District of Idaho
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Garden Valley Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
BOISE – William N. Brockbrader, 40, of Garden Valley, Idaho, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 30 months in prison followed by ten years of supervised release for failing to register as a sex offender, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Brockbrader to pay a $10,000 fine.
Brockbrader was convicted by a federal jury in Boise on December 5, 2012, following a three day trial. The jury heard evidence that Brockbrader was convicted in 1998 of three sexual offenses against a minor. He was serving in the United States Navy when he committed the offenses. After serving three years in prison, Brockbrader was paroled in Utah in 2001. Although he initially registered as a sex offender in Utah, Brockbrader failed to update his registration status when he moved to Nevada in early 2009. Brockbrader was arrested during a traffic stop in Nevada in April 2011, and it was determined that he was a sex offender who had failed to register. Brockbrader completed his registration under protest while he was in jail and was released. He left Nevada in early 2012 and moved to Garden Valley. Brockbrader was non-compliant with his Nevada registration requirements at the time he left the state and failed to notify Nevada or Utah authorities that he had moved to Idaho. Brockbrader subsequently failed to register as a sex offender in Idaho. United States Marshals arrested him on May 15, 2012.
The case was investigated by the Sex Offender Watch Task Force in Southern Idaho and the United States Marshals Service, with assistance by the Nevada Department of Public Safety, Nevada Attorney General’s Office, and the Utah Sex Offender Registry.
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, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” For more information about registered sex offenders in Idaho, visit www.isp.idaho.gov/sor_id/.
Idaho Home Builder Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Ordered to Pay $429,436 in Restitution to the IRS
BOISE – Justin D. Schoenauer, 41, also known as Corey J. Schoenauer, a resident of Twin Falls County, Idaho, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 27 months in prison for income tax evasion. Schoenauer was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $429,436 in restitution. Schoenauer was indicted in February 2012 and pleaded guilty to the offense on October 30, 2012.
According to court documents, Schoenauer was a general contractor who, for the past ten years, operated a sole proprietorship called Patagonia Construction (Patagonia), a business engaged primarily in building homes. Schoenauer admitted that during tax years 2005 through 2008, he concealed Patagonia’s business receipts. Schoenauer further admitted that he directed some customers to make checks payable to him personally, rather than to Patagonia, then ensured that those checks were not deposited into Patagonia’s main bank account. When having tax returns prepared, Schoenauer falsely told his return preparer that all of his business receipts were deposited into the main Patagonia bank account, thereby concealing Patagonia’s gross receipts and causing the preparation and filing of false tax returns. Schoenauer paid the IRS $35,000 at sentencing, which will be applied to his outstanding tax liability.
“When a business owner cheats on his taxes, he gains an unfair advantage over honest businesses and cheats all honest taxpayers,” said Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Tax Division Kathryn Keneally. “Today’s sentence shows that we will hold such criminals accountable.”
“Paying income tax is a solemn obligation of citizenship,” said United States Attorney Wendy J. Olson. “Integrity in business transactions required to be reported to the federal government is essential to the proper functioning of our economy. Those who hide income, evade taxes and launder profits undermine our democracy. This sentence sends a strong message that those who seek to avoid their tax responsibilities will be properly punished.”
“The license to run a business is not a license to evade paying taxes,” said Richard Weber, Chief, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Mr. Schoenauer’s misconduct, concealing business receipts and having checks made payable to himself, is offensive to all honest business owners. IRS Criminal Investigation continues to protect the U.S. tax system by investigating and bringing to justice individuals who violate tax laws.”
Assistant Attorney General Keneally and United States Attorney Olson commended the efforts of special agents from IRS-Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Michael J. Romano and Mark L. Williams, who prosecuted the case.
Idaho Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing More Than 600 Images of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – James Brown, 50, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Pocatello to one count of possession of sexually explicit images of minors, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Brown was charged by information on February 12, 2013.
According to the plea agreement, Brown admitted that on August 15, 2012, he possessed a laptop computer with more than 600 sexually explicit images of minors. Many of the images depicted sexual activity between adults and children under the age of 12. When Brown was interviewed by special agents of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, he admitted to possessing “thousands” of images of sexually explicit conduct, approximately half of which he estimated were images of minor children.
Authorities were alerted to Brown’s illegal activities in April 2011, when the Federal Bureau of Investigation learned that Brown’s e-mail account had been used to send an image of child pornography to another person. An investigation led authorities to suspect the illegal activity was being conducted using the computer network of Brown’s employer, ON Semiconductor. Once notified, the company promptly undertook an internal investigation and cooperated fully with law enforcement’s investigation. Brown’s employment was terminated in conjunction with his confession to the authorities.
The charge of possessing sexually explicit images of minors is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a minimum term of five years up to lifetime supervised release. The government is seeking forfeiture of the computer equipment used in the offense.
Sentencing is set for June 17, 2013, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Pocatello.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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.”
Weiser Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Traffic Meth in IdahoRead the Press Release
BOISE – Dawson Lee Moore, 60, of Weiser, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 36 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Dawson appeared today before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise. He pleaded guilty to the charge on January 4. Dawson is the twelfth defendant sentenced in the case.
According to court documents, Dawson admitted that from early November 2011 through May 16, 2012, he conspired with others, including co-defendants, to distribute a total of approximately 11 pounds of methamphetamine in Canyon, Payette and Washington counties in Idaho.
Sentenced in February 2013 to serve federal prison sentences were co-defendants Benjamine L. Vertner, of Ontario, Oregon, to 138 months; Patric Campbell, of Boise, to 124 months; Kristopher Hensley, of Weiser, to 51 months; Johnny A. Tambunga, of Weiser, to 47 months; Jacob James Clevenger, of Weiser, to 188 months; Mario Martinez, Jr., of Greenleaf, Idaho, to 57 months; and Fabian Jordano Beltran, of Weiser, to 36 months.
Three co-defendants await sentencing following their January 22 conviction for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Michael Dennis Morris, Jim Allen Loveland, and Jesus Guadalupe Sanchez a/k/a Jose Salazar, a Mexican national, who was also convicted of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, are scheduled to be sentenced on April 8.
The case was investigated by the Idaho State Police.
Boise Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
BOISE – Devin Edward Montgomery, 32, of Boise, Idaho, was sentenced this morning in United States District Court to 24 months plus 10 days in prison followed by three years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Montgomery to forfeit the shotgun he illegally possessed. He pleaded guilty to the charge on January 7, 2013.
According to the plea agreement, on April 3, 2012, federal search warrants were served on a residence located on Broadway Avenue in Boise, Idaho, which served as the clubhouse for the Slayers gang. The search located a Mossberg 12 gauge shotgun inside a safe. According to the plea agreement, Montgomery admitted that he purchased the firearm on August 18, 2011, from Impact Guns in Boise. Montgomery further admitted that at the time he possessed the firearm, he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance and prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms.
On September 20, 2012, Montgomery pleaded guilty in Idaho state court to delivery of a controlled substance and recruiting a criminal gang member. He is currently awaiting sentencing on those charges.
The indictment was the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in conjunction with the Boise Police Department. Other federal agencies participating in the OCDETF program include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, 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.
The case was prosecuted as part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Washington Man Sentenced in Idaho Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
BOISE – Dyrell Robert Swinson, 20, of Tacoma, Washington, was sentenced this morning in United States District Court to 57 months in federal prison for his role in a child sex trafficking case, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Swinson to be supervised by a probation officer for five years after he is released from custody. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. Swinson pleaded guilty in November 2012 to obstructing a sex trafficking of children investigation.
According to the plea agreement, on March 8, 2012, law enforcement observed suspicious behavior by the occupants of a vehicle eastbound on Interstate 84 in Payette County, Idaho. The vehicle was intercepted at a rest area and the two occupants of the vehicle were questioned by an Idaho State Police trooper. The officer determined that Swinson, the driver of the vehicle, had a suspended Washington driver’s license. The passenger, a young female who Swinson said was his cousin, was unable to provide identification. The trooper, believing the female's stated age to be false, conducted a consensual search of the vehicle and discovered items inconsistent with statements made by the vehicle's occupants. Swinson was arrested for driving without privileges and both individuals were taken to the Payette County Jail. During an interview at the jail, the passenger admitted her true age – 15 – and identity. A check with Idaho State Police dispatch revealed the juvenile was a ward of the state of Washington and a runaway who had disappeared on November 22, 2011.
According to the plea agreement, Swinson, after being advised that telephone calls from the jail were being recorded, made several calls requesting other parties to alter or delete electronic records. During the investigation, law enforcement discovered that Swinson had posted provocative photographs of the 15-year-old on Internet advertisement web sites with telephone numbers for customers to call. Swinson admitted that his solicitations of other persons to alter, eliminate, or destroy evidence stored online was an attempt to obstruct the enforcement of federal law involving sex trafficking of a minor.
“Sex trafficking victimizes vulnerable teens, often forcing them into a desperate lifestyle so that others may profit,” said Olson. “Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in Idaho are working together to identify and rescue these victims and to ensure that the traffickers are punished.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Idaho State Police, and the Payette County Sheriff's Office.
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."
Head Shop Owner Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Charges in Treasure Valley CaseRead the Press Release
BOISE – William Oldenburg, 66, of Eagle, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in federal court to count four of the superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute controlled substance analogue, and count ten charging him with conspiracy to structure transactions, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. The indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in Boise on November 15, 2012.
According to court documents, Oldenburg is the owner of Gary's Dream, LLC, which operates Boise Beverage and Tobacco and The Pit Stop Express. The businesses, commonly referred to as “head shops,” are engaged in the unlawful sale of drug paraphernalia to drug users and drug traffickers. Items of drug paraphernalia were typically sold at the businesses under the guise of “tobacco products,” or with claims of other “legitimate” uses. According to the indictment, Oldenburg referred to much of the drug paraphernalia as “smoking accessories,” to be used only to smoke tobacco. However, virtually all of the smoking devices sold by Oldenburg were commonly used to ingest marijuana, hashish, and/or other illegal drugs, not tobacco.
Oldenburg admitted that beginning on March 1, 2011, and continuing through May 10, 2012, he knowingly conspired with other persons to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of AM-2201 and UR-144, Schedule I controlled substance analogues, knowing the substance was intended for human consumption; and 813.45 kilograms of a mixture and substance containing AM-2201 or UR-144, both controlled substance analogues.
Oldenburg further admitted that between at least July 2011, and November 2012, he conspired with others to conduct a series of financial transactions involving the proceeds of the unlawful activity, in order to evade reporting requirements under federal law.
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substance analogue, as charged in count four of the superseding indictment, is punishable by up to twenty years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and up to three years of supervised release. Conspiracy to structure transactions, as charged in count ten, is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. The government is seeking forfeiture of assets derived from the criminal offenses, including cash, real property and personal property.
Sentencing is set for June 17, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
Oldenburg is among the seventeen individuals charged last year as part of Operation Not for Human Consumption, which targeted illegal sales of drug paraphernalia and “spice” at 13Treasure Valley businesses. According to search warrant affidavits, nine of the 13 businesses were openly selling “spice,” a substance that tested positive for AM-2201. The DEA has determined that AM-2201 is a controlled substance analogue. “Spice,” a synthetic form of cannabis, which is a psychoactive herbal and chemical product that, when consumed, mimics the effects of cannabis. In the spring of 2011, the Idaho Legislature criminalized the sale of “spice” under state law. In March of 2011, the Drug Enforcement Administration placed five synthetic cannabinoids into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It is against federal law to sell or offer for sale any paraphernalia that is primarily intended or designed for drug use, regardless of whether the seller advises their customers that the paraphernalia is for tobacco use only. The businesses are commonly referred to as “head shops.”
Operation Not for Human Consumption includes the cooperative law enforcement efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boise Police Department, Ada County Sheriff's Office, Canyon County Sheriff's Office, Nampa Police Department, Meridian Police Department, and the Canyon County Prosecutor's Office. The U.S. Marshals Service and Idaho State Police provided assistance.
Walla Walla Man Sentenced in Idaho for Possessing Sawed-off ShotgunRead the Press Release
BOISE – Richard Dennis Streck III, 37, of Walla Walla, Washington, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possessing an unregistered sawed-off shotgun, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Streck was sentenced in federal court in Boise by Senior U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb of the Eastern District of California. Streck pleaded guilty to the charge on December 20, 2012.
According to the arguments at the sentencing, on January 19, 2011, Streck was driving from Oregon to Idaho when he was pulled over by law enforcement for a traffic infraction. After a drug detection K-9 alerted on the vehicle, a search of Streck’s vehicle discovered methamphetamine, marijuana, and a stolen sawed-off shotgun. Streck was attempting to deliver the stolen sawed-off shot gun to his methamphetamine supplier, a member of a white supremacy gang. Judge Shubb ordered, as a condition of his supervised release, that Streck have no contact with documented gang members and not possess items of gang paraphernalia.
The case was investigated by the Payette County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The case was prosecuted as part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Mexican National Sentenced for Aggravated Identity Theft and PerjuryRead the Press Release
BOISE – Mauricio Becerril, 40, a Mexican national formerly living in Ontario, Oregon, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Boise to 36 months in prison and a $200 special assessment for aggravated identity theft and perjury, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Becerill appeared today before Senior U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb of the Eastern District of California. He pleaded guilty to the charge on December 20, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, on September 3, 2010, Becerril, using the name “E.Z.R.,” filed an application to obtain a permanent United States resident card. In the application, Becerril used the name, date of birth, and social security number of the individual, aware that he was using another person’s identity. At the time that he filed the application, Becerril knew that E.Z.R. was a real person, based upon the fact that he requested a replacement permanent resident card, and had obtained permanent resident cards in E.Z.R.'s name in the past. On January 3, 2011, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approved the application, and subsequently provided Becerril with a permanent resident card bearing the name of E.Z.R., but with Becerril’s photograph.
On June 11, 2012, Becerril met with a special agent of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The agent was investigating whether Becerril obtained a visa by fraud using another individual's identity. When questioned under oath, Becerril swore his true identity was E.Z.R., knowing this statement was false.
“Identity thieves don’t just steal names, they steal peoples’ lives,” said Brad Bench, special agent in charge of HSI Seattle, who oversees Idaho investigations. “This is a crime that wreaks havoc on a victim’s finances and reputations. It can take years, if not decades, to undo the damage.”
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement Removal Operations.
Lapwai Man Admits Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Alex James Ellenwood, 24, of Lapwai, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Coeur d’Alene to unlawful possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, on September 5, 2012, Ellenwood was arrested at a Clearwater County campground on an outstanding warrant. During a search incident to the arrest, law enforcement found a Ruger .44 pistol in Ellenwood’s backpack. Ellenwood is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his 2008 federal conviction for assault with a deadly weapon, a felony punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year. Ellenwood agreed to forfeit the firearm found in his possession.
The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Ellenwood is scheduled to be sentenced on June 11, 2013, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Coeur d’Alene.
The case was investigated by Nez Perce Tribal Police, Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted as part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Woman Sentenced Federally for Mailing Death Threats While Serving State SentenceRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Linda Joyce Lakes, 54, of Pocatello, Idaho, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for mailing threatening communications, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also imposed a no contact order with the victims. Lakes pleaded guilty to the charge in November 2012.
According to court records, from November 2010 to July 2012, Lakes wrote six letters in which she threatened to injure and kill a man from her past. At the time Lakes wrote the letters, she was incarcerated at the Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center. Lakes continued writing the letters even after being given a direct order to stop contacting the target of her letters. In the letters, Lakes counted down the days until she was to be released from prison and would be able to act out her threats. When interviewed by an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Lakes admitted writing and mailing the letters and said she wanted to kill the man when she wrote the letters. Later, Lakes wrote another letter in which she said she knew it was a federal offense to send threatening letters in the mail but did it anyway, because she “doesn’t care.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance by the Idaho Department of Correction.
Defendants in Aryan Knights Investigation Plead Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jesse Ray Delgado, 47, of Boise, Idaho, and Dennis James, 47, of San Pablo, California, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. The defendants were charged in two separate cases.
At today’s hearing, Delgado admitted that he entered into a conspiracy with other individuals to distribute methamphetamine. Delgado acknowledged that he would purchase methamphetamine and then distribute it in the Boise area. On February 16, 2012, he sold approximately one-half ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. On March 14, 2012, law enforcement agents served a search warrant on Delgado’s residence and recovered over three ounces of methamphetamine. Delgado faces an enhanced sentence because of his prior conviction for possession of controlled substances in 2001.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, as enhanced, is punishable by up to life in prison, a maximum fine of $20 million, and a minimum term of ten years of supervised release. Delgado is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
James, who also pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, admitted that on June 13, 2012, he and a co-defendant sold approximately one-quarter ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. The following day, on June 14, 2012, James and the co-defendant again sold approximately one-quarter ounce of methamphetamine to the same individual. James faces an enhanced sentence because he was previously convicted of possession of a controlled substance in 2006.
James faces up to life in prison, a maximum fine of $8 million, and a minimum term of eight years of supervised release. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 3, 2013, by U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise.
James’ co-defendant, Nicholas Andrew Steele, pleaded guilty on December 21, 2012, to distribution of methamphetamine. Sentencing is set for March 25.
Delgado, James and Steele are three of the 23 people charged as a result of a long-term investigation by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The investigation began when the task force focused on illegal drug distribution by the “Aryan Knights,” a gang active in prison and on the streets throughout Idaho. Through the investigation, law enforcement agents identified Aryan Knights gang members who were trafficking methamphetamine, as well as associates of the gang who were the source of that methamphetamine.
The Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes 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 Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) also contributed to the investigation, 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.
Boise Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
BOISE – Travis Gayle Smith, 40, of Boise, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to unlawful possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, on January 19, 2005, Smith was convicted of aggravated battery in Ada County, Idaho, and sentenced to ten years in prison. In November 2010, Smith was paroled and released from custody with the condition that he submit to a search of his residence at any time by any agent of field and community services. On July 20, 2012, a Probation and Parole officer, assisted by the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, conducted a search of Smith’s residence and located a Mossberg 12 gauge slide-action shotgun and ammunition. According to the plea agreement, Smith admitted the gun was his and that he had purchased it approximately one month prior to the search. Smith is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior felony conviction.
The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and at least three years of supervised release. The government is seeking forfeiture of the firearm.
Sentencing is set for June 4, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The case was investigated by the Idaho Department of Correction Probation and Parole, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). 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.
Four Co-Conspirators Sentenced in Major E. Idaho Drug CaseRead the Press Release
Nine Defendants Await Sentencing in April
POCATELLO – Four co-conspirators in a large-scale methamphetamine trafficking organization were sentenced this week in United States District Court, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced today. The defendants appeared before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Pocatello.
Antonio Javier Mendoza, 28, of Shelley, Idaho, was sentenced on March 5 to 96 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine. Mendoza was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine. He pleaded guilty to the charge on December 18, 2012.
Fabiola Esmerelda Marin Castro, 25, a Mexican national formerly living in Rexburg, Idaho, was sentenced on March 5 to 36 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine. She was also fined $300 and ordered to forfeit $83,575 and two vehicles. She pleaded guilty on December 18.
Daniel Quiroz, 25, a Mexican national formerly residing in Rexburg, was sentenced on Thursday to 78 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine. Quiroz was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and fined $500. He will be subject to deportation following his release from prison. He pleaded guilty on December 18.
Abel Garcia, 24, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, was sentenced today for making a false statement to a bank. Garcia was sentenced to one month in prison followed by two years of supervised release, and fined $750. He pleaded guilty to the charge on December 19.
Nine other defendants have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing in April. One defendant is a fugitive.
Samuel Nevarez-Ayon, 26, a Mexican national formerly living in Rexburg, pleaded guilty to continuing criminal enterprise for his leadership role in the conspiracy. Sentencing is set for April 4. He faces a minimum term of 20 years up to life in prison, a maximum fine of $2 million, and a minimum term of five years of supervised release.
Juan Ortiz, Jr., 28, Ricardo Garcia Lopez, 36, Isidoro David Herrera, 31, of Idaho Falls, Idaho; and Rafael Ignacio Guerrero, 37, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine. They each face a minimum term of ten years in prison, at least five years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $10 million. Ortiz and Lopez are set for sentencing on April 1; Guerrero on April 3, and Herrera on April 30.
Everado Tapia Torres, Jr., 30, of Idaho Falls, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine. He faces at least five years in prison, a maximum fine of $5 million, and at least four years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for April 3.
Ana Rosa Valdez-Ceja, 26, of Shelley, pleaded guilty to money laundering. She faces up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $500,000, at up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for April 29.
Alberto Abarca, 23, of Idaho Falls, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He faces up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for April 29.
Nicolas Levi Olsen, 30, of Idaho Falls, pleaded guilty to an information charging him with aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He faces up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for April 30.
Guadalupe Meraz, 41, of Medera, California, is a fugitive from justice. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.
According to the plea agreements, from June 2005 through January 2012, a group of individuals centered around Nevarez-Ayon entered into a conspiracy to possess and distribute in excess of 50 grams of actual methamphetamine in the Idaho Falls area. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Nevarez-Ayon admitted that he distributed methamphetamine to other individuals on at least three occasions during this same time period. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Nevarez-Ayon directed activities of various co-defendants. In addition to distributing methamphetamine, several defendant laundered proceeds from the sale of the methamphetamine, and made false loan application to local banks to further the laundering of money. During the course of the conspiracy, the defendants obtained in excess of $500,000 from the distribution of methamphetamine.
The charges are the result of a nine-month investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), including the Idaho State Police, Bonneville County Sheriff's Office, Idaho Falls Police Department, Madison County Sheriff's Office, Rexburg Police Department, Bingham County Sheriff’s Office, Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Other federal agencies participating in the OCDETF program include the Drug Enforcement Administration and the 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.
Rupert Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison for Distributing Meth in the Magic ValleyRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Eulalio Loya, 56, of Rupert, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court to 48 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Loya to serve three years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty to the charge on November 5, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, on February 16, 2012, Loya arranged to distribute a quarter pound of methamphetamine in Fort Hall, Idaho, and subsequently met and sold the individual in excess of 50 grams of actual methamphetamine.
Co-defendant Jose Tapia-Lopez, 29, a Mexican national, was sentenced on January 28 to 168 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Idaho State Police, with assistance by the Minidoka County Sheriff’s Office and Cassia County Sheriff’s Office.
Boise Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Charge in Aryan Knights InvestigationRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jose Silva, 30, of Boise, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, Silva admitted that on January 10, 2012, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant.
The charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and at least three years of supervised release.
Silva is set for sentencing on June 17, 2013, before the U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge, at the federal courthouse in Boise.
Silva is one of 23 people charged as a result of a long-term investigation by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The investigation began when the task force focused on illegal drug distribution by the “Aryan Knights,” a gang active in prison and on the streets throughout Idaho. Through the investigation, law enforcement agents identified Aryan Knights gang members who were trafficking methamphetamine, as well as associates of the gang who were the source of that methamphetamine.
The Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes 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 Corrections. The Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) also contributed to the investigation, including 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.
Silva’s 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.
Sandpoint Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Joshua Christopher Gervasi, 19, of Sandpoint, Idaho, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Gervasi to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. Gervasi pleaded guilty to the charge on December 4, 2012.
According to court statements, in August 2012, Gervasi was stopped by a Bonner County Deputy Sheriff for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, Gervasi told the deputy that he had a handgun in his vehicle. The Bonner County deputy located the firearm next to Gervasi, under a shirt. The handgun was a 9 millimeter with 15 rounds in the magazine. Gervasi was prohibited from possessing the firearm because of a prior felony conviction for possession of methamphetamine. He has been in custody since his arrest.
The case was investigated by the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office and the North Idaho Violent Crimes Task Force (NIVCTF). The NIVCTF members include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Idaho State Police, Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, Shoshone County Sheriff's Office, Bonner County Sheriff's Office, Coeur d'Alene Police Department, Post Falls Police Department, and the Coeur d'Alene Tribal Police Department. The NIVCTF investigates a myriad of violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, felonious assault and drug trafficking.
The case was prosecuted as part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Oregon Man Sentenced for Growing Marijuana in N. IdahoRead the Press Release
Four Co-Conspirators Sentenced Earlier
COEUR D’ALENE – Justin Edward Egner, 36, of Springfield, Oregon, the fifth defendant in a multi-state marijuana trafficking operation, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Coeur d’Alene, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge sentenced Egner to 40 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for conspiracy to manufacture and possess with intent to distribute marijuana. Judge Lodge also ordered Egner to forfeit $75,000 and a number of vehicles to the United States. He pleaded guilty to the charges in September 2012.
Court documents and statements made during the plea hearing indicate that between January 2008 and July 2010, Egner conspired with others, including co-defendants, to grow marijuana on property owned by Robert Baucum in Naples, Idaho. The conspiracy involved at least 100 kilograms of marijuana. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized marijuana, marijuana growing equipment, vehicles, over $50,000 in currency and precious metals, and over $1 million in real estate.
In November 2012, four co-conspirators were sentenced to serve federal prison sentences. Robert Wayne Baucum, 57, of Scio, Oregon, was sentenced to 70 months; Charles Albert Goodenough, 41, of Houston, Alaska, to 37 months; Ronald Clifford Underwood, 55 of Albany, Oregon, to 34 months; and Raymond Earl Hogle, 51, of Albany, Oregon, to 21 months. The men were also ordered to serve between three and five years of supervised release following their prison terms.
The case was investigated by the Idaho State Police, Boundary County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Linn County Sheriff’s Office (Oregon), and the Alaska State Troopers.
The investigation was the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). 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.
Former City Finance Dept. Employee Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Court Orders Restitution of $365,000
COEUR D'ALENE – Sheryl Lynn Carroll, 52, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court to 40 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Carroll to pay restitution in the amount of $365,000 and perform 100 hours of community service following her release from prison. Carroll pleaded guilty to six counts of wire fraud on November 5, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, Carroll was hired by the City of Coeur d'Alene in October 2002, as a payroll coordinator in the Finance Department. Beginning in at least 2007, Carroll devised a scheme to divert money from City of Coeur d’Alene bank accounts for her own personal benefit. At her plea hearing last November, Carroll admitted that she diverted payments intended for the Voluntary Employee Benefit Association (VEBA), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and United Heritage Mutual (UHM), all legitimate vendors who regularly received payment from the City of Coeur d'Alene. According to the plea agreement, Carroll represented that she was sending wire transfers to the vendors when in fact she was transferring the funds into her own personal bank account. On average, Carroll made fraudulent wire transfers from one to three times a month for several years. Carroll admitted that she fraudulently received approximately $365,000 from the City of Coeur d'Alene.
In court yesterday, Carroll apologized to her former employees and the taxpayers for taking the money that was not hers.
“Ms. Carroll, through her diversion of public money for her own personal gain, violated the trust of the citizens she was supposed to serve,” said Olson. “Public employees have a solemn obligation to ensure that taxpayer money is used for the public good. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with state and local law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure that fraud is not a part of government business. I commend the Kootenai County Prosecutor’s Office and employees of the City of Coeur d’Alene for their cooperation and assistance to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
The case was investigated by the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service.
Today's announcement is part of efforts underway by President Obama's Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (FFETF) which was created in November 2009 to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys' offices and state and local partners, it's the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Over the past three fiscal years, the Justice Department has filed more than 10,000 financial fraud cases against nearly 15,000 defendants including more than 2,700 mortgage fraud defendants. For more information on the task force, visit www.stopfraud.gov.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Donald Paul Hankey, 28, of San Jose, California, pleaded guilty today to an indictment charging him with one count of felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Hankey appeared before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d’Alene.
According to the indictment, on November 13, 2012, Hankey knowingly and illegally possessed a Springfield Armory 9 millimeter handgun. Hankey is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a previous felony conviction for possessing a controlled substance. The government is seeking forfeiture of the firearm.
The charge of felon in possession of a firearm is punishable by up to ten years in a prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Hankey is scheduled to be sentenced on June 24, 2013, at the federal courthouse in Coeur d’Alene.
The case was investigated by the North Idaho Violent Crimes Task Force (NIVCTF). The NIVCTF members include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Idaho State Police, Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, Shoshone County Sheriff's Office, Bonner County Sheriff's Office, Coeur d'Alene Police Department, Post Falls Police Department, and the Coeur d'Alene Tribal Police Department. The NIVCTF investigates a myriad of violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, felonious assault and drug trafficking.
The case was prosecuted as part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Meridian Man Sentenced to 150 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Cesar Urrea-Navarette, 34, of Meridian, Idaho, was sentenced in federal court today to 150 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute in excess of fifty grams of actual methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also fined Urrea-Navarette $1,000. He pleaded guilty to the charge on December 18, 2012.
According to the indictment, on July 7, 2011, a meeting was arranged by a third party between Urrea-Navarette and an undercover officer, who subsequently met with Urrea-Navarette in a vehicle located at a restaurant parking lot in Boise. At that meeting, Urrea-Navarette sold the undercover officer 55.10 grams of actual methamphetamine in exchange for $2,400. According to the indictment, Urrea-Navarette admitted he possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it on various dates, including July 7, 2011.
Co-defendant Ruben Moreno Sanchez, of Boise, was sentenced in September 2012 to 151 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of actual methamphetamine.
The indictment was the result of a joint investigation of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, in conjunction with Idaho State Police, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Boise Police Department. Other federal agencies participating in the OCDETF program include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigation (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, 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.
Middleton Man Sentenced to Five YearsRead the Press Release
Admitted Possessing Two Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking
BOISE – Daniel William Failla, 28, of Middleton, Idaho, and Madera, California, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court to 60 months in prison for possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes of possession of cocaine and marijuana with intent to distribute, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Failla to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and forfeit the two firearms and ammunition he possessed. Failla pleaded guilty to the charge on October 31, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, on June 18, 2012, Failla sold a pound of marijuana to an individual in Caldwell for $2,000. Two days later, on June 20, Idaho State Police executed a search warrant on the residence where Failla was living. Inside Failla’s bedroom, detectives discovered a suitcase containing approximately 378.90 grams of cocaine and 3148.2 grams of marijuana. Detectives also discovered two loaded Springfield 9 millimeter handguns and ammunition in Failla’s bedroom. According to the plea agreement, Failla also possessed a store receipt indicating he paid $670 to purchase one of the pistols and ammunition in February 2012. Detectives determined the cocaine was worth approximately $13,000; the marijuana approximately $14,000.
Failla admitted that he possessed the cocaine and marijuana with the intent to distribute it, and also that he possessed the firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes.
The case was investigated by the Idaho State Police with assistance by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Fort Hall Man Pleads Guilty to Assault with Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Adan Diaz, 21, of Fort Hall, Idaho, pleaded guilty yesterday in United States District Court to assault with a dangerous weapon, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
In court yesterday, Diaz pleaded guilty to the indictment filed on September 25, 2012, and admitted that on January 28, 2012, he pointed a gun at the victim who was sitting in a vehicle near a Fort Hall residence. Diaz fired a shot, which missed the victim but struck a window in the vehicle. Diaz later admitted in an interview with Fort Hall Police that he intended to injure the victim when he pointed the gun at him. Police later recovered the gun, a Keltec .380 caliber handgun.
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.
Sentencing is set for May 28, 2013, 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 Investigation.
Three People Sentenced in Connection with Aryan Knights CaseRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced today that three individuals charged in connection with the Aryan Knights investigation were sentenced in United States District Court in Boise this week. The three sentences are the first to occur out of 23 separate individuals charged in the investigation.
Rory Vincent Palma, 38, of Tempe, Arizona, was sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm. Palma, who has three prior felony convictions, and has twice previously been convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm, sold a shotgun to a confidential informant. Palma pleaded guilty to the charge on October 30, 2012.
Joshua Trent, 32, of Boise, Idaho, was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possessing an unregistered firearm. Trent pleaded guilty to the charge on November 19, 2012. Trent admitted that on May 7, 2012, he was in possession of two sawed-off shotguns, which he then sold to a confidential informant. Trent was also prohibited from possessing the shotguns because he was previously convicted of the felony crime of aggravated assault in 2000.
Christina Massie, 35, of Boise, was sentenced to 30 months followed by three years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm. Massie pleaded guilty to the charge on December 5, 2012. Massie admitted that she assisted co-defendant Joshua Trent in the sale of two sawed-off shotguns to a confidential informant. Massie was prohibited from possessing firearms because she was previously convicted of two felony crimes for controlled substance violations.
These three defendants were among 23 people charged as a result of a long term investigation by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The investigation began when the task force focused on illegal drug distribution by the “Aryan Knights,” a gang active both in prison and on the streets throughout Idaho. Through the investigation, law enforcement agents identified Aryan Knights gang members who were trafficking methamphetamine, as well as associates of the gang who were the source of that methamphetamine.
Of the 23 individuals charged, 16 have pleaded guilty, two have signed plea agreements but not yet entered guilty pleas, and five are still set for trial.
The joint investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) 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 Twin Falls Police Department, Twin Falls Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and District 3 Probation and Parole also participated in the investigation.
The Palma case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Nafzger; Trent and Massie are being prosecuted by Christopher Atwood, 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.
Idaho Aquarium Operator Faces Possible Bond RevocationRead the Press Release
Nephew Arrested for Obstruction of Justice
BOISE – Ammon Covino, 39, of Meridian, Idaho, was arrested yesterday for violating the conditions of his pretrial release on a Florida indictment charging violations of the Lacey Act, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Federal prosecutors earlier filed a motion to revoke Covino’s bond. According to the motion, investigators learned that Covino directed his nephew, Pete Covino IV, to contact an individual in Florida and destroy certain information relating to a recent order Covino placed for undersized and illegal nurse sharks. Pete Covino IV, 20, of Star, Idaho, also was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice based on a complaint filed in the Southern District of Florida. Both men appeared in Boise federal court this morning. Ammon Covino is due back in court on Friday, March 1, to determine if he should be detained pending transfer to the Southern District of Florida. Peter Covino IV is scheduled to appear in Florida federal court on March 15.
Ammon Covino was first arrested February 21 on a November 8, 2012, Southern District of Florida indictment charging him and Christopher Conk with conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and violating the Lacey Act by purchasing Florida protected marine life in interstate commerce. The four count indictment alleges that Covino and Conk purchased four spotted eagle rays (Aeobatus narinari) and two lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) for approximately $6,300. The marine wildlife were allegedly harvested illegally and without a permit.
At his initial appearance on February 21, Covino was released on a $100,000 bond. Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Candy W. Dale ordered Covino not to commit any new federal, state or local crimes as one of the conditions of his release. If Judge Dale determines that Covino did violate the conditions of his pretrial release or committed a new crime, she may revoke his bond.
Ammon Covino and Christopher Conk are each charged with one count of Conspiracy and three counts of Illegal Purchase and Sale of Fish/Wildlife. Each count is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release. The indictment also includes a forfeiture count. Pete Covino, IV, is charged with one count of obstruction of justice. That charge is punishable by up to twenty years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release.
The case is being investigated by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFW), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
In the federal criminal justice system, indictments and complaints are only allegations of criminal conduct and are not evidence of guilt. A person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Four More Co-defendants Sentenced for Trafficking Meth in Southwest IdahoRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced today that four more co-defendants–members of a southwest Idaho drug trafficking organization–were sentenced in United States District Court in Boise this week for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. This brings to 11 the number of defendants sentenced in the case.
On Monday, Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill sentenced Benjamine L. Vertner, 34, of Ontario, Oregon, to 138 months in prison, and Patric Campbell, 36, of Boise, to 124 months. They pleaded guilty in September 2012. Sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Justin L. Quackenbush were Kristopher Hensley, a/k/a Casey (K.C.) Hensley, 26, of Weiser, Idaho, to 51 months in prison, and Johnny A. Tambunga, 40, of Weiser, to 47 months in prison. They pleaded guilty in October 2012. The four defendants were each ordered to serve five years of supervised release following their federal prison term.
According to court documents, the defendants each admitted that from early November 2011 through May 16, 2012, they conspired with others, including co-defendants, to distribute a total of approximately 11 pounds of methamphetamine in Canyon, Payette and Washington counties in Idaho.
Co-defendant Dawson Lee Moore, 60, of Weiser, pleaded guilty on January 4 to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 27 at the federal courthouse in Boise.
On February 4, three co-defendants were sentenced to serve federal prison sentences on related drug trafficking charges. Jacob James Clevenger, 31, of Weiser, was sentenced to 188 months; Mario Martinez, Jr., 55, of Greenleaf, Idaho, to 57 months; and Fabian Jordano Beltran, 23, also of Weiser, to 36 months.
On January 22, three co-defendants were convicted by a federal jury of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Jesus Guadalupe Sanchez a/k/a Jose Salazar, a Mexican national, Michael Dennis Morris, and Jim Allen Loveland are scheduled to be sentenced on April 8. Sanchez was also convicted of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
The case was investigated by the Idaho State Police.
Two Southwest Idaho Men Plead Guilty to Violating the Clean Air ActRead the Press Release
BOISE – Douglas Greiner, 52, of Boise, and Bradley David Eberhart, 51, of Garden Valley, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in federal court to violating work practice standards of the Clean Air Act, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Griener and Eberhart were charged in a one count information, filed separately on January 25, 2012.
According to court documents, Greiner was employed as the project superintendent and Eberhart as the on-site supervisor for Riverside Water and Sewer District’s Phase III project. During re-construction of the Water System Improvement Project, old cement asbestos pipe was encountered and improperly handled. Greiner admitted to violating the Clean Air Act’s work practice standards and waste disposal standards by knowingly causing another employee to pick up pieces of cement asbestos pipe from a dump site without ensuring proper retrieval and disposal of the asbestos pipe. Eberhart, who pleaded guilty to the same charge, admitted that by his own actions or the actions of employees he supervised, he knowingly failed to adequately wet cement asbestos pipe during cutting or disjoining operations; failed to place the asbestos material in proper containers with clear labeling; and failed to dispose of the asbestos material in a licensed facility.
The defendants each face up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Greiner and Eberhart are scheduled to be sentenced on June 3, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Emmett Man Charged in BLM FireRead the Press Release
BOISE – Matthew Williams, 23, of Emmett, Idaho, pleaded not guilty today in United States District Court to the charge of Public Land Set Afire, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. A federal grand jury in Boise indicted Williams on February 12, 2013.
According to court documents, Williams is accused of illegally setting a fire on federal public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Gem County on August 20, 2011. The indictment alleges that the wildfire burned a total of 315 acres – 221 BLM acres and 94 private land acres – southwest of Emmett on Freezeout Hill, near mile post 11 on State Highway 16.
The charge is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
A trial is set for April 22, 2013, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Land Management.
An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct and is not evidence of guilt. A person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
One More Sentenced in OCDETF CaseRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced that another member of a southwest Idaho meth trafficking conspiracy was sentenced today in federal court. The defendant, Juan Carlos Arredondo-Sicairos, 34, appeared before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise to be sentenced for the crime of possession with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine. He was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty on November 15, 2012.
According to court documents, Arredondo-Sicairos is a Mexican national from Durango, Mexico, who operated out of Delano, California. In October, 2011, he supplied methamphetamine to the co-conspirators distributing the drug in Idaho. Five members of the conspiracy have pleaded guilty and have been sentenced: Alfredo Dominguez-Villareal, Jorge Jimenez, Tanna Spencer, Hector Morales, and Cynthia Casillas.
Three co-defendants are awaiting sentencing: Nelson Fernando Garcia-Soto, a Mexican national, on April 9; and Delia Garcia-Pineda, of Boise, and Alonso Martinez, also a Mexican national, from Delano, California, on April 10.
Co-defendant Samuel Chavez, 32, of Boise, is set for trial on March 25. He is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking.
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 the Boise Police Department and the Ada County Sheriff's Office. 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. Federal task force members include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Marshals Service.
Ninth BMC Gang Member SentencedRead the Press Release
BOISE –Amando Garcia, Jr., a/k/a Amando Torres, a/k/a “Toro,” 29, was sentenced today to 96 months in prison for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and attempted murder in aid of racketeering, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Garcia to serve five years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty to the charges on August 8, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, Garcia admitted that he conspired to commit racketeering acts, and that he committed the crime of attempted murder in aid of racketeering, all related to the Brown Magic Clica (BMC) gang, a Sureno street gang with members in the Districts of Idaho and Oregon. Garcia admitted that, on January 19, 2006, he was a passenger in a vehicle with several other BMC members which was traveling in Caldwell, Idaho. One of the BMC members fired several shots from a handgun at a passing vehicle, which the BMC members believed contained rival gang members. A man delivering newspapers was a passenger in the vehicle and was struck by one of the bullets. Garcia admitted that he contacted a witness to the shooting and told her not to cooperate with the police investigation.
Garcia also admitted that, on August 23, 2008, he fired a “Mini-14” .223 rifle and a Ruger .25 pistol towards another BMC gang member, striking him several times, with the intent to kill him. Garcia and other BMC members considered the victim and his family members to be enemies of BMC because members of the family testified at the trial of a BMC leader charged with murder in Payette County, Idaho. During his plea, Garcia admitted that BMC members were expected to engage in acts of violence towards witnesses in criminal investigations against BMC members, and against other BMC members who do not follow BMC rules. Garcia further 2 admitted that the attempted murder was committed for the purpose of gaining entrance to, or maintaining or increasing position in the BMC gang.
During the sentencing hearing, Garcia renounced his membership in the BMC gang, stating “I am no longer a gang member.” To date, eight co-defendants have been sentenced to federal prison for racketeering crimes related to the BMC gang. Mathew Grover a/k/a “Dreamin” was sentenced to 51 months in prison; Samson Torres a/k/a “Gremlin,” 70 months; Salvador Apodaca a/k/a “Bugz,” 60 months; Jessie Rodriguez a/k/a “Pelon,” 115 months; Adam Gomez “Lil Toro,” 60 months; Adelaido Gomez, a/k/a “Guy,” 125 months; Alfredo Castro a/k/a “Papos,” 168 months; and Juan Gonzalez, a/k/a “Chango,” 37 months.
Co-defendant Oscar Garcia a/k/a “Bubba,” a/k/a “Tiny,” pleaded guilty on January 18, 2013, to Conspiracy to Participate in a Racketeering Enterprise and Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering; sentencing is set for April 9 at the federal courthouse in Boise. Juan Jimenez a/k/a “Loco,” pleaded guilty on January 17, to Conspiracy to Participate in a Racketeering Enterprise; sentencing is set for April 8.
The federal racketeer influenced corrupt organizations (RICO) law prohibits individuals from participating, or conspiring to participate, in the conduct of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity. An enterprise is defined as any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or other legal entity, and any union or group of individuals associated in fact although not a legal entity. Racketeering activity is defined as specified criminal acts, including murder, arson, distribution of controlled substances, and intimidation and retaliation against witnesses.
The investigation, named “Operation Black Magic,” included the cooperative law enforcement efforts of the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crime Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Boise Police Department, the Caldwell Police Department, the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, the Idaho Department of Corrections, the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, the Meridian Police Department, the Nampa Police Department, the Nyssa Police Department, the Ontario Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and the U.S. Attorney's Office. The investigation is ongoing.
Mexican National Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Escobedo-Gonzalez is Final Defendant Sentenced in OCDETF Case
BOISE – Jose Ramon Escobedo-Gonzalez, 35, a Mexican national, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 168 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and 60 consecutive months for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Escobedo-Gonzalez to serve five years of supervised release after his prison term and forfeit numerous firearms. He pleaded guilty to the charges on March 21, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, beginning in September 2009 and continuing until mid-January 2011, Escobedo-Gonzalez and his co-defendants conspired to distribute more than five pounds of methamphetamine in Canyon County, Idaho. According to trial testimony, the organization brought pounds of methamphetamine into Idaho from surrounding states and distributed it throughout the Treasure Valley. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized five pounds of methamphetamine, marijuana, numerous firearms, vehicles, and more than $30,000 in currency. According to the plea agreement, Escobedo-Gonzalez knowingly gave and received various firearms in exchange for receiving and distributing methamphetamine. Escobedo-Gonzalez further admitted he knowingly possessed various firearms for protection while engaged in drug transactions in furtherance of the conspiracy.
Co-defendants sentenced earlier include Mexican nationals Jorge Luis Cardoza, Lourdes Muro-Garcia, Diego Gomez-Lara, Antony Alegria Zedeno, Juventino Lara-Plancarte, and Fabian Nunez-Garcia; and Victor Chavez-Garcia, Leann Atkisson, Ronald Garcia, and Benjamin Prieto, all of Nampa, Idaho. The co-defendants received a combined total of over 75 years in prison.
In a separate but related case, Ana Reyes a/k/a Ana Gonzales, 25, Yolanda Yvette Salazar, 48, both of Nampa, and Nereida Lopez a/k/a Nereida Munoz, 30, of Caldwell, pleaded guilty in January 2013, to using a communication facility in furtherance of a drug offense. According to the plea agreements, the defendants admitted to using a cellular phone to make arrangements with Escobedo-Gonzalez to supply them with methamphetamine. The defendants each face up to four years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to one year of supervised release. Sentencings are scheduled in April 2013.
“Appropriately, Mr. Escobedo-Gonzalez and his co-conspirators will spend lengthy terms in federal prison,” said Olson. “Methamphetamine trafficking and firearms are a dangerous combination for Idaho’s communities. We will continue to work closely with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to ensure that those who bring this horribly addictive drug into our state and those who further their criminal activity with firearms are identified, prosecuted and sent to prison.”
The Organized Crime/Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) case, named “Operation Flamethrower,” is the result of a year-long, multi-agency investigation. Investigators and prosecutors from federal, state, and local agencies cooperated in the arrests and seizures. It included the cooperative law enforcement efforts of the Nampa Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Canyon County Sheriff's Office, Canyon County SWAT team, Metro Violent Crimes Task Force, Idaho State Police, Caldwell Police Department, Ada County Sheriff's Office, Boise Police Department, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Canyon County Prosecutor's Office, District 3 Probation and Parole, and the United States Attorney's Office.
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.
BLM Employee Sentenced for Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
Court Orders $71,973 in Restitution
BOISE – Katrina Telleria, 35, of Boise, Idaho, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for theft of government property, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Telleria to serve three years of supervised release and pay restitution of $71,973 to the Bureau of Land Management. On December 17, 2012, Telleria pleaded guilty to three counts of theft of government gift cards, one count of making a false statement to a department or agency of the United States, and one count of theft of government electronics equipment.
According to the plea agreement, from 2008 to 2011, Telleria was employed as a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administrative assistant authorized to use a government-issued MasterCar to make purchases for office supplies, firefighting operations, and administrative purposes, including an incentive gift card program in the BLM’s Boise District Office Fire Program. According to the plea agreement, the gift cards purchased by Telleria were to be distributed to district office fire supervisors to give as an award to employees. Telleria instead used her government-issued MasterCard to purchase “general-use gift cards” (American Express cards, Visa cards, and cards issued by MasterCard), which she then stole and appropriated to her own personal use. According to the plea agreement, Telleria admitted that on at least 38 occasions, she acquired the general-use gift cards and specific electronic items on her government MasterCard, and then stole the gift cards and the electronic property. Telleria further agreed that total gift card losses to the government amount to $71,973. The government will receive full restitution under the court’s order.
“Ms. Telleria violated her public trust for personal gain,” said Olson. “Her conviction and sentence sends the strong message that those responsible for government resources have an obligation to all taxpayers to act solely in the public interest. I commend the BLM for a strong investigation.”
“After a thorough investigation by BLM's Law Enforcement Office and the U.S. Attorney's Office, a government employee has been convicted for the fraudulent diversion of government funds,” said BLM State Director Steve Ellis. “I am proud of the diligence and hard work of these law enforcement officers and the hundreds of BLM employees who serve in Idaho. That any governmen employee would consider their own personal gain ahead of their solemn public trust is unfortunate. This investigation and its outcome show that as public servants we will neither whitewash nor tolerate employee conduct that diverts public funds for personal gain.”
The case was investigated by the BLM's Office of Law Enforcement and Security.
Operators of Idaho Aquarium Arrested for Wildlife ViolationsRead the Press Release
Florida Indictment Alleges Two Illegally Purchased Marine Life
BOISE – Ammon Covino, 39, of Meridian, Idaho, and Christopher Conk, 40, of Middleton, Idaho, were arrested today for violations of the Lacey Act, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida returned a sealed indictment on November 8, 2012, charging the defendants with conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and violating the Lacey Act by purchasing Florida protected marine life in interstate commerce.
The four count indictment, which was unsealed today, alleges that Covino and Conk purchased four spotted eagle rays (Aeobatus nairnari) and two lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) for approximately $6,300. The marine wildlife were allegedly harvested illegally and without a permit.
Covino and Conk appeared this afternoon before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Candy W. Dale at the federal courthouse in Boise. The court ordered the defendants to appear on March 15, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lurana S. Snow, at the Sidney M. Aronovitz Federal Courthouse in Key West, Florida.
The defendants are each charged with one count of Conspiracy and three counts of Illegal Purchase and Sale of Fish/Wildlife. Each count is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and at least three years of supervised release. The indictment also includes a forfeiture count.
The case is being investigated by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFW), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct and is not evidence of guilt. A person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tax Defier Sentenced to Three Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Defendant Ordered to Pay Over $85,000 in Restitution to the IRS
COEUR D'ALENE – Gary Raymond Harvey, 71, of Peck, Idaho, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for making false claims for refund from the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Harvey to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and pay $ 85,217.94 in restitution. Harvey pleaded guilty to the charges on November 1, 2012, during his trial.
During the trial, evidence showed that Harvey created and filed tax returns for the entity The Organic Assembly of Circle JB, claiming that the entity was entitled to tax refunds ranging from $8,851.80, to $54,080, for tax years 2002 through 2010. During Harvey’s cross-examination on the fourth day of trial, he admitted that he knew he was not entitled to the refunds and changed his plea to guilty on all counts charged in the indictment. A federal grand jury had indicted Harvey on August 23, 2011, on ten counts of making a false claim for a refund.
“All citizens have a solemn obligation to pay taxes,” said Olson. “Those who claim false refunds cheat not only the government but also other taxpayers. This sentence sends the strong message that those who fail to pay their equal share will be punished.”
The case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.
Superintendent of Dover Bridge Project SentencedRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Kip David Harris, 38, of Boulder, Montana, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court in Coeur d’Alene to three years’ probation for making a false statement, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Harris to pay a $750 fine. He pleaded guilty to the charge on December 4, 2012.
According to court documents, Harris was the lead superintendent of the Dover Bridge Project, the majority of which was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 through the Federal Highway Administration, a component of the United States Department of Transportation. The project called for the existing steel-truss bridge located on U.S. Highway 2 near Dover, Idaho, to be replaced with a new steel bridge. According to court documents, Harris directed laborers to modify nonconforming anchor bolts so it would appear to the inspection team that the bolts were in compliance. Harris admitted that he knew the anchor bolts did not conform to contract specifications. The safety and soundness of the project was not affected.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Transportation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Spokane Woman Sentenced for Embezzling over $28,000 from Coeur D’Alene Indian TribeRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Debora J. Zimmerman, 46, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced today in United States District Court to five years’ probation and four weekends in jail for theft from an Indian Tribal Organization, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Zimmerman to pay $28, 275.93 in restitution. She pleaded guilty to the charge on September 21, 2012.
According to court documents, between September 2008, and September 2010, Zimmerman, who was the Finance Operations Director for the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Housing Authority, stole money by issuing herself unauthorized paychecks, making unapproved purchases, and through other means.
“Those who are entrusted with public funds have a solemn obligation to act in the public interest,” said Olson. “Ms. Zimmerman violated the trust placed in her by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe. She put personal gain ahead of her public obligation. Appropriately, as a part of her sentence, Ms. Zimmerman must reimburse the Coeur d’Alene Tribe the money that she stole. I commend the thorough investigation in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General.
Dalton Gardens Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Cody James Freer, 26, of Dalton Gardens, was sentenced today to 30 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 Freer to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. He pleaded guilty to the charge on October 17, 2012.
According to court statements, in June 2012, an individual contacted Coeur d’Alene Police to verify the Glock handgun he was planning to purchase from a private seller was not stolen. Police advised the caller the gun was stolen and determined that the seller – Freer – was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction. The individual arranged to meet Freer at a Coeur d’Alene parking lot to complete the transaction. Police arrested Freer at the parking lot after determining that he possessed the Glock handgun. Freer has been in custody since his arrest in June 2012.
The case was investigated by the Coeur d’Alene Police Department with the assistance of the North Idaho Violent Crimes Task Force (NIVCTF). The NIVCTF members include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Idaho State Police, Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, Shoshone County Sheriff's Office, Bonner County Sheriff's Office, Coeur d'Alene Police Department, Post Falls Police Department, and the Coeur d'Alene Tribal Police Department. The NIVCTF investigates a myriad of violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, felonious assault and drug trafficking.
The case was prosecuted as part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Clark Fork Man Sentenced for Stealing FirearmsRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Christopher Robin Garlin, 19, of Clark Fork, Idaho, was sentenced today to 11 months in prison for theft of firearms from a licensed dealer’s inventory, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Garlin to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and pay $8,116.25 in restitution.
Garlin pleaded guilty on October 17, 2012, to an information charging him and co-defendant Jennifer Dunnagan, 23, of Sandpoint, Idaho, with burglarizing Pawn Now, a business located in Ponderay, Idaho, on December 27, 2011. The two admitted stealing 33 firearms. They have been incarcerated since their arrest on federal charges.
Jennifer Dunnagan was sentenced on October 31, 2012, to 24 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Ponderay Police Department, and the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office.
The case was prosecuted as a part of Idaho’s Project Safe Neighborhood Program, which seeks to reduce gun violence in Idaho.
Boise Man Pleads Not Guilty to Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jason Lloyd Schaber, 40, of Boise, Idaho, pleaded not guilty today to charges of child exploitation, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. A trial is set for April 23, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
A federal grand jury last week returned a 23 count indictment alleging that Schaber posted ads on Craigslist offering a three-year-old minor for sex, and produced, distributed and possessed child pornography between 2010 and 2012. Schaber was arrested on May 31, 2012, and held on state charges. Ada County dismissed the state charges on Thursday in favor of the federal indictment.
The charge of use of facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering enterprise sex trafficking of a child – introducing a person under 18 years into prostitution, as charged in count one of the indictment, is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years supervised release. The charge of sexual exploitation of children–production of sexually explicit images of a minor, as charged in counts two through six, is punishable by not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in prison; distribution of sexually explicit images of minors, as charged in counts seven through 22, is punishable by not less than five years and not more than 20 years in prison; and possession of sexually explicit images of minors, as charged in count 23, is punishable by up to ten years in prison. Each count is punishable by at least five years to lifetime supervised release and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The case is being investigated by the Boise Police Department, the Ada County Sheriff's Office, and members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with technical assistance provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the High Technology Investigative Unit of the U.S. Department of Justice, Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section.
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 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, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” For more information about registered sex offenders in Idaho, visit www.isp.idaho.gov/sor_id/.
Federal Jury Indicts Boise Man on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced today that Jason Lloyd Schaber, 40, of Boise, Idaho, is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court on February 19 on charges related to allegations of child exploitation. Specifically, the indictment returned by the federal grand jury on February 12 alleges that Schaber posted ads on Craigslist offering a three-year-old minor for sex. The indictment also includes 22 other charges related to production, distribution and possession of child pornography between 2010 and 2012.
According to court documents, investigators with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task force began their investigation of Schaber in April 2012, after Boise police were contacted by a person who saw a Craigslist ad offering a toddler for sex. Investigators working with Craigslist and Google traced the ad to Schaber in mid-May 2012, according to reports. Schaber was arrested on May 31, 2012; he has been in custody on state charges since then. Ada County dismissed the state charges yesterday in favor of the federal indictment.
The federal indictment alleges that Schaber used a facility in interstate commerce in aid of a racketeering enterprise that involved the sex trafficking of a child, and that he offered and attempted to induce a person under 18 years of age into prostitution. The indictment further alleges that between April 2010 and May 2012, Schaber produced sexually explicit images and videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and that he distributed child pornography images and videos to 16 other individuals via email between September 2011 and April 2012.
A three-year old child, who is known to Schaber, was placed in the custody of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and is currently in foster care.
The charge of use of facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering enterprise sex trafficking of a child – introducing a person under 18 years into prostitution, as charged in count one of the indictment, is punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.
The charge of sexual exploitation of children–production of sexually explicit images of a minor, as charged in counts two through six, is punishable by not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in prison; distribution of sexually explicit images of minors, as charged in counts seven through 22, is punishable by not less than five years and not more than 20 years in prison; and possession of sexually explicit images of minors, as charged in count 23, is punishable by up to ten years in prison. Each count is punishable by at least five years to lifetime supervised release and a maximum fine of $250,000.
“Protecting children from sexual abuse and sexual exploitation is a critical law enforcement function,” said Olson. “Tragically, this case involves the exploitation and victimization of a young child and the production and distribution of child pornography. Fortunately, through the cooperative efforts of federal and local law enforcement and the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, we have been able to fully investigate this case and obtain an indictment that addresses all of the conduct identified by law enforcement.”
The case is being investigated by the Boise Police Department, the Ada County Sheriff's Office, and members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with technical assistance provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the High Technology Investigative Unit of the U.S. Department of Justice, Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section.
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 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, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” For more information about registered sex offenders in Idaho, visit www.isp.idaho.gov/sor_id/.
Twin Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Charge in Aryan Knights InvestigationRead the Press Release
BOISE – Christopher John Solders, 26, of Twin Falls, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, Solders admitted that he sold methamphetamine on two occasions to a person working with law enforcement officers. The first transaction occurred on February 22, 2012, and the second on May 1, 2012.
A federal grand jury indicted Solders on September 12, 2012. The indictment and 13 others were the result of a long-term investigation by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The investigation focused on illegal drug distribution by the “Aryan Knights,” a gang active in prison and on the streets throughout Idaho. Through the investigation, law enforcement agents identified Aryan Knights gang members who were trafficking methamphetamine, as well as associates of the gang who were the source of that methamphetamine.
The charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and at least three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for April 29, 2013, before the Hon. John C. Coughenour, U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Washington, at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The cases were 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, U.S. Marshals Service, and 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 Aryan Knights cases are 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.
Las Vegas Man Indicted for Felony Bank LarcenyRead the Press Release
Allegedly Stole Three ATM Machines in Idaho
BOISE – Clarence Edward Lancaster, 57, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in Boise on two counts of felony bank larceny, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. An arraignment date has not yet been set.
The indictment alleges that Lancaster stole three automatic teller machines (ATMs) from two college campuses in Idaho. Specifically, Lancaster allegedly took an ATM machine from the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls, Idaho, and stole $39,760 from the machine. The indictment also alleges that Lancaster took two ATMs from Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho, and stole a total of $9,000 from those machines.
If convicted, Lancaster faces up to ten 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, Boise Police Department, Pocatello Police Department, and Twin Falls Police Department.
An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct and is not evidence of guilt. A person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Bank Officer Sentenced for Embezzling over $142,000Read the Press Release
POCATELLO – Deanne Marie Cottle, 63, of Swan Valley, Idaho, a former vice president of Bank of Commerce of Idaho Falls, Idaho, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for embezzling $142,008.60 from the bank, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Cottle to serve two years of supervised release after her prison term and pay a $2,000 fine. On November 27, 2012, Cottle pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging her with embezzlement by a bank employee.
According to the plea agreement, an audit conducted on September 13, 2011, found that between January 12, 2009, and September 8, 2011, Cottle, the former vice president of security and director of human resources at Bank of Commerce, converted approximately 31 checks totaling $142,008.60 from health insurance carriers to the bank. Cottle admitted that she converted the monies into cashier’s checks, which she then deposited into a personal credit union account. During a subsequent interview with the FBI, Cottle admitted that she willfully and knowingly embezzled the funds. According to the plea agreement, Cottle has made full restitution to Bank of Commerce.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“The detection and prosecution of the crime in this case exemplifies efforts underway by President Obama's Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (FFETF),” said Olson. “Thanks to the dedicated work of the FBI in this case, and the ongoing work of the FBI and other partners, the District of Idaho is proud to be a successful part of this important program. We will continue to work with our partners in the law enforcement community – federal, state and local – to identify and prosecute those who commit fraud.”
The FFETF was created in November 2009 to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Over the past three fiscal years, the Justice Department has filed more than 10,000 financial fraud cases against nearly 15,000 defendants including more than 2,700 mortgage fraud defendants. For more information on the task force, visit www.stopfraud.gov.
Former Credit Union Teller Admits Embezzling over $23,000 from Customer AccountsRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Virginia Mecham, 40, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, pleaded guilty today an information charging her with one count of embezzlement by a credit union employee, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. The information was filed in United States District Court in Pocatello on January 31, 2013.
According to the plea agreement, in August 2011, customers of Westmark Credit Union in Idaho Falls contacted the credit union to inquire about unauthorized withdrawals from their accounts. An examination of the questionable transactions determined they were all handled by Mecham, a credit union teller. During an interview with bank officials, Mecham admitted embezzling the money and admitted that she spent it on various personal expenses. Mecham agreed to pay full restitution of $23,625.
The charge of embezzlement by a credit union employee is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and up to three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for April 30, 2013, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill at the federal courthouse in Pocatello.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Today's announcement is part of efforts underway by President Obama's Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (FFETF), which was created in November 2009 to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Over the past three fiscal years, the Justice Department has filed more than 10,000 financial fraud cases against nearly 15,000 defendants including more than 2,700 mortgage fraud defendants. For more information on the task force, visit www.stopfraud.gov.
Nampa Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing A Sawed-Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
BOISE – Kenneth Lee Morgan, 51, of Nampa, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Boise to possession of an unregistered firearm, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
In court today Morgan admitted that on April 18, 2011, he was in possession of a sawed-off shotgun. According to information presented in court, the Winchester 12 gauge sawed-off shotgun was recovered by law enforcement agents after Morgan sold the shotgun to another individual.
The charge is punishable by up to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.
Sentencing is set for April 30, 2013, before the Hon. John C. Coughenour, U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Washington, at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The case was investigated by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force, a task force comprised of local and federal law enforcement agencies in the Treasure Valley. 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.
Another Guilty Plea in Aryan Knights InvestigationRead the Press Release
Defendant Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Meth
BOISE – Joseph Anthony Goulart, 42, of Caldwell, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to information presented in court today, Goulart admitted that he entered into a conspiracy with other individuals to distribute methamphetamine. In September 2012, law enforcement agents served a search warrant on Goulart’s residence, where agents found approximately one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine.
A federal grand jury indicted Goulart on October 10, 2012. The indictment and thirteen others were the result of a long-term investigation by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. The investigation focused on illegal drug distribution by the “Aryan Knights,” a gang active in prison and on the streets throughout Idaho. Through the investigation, law enforcement agents identified Aryan Knights gang members who were trafficking methamphetamine, as well as associates of the gang who were the source of that methamphetamine.
The charge is punishable by a minimum term of ten years up to life in prison, a maximum fine of $10 million, and a minimum term of five years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for April 30, 2013, before the Hon. John C. Coughenour, U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Washington, at the federal courthouse in Boise.
The cases were 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, U.S. Marshals Service, and 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 Aryan Knights cases are 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 Sentenced to Federal Prison for Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
Defendants Ordered to Pay Victim Insurance Companies Restitution of Over $147,000
COEUR D'ALENE – Michael Robert Persky, 45, and Shelley Lynn Dunkel, 42, of Malibu, California, were sentenced yesterday in United States District Court in Coeur d’Alene on multiple counts of wire fraud and mail fraud, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge sentenced Persky to 24 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, fined him $18,000, and ordered restitution of $92,636.61. Dunkel was sentenced to six months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, with the first six months on home detention, and ordered to pay restitution of $54,518.68.
Persky and Dunkel were convicted by a federal jury late last year following a seven day trial. Persky was convicted of ten counts of wire fraud and eight counts of mail fraud, and Dunkel of six counts of wire fraud and six counts of mail fraud, for their scheme to defraud American Family Mutual Insurance Company and Progressive Northwestern Insurance Company. The jury heard evidence that from November 18, 2005, through June 26, 2008, Persky and Dunkel submitted false and fraudulent information to obtain homeowners, vehicle, and watercraft insurance in Idaho, although Persky’s permanent residence was based in California. The jury also heard evidence that Persky falsely claimed as stolen a 2002 XKS Jaguar, a 2005 Winnebago and its contents, and two watercraft and trailer. According to court records, Persky signed documentation relinquishing ownership of the property to the insurance carriers and received settlements of approximately $91,000. When the Jaguar and Winnebago were recovered, Persky took possession, but failed to notify the insurance carriers.
“These sentences reinforce the jury’s verdict and send the clear message that those who defraud the insurance system for their own personal gain will be punished,” said Olson. “This office will continue to work closely with our federal and state law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate and prosecute financial fraud. I commend the cooperative efforts that resulted in this successful prosecution.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to aggressively investigating those individuals who misuse the U.S. Mail for fraudulent purposes,” said Bradley Kleinknecht, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge, Seattle Division.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the National Insurance Crime Bureau, and the Idaho State Department of Insurance.
Lewiston Man Pleads Guilty to Burglary in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE – Stefan Hiebert, 20, of Lewiston, Idaho, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Coeur d’Alene to burglary, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreement, on two separate occasions in March 2012, Hiebert, an enrolled member of the Nez Perce Tribe, burglarized a barn located on the Nez Perce Indian Reservation, with the intent to steal elk and deer antlers and sheds he knew to be inside. Hiebert stole approximately 30 antlers and sheds with an estimated value of $10,000.
The federal charge of burglary carries a mandatory minimum sentence of at least one year up to a maximum of ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for April 29, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Coeur d’Alene.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Former Payette Man Sentenced to 37 Years for Conspiracy, Arson and TheftRead the Press Release
Defendants Used Molotov Cocktails to Destroy Government Vehicles and
Building in Payette, IdahoBOISE – Donovan James Bolen, 23, of Fruitland, Idaho, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Boise to 444 months in prison for carrying and using explosive devises during and in relation to a federal crime of violence; conspiracy to maliciously use explosive materials; conspiracy to maliciously damage federal property; and theft of firearms, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Bolen to serve five years of supervised release and pay $162,124.87 in restitution to the victims, Western Core Door, Inc. and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
A federal jury convicted Bolen on October 16, 2012. During the five day trial, the jury heard evidence that on May 27, 2011, Bolen and co-defendant David Joseph Vonbargen schemed to set fires in Payette, Idaho, to divert law enforcement while they broke into the World’s Largest Pawn Shop and stole firearms. The jury found Bolen guilty of using Molotov cocktails to set fire to two U.S. Department of Agriculture vehicles and a lumber warehouse belonging to Western Core Door, Inc., in Payette, and then burglarized and stole 12 firearms, including rifles, revolvers, and pistols, from the World’s Largest Pawnshop in Fruitland. The fire at Western Core Door, Inc., took firefighters approximately 16 hours to get under control. The firefighters were able to contain the fire and prevent it from destroying nearby residences, whose siding melted from the heat of the fire.
Judge Winmill found that Bolen attempted to obstruct justice after his arrest, by attempting to get a witness to lie to the police about his involvement, and by convincing his girlfriend to destroy evidence of his involvement. Bolen has previously been convicted of 14 crimes, with his first arrest at age six and first criminal conviction at age ten.
Vonbargen, 50, of Fruitland, is scheduled for a competency hearing before Judge Winmill on March 25, 2013, at the federal courthouse in Boise. No trial date has been set.
“Mr. Bolen’s conduct merited a lengthy sentence,” said Olson. “His use of Molotov cocktails to divert the attention of law enforcement was unconscionable, endangered the lives of first responders, and destroyed the property of innocent victims. Such conduct will not be tolerated. I applaud the cooperative efforts of state, local and federal law enforcement agencies in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Fruitland Police Department, the Payette Police Department, the Payette County Sheriff's Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Idaho State Fire Marshal.
Bonners Ferry Man Sentenced for Bank Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE – Christopher M. Doyle, 25, of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, was sentenced today in United States District Court to 36 months in prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Doyle to serve four years of supervised release and pay restitution of $1,163.29. He pleaded guilty to the charges on November 6, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, Doyle admitted that on April 6, 2010, while employed at Ace's Elder Care, a nursing home, he stole two checks belonging to an elderly patient residing in the facility. Both checks were drawn on the victim’s bank account. Doyle admitted that he forged the victim’s name on the signature line and made it payable to his girlfriend in the amount of $500. Doyle then deposited the check into his girlfriend's bank account using an ATM. According to the plea agreement, Doyle’s image was captured showing him depositing the check at the ATM. On April 22, 2010, during an interview with a U.S. Postal Inspector, Doyle admitted that he stole the victim’s checks while working at the nursing home and deposited them into his girlfriend's bank account.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.