander Carothers, and to three members of his team:  Supervisory Criminal Investigator Ramiro Suarez, Jr., Criminal Investigator James F. Turner, and Deputy United States Marshal Robert C. Doherty.

“Every single day, the 115,000 men and women of the Department of Justice work to protect our national security against terrorist threats, defend the civil rights of all Americans, reduce violent crime in our communities, stop deadly drug dealers and their organizations, and strengthen the rule of law,” said Attorney General Sessions.  “This work benefits every American, and each Department of Justice employee plays a role that helps us accomplish our objectives. Today, we take a moment to recognize those who have distinguished themselves by exemplary service to the Department. Each one of these men and women—through their dedication and commitment—has made a difference. Meeting with them and their families today, I am more confident than ever that the Department—and the safety of the American people—are in good hands.”

During the ceremony, Attorney General Sessions talked specifically about Deputy Commander Carothers. “We must remember some who couldn’t be with us because they gave the last full measure of devotion.  That includes Deputy Commander Patrick Carothers of the Marshals Service.  After more than 25 years in law enforcement, Pat could have gotten a desk job or retired.  But that just wasn’t who he was.  And so, when it was time to serve a warrant for a fugitive wanted for attempting to kill police, Pat was the first one through the door,” said Attorney General Sessions, “We are going to remember Patrick Carothers’ story for a long time.  And he is going to inspire us to live up to his example of selflessness and bravery.” 

Said United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner, “Every member of Deputy Commander Carothers’s team exhibited profound courage, but he made the ultimate sacrifice.  We rightly should take this moment to recognize Deputy Commander Carothers and his entire team for their exceptionally heroic actions under extreme duress.  That team not only included the three federal Marshals recognized with him by the Attorney General today, but also a number of state and local law enforcement agents that with no less gallantry were on the scene in Allenhurst returning fire and rendering aid.  All these men and women voluntarily took on the mantle of public service, putting themselves in harm’s way in order to keep us all safe.  Today, and every day, they deserve our gratitude and respect.” 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced several Department of Justice actions to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Foremost of those actions is the reinvigoration of “Project Safe Neighborhoods,” 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.

In announcing this recommitment to Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Attorney General issued a memo directing United States Attorneys to implement an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates the lessons learned since Project Safe Neighborhoods launched in 2001.

In a statement on the program, the Attorney General said:  “According to the FBI, the violent crime rate has risen by nearly seven percent over the past two years, and the homicide rate has risen by more than 20 percent. We cannot be complacent or hope that this is just an anomaly: we have a duty to take action.

“Fortunately, we have a President who understands that and has directed his administration to reduce crime. The Department of Justice today announces the foundation of our plan to reduce crime: prioritizing Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that has been proven to work.

“Let me be clear – Project Safe Neighborhoods is not just one policy idea among many. This is the centerpiece of our crime reduction strategy.

“Taking what we have learned since the program began in 2001, we have updated it and enhanced it, emphasizing the role of our U. S. Attorneys, the promise of new technologies, and above all, partnership with local communities. With these changes, I believe that this program will be more effective than ever and help us fulfill our mission to make America safer.”

R. Brian Tanner, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, commented, “Of necessity, our Office and many of our local law enforcement partners have already developed aggressive programs within the district to address violent crime, including, for example, the End Gun Violence initiative here in Savannah.  Those programs draw in many ways on principles that are at the heart of the Attorney General’s reinvigoration of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN): strong federal involvement, the cultivation of partnerships with local law enforcement and community stakeholders, targeted enforcement in those areas most affected by violent crime, and outreach efforts designed to prevent violent crime before it occurs.  PSN 2.0 will serve to bolster our existing efforts with additional federal resources, expertise, and training.  I continue to pledge our full support and commitment to this critically important work.”

Chatham County District Attorney Meg D. Heap stated, “I fully support the U. S. Attorney’s Project Safe Neighborhood program.  It continues to provide tools to the Savannah-Chatham Metro Police Department and my office that are integral in fighting violent crime in our community.  This teamwork has already seen an improvement in violent crime.  This initiative just renews and strengthens our commitment to the partnership.” 

Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Chief Joseph H. “Jack” Lumpkin stated, “The SCMPD is certainly pleased and proud of the exemplary crime fighting partnerships we have established with our local, state, and federal partners.  The U. S. Attorney’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office are integral to our crime reduction efforts and sustaining crime decreases.  We are making a difference.”

The Attorney General also announced the following Department of Justice initiatives to help reduce violent crime:

-Additional Assistant United States Attorney Positions to Focus on Violent Crime – The Department is allocating 40 prosecutors to approximately 20 United States Attorney’s Offices to focus on violent crime reduction.

-More Cops on the Streets (COPS Hiring Grants) – As part of our continuing commitment to crime prevention efforts, increased community policing, and the preservation of vital law enforcement jobs, the Department will be awarding approximately $98 million in FY 2017 COPS Hiring Grants to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies.

-Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force’s (OCDETF) National Gang Strategic Initiative –The National Gang Strategic Initiative promotes creative enforcement strategies and best practices that will assist in developing investigations of violent criminal groups and gangs into enterprise-level OCDETF prosecutions.  Under this initiative, OCDETF provides “seed money” to locally-focused gang investigations, giving state, local, and tribal investigators and prosecutors the resources and tools needed to identify connections between lower-level gangs and national-level drug trafficking organizations.

-Critical Training and Technical Assistance to State and Local Partners –The Department has a vast array of training and technical assistance resources available to state, local and tribal law enforcement, victims groups, and others.  To ensure that agencies in need of assistance are able to find the training and materials they need, OJP will make available a Violence Reduction Response Center to serve as a “hot line” to connect people to these resources. 

-Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGIC) – The Department has provided grant funding to support a comprehensive approach to identifying the most violent offenders in a jurisdiction, using new technologies such as gunshot detection systems combined with gun crime intelligence from NIBIN, eTrace, and investigative efforts.  These FY 2017 grants were awarded to Phoenix, AZ, and Kansas City, MO. 

-Expand ATF’s NIBIN Urgent Trace Program – The Department will expand ATF’s NIBIN Urgent Trace Program nationwide by the end of the year.  Through this program, any firearm submitted for tracing that is associated with a NIBIN “hit” (which means it can be linked to a shooting incident) will be designated an “urgent” trace and the requestor will get information back about the firearm’s first retail purchaser within 24 hours, instead of 5 to 6 business days.

BRUNSWICK, GA – Yesterday, the last of eight defendants involved in a Glynn County-area drug trafficking organization was sentenced in federal court.  Derrick J. Young, 41, of Atlanta, Georgia was sentenced to 52 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood following his guilty plea to possessing cocaine and marijuana with intent to distribute in violation of federal law.  That sentence was ordered to run consecutive to a 24-month prison term earlier imposed by Judge Wood in June for Young’s violation of supervised release stemming from a prior federal conviction.

In addition to Young, the other persons convicted and sentenced as part of this investigation included:

· James Lee Roberts, aka “Bootney,” age 44, Atlanta, Georgia, 88 months in prison;

· Gladys Marie Moran, age 46, Brunswick, Georgia, 57 months in prison;

· Bruce Lenard Polite, aka “Loose Bruce,” age 36, Brunswick, Georgia, 24 months in prison;

· Oscar Cummings, III, age 40, Brunswick, Georgia, 30 months in prison (consecutive to a 33-month term of imprisonment from an earlier revoked term of supervised release);

· Joe Ferdinando Bryant, age 41, aka “Joe Joe,” Brunswick, Georgia, 13 months in prison;

· Donald Eugene Wesley, aka “Duck,” age 57, Brunswick, Georgia, 18 months in prison; and

· Sidney Devore Harrison, age 42, Savannah, Georgia, 18 months in prison.

During a lengthy investigation, law enforcement agents conducted multiple wiretaps to gather evidence sufficient to dismantle the drug organization. Through the wiretap and other investigative steps, agents determined that Young, Roberts, and other conspirators distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine in the Brunswick area.  More than two kilograms of cocaine and 17 pounds of marijuana were seized in operations related to this organization between May 15 and August 17, 2016.

United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner said, “Nearly all of the persons indicted in this case were raised in Brunswick or Savannah and exploited their ties to the community to establish a robust drug business. The drug seizures are illustrative of the capabilities of the organization. I commend the perseverance and dedication of members of the investigative team who worked long hours to ensure this successful outcome.”

The convictions in this matter resulted from a joint investigation by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Glynn County Sheriff’s Office, Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Marshals Service. The investigation was conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, which is comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Karl Knoche. The investigation was led by DEA Special Agents Rodney Holloway and James Jaskolka, and DEA Task Force Agents Ryan Alexander and Brian Slate. For additional information, please contact United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner at (912) 652-4422.

Savannah, GA- The Federal Human Trafficking Task Force for the Southern District of Georgia (“Task Force”), led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, announces its recent and on-going efforts to combat human trafficking. 

Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons or modern-day slavery, is a crime that involves compelling or coercing a person to provide labor or services, or to engage in commercial sex acts.  The coercion can be subtle or overt, physical or psychological.  Exploitation of a minor for commercial sex is human trafficking, regardless of whether any form of force, fraud, or coercion was used.

The Task Force was created in 2015 as a partnership of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies with a common goal of discovering and rescuing victims of human trafficking while identifying and prosecuting the criminals responsible.  The Task Force achieves that goal through heightened law enforcement and victim service presence in the community, through devotion of resources to intensive investigations designed to dismantle trafficking organizations, and by providing training for law enforcement and conducting outreach awareness campaigns in the community.  The Task Force also partners with non-government agencies to provide necessary services and basic needs for victims of human trafficking, including counseling, emergency shelter, clothing, and medicine. 

The Task Force recently has provided training on ways to recognize and prevent human trafficking to a number of local groups, including:  at-risk youth at Park Place Outreach, a youth emergency shelter (June 2017); medical staff at Memorial Hospital in Savannah, Georgia (July 2017); social workers, guidance counselors, school nurses and alternative school staff with the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (July 2017); the Coastal Area Traffic Enforcement Network, an organization that includes law enforcement from Appling, Bacon, Brantley, Camden, Charlton, Glynn, Jeff Davis, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Pierce, Tattnall, Ware, and Wayne Counties (September 26, 2017); and medical staff at Southeast Georgia Health System in Camden County (September 28, 2017). 

Over the past four years in the Southern District of Georgia, at least 31 human trafficking victims were rescued based on the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the Task Force.  In March 2017, a federal grand jury convicted Timothy Lewis of nine counts of child sex trafficking and eight counts of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, among other felony charges, in relation to a child sex trafficking ring he operated in the Savannah, Georgia area.  That case began as a rescue operation to find a missing 13-year-old girl.  The investigation revealed, and trial evidence showed, that Lewis was selling the 13-year-old and seven other children for commercial sex through online prostitution advertisements.  Lewis’ sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 30, 2017, and he faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for his crimes.   

United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner said, “Human traffickers prey on some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and they must be brought to justice.  Working together with our law enforcement and community partners can only increase our success in identifying victims and in investigating and prosecuting these cases.  We will continue to bring the full power of the federal government to this important fight.”

David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office, stated:  “The FBI continues to be a steadfast partner with federal prosecutors in the fight against human trafficking as we dedicate significant resources toward the identification, investigation, and presentation for prosecution of those involved and providing the much needed services to those being exploited.  It takes many agencies working together to make a difference in eradicating this scourge and the FBI is proud of the part that it plays in addressing this in an aggressive but cohesive manner.”

“Human trafficking is quite simply a form of modern-day slavery, and the threats and abuse inflicted on these particular victims only adds to the heinous nature of the crime,” said Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta Nick Annan.  “HSI made a record number of more than 2,000 human trafficking arrests in 2016 and rescued more than 400 trafficking victims nationwide, with many of them often hidden in plain sight.  HSI will continue our relentless pursuit to investigate and seek prosecution of criminal traffickers while ensuring the victims of this terrible crime are rescued and get the care they need.”

If you believe you have information about a potential trafficking situation, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888.  Anti-trafficking advocates are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take reports of potential human trafficking.  All reports are confidential, and you may remain anonymous. Interpreters are available.  The information you provide will be reviewed by the National Hotline and forwarded to specialized law enforcement and/or service providers where appropriate. 

To request training for your organization and for additional information, please contact Assistant United States Attorney Tania Groover, U. S. Attorney’s Office, at (912) 652-4422.

BRUNSWICK, GA – United States Attorney R. Brian Tanner announced the return of federal indictments charging Tyre Holzendorf, age 27, of St. Mary’s, Georgia, Phillip Smith, age 37, of Kingsland, Georgia, and Glynn Allen Sea, age 29, of Reidsville, Georgia, with multiple counts of bribery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 201.

In the indictments filed against Holzendorf, Smith and Sea, it is alleged that all three defendants were corrections officers at the D. Ray James Correctional Institution in Folkston, Georgia, and that each defendant accepted bribes in exchange for allowing inmates to smuggle contraband into the facility. 

Holzendorf and Smith are charged with two counts of bribery, while Sea is charged with three counts of bribery.  The maximum sentence for each count is fifteen years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a supervised release term of not more than three years.

All three defendants were arraigned on the indictments today before United States Magistrate Judge R. Stan Baker of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia.   The indictments are only accusations and are not evidence of guilt.  Each defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation was conducted jointly by the United States Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General (DOJ-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Assistant United States Attorney Brian T. Rafferty is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the United States.  For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.

Savannah, GA- James D. Durham resigned effective September 22, 2017, as the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.  Mr. Durham served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Office’s Criminal Division from 2002 to 2007, as the Office’s Criminal Chief from 2007 to 2010, and as First Assistant United States Attorney from 2010 to March 2017, when he became the Acting United States Attorney. 

Effective upon Mr. Durham’s departure, R. Brian Tanner was appointed as the interim United States Attorney by the Attorney General of the United States.  Mr. Tanner has served as the Office’s Appellate Chief since 2010 and as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Criminal Division from 2006 to 2010.        

U.S. Attorney Tanner said, “Jim Durham has been a relentless and formidable advocate for the people of the United States for over fifteen years.  From the start of his career here, Mr. Durham has prosecuted the most complex and important criminal cases in our district, rightly earning the full respect of our law enforcement partners.  His leadership has made this Office stronger and the people of the Southern District of Georgia safer.  We thank him for his selfless public service, and we wish him great success in his future endeavors.” 

Savannah, GA: Win Hang Vong, 26, a former Fort Stewart Army soldier, was sentenced earlier this week by United States District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood to 74 months in federal prison to be followed 20 years of monitored supervised release.

According to evidence presented during the guilty plea and sentencing hearings, in December 2016 members of the FBI and the GBI’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted undercover investigations to identify child predators involved in the distribution of child pornography. Agents came into contact with Vong and downloaded from his shared files approximately 830 still images and video files containing of child pornography. Agents thereafter executed a search warrant at Vong’s residence, his enlisted quarters on the Fort Stewart Military Reservation. Agents seized electronic devices, including Vong’s computer, and external hard-drives. From these devices, agents located over 100,000 files involving child pornography. Some of the child-pornography contained images of babies being raped by adults. Vong admitted he had been downloading child pornography on the internet for more than five years. Vong was later discharged from the U. S. Army.

The case was investigated by the FBI, the GBI, and the Army’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID). Assistant United States Attorneys Marcela C. Mateo and E. Greg Gilluly, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For questions, please contact the U. S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 201-2522.

BRUNSWICK, GA – A federal indictment was unsealed last week charging Rafeal Lateef Baker, also known as “Channel 4,” age 42, of Brunswick, Georgia, Takashia Atkinson, age 31, of Brunswick, Georgia, and Kenneth Anthony Moore, also known as “Smooth”, age 47, of Freeport, Texas, with conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

Baker, who was already serving a supervised release sentence for a prior federal drug trafficking conviction, was arrested last week in Brunswick, Georgia, and was detained pending trial. Moore was arrested last week by FBI agents in Freeport, Texas, and remains in custody pending transport from Texas to the United States District Court in Brunswick, Georgia. Atkinson remains a fugitive despite efforts by law enforcement to locate and arrest her. Anyone with information about the location of Atkinson are encouraged to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Brunswick Police Department.

The indictment of Baker, Atkinson and Moore was part of “Operation Bloody Prince,” a law enforcement operation targeting gang activity and drug trafficking in and around Brunswick. Acting United States Attorney Durham noted that the indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Each defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation of Baker, Moore and Atkinson was led by the FBI’s Coastal Georgia Violent Gang Task Force, the Glynn County Police Department and the Brunswick Police Department, with assistance from the FBI in Houston as well as the Houston Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorney Brian T. Rafferty is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 201-2522.