District of Idaho
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Idaho Resident Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Bath SaltRead the Press Release
BOISE - Brent R. Heinrich, 41, of Boise, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to possession with intent to distribute 300 grams of a mixture and substance containing the controlled substance analogue alpha-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (“a-PVP”), more commonly known as “bath salts,” which were intended for human consumption, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, Heinrich ordered the a-PVP from China and had it mailed to Idaho using a false name and address. Federal investigators were alerted that this package, which was deemed suspicious, was on its way to Idaho. They had the package routed by FedEx to Boise, and they told the Boise FedEx facility that the package might contain a hazardous chemical. When FedEx received the package, they inspected the contents and found two baggies, one that held a powdery substance and one that contained a crystalline substance. A special agent from Homeland Security Investigations and a detective from Idaho State Police went to the FedEx facility to inspect and test the contents of the package. The officers determined that both of the baggies contained a controlled substance analogue called a-PVP, also known as bath salts.
When Heinrich picked up the package at the FedEx facility, he signed for it using the false name and address that was on the package. Heinrich was arrested, in possession of the bath salts, shortly after he left the FedEx facility. Further investigation by the Idaho State Police showed that Heinrich, himself a heavy user of bath salts, intended to sell the bath salts for others to consume. The controlled substance analogue, a-PVP, shares a similar chemical structure with a Schedule I controlled substance MDPV, also known as bath salts. A-PVP is considered a controlled substance analogue because it produces both hallucinogenic and stimulant effects on the central nervous system that are similar to, or greater than those caused by the controlled substance MDPV.
The charge carries a maximum punishment of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a minimum term of three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 14, 2015, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge in Boise.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Idaho State Police.
Nampa Woman Arrested on Charge of Use of Interstate Commerce Facilities in the Commission of Murder-for-HireRead the Press Release
Boise – Monique Christine Martinez, 32, of Nampa, Idaho, made an initial appearance this morning in Boise on a complaint charging her with using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire. United States Magistrate Judge Ronald E. Bush set a preliminary hearing and detention hearing for October 27, 2014.
According to the complaint, Martinez contacted an individual by Facebook in California in order to hire someone to kill her husband. On October 17, 2014, Martinez met with an undercover FBI Special Agent, whom she believed was a hit man. Martinez advised the undercover agent that she wanted her husband dead and provided the agent with $350 in U.S. currency and promised additional payment later in the week. She provided the agent with a hand written note, which contained her husband’s name, the address of his employment and the address of his mother’s home, where he was recently living. Martinez showed the agent photographs of her husband on her smartphone, provided his work schedule, described his tattoos, and described the vehicle he drove. Martinez suggested that the best time to kill her husband was either as he got off work or when he was leaving his gym. Martinez was arrested in Nampa on October 22, 2014, at her residence in Nampa.
Using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The Metro Task Force is comprised of federal, state and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Boise Police Department; Ada County Sheriff’s Office; Caldwell Police Department; Nampa Police Department; Meridian Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and the Idaho Department of Correction.
A complaint is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mexican National Sentenced for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Jose Fabian Felix-Burgos, 41, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced yesterday to 115 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Felix-Burgos to pay a $400 fine. Felix-Burgos pleaded guilty to the charge on June 25, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, on August 1, 2013, the defendant assisted in the delivery of methamphetamine to an undercover officer in Heyburn, Idaho. Specifically, the defendant met with a co-defendant and the undercover officer at a restaurant in Heyburn, Idaho. The purpose of the meeting was to provide methamphetamine to the undercover officer. During the meeting, at the direction of the co-defendant, the defendant retrieved a box containing over a pound of methamphetamine from their vehicle, and gave it to the undercover officer.
The case was the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, in conjunction with, U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Canyon County Narcotics Unit, Meridian Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and the Mini-Cassia Drug Task Force.
The OCDETF program is a federal multi agency, multi jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
Lapwai Man Pleads Guilty to Failing to AppearRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Delbert Daniel George, 30, of Lapwai, Idaho, pleaded guilty yesterday to failing to appear for sentencing, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. George was indicted by a federal grand jury in Coeur d'Alene on May 20, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, George admitted that on May 8, 2014, he was to be sentenced for the offense of making a false statement to a federal official. He did not appear for sentencing and the court issued a warrant for his arrest. George was later arrested by Nez Perce Tribal Police.
The charge of failure to appear is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release. Any sentence the court imposes for George’s failure to appear must run consecutive to the sentence he receives for his initial violation of making a false statement to a federal official.
Sentencing is set for January 29, 2015, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Coeur d'Alene. George will remain in custody until his sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Nez Perce Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Caldwell Nightclub Owner Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
BOISE - Herminio Harro Sandoval, 60, of Caldwell, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday to 46 months in prison for conspiracy to attempt to evade and defeat tax, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Sandoval to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. He pleaded guilty on August 12, 2014.
According to court documents, Sandoval, over the past two decades, owned and operated various nightclubs in Canyon County, including El Tio Ponchos, Salon El Sureno, Fuego II, Blue Eye Club, Pachanga Nightclub, Club Fuego and La Copa. Sandoval admitted that beginning in 1998, and continuing to 2012, he conspired to fail to report $750,000 in income. At sentencing, Judge Lodge found that Sandoval derived much of his unreported income from illegal outdoor marijuana grows on public lands, methamphetamine and cocaine trafficking, prostitution, and an illegal check cashing business. As part of his plea agreement, Sandoval agreed to civilly forfeit real property, bank accounts, a vehicle, and U.S. currency and coins, totaling approximately $315,335. Additionally, Sandoval agreed to a tax assessment of at least $210,000 to the Internal Revenue Service.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Idaho State Police, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, Nampa Police Department, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Department.
Idaho Resident Sentenced for Theft of Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
BOISE – Melinda Sue Priddy, 43, of New Meadows, Idaho, was sentenced today to five years of probation, including three months of home detention, for theft of $138,910 from the Social Security Administration, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Priddy to pay $138,910 in restitution to the Social Security Administration and to perform 100 hours of community service. She pleaded guilty to the charge on July 30, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Priddy’s grandmother died in May of 2004. At the time of her death, Priddy’s grandmother was receiving survivor benefits from the Social Security Administration. These deposits were being made on a monthly basis into a bank account held jointly by Priddy and her grandmother. The Social Security Administration did not receive notification of Priddy’s grandmother’s death, and continued to make the monthly deposits into their joint account. From July of 2004 through May of 2013, Priddy, knowing that she was acting illegally, regularly withdrew this money for her own use.
The case was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration.
California Man Sentenced to 137 Months for Possession of Counterfeit Access Devices and Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
BOISE – Lajai Lamar Pridgette, 29, of Sacramento, California, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 137 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possessing counterfeit access devices; possession of counterfeit access device making equipment; possession of a firearm by a prohibited person; and transportation of a stolen vehicle, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Pridgette to pay $13,709.16 in restitution, as well as forfeiture of contraband and property. He was found guilty on all counts after a five- day jury trial in July.
According to evidence presented at trial, Lajai Pridgette was arrested the evening of October 30, 2013, by an Idaho State Trooper in Gooding County who was on the lookout for a suspect driving a Ford Mustang involved in two separate drive-by shootings on Interstate 84 earlier that evening. Pridgette was the sole occupant of the Mustang. While searching the Mustang, law enforcement officers found the firearm that had been used in the two shootings. One shot had narrowly missed occupants of a car in Ada County; the other narrowly missed the occupant of a pickup truck in Elmore County. As a convicted felon, Pridgette was prohibited from possessing the firearm. Also during the search of the Mustang, officers found 67 counterfeit and unauthorized credit cards, a credit card embosser, a stolen laptop computer, and a magnetic strip reader/writer. The 2013 Mustang that Pridgette was driving was reported stolen by a rental car company.
“Justice is well-served by this serious and significant sentence,” said Olson. “Lajai Pridgette, through both his violent conduct and his intent to steal from others with fraudulent credit cards, posed a serious threat to our Idaho communities. That threat was ended through outstanding, cooperative police work by the Idaho State Police, the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Secret Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. I commend the thorough investigation and detailed prosecution of this case.”
Boise Man Pleads Guilty to Bankruptcy Fraud for Concealing Interest in BusinessRead the Press Release
BOISE – Steven Gregory, 66, of Boise, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to one count of bankruptcy fraud by asset concealment, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Gregory’s sentencing is scheduled for January 7, 2015, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
According to the plea agreement, Gregory filed bankruptcy in 2010 and during that bankruptcy proceeding, knowingly and fraudulently concealed a five percent ownership interest in a company. During the pendency of the bankruptcy case, Gregory demanded, and received, a payout of that interest in the amount of $330,464.19. However, Gregory failed to disclose both the ownership interest and the payment in his filed bankruptcy schedules and statements. Gregory intentionally and fraudulently concealed the interest and the payment from the Bankruptcy Court, the trustee, and his creditors.
A violation of bankruptcy fraud concealment is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to five years, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a special assessment of $100. The Court also may order restitution to the victims of the crime.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service.
Idaho Falls/St. Anthony Woman Indicted for Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOISE – Lois Davis, 59, of Idaho Falls, and formerly of St. Anthony, Idaho was indicted yesterday by the federal grand jury for six counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering, and forfeiture of proceeds of the crimes, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
The indictment charges Davis with devising a scheme to defraud and fraudulently representing to investors that they could invest money with Davis in order to be entitled to a portion of commissions that Davis claimed she would receive on significant financial transactions. Davis accepted investors’ money under this false pretense, and then spent investors’ money on her personal expenditures, such as horses and trucks. The indictment alleges that none of the investors received their promised return on investment and that Davis accepted approximately $2.1 million dollars in investor funds, refunded to investors approximately $330,000, and kept approximately $1.8 million in fraudulently-obtained investor funds.
Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Money Laundering is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Bonners Ferry Men Arraigned on Indictment for Violent ATM Theft in McCall and ATM Thefts in Boise, Meridian, Utah, Colorado, and WyomingRead the Press Release
Trial set December16, 2014 in Boise
BOISE — Nathan Paul Davenport, 34, and Matthew Taber Annable, 39, both formerly of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, were arraigned today in Boise by United States Magistrate Judge Mikel H. Williams on an indictment charging multiple bank larcenies, conspiracy, and use of a deadly weapon during a felony offense, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Trial is set for December 16, 2014, in front of U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge.
BOISE — Nathan Paul Davenport, 34, and Matthew Taber Annable, 39, both formerly of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, were arraigned today in Boise by United States Magistrate Judge Mikel H. Williams on an indictment charging multiple bank larcenies, conspiracy, and use of a deadly weapon during a felony offense, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Trial is set for December 16, 2014, in front of U.S. Chief District Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
Davenport and Annable were arrested without incident on January 12, 2014, in Orem, Utah, in connection with a separate ATM robbery in Wyoming. The two men have been in custody on Wyoming charges, prior to being transported to Boise. In the District of Wyoming, both men pleaded guilty to single counts of ATM Theft and Aiding and Abetting and each received a fourteen month prison sentence.
The charge of bank larceny by use of a dangerous weapon as charged in the Idaho indictment is punishable by up to 25 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. The charge of use of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony offense is punishable by a mandatory minimum of ten years up to life imprisonment, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to five years supervised release. The charge of bank larceny is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. The charge of conspiracy to commit bank larceny is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Idaho State Police, the Valley County Sheriff’s Office, and the McCall Police Department.
Indictments and complaints are a means of charging a person with criminal activity. They are not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Naples Man Sentenced for Illegal Cat HuntRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Tod S. Navarro, 50, of Naples, Idaho, was sentenced to five years of probation and a five year hunting ban for violation of the Lacey Act, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Navarro to serve 50 hours of community service. He pleaded guilty to the charge on April 28, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Navarro admitted that he and his co-defendants took three North Dakota men hunting for mountain lions. The North Dakota hunters did not have Idaho permits or tags. Navarro and two co-defendants put their tags on the mountain lions killed by the North Dakota hunters.
The case was investigated by Idaho Fish and Game and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFW).
BoiseMan Sentenced for Escape from Custody and Violating Sex Offender Registration ActRead the Press Release
Fourth Conviction for Failing to Register
BOISE – Perry Lee Lewis, 37, of Boise, was sentenced today to 41 months in prison, for escaping from custody and violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, U.S. AttorneyWendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Lewis to serve seven years of supervised release following his release from prison. Lewis pleaded guilty to the charges on May 15, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, on May 13, 2013, Lewis walked away from the Port of Hope residential reentry center in Coeur d’Alene, where he was finishing his sentence for a previous violation of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Port of Hope is a halfway house that contracts with the Federal Bureau of Prisons to help reintroduce prisoners back into the community during the last few months of their sentence. Lewis was apprehended in Worley, Idaho, on May 19, 2013, by Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police, and returned to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility in Seattle, where he finished his sentence.
Lewis was released on July10, 2013, and returned to Boise, but once again, he failed to register as a sex offender, which resulted his arrest by the United States Marshal’s Service. Lewis was previously convicted of Rape in the Second Degree in 2006 in the state of Washington and has two previous convictions in Washington State for failing to register as a sex offender.
The United States Marshal’s Service and the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police investigated the case. Both agencies are members of the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a statewide coalition of local, state and federal law enforcement and prosecution agencies, focused on apprehending and prosecuting individuals who use the Internet to criminally exploit children. For more information about the Idaho ICAC Task Force and a list of all the participating agencies, visit www.icacidaho.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Nampa Woman Sentenced to Controlled Substance DeliveryRead the Press Release
BOISE – Mary Jane Pace, 49, of Nampa, Idaho, was sentenced today to three years probation and 90 days home detention for distributing a controlled substance, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Pace appeared today before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
According to the indictment, plea agreement, and arguments in court, in May of 2012, on two separate occasions, Pace knowingly and intentionally distributed to an undercover police officer, a total of fourteen pills containing oxycodone, a Schedule II narcotic and controlled substance, in exchange for a total of $390 in payment. Pace obtained the controlled substances by prescription from a provider.
“Illegal distribution of prescription painkillers continues to ripple through our community, causing addiction and destroying lives.” said Olson. “We are committed to prosecuting these cases and combating this scourge at all levels of distribution.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) led Tactical Diversion Squad which is comprised of law enforcement personnel from the DEA, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Boise Police Department, Idaho State Police, Meridian Police Department, Nampa Police Department and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
Nampa Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Drug Charge and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced today that Timothy Alan Butterbaugh, 46, of Nampa, Idaho, was sentenced to 63 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill sentenced Butterbaugh at the federal courthouse in Boise. Butterbaugh pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine on November 7, 2013. Butterbaugh later admitted that he obstructed justice by conspiring with others in an attempt to intimidate or retaliate against the informant that participated in the drug transaction.
According to the plea agreement and information presented in court, Butterbaugh admitted to selling methamphetamine on June 27, 2013, to a person who was assisting law enforcement as a confidential informant. After he was arrested, Butterbaugh informed others of the identity of the informant and conspired with others to intimidate, or retaliate against, the informant. The informant was never actually harmed. During
During the court hearing today, Judge Winmill found that Butterbaugh’s conduct amounted to an obstruction of justice, which resulted in a higher advisory sentencing guideline range. Judge Winmill also ordered Butterbaugh to have no contact with gang members, including outlaw motorcycle gangs, upon release from prison.
The case was investigated by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The Metro Task Force is comprised of federal, state and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Boise Police Department; Ada County Sheriff’s Office; Caldwell Police Department; Nampa Police Department; Meridian Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and the Idaho Department of Correction.
The case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit treasurevalleypartners.org.
Jerome Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Defendant Used Her Position as a Bank Teller to Obtain Money from Customer Account
BOISE – Azucena Ortega, 32, of Jerome, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to one count of bank fraud, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, the defendant used her position as an employee of Wells Fargo Bank in Twin Falls, Idaho to access a customer's checking account, and order an ATM card, without the customer's permission. The defendant admitted receiving the ATM card at the bank, setting a PIN number, and raising the daily cash withdrawal limit on the account. The defendant also admitted using the ATM card on four occasions to withdraw cash from ATM machines in Twin Falls, Idaho, obtaining a total of $1,484.00 from the customer's account. The government is seeking forfeiture of assets and restitution for the victim of the fraud.
Bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, and up to five years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for January 7, 2015, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill, at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspector Service, and the Twin Falls Police Department.
Twin Falls Man Sentenced as Armed Career CriminalRead the Press Release
BOISE – Paul Edward Parnell, 47, of Twin Falls, Idaho, was sentenced today to 188 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Parnell to serve four years of supervised release, pay a $1,000 fine, and forfeit the firearm and ammunition he illegally possessed. He was found guilty after a bench trial on August 19, 2014.
According to court records, Twin Falls Police officers served a search warrant on Parnell’s residence and located a sawed-off shotgun in the defendant’s bedroom. Parnell has an extensive criminal history that includes seven prior felony convictions. Because Parnell had previously been convicted of at least three felony crimes of violence, he faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years to life under the Armed Career Criminal Act. Parnell was previously convicted in Massachusetts of armed robbery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and assault with a weapon. He had also been convicted of a felony domestic violence offense in California.
The case was investigated by the Twin Falls Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Mexican National Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Possession of A Firearm in Furtherance of A Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
BOISE –Jose Luis Rodriguez-Nava, 26, a Mexican National, was sentenced to 84 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Rodriguez-Nava to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison. It is anticipated that he will be deported following his release from prison.
According to court documents, a vehicle in which Rodriguez-Nava was a passenger was stopped for a traffic violation in Twin Falls, Idaho. He was found to be in possession of approximately 48 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded handgun. Rodriquez-Nava admitted ownership of the firearm and admitted to selling methamphetamine. He was determined to be an illegal alien living unlawfully in the Magic Valley.
The case was investigated by Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office, as well as federal agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Caldwell Man Indicted for Dumping Tires on Public LandRead the Press Release
Boise - Terry Dorton Anderson, 49, of Caldwell, Idaho, made his initial appearance today on charges of two counts of felony injury to government land, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. He was indicted on September 9, 2014, by a federal grand jury in Boise. Trial is set for November 10, 2014, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The indictment alleges that between July and December 2012, Anderson dumped junk tires in Squaw Creek Canyon near Highway 95 south of Marsing, and near a dirt road off Highway 78. The lands where the dumping occurred are Federal public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management in Owyhee County. The part of Squaw Creek Canyon where the dumping of about 500 tires occurred is nearly 1,700 feet deep. The indictment alleges that it will cost between $32,049 and $56,649 to remove the tires, clean up, and rehabilitate that area of Squaw Creek Canyon. The Indictment also alleges that it will cost between $7,156 and $13,027 to remove and clean up the approximately 400 tires dumped off Highway 78.
Each felony charge of injury to federal public lands is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Land Management, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and Owyhee County Sheriff’s and Prosecutor’s Offices.
An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
California Residents Indicted for Retail Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOISE - Arleen Cifuentes, 31, of Riverside, California, and Rocio Contreras-Loya, 40, of Sante Fe Springs, California, made their initial appearance today on charges of wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Cifuentes and Contreras-Loya were indicted on September 9, 2014, by a federal grand jury in Boise. Trial is set for November 11, 2014, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The Indictment charges the defendants with devising a scheme to defraud retail stores in Idaho by materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, by fraudulently using the personal identifying information of unknowing third party victims to apply for and receive credit accounts through the retail stores. The Indictment alleges that the defendants obtained the personal identifying information of the victims, ran credit checks on them, then created false identifications purportedly from California with the victim's information and the defendants' photos. The defendants are alleged to have applied for, and received, credit accounts from several Boise-area department stores in the names of the victims, then utilized the credit accounts to make purchases of merchandise and gift cards. The Indictment alleges the credit application process, as well as the merchandise purchases, resulted in an interstate wire transmission. A third defendant, Ivan Fonseca, 30, of Richmond, California, remains a fugitive.
Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory two years in prison, to be served consecutively to the sentence imposed for the underlying felony. Possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by Boise Police Department and the United States Secret Service.
An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mexican National Sentenced for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Juan Ramon Yuen-Rodriguez, 29, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced today to 210 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered to pay a $500 fine. Yuen-Rodriguez pleaded guilty to the charge on May 24, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, on various dates, including August 14, 2013, Yuen-Rodriguez agreed with an undercover officer to deliver methamphetamine to an undercover officer in Heyburn, Idaho. While driving to the meeting, Yuen-Rodriguez, along with co-defendant Jose Felix-Burgos, were stopped by law enforcement. In a box in the back seat of the vehicle officers found 2024 grams of actual methamphetamine. At sentencing Judge Winmill commented that part of the reason for the sentence imposed was that he believed Yuen-Rodriguez’ sole purpose for coming to the United States was to sell large quantities of drugs. Co-defendant Felix-Burgos is scheduled to be sentenced October 7, 2014.
The case was the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, in conjunction with, U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Canyon County Narcotics Unit, Meridian Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and the Mini-Cassia Drug Task Force.
The OCDETF program is a federal multi agency, multi jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
Kamiah Man Sentenced for Assaulting A DeputyRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Paul Lee Oatman, 33 of Kamiah, Idaho, was sentenced to 36 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for assault resulting in serious bodily injury, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Oatman to pay $25,719 in restitution and serve 100 hours of community service. He was found guilty by a jury on June 26, 2014.
According to court documents, on July 13, 2013, the defendant assaulted a Kamiah Marshal and fractured his jaw in two places. The marshal was attempting to arrest a friend of the defendant, when the defendant interfered and struck the marshal in the jaw.
“Today’s sentence sends the clear message that violent interference with a law enforcement officer engaged in his public safety duties will not be tolerated,” said Olson. “All persons have a duty to comply with a law enforcement officer's commands. I commend the hard work of prosecutors and staff from my office and the cooperative investigative work of the Nez Perce Tribal Police Department and the FBI.”
The case was investigated by Nez Perce Tribal Police, Idaho County Sheriff’s Department, Lewis County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Kuna Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
BOISE - Ian Quincy Winn, 48, of Kuna, Idaho, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison, followed by ten years of supervised release for receipt and attempted receipt of sexually explicit images of minors, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Winn to undergo sex offender treatment, and forfeit the computer equipment used in the crime. He pleaded guilty to the charge on April 7, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Winn engaged in online chats with an undercover Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent between October 2012 and July 2013. During these chats, Winn spoke extensively about his interest in the torture, rape and murder of a (fictitious) six-year-old child whom the undercover agent claimed was his niece. Winn did not know the child was fictitious. In June, Winn asked the undercover agent to send him a photo of the fictitious six-year-old performing a sexual act.
HSI special agents obtained a search warrant and served it at Winn’s home in Kuna on August 12, 2013. They seized several computers and electronic storage devices containing child pornography, including sexually explicit images of prepubescent females. Agents sent the images to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which maintains a database of previously identified victims of abuse. The NCMEC reported that the images found on Winn’s computer included known victims from California, Texas, Belgium, Missouri, Indiana, Washington, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. Winn confessed that he had been conducting online searches for erotic and sexually explicit images of young girls for about three to four years. Judge Lodge ordered Winn to pay $2,000 in restitution to an identified child found within his child pornography collection.
The case was investigated by agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), in Boise and North Platte, Nebraska, assisted by investigators from the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Kuna Police Department.
Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service are members of the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a statewide coalition of local, state and federal law enforcement and prosecution agencies, focused on apprehending and prosecuting individuals who use the Internet to criminally exploit children. For more information about the Idaho ICAC Task Force and a list of all the participating agencies, visit www.icacidaho.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Final Defendant Sentenced in Large Drug and Gun CaseRead the Press Release
Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for His Role in Drug Conspiracy and for Assaulting a Law Enforcement Officer
BOISE – Scott Vicente Hernandez, 43, of Oakland California, was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and for assaulting an officer, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Hernandez to serve four years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge on December 17, 2013, and pleaded guilty to assault on an officer on June 15, 2014.
Hernandez and ten other individuals were indicted on July 9, 2013. The indictment included allegations of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine, unlawful possession of firearms, and the unlawful use of a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime. Hernandez was arrested on July 24, 2013, and held at the Ada County Jail until his trial. On October 16, 2013, Hernandez assaulted a jail deputy while awaiting his trial.
Hernandez and the other ten co-defendants all pleaded guilty. Hernandez was the eleventh and final defendant to be sentenced in the case. Co-defendant Jeramie Mahler was previously sentenced to 247 months in prison for his role in the conspiracy and for shooting another person in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy. The shooting was the result of a dispute about the quality and quantity of the methamphetamine. Co-defendant Hernan Gomez-Gutierrez was sentenced to 180 months in prison; Darrell Zirschky was sentenced to 168 months in prison; Michelle Ritch was sentenced to 120 months in prison; Carlos Tovar was sentenced to 87 months in prison; Wendy Harrison and Bobbi Woolsey were both sentenced to 84 months in prison; Daniel Vaughan was sentenced to 80 months in prison; Juan Mojica-Barragan was sentenced to 57 months in prison; and Nearia Pinnell was sentenced to 33 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force, which is comprised of federal, state and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Boise Police Department; Ada County Sheriff’s Office; Caldwell Police Department; Nampa Police Department; Meridian Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and Idaho Department of Probation and Parole. Other agencies that contributed to this investigation include the Drug Enforcement Administration, Nampa Police Department, Caldwell Police Department, Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and Ada County Sheriff’s Office. During the investigation, law enforcement agents seized twelve firearms, including a stolen firearm, and an illegal fully-automatic machine gun.
The case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit treasurevalleypartners.org.
State Line Defendant Sentenced for Meth Distribution and Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
BOISE – Christian Robert Michael Paradis, 34, of the State line area—at various times a resident of New Plymouth, Fruitland and Payette, Idaho, and Ontario, Oregon—was sentenced to 72 months in prison for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Paradis to serve five years of supervised release and 100 hours of community service following his release from prison.
According to court documents, following several “controlled buys” of small amounts of methamphetamine, a search warrant was obtained for a house at which Paradis frequently stayed. In a bedroom of the house, which Paradis shared with relatives’ young children, High Desert Drug Task Force officers found 175 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, a “cutting agent” and syringes. Officers also found a Bryco.380 caliber semi-automatic pistol and a short-barreled weapon made from a 12 gauge shotgun, having a barrel of less than 18 inches. At the time of his arrest, Paradis had more than $1,200 in currency in his pocket. Paradis had previously been convicted of several felony drug offenses, including two in Malheur County in 2011, and 2013.
The case was investigated by federal agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and High Desert Drug Task Force, including the Payette County Sheriff’s Office and Payette County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Another of 20 Defendants Sentenced in Meth Distribution RingRead the Press Release
Two Defendants Still Await Sentencing
BOISE – John Odenwalt, 34, of Mountain Home, Idaho, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Odenwalt to serve five years of supervised release following his release from prison. He pleaded guilty to the charge on October 9, 2013.
The conspiracy involved two distribution cells in the Treasure Valley: one led by Jason Holmberg, sentenced on December 16, 2013, to 180 months in prison; the other by Andrew Polney, sentenced on April 7, 2014, to 130 months in prison. Another leading co-defendant, Kenneth Jones, of Sacramento, California, supplied multi-pound shipments of methamphetamine for transport to the Treasure Valley for distribution. Jones was sentenced on January 15, 2014, to 130 months in prison. The group operated from about June 2012, through the time of the various arrests on April 18, 2013, and May 23, 2013. Odenwalt carried methamphetamine from Holmberg to Polney.
A majority of Odenwalt’s co-defendants pleaded guilty and have been sentenced. Henry Horne will be sentenced on October 20, 2014. David Echevarria does not have a sentencing date yet.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, which includes agents of the DEA as well as task force officers from Nampa Police Department.
Idaho Department of Corrections Prisoner Sentenced on Federal Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
Engaged in Sexual Chats with Teenage Girls via Social Media Websites
BOISE - Jacob Eldon Hobart, 27, of Boise, Idaho, was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison for possession of sexually explicit images of minors, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Hobart to serve 15 years of supervised release and undergo sex offender treatment after his release from prison. Hobart pleaded guilty to the charge on April 30, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, the case originated in December 2012, when the Idaho Internet Crimes against Children Task Force received a report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. A social networking site had observed a person with the screen/user name of Jacob Hobart (Jacob H) presenting himself on their site as 15 years of age; however, company personnel had observed another chat conversation in which Hobart stated he was actually 25 years of age. The social networking site further reported that Hobart had communicated with a female who identified herself as being 15 years of age.
Boise Police Detectives investigated and found hundreds of emails in Hobart’s Yahoo email from the social media site, including emails in which Hobart had requested to be friends with dozens of teenage females, ranging in age from 13 to19 years of age based on the ages stated in their profile. One of those girls was a 14-year-old girl from Washington State with whom Hobart exchanged sexually explicit photos. Another victim, the one who had held herself out on the social networking site as being 15, was actually a local 12-year-old middle school student, to whom Hobart had sent obscene photographs.
Hobart is currently incarcerated in the Idaho Department of Corrections, serving a term of two years fixed and eight years indeterminate for an unrelated charge of sexual battery involving lewd or lascivious acts on a minor child 16 to 17 years of age.
The case was investigated by the Boise Police Department, which is a member of the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a statewide coalition of local, state and federal law enforcement and prosecution agencies, focused on apprehending and prosecuting individuals who use the Internet to criminally exploit children. For more information about the Idaho ICAC Task Force and a list of all the participating agencies, visit www.icacidaho.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Woman Sentenced for Assault and Causing Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Marisa Belle Hawk, 28, of Wapato, Washington, was sentenced yesterday to 85 months in prison for assault with a dangerous weapon, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Hawk to serve three years of supervised release following her prison term. She pleaded guilty on June 17, 2014.
According to court documents, Hawk admitted that on November 23, 2013, she shot the victim in the leg with a handgun. The offense happened on the Nez Perce Reservation. Both the defendant and the victim are members of federally recognized tribes.
The case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Nez Perce Tribal Police.
Spokane Woman Sentenced for Trafficking Methamphetamine on the Coeur D'Alene Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Amanda Marie Dahlen, 27, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced yesterday to 60 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Dahlen to serve five years of supervised release following her prison term, and the forfeiture of $6,000. She pleaded guilty to the charge on June 17, 2014.
According to court documents, on September 11, 2013, Dahlen was stopped by a Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police officer after her vehicle was observed weaving on the roadway. During the traffic stop the officer deployed his K-9 around Dahlen’s vehicle. The K-9 indicated that Dahlen’s vehicle contained drugs. Officers searched Dahlen’s vehicle and seized numerous bags of methamphetamine, a digital scale, $2,814 in cash, and drug notes and ledgers.
The case was investigated by Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police Department, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
Man and Woman Plead Guilty to Possession of A Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Gustavo Alfaro-Garcia, 36, of Salt lake City, Utah, and Mirella Ileana Garcia, 27, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, pleaded guilty yesterday to possession of a stolen firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Co-defendant, Maria Garcia, 26, of Salt Lake City, pleaded guilty to the same charge on August 13, 2014.
According to the plea agreements, on June 18, 2013, the individuals were stopped by the Idaho State Police while traveling southbound on Interstate 15, in Oneida County, Idaho. Inside the vehicle officers found numerous stolen firearms including a Smith and Wesson .357 caliber revolver, which had been stolen from a residence in Arimo, Idaho. Earlier that day, a witness had seen the individuals enter the residence where the gun was stolen.
The crime is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for November 19, 2014, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Pocatello. Maria Garcia’s sentencing is set for October 22, 2014, also before Judge Winmill.
The case was the result of an investigation by the Idaho State Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Grand Jury Indicts Shoshone Man for Producing, Viewing and Transporting Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOISE - William Roger Wilkinson, 53, of Shoshone, Idaho, was indicted August 12, 2014, by a federal grand jury for two counts of sexual exploitation of children, one count of access with intent to view child pornography, and one count of transportation of child pornography in interstate commerce, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. He made his initial appearance on the charges today, where he entered a not guilty plea. Trial is set for November 4, 2014, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The indictment alleges that on November 3, 2012, and again on December 9, 2012, Wilkinson knowingly used, persuaded, induced, enticed or coerced an eight-year-old child to take part in sexually explicit conduct and produced visual depictions of that conduct. The indictment also alleges that between June and October 2013, Wilkinson knowingly accessed with intent to view one or more visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Last, the indictment alleges that between November 1 and November 12, 2013, Wilkinson transported child pornography images depicting sexually explicit conduct involving eleven separate minors in interstate commerce. The indictment also calls for the forfeiture of real and personal property associated with the offenses.
The combined charges of sexual exploitation of children, accessing with intent to view child pornography and transportation of child pornography are punishable by up to 90 years in prison, a maximum fine of $750,000, and at least 5 years up to lifetime of supervised release. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Idaho and Utah, and the Lincoln County, Idaho, Sheriff’s Department.
An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Fort Hall Man Pleads Guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Dulton Earl Johnson, 23, of Fort Hall, Idaho, pleaded guilty yesterday to assault resulting in serious bodily injury, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2013.
According to court documents, from July 30, 2013, to September 2, 2013, Johnson lived with a woman and several of her minor children in Fort Hall. During that time period, Johnson physically assaulted the woman’s nineteen-month-old daughter on multiple occasions. The assaults resulted in eleven different bone fractures or other serious injuries. The injuries were ultimately discovered when the infant was taken to Primary Children’s Hospital in Utah for surgery on the most recent fracture. In an interview with law enforcement officers, Johnson admitted to causing the injuries.
Johnson’s charge is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for November 19, 2014, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Pocatello.
The case was investigated by the Fort Hall Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
Nez Perce Tribal Member Sentenced for Assaulting OfficersRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Robert Wesley Warden, 49, of Kamiah, Idaho, was sentenced today in federal court to 10 months in prison for assaulting three law enforcement officers, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. He went to trial and was convicted on May 7, 2014.
During the trial, Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Candy W. Dale heard evidence that on September 15, 2012, a distressed child called 911 and reported that Warden was beating her mother. The child’s mother also spoke to the 911 dispatcher. She reported that Warden threw her down and began kicking her in the face. The 911 dispatcher contacted the Nez Perce Tribal Police and a Kamiah Marshal to respond to the emergency.
Judge Dale heard evidence that the first person to arrive at the scene was a Kamiah Marshal. The Kamiah Marshal observed swelling and bruising to the mother’s face and learned that Warden had fled the scene. The Marshal stayed with the victims, waiting for Nez Perce Tribal Police to arrive from another city. Before Nez Perce Tribal Police arrived, Warden returned to the residence. The Kamiah Marshal met Warden outside and told him he was being detained until the arrival of the Nez Perce Tribal Police. Warden refused to cooperate and tried to pass the Kamiah Marshal in the direction of the woman and her child. The trial evidence showed that a struggle ensued and that Warden attempted to bite the Kamiah Marshal.
Nez Perce Tribal Police arrived shortly after the struggle between Warden and the Kamiah Marshal ended. They arrested Warden and placed him in a patrol car, where he began kicking the inside of the patrol car. When Nez Perce Tribal Police officers attempted to restrain Warden he attempted to kick an officer and bite another. Warden also spit on both officers. Warden was later charged by federal indictment with five counts of assault.
During the trial Warden asserted that the Kamiah Marshal lacked jurisdiction to detain him. The Court held that the defendant’s jurisdictional allegation was not a defense to the assault on the Kamiah Marshal and that the Kamiah Marshal reasonably responded to the 911 call.
The case was investigated by the Kamiah Marshals, Nez Perce Tribal Police, and Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Montana Man Sentenced for Counterfeit United States CurrencyRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Chadwin King, 28, of Butte, Montana, was sentenced yesterday to nine months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for passing counterfeit U.S. currency, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered King to pay a $10,842 in restitution. He pleaded guilty to the charge on May 7, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, on December 12, 2013, Spokane Police located King in a blue Chrysler van in the Econo Lodge parking lot in Spokane, Washington. Inside the van were cameras, a GPS unit, printers, checks, clothing, tools, and drug paraphernalia. Police also found completed and under production counterfeit currency. King admitted that he counterfeited United States currency.
The case was investigated by U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and Spokane Police Department.
Meridian Women Sentenced for Oxycodone DeliveriesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Kristen Rast, 44, and Brittany Tillema, 25, both of Meridian, Idaho, were sentenced this week in federal court for distributing controlled substances, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Sentencing was pronounced by U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
This morning, Judge Lodge sentenced Rast to12 months and one day in prison, a $1,000 fine, and four years of supervised release. According to the plea agreement, on four occasions in June through August of 2012, Rast knowingly and intentionally distributed to an undercover police officer a total of 356 pills of 80 mg Oxycontin, for a total of $10,700. Oxycontin contains oxycodone, a Schedule II narcotic and controlled substance. She had obtained the controlled substances by prescription from a provider.
On Monday, Judge Lodge sentenced Tillema to a sentence of credit for time served, three years of supervised release, 30 days of home detention, and 100 hours of community service. According to the plea agreement, on or about October 18, 2012, Tillema knowingly and intentionally distributed to an undercover police officer, 32 pills of 80 mg Oxycontin for $1,000.
Both defendants will have a number of restrictions during supervision, including: limitations on access to multiple medical providers and pharmacies, requirements for drug testing, and a prohibition from consuming alcohol.
This investigation was initiated by the Meridian Police Department and investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) led Tactical Diversion Squad which is comprised of law enforcement personnel from the DEA, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Boise Police 2 Department, Idaho State Police, Meridian Police Department, Nampa Police Department and U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office of Inspector General.
Lapwai Man Sentenced for Violating Sex Offender Registration and Notification ActRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Jacob Russell Jackson, 54, of Lapwai, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday to 21 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Jackson pleaded guilty to the charge on May 7, 2014.
According to statements made in court, in 1996 Jackson was convicted and sent to federal prison for two counts of sexually abusing a child. This conviction required Jackson to register as a sex offender. Jackson admitted that between December 2012, and April 2014, he did not register as a sex offender in Idaho.
The case was investigated by U.S. Marshals Service and brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Washington Man Admits to Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
BOISE – Tyler Goodwin, 28, of Shelton, Washington, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to distributing oxycodone, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to court documents, the defendant admitted to distributing approximately 100, 30 mg oxycodone pills from January 2014 to March 2014 in the Treasure Valley. Goodwin also agreed to forfeit $3,000 in cash proceeds.
The charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine. Sentencing is set for November 12, 2014, before Chief U.S. District Court Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
Goodwin’s charges are part of Operation Candle Wax, which resulted both in the charges against Goodwin and the indictment of twelve other defendants. Trial for ten of those indicted is set for November 4, 2014, on charges of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and heroin. The eleventh defendant is in custody in California and is awaiting his initial appearance. The twelfth defendant is a fugitive.
The indictment is the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), which included the cooperative law enforcement efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and U.S. Marshals Service; the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crime Task Force, a task force comprised of federal, state and local agencies, including the Boise Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Caldwell Police Department, Nampa Police Department, Meridian Police Department, and Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; the Twin Falls Police Department, Twin Falls Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and District 3 Probation and Parole.
The OCDETF program is a federal multi agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
Nampa Man Pleads Guilty to Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BOISE – Lawrence Joseph Kren, 64, of Nampa, Idaho, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Kren was indicted by a federal grand jury in Boise on April 8, 2014, charged with three counts of distributing methamphetamine.
According to information presented in court, Kren admitted to selling methamphetamine to another person, who was assisting law enforcement as a confidential informant. Kren admitted that he sold methamphetamine to the informant on three separate occasions in February and March 2014. Kren also admitted that he possessed firearms in connection with the drug distribution offense and that he showed the firearms to the informant.
The charge is punishable by up to twenty years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and at least three years of supervised release. The government is seeking forfeiture of the firearms. Kren is scheduled for sentencing on November 12, 2014, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The case was investigated by the Nampa Police Department and Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The Metro Task Force is comprised of federal, state and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Boise Police Department; Ada County Sheriff’s Office; Caldwell Police Department; Nampa Police Department; Meridian Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and Idaho Department of Probation and Parole.
The case is being prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit treasurevalleypartners.org.
Second of Five Spice Conspirators SentencedRead the Press Release
BOISE – Troy Palmer, 43, of Boise, Idaho, was sentenced today to 40 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for conspiring to launder money, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Palmer to pay a $2,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. He pleaded guilty on February 10, 2014.
According to court documents, Palmer and three co-conspirators, Mark Ciccarello, William Mabry, and Robert Eoff, conspired to purchase and import from China chemicals known as AM2201, UR-144, and XLR11, which they used to treat innocuous plant matter to make spiceCa synthetic cannabinoid similar to substances—including JWH018—listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. The Indictment alleged that they conspired to launder money illegally obtained through spice manufacturing and distribution.
Palmer admitted that he knowingly entered into a conspiracy with co-conspirators to conduct financial transactions in connection with a “spice” manufacturing and distribution business beginning in March 2011. Palmer also admitted to knowingly participating and assisting in the financial activity of the business by engaging in bank and other financial transactions, through both domestic and foreign financial institutions. The transactions consisted of the proceeds of prior illegal spice sales and other specified unlawful activity and, in many cases, the transactions conducted through financial institutions separately consisted of criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000; most of the transactions occurred in Idaho, Washington and California.
William Mabry was sentenced on May 21, 2014, to 24 months in prison and ordered to pay $80,000 in restitution. Robert Eoff was sentenced July 10, 2014, to 26 months in prison and 36 months of supervised release. The one remaining co-conspirator, Mark Ciccarello, is scheduled to be sentenced on September 8, 2014.
The case is the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), which included the cooperative law enforcement efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Boise Police Department, Meridian Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and Nampa Police Department. Other federal agencies participating in the OCEDTF program include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and U.S. Marshals Service.
The OCDETF program is a federal, multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
Mexican National Admits Unlawfully Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
BOISE – Ciro Simon-Camacho, 33, a Mexican National, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, on May 18, 2014, Boise Police officers stopped a vehicle Simon-Camacho was driving. During the traffic stop, officers saw a handgun underneath his seat. Officers seized the handgun, which was loaded. During their investigation, law enforcement officers discovered that Simon-Camacho was unlawfully present in the United States and had been previously deported from the United States in 2002. Simon-Camacho is prohibited from possessing firearms because of his status as an alien unlawfully in the United States.
The charge is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. The government is seeking forfeiture of the firearm.
Simon-Camacho is scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2014, by Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The case was investigated by the Boise Police Department; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement; and the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The Metro Task Force is comprised of federal, state and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Boise Police Department; Ada County Sheriff’s Office; Caldwell Police Department; Nampa Police Department; Meridian Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and Idaho Department of Probation and Parole.
Simon-Camacho is being prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit treasurevalleypartners.org.
Two More DBSI Executives Sentenced in Idaho’s Largest Federal Fraud ProsecutionRead the Press Release
Former CEO and General Counsel Sentenced Yesterday
BOISE – Chief United States District Court Judge B. Lynn Winmill today sentenced the last two DBSI defendants convicted at trial to federal prison terms, announced Wendy J. Olson, U.S. Attorney for Idaho. David D. Swenson, 38, of Boise, Idaho, and Jeremy A. Swenson, 41, of Meridian, Idaho, were each sentenced to 36 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $4,400 special assessment. Judge Winmill also ordered the pair to pay restitution in an amount to be determined later. David Swenson and Jeremy Swenson are the sons of DBSI founder and former CEO Douglas L. Swenson, 66, of Meridian Idaho. Yesterday, Judge Winmill sentenced Douglas Swenson to 240 months in federal prison. He also sentenced former DBSI general counsel Mark Ellision, 66, of Boise, Idaho to 60 months in federal prison.
All four men were convicted by a federal jury on April 14, 2014, of 44 counts of securities fraud. Douglas Swenson was convicted of an additional 34 counts of wire fraud. During the 42-day trial, the jury heard evidence that DBSI, founded in 1979 and headquartered in Meridian, Idaho, sold a range of security investments, including bonds, notes, and Tenant-in-Common interests (TIC investments) in both improved and unimproved real estate. Until DBSI’s bankruptcy in November 2008, the defendants represented to investors that DBSI was a highly profitable company with a net worth in excess of $105 million, and that it operated a successful business model that minimized risk to its investors and paid fixed returns as high as of 9.5%.
The United States presented evidence that at trial that these representations were false. DBSI’s various businesses were almost entirely unprofitable and dependent on new investor funds in order to continue operations. DBSI’s represented net worth of more than $105-million in 2007 and 2008, was the result of deliberate accounting decisions directed and approved by the defendants, all of whom have advanced degrees in accounting.
The jury heard evidence that although the defendants knew of DBSI’s true financial condition, they withheld accurate financial information and took steps to conceal DBSI’s insolvency from investors, financial advisors, broker dealers, due diligence officers, and DBSI employees. In Private Placement Memoranda and other disclosures provided to prospective investors, the defendants misrepresented DBSI Housing’s income and net worth through deceptive accounting practices; failed to disclose DBSI’s cash shortages and deteriorating finances; misrepresented the likelihood of repayment on large investments in technology start-up companies; and failed to disclose DBSI’s dependence on new investor money to meet its existing obligations.
The jury also heard evidence that DBSI collected monies from investors called “Accountable Reserves” which it explicitly represented belonged to its investors and would only be used for specific expenses. The defendants diverted at least $80 million in investor’s Accountable Reserves for purposes other than those disclosed, including payment of the promised fixed investment returns to existing investors, operation expenses, and investments in technology start-up companies.
Olson said that the DBSI prosecution involved the largest loss amount ever prosecuted in federal court in Idaho. “These significant prison terms for all four defendants should serve as a clear message for business executives and their corporate counsel,” said Olson. “Potential investors deserve to know the truth. Investment companies and their representatives who commit fraud and put individuals’ hard-earned money at risk will themselves pay a steep price in terms of their freedom, and they will be held responsible to repay those they have victimized.”
“This complex financial investigation shows that the appearance of success can be a disguise for a scheme of investment fraud," said Stephen Boyd, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge for the state of Idaho. "Investment schemes can thrive for a time on false claims, but in the end is simply a ‘house of cards’ which collapses. IRS Criminal Investigation, along with our law enforcement partners, will vigorously pursue corporate officers who victimize their investors and violate the public trust.”
South Dakota Man Sentenced for Clean Air Act ViolationRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - John Wilhelm Myre, 55, of South Dakota, was sentenced yesterday to three years of supervised release and 90 hours of community service for negligent endangerment under the federal Clean Air Act, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. Magistrate Judge Candy W. Dale also ordered Myre to pay a $3,000 fine. Myre pleaded guilty to the charge on March 18, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Myre admitted that in January 2013, when he was a supervisor for the Dakota Southern Railroad, the laborers working under him used acetylene cutting torches to cut apart steel beams from an old railroad trestle. The steel beams had been painted with lead-based paint, and when they were cut with the torches the lead vaporized and was released into the air. One of the workers became ill and had to be hospitalized with acute lead poisoning, and the other workers all had high levels of lead in their bloodstreams.
Judge Dale ordered Myre to attend and complete within six months an OSHA class on safety standards involving lead paint. In addition, the defendant is prohibited from using firearms during the term of his supervised release.
"This is an astonishing case of admitted negligence with tragic consequences," said Tyler Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA's) Criminal Investigation Division in Seattle. "Despite learning that one worker had to be hospitalized by the process, Mr. Myre’s workers continued their toxic task of cutting steel and breathing lead fumes. The result: five diagnosed cases of lead poisoning that were completely avoidable. We will investigate and prosecute criminal negligence that causes harm to the fullest extent of the Law."
The case was investigated by U.S. EPA Criminal Investigation Division.
Las Vegas Woman Sentenced for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
BOISE – Sadith Chavez-Perez, 23, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced today to 71 months for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Dee V. Benson, visiting from the District of Utah, also ordered Chavez-Perez to serve five years of supervised release following her prison term. Chavez-Perez pleaded guilty on May 20, 2014. She is subject to deportation upon completion of her sentence.
According to the plea agreement, on March 27, 2013, Chavez-Perez met with an undercover officer at a parking lot in Meridian, Idaho. At the meeting Chavez-Perez discussed future drug transactions with the undercover officer. On April 11, 2013, Chavez-Perez made arrangements with the undercover officer to deliver five ounces of methamphetamine to the undercover officer. The methamphetamine was delivered to the undercover officer by a co-defendant later that day. Chavez-Perez subsequently arranged for another delivery of two pounds of methamphetamine to the undercover officer on or about May 15, 2013. While enroute to this meeting, Chavez-Perez was stopped by law enforcement in Ely, Nevada. In the vehicle officers found 1,321 grams of actual methamphetamine.
The case was the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in conjunction with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Meridian Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Nampa Police Department, and the White Pine County, Nevada Sheriff’s Office. Other federal agencies participating in the OCDETF program include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and U.S. Marshals Service.
The OCDETF program is a federal multi agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
DBSI Founders Douglas L. Swenson and Mark A. Ellison Sentenced for Defrauding Thousands of InvestorsRead the Press Release
Court Orders Forfeiture of Over $228 Million in Fraud Proceeds
BOISE – DBSI founders Douglas L. Swenson, 66, of Meridian, Idaho, and Mark A. Ellison, 66, of Boise, Idaho, were sentenced today in federal court in Boise to federal prison terms for defrauding DBSI investors. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill sentenced Swenson, DBSI’s former CEO, to 240 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and a $7,800 special assessment. His restitution will be ordered within 90 days. Judge Winmill sentenced Ellison, who previously served as DBSI’s General Counsel, to 60 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $4,400 special assessment for his part in the fraud. His restitution also will be ordered within 90 days.
At sentencing, Judge Winmill found that the defendants were responsible for losses of more than $100 million. He also determined that there were more than 250 victims of the fraud. In sentencing Douglas Swenson, Judge Winmill noted that the losses in the case were staggering and that deterrence was an important consideration in a white collar case. He also stated that by 2006 or 2007, Swenson had to know that the company was making false statements.
Both Swenson and Ellison were convicted by a federal jury on April 14, 2014, of 44 counts of securities fraud. Douglas Swenson was convicted of an additional 34 counts of wire fraud. Their co-defendants, David D. Swenson, 38, of Boise, Idaho, and Jeremy A. Swenson, 41, of Meridian, Idaho, also former principals of DBSI and both sons of Douglas Swenson, were found guilty of 44 counts of securities fraud. They are scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2014.
During the 42-day trial, the jury heard evidence that DBSI, founded in 1979 and headquartered in Meridian, Idaho, sold a range of security investments, including bonds, notes, and Tenant-in-Common interests (TIC investments) in both improved and unimproved real estate. Until DBSI’s bankruptcy in November 2008, the defendants represented to investors that DBSI was a highly profitable company with a net worth in excess of $105 million, and that it operated a successful business model that minimized risk to its investors and paid fixed returns as high as of 9.5%.
The United States presented evidence that at trial that these representations were false. DBSI’s various businesses were almost entirely unprofitable and dependent on new investor funds in order to continue operations. DBSI’s represented net worth of more than $105-million in 2007 and 2008, was the result of deliberate accounting decisions directed and approved by the defendants, all of whom have advanced degrees in accounting.
The jury heard evidence that although the defendants knew of DBSI’s true financial condition, they withheld accurate financial information and took steps to conceal DBSI’s insolvency from investors, financial advisors, broker dealers, due diligence officers, and DBSI employees. In Private Placement Memoranda and other disclosures provided to prospective investors, the defendants misrepresented DBSI Housing’s income and net worth through deceptive accounting practices; failed to disclose DBSI’s cash shortages and deteriorating finances; misrepresented the likelihood of repayment on large investments in technology start-up companies; and failed to disclose DBSI’s dependence on new investor money to meet its existing obligations.
The jury also heard evidence that DBSI collected monies from investors called “Accountable Reserves” which it explicitly represented belonged to its investors and would only be used for specific expenses. The defendants diverted at least $80 million in investor’s Accountable Reserves for purposes other than those disclosed, including payment of the promised fixed investment returns to existing investors, operation expenses, and investments in technology start-up companies.
“Today’s significant sentences for Douglas Swenson and Mark Ellison send the clear message that those who induce investors to trust them with their money, in some instances with their life savings, have a solemn and legal obligation to be honest and truthful,” said Wendy J. Olson, U.S. Attorney for Idaho. “The losses caused by these defendants’ criminal conduct represent the greatest losses in any fraud case every prosecuted in the District of Idaho. It is appropriate that the protagonist of that fraud, Douglas Swenson, also receive the most serious sentence. The U.S. Attorney’s Office extends its heartfelt sympathies to those who were victims of this fraud, including, of course, to those investors who appeared in Court today to describe the devastating impact these crimes have had on their lives. We will continue to make every effort to insure that as many of the proceeds of these frauds as possible are recovered and returned to the victims.”
“When you knowingly mix deceit and trickery into the financial well-being of individuals, you create a recipe for devastation that could last a lifetime,” said Stephen Boyd, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge for the state of Idaho. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates how federal law enforcement will band together to help put an end to the criminal behavior of those who prey on investors. IRS Criminal investigators will continue to use their financial expertise to identify and trace funds in these types of investor fraud schemes.”
Orofino Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Matthew P. Carlson, 31, of Orofino, Idaho, pleaded guilty today to possession of sexually explicit images of minors, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Carlson was indicted by a federal grand jury in Coeur d'Alene on April 15, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Carlson ordered DVD’s containing sexually explicit images of minors and child erotica from a Canadian company. The DVD’s were sent to Carlson through the U.S. Mail. The defendant also admitted that he intentionally downloaded child pornography on the internet. Over 600 child pornography photographs were located on a computer and hard-drive seized from Carlson’s residence.
The charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000.00, and lifetime supervised release.
Sentencing is set for November 12, 2014, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d'Alene.
“The U.S. Attorney's Office will aggressively work with our local, state, and federal partners to stop the sexual exploitation of children,” said Olson. “Those who continue to victimize children by possessing or distributing images of children being sexually abused will be targeted and prosecuted.”
The case was investigated through the collaborative effort of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Orofino Police Department. These agencies participate in the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a statewide coalition of local, state and federal law enforcement and prosecution agencies, focused on apprehending and prosecuting individuals who use the Internet to criminally exploit children. For more information about the Idaho ICAC Task Force and a list of all the participating agencies, visit www.icacidaho.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Meridian Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Jennifer Lillian Balfe, 19, of Meridian, Idaho, pleaded guilty on August 19, 2014, to bank robbery, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Balfe was indicted by a federal grand jury in Coeur d'Alene on May 20, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Balfe admitted that on May 16, 2014, she drove the get- away vehicle during a robbery of the U.S. Bank in Cottonwood, Idaho.
The charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for sentencing November 12, 2014, before U.S. District Judge Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d'Alene.
The case was investigated by the Cottonwood Police Department, Lewiston Police Department, Idaho County Sheriff’s Office, Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Coeur D'Alene Man Sentenced for Depredation of U.S. Forest PropertyRead the Press Release
Judge orders defendant to pay over $7,000 in restitution
COEUR D'ALENE - Stanley D. Votava, 60, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, was sentenced today to two years of probation and 50 hours of community service for depredation of U.S. Forest property, U.S. AttorneyWendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Candy W. Dale also ordered Votava to pay $7,033.35 in restitution, the cost of remediating the land. He pleaded guilty to the charge on May 7, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Votava admitted he drove a skidder on U.S. Forest Service lands four times between November 2012, and January 2013, while working on private land that is adjacent to the U.S. Forest service land.
The case was investigated by U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
Worley Man Sentenced for Distributing Methamphetamine on Coeur D'Alene ReservationRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Larry Donald Havier, Jr., 37, of Worley, Idaho, was sentenced today to 63 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Havier to forfeit $4,250 in drug proceeds to the Government. He pleaded guilty to the charge on May 27, 2014.
According to court documents, between May 2013, and January 2014, Havier conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine on the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation. The defendant admitted that on at least two occasions he delivered methamphetamine to a confidential source of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police Department, and Plummer Police Department.
Tribal Member Admits to Smoke Shop BurglaryRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Joseph Reno Stensgar, 36, of Plummer, Idaho, pleaded guilty on August 19, 2014 to burglary, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Stensgar was indicted by a federal grand jury in Coeur d'Alene on May 20, 2014.
According to the plea agreement, Stensgar admitted that on January 3, 2014, he agreed to enter the Stubby Lake Smoke Shop in order to seal cartons of cigarettes. During the course of the burglary, cigarettes, cash, a laptop computer, car keys, and 2012 Subaru Forrester were taken by Stensgar and another person. The crime happened on the Coeur d’Alene Reservation.
The charge of Burglary is punishable by at least one year and up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for November 12, 2014, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d'Alene.
The case was investigated by Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Minnesota Man Pleads Guilty to Laundering Drug ProceedsRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - Allan R Hayes, 30, of Minnesota, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit money laundering, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Hayes was indicted by a federal grand Jury in Coeur d'Alene on February 20, 2013.
According to the plea agreement, on January 22, 2013, Hayes was stopped for traffic violations. Pursuant to consent, the officer searched the vehicle and found over $200,000 in the trunk. The defendant admitted the money was proceeds from the sale of marijuana. Hayes told the officer that he was taking the money from Minnesota to California to pay for marijuana that was previously supplied and sold.
The charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $500,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for November 12, 2014, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d'Alene.
The case was investigated by the North Idaho Violent Crimes Task Force.
Man Admits to Unlawful Possession of A Firearm on Kootenai ReservationRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE - William Gene Andrews, 53, of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, pleaded guilty today to unlawful possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Andrews was indicted by a federal grand jury in Coeur d'Alene on July 15, 2014.
According to the court documents, Andrews admitted that on June 9, 2014, he possessed a Hi-Point .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol on the Kootenai Reservation after having previously been convicted of a felony. Andrews was convicted of possession of a controlled substance in Boundary County in 2008.
The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for November 12, 2014, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d'Alene.
The case was investigated by the Kootenai Tribal Police and the FBI.