Southern District of Illinois
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Tax Preparer in Belleville Pleads Guilty to Submitting False Claims Against the United States for Preparation of False Federal ReturnsRead the Press Release
Victoria Foster, 55, of East St. Louis, Illinois, entered pleas of guilty to two counts of false claims against the United States by a paid tax preparer assisting in the preparation of a false federal tax return, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today. Victoria Foster worked at Elite Tax in Belleville. As part of the plea, Foster admitted that for the 2015 tax year she filed false returns that caused a loss in excess of $180,000. Victoria Foster faces a prison sentence of up to ten years, a fine of up to $500,000, and up to three years of supervised release with mandatory restitution. Sentencing is scheduled for June 27, 2017.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Federal Prison Inmate Sentenced for Possession of ContrabandRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Wheeler J. Paavola, 35, of Spokane, Washington was sentenced to six months of imprisonment on March 20, 2017 for possession of a controlled substance inside the federal prison at Greenville, Illinois. Paavola’s six-month sentence will be served consecutively to his original 2011 sentence of 188 months for possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine.
At his change of plea hearing, Paavola admitted that he had possessed "K-2," a form of synthetic marijuana, on July 27, 2016 while he was an inmate at the federal prison in Greenville.
The investigation which resulted in Paavola’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
Alabama Resident Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on March 21, 2017, George David Treece, 38, of Alabama, was sentenced for bank robbery. Treece received a term of imprisonment of 115 months to be followed by a three year term of supervised release. Treece was also ordered to pay a $300 fine, a $100 special assessment, and $345 in restitution to the Farmers State Bank. Treece has been held without bond since his arrest on a criminal complaint on August 29, 2016.
The charge arose when, on August 26, 2016, Treece entered the Farmers State Bank in Central City, Illinois, and demanded money from a bank teller. After the teller removed the money from her drawer and placed it on the counter, Treece took the money and left. Treece led police on a high speed chase in an effort to evade capture. The chase ended when Treece crashed his vehicle. Later that day, Treece admitted robbing the bank.
The case was investigated by the Central City Police Department, Centralia Police Department, Wamac Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Denaturalization Lawsuit Filed Against Convicted Al Qaeda Conspirator Residing in IllinoisRead the Press Release
The United States has filed a civil action in the Southern District of Illinois against a 47-year-old naturalized citizen, formerly of Cleveland, Ohio, accused of unlawfully procuring his U.S. citizenship, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois.
Iyman Faris, a native of Pakistan, is currently serving a criminal sentence at the U.S. Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois for conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, namely, al Qaeda, and for providing material support to al Qaeda. In October 2003, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia sentenced Faris to 20 years in prison. The civil complaint alleges that Faris entered the United States fraudulently by using another’s passport that he willfully misrepresented the circumstances under which he entered the United States on subsequent applications for immigration benefits, and that he twice testified falsely to obtain immigration benefits. Additionally, the complaint alleges Faris lacked the required attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution at the time of his naturalization, as proven by his 2003 federal conviction for providing material support to al Qaeda, a designated terrorist organization. Faris was naturalized as a U.S. citizen on Dec. 16, 1999.
"The Department’s Office of Immigration Litigation will continue to pursue denaturalization proceedings against known or suspected terrorists who procured their citizenship by fraud," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Readler. "The U.S. government is dedicated to strengthening the security of our nation and preventing the exploitation of our nation’s immigration system by those who would do harm to our country."
"The prosecution of this case demonstrates the commitment of the Department of Justice to preventing immigration fraud," said U.S. Attorney Boyce. "It is important to ensure the path to legal naturalization remains secure and free of fraud. When people enter the United States, immigrate, and later become citizens, all done through fraud and misrepresentation, their unlawful actions harm the integrity of our immigration system."
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, a naturalized U.S. citizen’s citizenship may be
revoked, and his certificate of naturalization canceled, if the naturalization was illegally procured or procured by concealment of a material fact or by willful misrepresentation.
This case was investigated by the Civil Division’s Office of Immigration Litigation, District Court Section and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The litigation is being handled by Trial Attorney Edward S. White of the Office of Immigration Litigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Biersbach of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois.
The claims made in the complaint are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Denaturalization Lawsuit Filed Against Convicted Al Qaeda Conspirator Residing in IllinoisRead the Press Release
The United States has filed a civil action in the Southern District of Illinois against a 47-year-old naturalized citizen, formerly of Cleveland, Ohio, accused of unlawfully procuring his U.S. citizenship, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois.
Iyman Faris, a native of Pakistan, is currently serving a criminal sentence at the U.S. Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois for conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, namely, al Qaeda, and for providing material support to al Qaeda. In October 2003, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia sentenced Faris to 20 years in prison. The civil complaint alleges that Faris entered the United States fraudulently by using another’s passport that he willfully misrepresented the circumstances under which he entered the United States on subsequent applications for immigration benefits, and that he twice testified falsely to obtain immigration benefits. Additionally, the complaint alleges Faris lacked the required attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution at the time of his naturalization, as proven by his 2003 federal conviction for providing material support to al Qaeda, a designated terrorist organization. Faris was naturalized as a U.S. citizen on Dec. 16, 1999.
“The Department’s Office of Immigration Litigation will continue to pursue denaturalization proceedings against known or suspected terrorists who procured their citizenship by fraud,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Readler. “The U.S. government is dedicated to strengthening the security of our nation and preventing the exploitation of our nation’s immigration system by those who would do harm to our country.”
“The prosecution of this case demonstrates the commitment of the Department of Justice to preventing immigration fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Boyce. “It is important to ensure the path to legal naturalization remains secure and free of fraud. When people enter the United States, immigrate, and later become citizens, all done through fraud and misrepresentation, their unlawful actions harm the integrity of our immigration system.”
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, a naturalized U.S. citizen’s citizenship may be revoked, and his certificate of naturalization canceled, if the naturalization was illegally procured or procured by concealment of a material fact or by willful misrepresentation.
This case was investigated by the Civil Division’s Office of Immigration Litigation, District Court Section and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The litigation is being handled by Trial Attorney Edward S. White of the Office of Immigration Litigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Biersbach of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois.
The claims made in the complaint are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
"Bad Santa" Sentenced for Stealing Packages from US MailRead the Press Release
On March 17, 2017, Cody J. Alexander, 26, of Coffeen, Illinois, was sentenced to federal prison for Theft of United States Mail, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Alexander who pled guilty on December 23, 2016, to one count of Theft of United States Mail, was sentenced to 10 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 months of home detention and 3 years of supervised release. He as was also ordered to pay restitution to those whose mail parcels and packages were stolen. Alexander took the packages while employed with a contracting company hired by the postal service to deliver holiday packages in December of 2015. Alexander admitted taking packages, opening them, and then pawning or attempting to sell at least some of the items at a pawnshop.
At sentencing, the court considered Alexander’s personal history, the circumstances of the offense, and the fact that after his arrest, Alexander was released on bond and failed to appear for a court hearing set for December 15, 2016. On that date, the court issued an arrest warrant for his failure to appear. Ironically, the man charged with stealing holiday packages was arrested while dressed as Santa Clause on December 19, 2016, in Waterloo, Illinois. He has remained in jail since his arrest.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department and the United States Marshal Service assisted in the failure to appear arrest. Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian prosecuted the case.
Cairo Man to Receive Life Sentence for Double Murder During an Attempted Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that James Nathaniel Watts, age 32, of Cairo, Ill., has pleaded guilty to a federal Superseding Indictment regarding the May 2014 attempted robbery of the First National Bank in Cairo, Illinois.
Evidence discussed in court established that on May 15, 2014, at approximately 4:45 p.m., James Watts approached three employees as they left the bank after closing. Watts’ covered his face with a folded white pillowcase and armed himself with a handgun and a hunting knife. Watts forced the three employees back into the bank at gunpoint. Once inside, he bound each of the employees’ hands with zip ties as he attempted to gain entry to the vault. The employees were unable to open the vault because it was equipped with a time lock that could not opened until the next morning. Watts then forced the three employees into the bank’s break room where he killed Anita Grace and Nita Smith and attempted to kill Kaeley Price. Nita Smith died at the bank. Anita Grace died from injuries inflicted by defendant shortly after being transported to the hospital. Defendant believed he had also killed Kaeley Price. While critically injured, Kaeley Price survived and was able to call 911 after defendant had fled the bank. Police captured Watts following a high-speed chase and manhunt. Authorities found him hiding in the structure of a railroad trestle bridge that spans the Ohio River between Illinois and Kentucky.
With respect to Count 1, Watts faces a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. That count charges that on May 15, 2014, in Alexander County, Watts by force, violence and intimidation, did attempt to take from the person and presence of another, money belonging to and in the care, custody, control, management and possession of the First National Bank in Cairo, Illinois, the deposits of which were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; and in committing such offense, Watts assaulted and put in jeopardy the life of another person by the use of a dangerous weapon or weapons, that is a knife and a gun; and further, in committing such offense, Watts killed Anita Grace and Nita Smith; all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2113(a), 2113(d), and 2113(e).
Count 2 charges that on May 15, 2014, in Alexander County, Watts, having previously been convicted by a court of a felony punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess, in and affecting commerce, a firearm, that is: a Colt, Model MK IV Series 80 Mustang, .380 Auto caliber semi-automatic pistol, bearing serial number MU29470, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(l) and 924(a)(2). With respect to Count 2, Watts faces up to an additional 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release to follow any term of incarceration imposed.
The Court scheduled Watts’ sentencing hearing for May 25, 2017, at the United States District Courthouse in Benton. Watts will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal until that time.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jim Cutchin and George Norwood, and CCS Trial Attorney Jeffrey Zick.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Illinois State Police, and numerous other law enforcement agencies in Illinois and Missouri.
Lawrenceville, Illinois Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Kedly G. Newlin, 57, of Lawrenceville, IL, was recently sentenced to federal prison on methamphetamine related charges, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
On March 14, 2017, Newlin was sentenced to 235 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release following his imprisonment. Newlin previously pleaded guilty to two counts in a federal indictment. Count 1 charged that from November 2015, until June 18, 2016, in Crawford, Lawrence, and Richland Counties, within the Southern District of Illinois, and elsewhere, Newlin and others conspired to distribute methamphetamine. The total amount of methamphetamine involved in the conspiracy was 50 grams or more of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as "ice." Count 2 charged that on February 17, 2016, in Crawford County, Newlin knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, the Robinson, Illinois Police Department, the Bridgeport, Illinois Police Department, the Lawrenceville County Sheriff’s Office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Department of Homeland Security.
Superseding Indictment Returned in Cairo, Illinois Bank Robbery CaseRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that a superseding indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in Benton, Illinois, in the case regarding the May 2014 attempted robbery of the First National Bank in Cairo, Illinois,
A seven count superseding indictment was returned against James Nathaniel Watts, 32, of Cairo, IL, Otha D. Watkins, III, 33, of Cairo, IL, and Sharita S. Tipler, 30, of Ullin, IL.
Count 1 charges Watts with attempted armed bank robbery resulting in death. The indictment alleged that during the commission of his attempted robbery of the First National Bank in Cairo on May 15, 2014, Watts killed Anita Grace and Nita Smith, and critically injured a third bank employee.
Count 2 charges that on May 15, 2014, Watts was a convicted felon in possession of a .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol which had previously traveled in interstate commerce.
Count 3 charges that on May 15, 2014, Watkins did aid and abet James Nathaniel Watts, in the attempted armed bank robbery which resulted in the deaths of Anita Grace and Nita Smith (Count 1 above).
Count 4 charges that on May 16, 2014, in Alexander County, IL, Watkins did knowingly
and willfully make a materially false statement in a matter within the jurisdiction of the executive branch of the government of the United States, by making false statements to a Special Agent of the FBI.
Count 5 charges that from on or about May 4, 2014, to on or about May 17, 2014, in Alexander County, IL, Watkins was a convicted felon who knowingly possessed a Ruger 9mm pistol which had previously traveled in interstate commerce.
Count 6 charges that on or about May 12, 2014, in Alexander County, IL, Watkins did conspire and agree with James Nathaniel Watts, and others known and unknown to the grand jury, to commit robbery, which robbery would obstruct, delay, and affect interstate commerce, in that they agreed to take United States currency belonging to McDonalds restaurant, in Charleston, Missouri, from employees of the McDonalds restaurant, in their presence and against their will by means of actual and threatened force, violence and fear of injury to their person, by brandishing a firearm.
Count 7 charges that from on or about May 15, 2014, to on or about May 17, 2014, in Alexander County, IL, Tipler did knowingly dispose of a firearm (i.e., transferred a firearm), a Ruger 9mm pistol, to Otha Don Watkins, III, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that Otha Don Watkins, III, was a convicted felon.
Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
With respect to Count 1, the possible penalties are death or a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
With respect to Count 2, the possible penalties are up to 10 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release to follow any term of incarceration imposed.
With respect to Count 3, the possible penalties are death or a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
With respect to Count 4, the possible penalties are up to 5 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release to follow any term of incarceration imposed.
With respect to Count 5, the possible penalties are up to 10 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release to follow any term of incarceration imposed.
With respect to Count 6, the possible penalties are up to 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release to follow any term of incarceration imposed.
With respect to Count 7, the possible penalties are up to 10 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release to follow any term of incarceration imposed.
Watts has been in custody since May 15, 2014.
Watkins is in custody and has an initial appearance set for March 21, 2017, in the United States Courthouse in Benton, Illinois.
Tipler was arrested and had an initial appearance on March 13, 2017. Tipler is in custody and has a bond hearing scheduled for March 14, 2017, at the United States Courthouse in Benton, Illinois.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys James M. Cutchin, George A. Norwood, and Jeffrey A. Zick.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Illinois State Police, and numerous other law enforcement agencies.
Two Men Plead Guilty to Using Stolen Account Numbers at Metro East WalmartsRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that Samirahdam E. Rolley (25), of Stone Mountain, GA, pled guilty to two credit card fraud charges and a charge of aggravated identity theft yesterday in federal court in East St. Louis, IL. On Monday, February 27, 2017, Michael A. Gordon, also of Stone Mountain, GA, pled guilty to the same charges arising out of the same incidents. Rolley’s and Gordon’s crimes occurred at several Walmart stores in the Metro East over a three-day period in June 2015.
At their plea hearings, both Rolley and Gordon admitted that they travelled from Georgia to Southern Illinois in early June 2015. During their trip, Rolley and Gordon had in their possession numerous gift cards. The magnetic strips of these gift cards had been re-encoded with stolen debit card numbers. Some of these debit account numbers were for the accounts of Southern Illinois residents at a local credit union. Rolley and Gordon used the altered gift cards to make purchases at numerous Metro East Walmarts, including the stores in Cahokia, O’Fallon, Belleville, Highland, Wood River, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, Godfrey, Jerseyville, Waterloo, and Carlyle. The purchases made by Rolley and Gordon were debited to the bank accounts of the victims whose debit account numbers had been embedded on the gift cards.
The sentencing hearings for both Rolley and Gordon are scheduled for June 23, 2017. The charges of using stolen account numbers and using counterfeit credit cards are both punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and restitution. The aggravated identity theft charge carries a mandatory sentence of 2 years in prison, which must be served consecutively with any prison sentence imposed for the stolen account number charge.
The investigation is being conducted by the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"). Several Metro East police departments have assisted the FBI with the investigation. Those include the Carlyle, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, Jerseyville, Waterloo, and Wood River Police Departments, as well as the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. Walmart’s Global Security Department has also provided significant assistance in the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Marion Prison Inmate Sentenced to an Additional 37 Months for Assault and Possessing a WeaponRead the Press Release
Francisco Jose Cantu, 31, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois, was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton to a 37-month term of imprisonment for assaulting another inmate with a dangerous weapon and possessing a homemade knife within that facility, announced Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Cantu had previously pled guilty to a three count indictment charging him with assaulting a fellow inmate with a metal combination lock contained in a sock (counts 1 and 2) and possession of a homemade knife on a separate occasion (count 3). The offenses occurred on February 16, 2016, and March 6, 2016, respectively.
At the time these offenses, Cantu was serving a 360-month sentence, imposed in the Western District of Texas, for production of child pornography. The 37-month sentence was imposed consecutively to that sentence.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Cantu was ordered to pay the United States special assessments totaling $300 and was placed on a three-year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration.
Cantu was immediately returned to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to resume serving his sentences.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
Madison County Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Thomas J. Richter, 30, from Troy, Illinois was charged on March 7, 2017 in federal court by a two-count criminal complaint alleging Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography, United States Attorney Donald S. Boyce has announced. After a detention hearing held today, Richter was released on bond with electronic leg monitoring.
The offenses charged in the criminal complaint allege that in October and November 2016, Richter distributed and received numerous images containing child pornography using an internet application. If convicted of distribution and/or receipt of child pornography, Richter faces a term of imprisonment of not less than five (5) years up to twenty (20) years, a fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not less than five (5) years up to life on each count.
A criminal complaint is a formal charge against a defendant that is comprised of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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.”
The case was investigated by the Madison County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Metro East Cyber Crimes and Analysis Task Force. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Hoell.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 140 Months in Prison for Robbing Fast Food RestaurantRead the Press Release
This case is one of many brought as a result of the United States Attorney’s Office
Metro-East Armed Robbery Initiative
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Courtney P. Scott, 47, was sentenced yesterday in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois to 140 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment for charges stemming from an armed robbery which occurred at Jack in the Box in Swansea on March 27, 2016.
Plea and sentencing evidence showed that around 7 a.m. on March 27, 2016, Scott entered Jack in the Box in Swansea with a loaded .38 caliber revolver and demanded money from the restaurant manager. As Scott waited for the timer on the safe to expire, an employee was able to covertly call 911 for assistance. Police arrived and surrounded the restaurant as employees fled out the back door. Scott eventually surrendered to police and was taken in to custody. Scott was previously convicted of armed robbery in 2008.
The investigation was conducted by the Swansea Police Department with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the O’Fallon Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura V. Reppert.
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Final Defendant Pleads Guilty in Case Involving Large Stolen Property Fraud RingRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced this morning, in federal court in Benton, Illinois, that Angel Speed, 26, pled guilty to federal crimes arising from his participation in a large stolen property fraud ring that operated in the Metro East and other locations. With Speed’s guilty plea this morning, all fifteen defendants charged in the case have now pled guilty.
The leader of the conspiracy/stolen property ring was co-defendant Jason J. Parmeley, 42, formerly of O’Fallon, MO. At his plea hearing on December 6, 2016, Parmeley admitted that he used the internet to obtain credit account numbers that individuals and businesses had with retail stores, such as Home Depot, Lowes, Menards, and rental stores, such as SunBelt Rentals. Using this information, Parmeley placed orders with the stores in the names, and under the credit accounts, of the individuals and businesses. The items Parmeley ordered frequently consisted of appliances, computers, expensive tools, and construction equipment. Parmeley further admitted that, after he placed the orders, he dispatched drivers to go to the stores and pick up the items. The items were then sold at prices substantially below retail. The profits were wire transferred to Parmeley in Mexico. Parmeley lived in Mexico and controlled the fraud ring from that country.
In late August of 2015, Mexican Immigration Authorities deported Parmeley from Mexico. Parmeley has been held in federal custody since that time.
Today, Angel Speed admitted that he assisted Parmeley with the operation of the conspiracy in Mexico. Speed assisted Parmeley with computer work necessary to operate the scheme, relayed instructions to the drivers, and assisted in laundering the profits of the scheme. With regard to the money laundering, Speed admitted that he used a false name to pick up profits of the fraud scheme that had been wire transferred to Parmeley in Mexico by other conspirators in the United States.
To date, six defendants have been sentenced to prison for their roles in the conspiracy. On June 7, 2016, James D. Litchfield, 59, owner of Big Jim’s Autorama in Madison, IL, was sentenced to 3 years in prison, and his brother, Ryan P. Litchfield, 37, of O’Fallon, MO, was sentenced to 1 year in prison. Both of the brothers had admitted to receiving large quantities of the stolen property. On October 4, 2016, Shannan M. Flora, 42, of O’Fallon, MO, and Rigoberto Gutierrez, 28, of Compton, CA, were both sentenced to 15 months in prison. Flora performed a wide variety of tasks for the conspiracy, including arranging sales of stolen goods. Gutierrez coordinated shipments of stolen goods in California. On October 12, 2016, Russell J. Witt, 34, of Mount Clemens, MI, was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Witt worked as a driver for the conspiracy for over a year. On December 13, 2016, Sean A. Shields, 48, of Ozark, MO, was also sentenced to 12 months in prison. Shields owned a store in Ozark, MO, and purchased large quantities of the stolen merchandise.
Five other defendants were sentenced to terms of probation. They are: Nicholas A. Brockman, 20, of Wentzville, MO; Benedict G. Pellerito, 56, of Troy, MO; Bryce E. Atkinson, 22, of Lake Saint Louis, MO; Alice J. Hembree, 44, of Moscow Mills, MO; and Tony G. Robertson,
45, of O’Fallon, MO. Brockman, Pellerito, Atkinson, and Robertson all worked as drivers for the conspiracy. Hembree performed administrative and bookkeeping functions for the fraud ring.
The four remaining defendants will be sentenced on the following dates: (1) March 28, 2017 – Steven J. Belcher, 45, of St. Charles, MO; (2) March 30, 2017 – Jesse S. Urias, 38, of Compton, CA; (3) May 4, 2017 – Jason J. Parmeley, 42, formerly of O’Fallon, MO; and (4) June 22, 2017 – Angel Speed, 26.
The investigation is being conducted by agents from the St. Louis Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"). The FBI has received substantial assistance from many state and local police departments in numerous jurisdictions, including the Metro East Auto Theft Task Force and the California Highway Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Smithton Resident Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Possession of Prepubescent Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on Friday, March 3, 2017, Kyle W. Oberg, 40, Smithton, IL, was sentenced on two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of possession of visual depictions of prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Oberg was sentenced to 360 months of imprisonment on the first two counts and 240 months of imprisonment on the third count, all to run concurrently, for a total term of imprisonment of 30 years. The term of imprisonment is to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. Oberg was also fined $200 on each count, for a total fine of $600, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment. Oberg had been detained since his arraignment on August 22, 2013.
The charges arose after the Smithton Police Department executed a state search warrant on July 18, 2013, at Oberg’s residence after receiving a complaint from a concerned mother regarding defendant’s suspicious behavior towards the mother’s six-year old daughter.
Evidence presented at sentencing established that, between December 8, 2012, and June 29, 2013, on 24 separate occasions, Oberg took a total of 337 images of the minor victim engaged in sexually explicit conduct. There were also three videos taken of the minor victim engaged in
sexually explicit conduct, including one video of the defendant digitally penetrating the then six-year old victim.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 Aresources.@
The case was investigated by the Smithton Police Department and the United States Secret Secret’s Cyber-Crime Unit. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Two Cubans Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Possession of Stolen Account Numbers and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Eriberto Ricardo Gomez, 42, and Yasmanis L. Oduardo Fonseco, 28, have both been sentenced to two years in federal prison on their convictions for possession of fifteen or more stolen account numbers and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced. Ricardo Gomez and Oduardo Fonseco, are both Cuban Nationals who currently reside in Houston, Texas. They were sentenced in federal court in Benton, IL on March 2, 2017.
The stolen account numbers were discovered by an officer of the Caseyville, Illinois, Police Department on October 8, 2015, during a traffic stop on I-70 in Madison County. At that time, Ricardo Gomez and Oduardo Fonseco had in their possession over 100 gift cards. The magnetic strips on 19 of these gift cards had been re-encoded with account numbers registered to customers of a financial institution in the state of Pennsylvania. During their plea hearings in November of last year, both Ricardo Gomez and Oduardo Fonseco acknowledged that they used these gift cards to make fraudulent purchases at Walmart stores located in Arkansas and Manchester, MO.
In addition to all the gift cards, a computer was also seized from the vehicle that Ricardo Gomez and Oduardo Fonseco were travelling in. When this computer was searched, the FBI found 301 stolen bank account and credit card numbers. An MSR X6 credit card re-encoder was also recovered from Ricardo Gomez’s jacket pocket.
"Unfortunately, these types of crimes involving stolen account numbers are all too frequent," U.S. Attorney Boyce stated. "In addition to their financial impact, these crimes leave the victims feeling violated and vulnerable. Our office will prosecute, and seek federal prison sentences, for anyone who engages in this type of crime in Southern Illinois."
The investigation was conducted by the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"). The Caseyville and Pontoon Beach Police Departments, assisted in the investigation. Walmart’s Global Security Department also provided significant assistance in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Former Pulaski County Illinois Resident Indicted for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Clint Wade Green, 42, of Paducah, Ky., was indicted on February 23, 2017 on four counts of receipt of child pornography, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today. The case is set for trial on April 24, 2017 in Benton, Illinois. Green has been ordered detained pending trial.
The indictment alleges that in October 2015 on four separate occasions, Green knowingly received materials that contained child pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(2)(B). If convicted, Green faces a prison sentence of not less than five years and up to 20 years on each count, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI-Marion. The Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, the Illinois State Police, and the Paducah Kentucky Police Department also participated in this investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James G. Piper, Jr.
An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, that charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Centerville Man Sentenced for Firearm and Heroin OffensesRead the Press Release
Reginald J. Coleman, 26, of Centreville, Illinois was sentenced on March 3, 2017 to 46 months of imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute heroin and for being a felon in possession of a firearm, Donald S. Boyce, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Coleman pled guilty to the two federal charges on September 30, 2016. At his change of plea hearing in September, Coleman admitted that he had possessed heroin packaged for sale, and three firearms, at his mother’s Centreville residence on October 14, 2015. Coleman was arrested during the course of a state "parole compliance check." He has been continuously confined on state and federal charges since his arrest in October, 2015.
The investigation which resulted in Coleman’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the federal Bureau of Alcohol and Firearms and by the St. Clair County Probation Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
Missouri Resident Sentenced for Committing Two Bank Robberies in IllinoisRead the Press Release
Brendon M. Collier, 39, of St. Louis, MO, was sentenced on February 24, 2017, on two counts of bank robbery, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Collier was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 36 months on each count, to run concurrently to each other but consecutively to the sentence he is currently serving in Missouri for a bank robbery. He was also sentenced to a three-year term of supervised release on each count, also to run concurrently. Finally, Collier was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment. Collier has been held without bond since his arraignment on July 16, 2015.
On January 28, 2015, Collier, aided and abetted by another individual, went to a US Bank branch located inside of a Schnuck’s grocery store in Edwardsville, Illinois. Collier entered the bank and approached the teller claiming that he needed to make a withdrawal. Collier then handed the teller a note written on the back of a used envelope that demanded loose bills that were $20s or over, and said "no alarm."
On February 10, 2015, Collier and his accomplice went to a second US Bank branch located inside of a Schnuck’s grocery store, this time in Fairview Heights, Illinois. During the second robbery, Collier again told a teller that he needed to make a withdrawal. Collier handed
the teller a note written on a deposit slip hidden under an envelope that said something to the effect of, "give me all the money out your top drawer, tens and up, do it quick and no one gets hurt."
Collier was apprehended after the pair robbed a third US Bank branch located inside of a Schnuck’s grocery store in St. Peters, Missouri. Collier confessed to the St. Peters robbery as well as the two bank robberies in Illinois, claiming that the robberies were motivated by his need to buy heroin, hotel rooms and food. Collier also admitted using his accomplice’s car to commit the robberies.
The case was investigated by the Edwardsville Police Department, the Fairview Heights Police Department, the Illinois State Police Metro-East Forensic Laboratory, the St. Peters, Missouri, Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Glen Carbon Retirement Center Employee Admits to Embezzlement, Making a False Bankruptcy Declaration and Filing False Federal Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Danielle D. Clark, a/k/a Danielle D. Markiewicz, a/k/a Danielle D. Cantrall, 37, of Edwardsville, Illinois, entered pleas of guilty to an Information charging two counts of wire fraud in a scheme to defraud the Eden Village Care Center, a not-for-profit retirement community in Glen Carbon, Illinois, and one count of making a false bankruptcy declaration, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today. Clark faces a statutory maximum prison sentence of up to 45 years, a fine of up to $750,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for June 20, 2017. As part of the plea, Clark admitted to filing a false 2015 federal income tax return and agreed to plead also to that charge in the future.
Clark was the Director of Human Resources and the Accounts Payable Clerk for the Eden Village Care Center. As the Director of Human Resources and the Accounts Payable Clerk, she was in a position of trust to act for the benefit of the Eden Village Care Center. As part of the plea, Clark admitted engaging in a scheme to defraud from 2011 continuing through May of 2016 where she made unauthorized credit transactions using an Eden Village Care Center credit card issued through the Bank of Edwardsville and a Sam’s Club/Walmart credit card, causing a loss to Eden Village Care Center in excess of $700,000. As part of the scheme Clark prepared fake credit card statements to cover up and continue her embezzlement, forged signatory names on Eden Village Care Center checks to pay for the unauthorized charges using Eden Village Care Center funds, and manipulated the accounting books and created fake invoices for Eden Village Care Center to hide the expenses for the credit card transactions.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Glen Carbon Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Columbia Man Charged with Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Steven D. Blosser, 40, of Columbia, IL, was arraigned on February 24, 2017 on federal indictment charging him with receipt of child pornography, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
The indictment alleges that, from on or about September 16, 2015, until on or about February 19, 2016, Blosser knowingly received child pornography, to include four image files listed in the indictment.
Trial is scheduled for May 1, 2015. The penalty for Receipt of Child Pornography is a term of imprisonment of not less than five years but not more than twenty 20 years, a fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not less than five years to life.
An indictment is merely the method by which federal charges are lodged. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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."
The case was investigated by the Columbia, Illinois, Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Springfield Child Exploitation Task Force. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Federal Prison Inmate Sentenced for Possession of ContrabandRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Mario L. Gordon, age 37, of Chicago, Illinois was sentenced to 6 months’ imprisonment on February 23, 2017 for possession of a controlled substance inside the federal prison at Greenville, Illinois.
Gordon’s 6-month sentence must be served consecutively to his original 2002 sentence of 360 months for Possession With Intent to Deliver Cocaine.
At his change of plea hearing, Gordon admitted that he had possessed "K-2," a form of synthetic marijuana, on July 1, 2016 while he was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution ("FCI") in Greenville, Illinois.
The investigation which resulted in Gordon’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
Springfield Man Pleads Guilty to Bankruptcy FraudRead the Press Release
Mark A. McFarland, 58, of Springfield, IL, pled guilty on February 21, 2017, to two bankruptcy fraud charges in United States District Court in East St. Louis, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today. McFarland was indicted on February 2, 2016, as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s effort to crackdown on those who commit fraud in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois.
"Unfortunately, we have found that some individuals attempt to manipulate the Federal Bankruptcy system in order to defraud their creditors," Mr. Boyce explained. "Those who engage in this type of conduct in Southern Illinois will be found and will be prosecuted."
On October 6, 2014, McFarland filed a chapter 11 bankruptcy case on behalf of his business, Second Chance of Springfield, Inc. ("Second Chance.") McFarland filed this case in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois in East St. Louis, IL. Prior to filing that case, McFarland had filed 10 separate bankruptcy cases in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of Illinois in Springfield. All but one of those cases had been dismissed due to McFarland’s failure to comply with the Bankruptcy Court’s orders. In the last case, the Bankruptcy Court barred McFarland from filing any more bankruptcy cases in the Central District of Illinois for 180 days.
When he filed his case in East St. Louis on behalf of Second Chance, McFarland lied on his bankruptcy petition by claiming that his business was located in the Southern District of Illinois. An attorney from the U.S. Trustee’s Office subsequently pointed out that the case did not belong in the Southern District of Illinois, because the street address of Second Chance was located in Springfield, Illinois. As a result, the case should have been filed in the Central District of Illinois in Springfield. McFarland then lied again on an amended bankruptcy petition he filed, stating that Second Chance had a business address in Alton, IL. In support of this claim, McFarland provided a lease to the Bankruptcy Court that was fraudulently backdated to September 25, 2014. Then, as McFarland admitted during his plea hearing, he falsely testified under oath that he had signed that lease on September 25, 2014. He also falsely testified under oath that he had reached an oral agreement with the landlord for the rental of the Alton property in September 2014.
"Making a false statement in a bankruptcy proceeding is a crime that threatens the integrity of the bankruptcy process and public confidence in that process," stated Nancy J. Gargula, U.S. Trustee for Central Illinois, Southern Illinois and Indiana (Region 10). "I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Donald Boyce and to all of our law enforcement partners in this case."
The U.S. Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. Region 10 is headquartered in Indianapolis, with additional offices in South Bend, Ind., and Peoria, Ill.
McFarland’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 6, 2017, at 1:30 p.m., in United States District Court in East St. Louis, Illinois. The crime of making false statements under oath in a bankruptcy case is punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and restitution. McFarland also faces up to three years of supervised release after any period of incarceration.
The charges resulted from a referral by the U.S. Trustee for Indiana and Southern and Central Illinois (Region 10) to the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The investigation was conducted by agents from the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in collaboration with the Southern Illinois Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by the U.S. Trustee. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Houston Resident Guilty of Federal Drug Trafficking Following $1.2 Million Dollar Cash SeizureRead the Press Release
Samuel Dewayne Monroe, 39, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty on February 22, 2017, in United States District Court to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today.
On February 18, 2016, a federal grand jury returned an indictment alleging that eight Houston residents participated in a conspiracy to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine into the Southern District of Illinois. In addition to the drug crimes, the United States also sought forfeiture of $1,212,934 in United States Currency that was seized on December 2nd and 3rd of 2015, along with jewelry appraised at $72,000. As part of his plea, Monroe agreed to forfeit any interest he has in the property that was seized.
As charged in this case, conspiracy to distribute cocaine is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life imprisonment. Monroe also faces a fine of up $10,000,000, and not less than 5 years supervised release. However, the United States Sentencing Guidelines must be applied to the case and considered by the Court during sentencing. Monroe is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2017. The 7 co-defendants in the case, Astin Allison, Nahum Shibeshi, Terrance Miles, Victor Johnson, Jamie Green, Rodney Smith and Dan E. Bell, have all pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The investigation is being conducted by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration as part of the OCDETF program. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
Edwardsville Man Charged in O'Fallon, Illinois Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on February 16, 2017, Marcus J. Thornton, a thirty-six-year-old man from Edwardsville, Illinois, was charged by complaint in United States District Court, in East St. Louis, with Bank Robbery. Thornton, who on February 21, 2017, made his first appearance in United States District Court, faces up to 20 years’ in prison, a fine of up to $250, 000, and not more than 3 years supervised release after his term of imprisonment, if convicted.
In court proceedings, and through charging documents, prosecutors alleged that on February 9, 2017, at approximately 1:11p.m., Thornton wearing a white construction dust mask, entered the U.S. Bank located at 400 South Lincoln Avenue O’Fallon, Illinois, brandished a silver and black semi-automatic handgun and demanded money from the bank tellers. Bank tellers gave the U.S. currency to Thornton, who then put the U.S. currency into a white plastic bag. Before leaving the bank, Thornton inserted what appeared to be a telescopic magnet into the white plastic bag, presumably to detect a tracking device. Thornton was witnessed driving off in a dark blue Sport Utility Vehicle. Law enforcement officers later reviewed U.S. Bank surveillance video and were able to locate and arrest Thornton.
A complaint is a formal charge against a defendant that is comprised of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent
of a charge until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak for prosecution.
Centralia Resident Sentenced for Felon in Possession of Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Terrell D. Cleggett, 35, of Centralia, Illinois, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison on February 21, 2017 for possession of a firearm by a felon and being in possession of stolen firearms, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today. Cleggett was also ordered to pay a $200 mandatory special assessment, and to serve three years of supervised release after he is released from prison.
Cleggett was investigated following the November 29, 2014, burglary of Buchheit’s of Centralia. In that burglary, forty (40) firearms and more than a thousand rounds of ammunition were stolen. Two co-defendants previously pled guilty and were sentenced with one receiving 60 months’ and the other 248 months’ of imprisonment. A juvenile accomplice was prosecuted by state authorities. Two remaining co-defendants, Justin Gibson and Michael Rink, charged in connection with the Buchheit’s burglary have both pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
Court records established that two of the guns stolen during the Buchheit’s burglary were eventually transferred from the juvenile accomplice to Terrell Cleggett, who knew or had reason to know that the firearms were stolen. Thirty-eight of the stolen firearms were eventually recovered by law enforcement officials, including the two firearms included in the prosecution of Cleggett.
The investigation is being conducted by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Centralia Police Department, along with the Clinton County States Attorney’s office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
Alton Man Sentenced for Cocaine OffensesRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Brian L. Redden, age 32, of Alton, Illinois, was sentenced on February 22, 2017 to 151 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. Redden has been continuously confined since his arrest in May, 2016.
Redden pled guilty to the federal charge on November 9, 2016. At his change of plea hearing, Redden admitted to possessing an ounce of cocaine; over $2,000 in cash; a digital scale and other drug paraphernalia on May 20, 2016 in Alton.
The investigation which resulted in Redden’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the Alton Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
Harrisburg Woman Pleads Guilty to Bankruptcy FraudRead the Press Release
Rietta M. Miller, 51, of Harrisburg, IL, has pled guilty to a bankruptcy fraud charge pending against her in federal court in Benton, U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois announced today. Charges were filed against Miller on January 30, 2017, as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s effort to crackdown on those who commit fraud in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois.
"Federal bankruptcy laws enable debtors to gain a fresh start in life through a discharge of their debts," Mr. Boyce explained. "In order to get this fresh start, however, the law requires debtors to disclose their assets so that their creditors can be paid back as much as possible before the debts are discharged. Individuals who hide their assets during bankruptcy cases are defrauding their creditors. Our office will continue to prosecute those who engage in this type of conduct."
Miller was charged with concealing assets in her bankruptcy case. In pleading guilty today, Miller admitted that she concealed from the Bankruptcy Court a $47,736.12 worker’s compensation settlement she received approximately one month before she filed bankruptcy. Miller acknowledged that she attempted to conceal this money from the Bankruptcy Court by moving the funds in and out of her bank accounts. Miller also admitted that she lied on the bankruptcy petition and schedules she filed with the Bankruptcy Court, and again when she was
asked questions under oath at a Meeting of Creditors held in her bankruptcy case. Miller’s chapter 7 bankruptcy case was filed and litigated in the United States Bankruptcy Court in Benton, Illinois.
"This case is an example of the collaborative efforts of the Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group and other law enforcement partners to combat fraud and abuse in our nation’s bankruptcy system," stated Nancy J. Gargula, U.S. Trustee for Southern Illinois, Central Illinois and Indiana (Region 10). "I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Boyce and our law enforcement partners for their strong commitment to combating fraud and abuse in bankruptcy cases."
Miller’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 18, 2017, at 10:30 a.m., at the federal courthouse in Benton, Illinois. The crime of concealing assets in a bankruptcy case is punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment, and/or a $250,000 fine, not more than three years of supervised release, and restitution.
The charges resulted from a referral by the U.S. Trustee for Indiana and Southern and Central Illinois (Region 10) to the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The investigation was conducted by agents from the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"), in collaboration with the Southern Illinois Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by the U.S. Trustee. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Paroled Second-Degree Murderer Gets 46 Months for Possessing Sawed-Off Shotgun and RifleRead the Press Release
An Ellis Grove, Illinois, man was sentenced to 46 months in prison today for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for possession of an unregistered sawed-off shotgun, announced U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois.
Jeffrey Robert Pautler, 49, was arrested on May 15, 2016, by Randolph County Sheriff’s deputies following a report of a domestic incident at Pautler’s residence. When deputies arrived, they found Pautler in an agitated state, with bloodied hands and jeans. Pautler threatened the deputies with a shovel and said he wanted to commit suicide. The deputies eventually calmed Pautler down and had him taken to a hospital. Pautler’s live-in girlfriend consented to a search of the residence, and deputies found a sawed-off shotgun and rifle inside the home.
Pautler was later interviewed and admitted that he possessed the firearms, which he had obtained from a neighbor. He claimed that he used the rifle to shoot coyotes, and he said that he had not fired the shotgun. He also admitted that he was a daily user of marijuana, which he claimed relieved pain.
At the time he possessed the firearms, Pautler was on parole for a 1991 second-degree murder conviction from Cape Girardeau County, Missouri, for which he was paroled on October 22, 2014.
The prison sentence was imposed at the U.S. District Court in Benton, Illinois, where Pautler had pleaded guilty to the charges on October 6, 2016. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Pautler was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after the term of imprisonment, and was ordered to pay a $3,000 fine and a $200 special assessment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen B. Clark.
Swansea Man Involved in Fatal Car Accident Charged with Possessing Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
A Swansea man has been charged in a federal criminal complaint with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Today, the U.S. District Court in East St. Louis ordered, Eric L. Eiskant, 33, detained without bond pending indictment. The alleged violation took place on January 20, 2017, in connection with a fatal vehicle accident that occurred in the area of St. Clair Avenue and 79th Street in East St. Louis. If convicted, Eiskant faces a term of imprisonment of up to ten years, a fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years.
A criminal complaint is a formal charge against a defendant that is comprised of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by the Illinois State Police with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Laura V. Reppert.
Marion Prison Inmate Sentenced to an Additional 27 Months for Possessing a WeaponRead the Press Release
An inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Benton to a term of imprisonment of 27 months for possessing a homemade knife within that facility, announced Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Christopher Leon Hainta, 45, had previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with that offense, which occurred on July 22, 2016.
At the time he possessed the weapon, Hainta was serving a 46 month sentence, imposed in the Western District of Oklahoma, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The 27 month sentence was imposed consecutively to that sentence.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Hainta was ordered to pay the United States fines and special assessments totaling $400 and was placed on a two year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration.
Hainta was immediately returned to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to resume serving his sentences.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
Springfield Woman Charged in Two Metro-East Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
Adrianna C. Frye-Williamson, 20, of Springfield, Illinois, was charged in a criminal complaint on Saturday, February 11, 2017, with two counts of Bank Robbery. The alleged violations took place on Friday, January 20, 2017 in Edwardsville, Madison County, Illinois, and Thursday, February 9, 2017 in Glen Carbon, Madison County, Illinois. Today, the Court ordered that Frye-Williamson be detained without bond until a bond hearing on February 16, 2017.
The offenses charged in the complaint allege (1) that on January 20, 2017, Adrianna C. Frye-Williamson committed the offense of Bank Robbery in that she by force, violence and intimidation, took from the presence of another, money belonging to and in the care and custody, control, management, and possession of the National Bank in Edwardsville, and (2) that on February 9, 2017, Adrianna C. Frye-Williamson committed the offense of Bank Robbery in that she by force, violence and intimidation, took from the presence of another, money belonging to and in the care and custody, control, management, and possession of the U.S. Bank in Glen Carbon, Illinois.
If convicted, the defendant faces a term in prison of up to 20 years on each count, a fine up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of up to five (5) years.
A criminal complaint is a formal charge against a defendant that is comprised of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
The cases were investigated by the Edwardsville Police Department, Glen Carbon Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Springfield Illinois Police. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.
Belleville Man Charged with Bank Robbery of Regions Bank in Collinsville, IllinoisRead the Press Release
Michael S. Putman, 50, of Belleville, was charged on Saturday, February 11, 2017, with a one-count criminal complaint of Bank Robbery. The alleged violation took place on Friday, February 10, 2017 in Collinsville, Madison County, Illinois. Today, the Court ordered that Putman be detained without bond pending indictment.
The offense charged in the complaint alleges that on February 10, 2017, Michael Putman committed the offense of Bank Robbery in that he by force, violence and intimidation, took from the presence of another, money belonging to and in the care and custody, control, management, and possession of the Regions Bank in Collinsville, Illinois.
If convicted, the defendant faces a term in prison of up to 20 years, a fine up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of up to five (5) years.
A criminal complaint is a formal charge against a defendant that is comprised of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
The case was investigated by the Collinsville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Illinois State Police, East St. Louis Police Department and the United States Marshal Service. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.
Jackson County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On February 7, 2017, Lucas L. Holland, 31, of Desoto, was sentenced to federal prison for a methamphetamine violation, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Holland, who had previously pled guilty to a second superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine, was sentenced to 188 months’ imprisonment, 3 years’ supervised release, and was fined $600.00. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Holland was involved with numerous other persons in the manufacture of methamphetamine and the distribution of ice in Jackson and Perry Counties. Ice is methamphetamine which has a purity level of at least 80%. At sentencing, the district court found that Holland was responsible for the distribution of 1.68 kilograms of ice and the possession of 44.4 grams of pseudoephedrine. Two co-defendants were previously sentenced for their roles in the methamphetamine conspiracy. Three co-defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing in this case. One co-defendant has pled not guilty and is awaiting a February 27, 2017, jury trial.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Murphysboro Police Department. The Union County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, DuQuoin Police Department, Southern Illinois Enforcement Group, and Jackson County States Attorney’s Office also assisted in the investigation.
East St. Louis Resident Charged as Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Timothy J. Felty, 50, of East St. Louis, Illinois, was charged on January 18, 2017 with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today.
The indictment alleges that on December 7, 2016, Felty knowingly possessed two firearms in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). If convicted, Felty faces on each count a prison sentence of up to ten years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.
An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, that charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Metro East Public Corruption Task Force. The case is being prosecuted byAssistant United States Attorney James G. Piper, Jr.
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Monroe County Man Sentenced to 100 Months for Possession of Firearm by Felon and Possession of Stolen Motor VehicleRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that Todd O. Sweet, 51, of Monroe County Illinois, was sentenced in federal court today to 100 months’ imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, and a $100 special assessment, following his plea of guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon in possession and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.
At the time of commission of these crimes, Sweet was living in a tent in heavy woods located in Monroe County, having absconded from supervised release following his conviction in the Eastern District of Missouri for Possession of Body Armor by a Violent Felon. The owner of the land where Sweet kept his tent called the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office when he discovered Sweet trespassing on his land. Deputies discovered a GPS device in Sweet’s backpack; the device led deputies to Sweet’s tent location, and inside the tent they found a stolen firearm. Nearby, they also found a truck that had been previously stolen in Missouri.
The case was investigated by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ali Summers and Stephen Clark.
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Columbus, Ohio Woman Sentenced for Heroin and Cocaine OffensesRead the Press Release
Yesenia Romero-Samano, 38, of Columbus, Ohio has been sentenced to 37 months of imprisonment for possession with intent to deliver heroin and cocaine, U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois announced today. The sentencing occurred in the U.S. District Court in East St. Louis on February 2, 2017.
Romero-Samano pled guilty to the federal charges on September 30, 2016. At her change of plea hearing, Romero-Samano admitted that she had been transporting six kilograms of heroin (approximately 13 pounds) and 1 kilogram of cocaine when her car was stopped by the Illinois State Police on Highway 55/70 for traffic offenses on March 3, 2016.
Romero-Samano has been continuously confined since her arrest. After Romero-Samano completes her prison sentence, she will then serve a term of 3 years of supervised release.
The investigation resulting in Romero-Samano’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the Illinois State Police and by Department of Homeland Security agents.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
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Belleville Man Sentenced for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Andrew C. Tillman, 32, of Belleville, IL was sentenced today to ten years of imprisonment for drug and firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois announced. On October 27, 2016, Tillman pled guilty to three federal charges, namely possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
At his change of plea hearing in October, Tillman admitted that on December 14, 2015, he had been arrested in Belleville with 80 grams (approximately 3 oz.) of methamphetamine which he had intended to sell. Tillman also admitted possessing a semiautomatic pistol at the time of his arrest, and he acknowledged that he had a prior felony conviction as well. Tillman has been continuously confined since his arrest.
The investigation which resulted in Tillman’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the Belleville Police Department and by the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Drug Tactical Unit.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
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Alton Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 151-Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
Courtney Hayes, 35, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. Reagan to 151 months in federal prison for one count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois announced. Hayes will also be subject to three years of supervised release to follow the prison term and $100 in special assessment fees.
Facts revealed in open court at the sentencing and plea hearings established that Hayes distributed nearly seven kilograms of cocaine throughout the latter half of 2015. After considering many factors, such as the serious nature of drug crimes in the area, Judge Reagan sentenced Hayes to 151 months of imprisonment.
Officers with the Alton Police Department investigated this case and Assistant United States Attorney Derek J. Wiseman prosecuted the case.
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"Prince Charming" Behind Bars: Nigerian Romance Scammer Nets 27-Year Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
Olayinka Ilumsa Sunmola, 33, of Lagos, Nigeria, was sentenced this morning to serve 324 months behind bars for an elaborate international romance scam he perpetrated from 2007 to 2014, U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce for the Southern District of Illinois announced today. Evidence presented in court showed that Sunmola was the ringleader of a criminal organization operating in South Africa that targeted hundreds of women across the United States, including many in the St. Louis area. The thieves managed to make away with millions of dollars in wire transfers and various electronics through the simple promise of true, enduring love.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating Sunmola in 2012, when a woman in the Southern District of Illinois complained that she had been conned by a man masquerading online as "Elias Dyess." The investigation soon revealed that "Dyess" was merely one of the dozens of fictitious online profiles Sunmola and his confederates concocted on dating websites like Match.com to lure unsuspecting women. Portraying himself as an American soldier stationed overseas, or an engineer working on a large government contract in South Africa, Sunmola cultivated romantic relationships with dozens of women across the country. To further the conceit, he used photographs stolen from the hacked online accounts of real American men and researched facts about the American cities he pretended to be from. He also showered the women with poetry, cards, flowers, stuffed animals, and chocolates. Sunmola’s purpose was to lead each of his victims to believe that he was her "Prince Charming," her one true love, and the man with whom she was destined to spend the rest of her life.
Once he had successfully beguiled his target, Sunmola began to manufacture phony emergencies, each of which required increasingly large amounts of money from his victims. He played upon each woman’s romantic feelings and vulnerabilities, manipulating them into wiring
him money or shipping him laptop computers, tablets, and cell phones – equipment he told them he needed to complete his government mission. The women were invariably told to direct their shipments to "Ilumsa Sunmola," who was passed off as their lover’s driver, or a co-worker, or a hotel manager. In fact, it was Sunmola himself who was slowly bleeding them dry. When the money inevitably ran out, or the women refused to send more, Sunmola would abruptly end the relationship.
A federal grand jury sitting in East St. Louis, Illinois, indicted Sunmola in November 2013 on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy, and interstate extortion. Officers with the London Metropolitan Police Service (sometimes referred to as "Scotland Yard") later arrested Sunmola on the Southern Illinois indictment in August 2014, as he was about to board a plane from London to Johannesburg, South Africa. Sunmola eventually pled guilty to all eight counts of the indictment on March 2, 2016, after two full days of trial.
The United States has no way of knowing the precise amount of money Sunmola and his associates stole, but victims who responded to government requests for information reported total losses in excess of $1.7 million – a figure Sunmola has been ordered to pay in restitution. The crime forced at least three women to file for bankruptcy. Several more lost their jobs and their homes and were left in total financial ruin. One victim who testified at the trial lost over $90,000 to Sunmola. "Retirement should be a happy time," she wrote to the court. "Instead, I am stressed and broke and working part time jobs at $10 an hour to supplement my income."
Two victims were present in the courtroom when the sentence was announced. A number of businesses were also defrauded by Sunmola and his associates, who used stolen credit card data from thousands of Americans to make fraudulent purchases online and over the phone. The loss incurred by one computer manufacturer alone was over $800,000.
Even worse than the financial hardships Sunmola caused his victims was the profound emotional and psychological damage he inflicted on them. Many of the women believed they had finally found their true love. A few had even purchased wedding dresses. When the lie was exposed, their worlds collapsed. Some fell into depression. Two victims told the court they had seriously contemplated suicide. Even many years later, a number of Sunmola’s victims remain withdrawn and untrusting, afraid to meet new people or to venture back out on the internet. For at least two women in Illinois, the abuse was also sexual, as Sunmola stole images of their naked bodies, used the images to extort money from them, and then distributed their explicit images on the internet for anyone to see.
At sentencing, the United States argued that the court should depart upward from the range recommended by federal sentencing guidelines, because the crimes Sunmola committed were unusually cruel and caused his victims extreme psychological harm. In support of that argument, the government presented testimony from Monica Whitty, Ph.D., an Australian psychologist who has extensively researched online romance scams from her post at the United Kingdom’s University of Leicester. Whitty testified that, in her expert opinion, the victims had indeed suffered a substantial and severe psychological impact. "They’ve in many ways experienced potentially permanent, life-altering changes in their lives. The long-term effects remain, years and years later."
United States District Judge David R. Herndon agreed. "‘Conspiracy,’ ‘mail and wire fraud,’ and ‘interstate extortion’ hardly sound like the kinds of crimes that leave broken lives, wrecked women, fractured families, devastation, desires to die, humiliation and shame so extreme," Judge Herndon said. "But then, his charm turned to bullying, name calling, extortion, unthinkable demands and threats. Thoughts of paradise turned into thoughts of hell and, for some, thoughts of suicide." Judge Herndon called it "the most devastating crime one could ever imagine without laying hands or even eyes on another human being."
When Sunmola has completed his 27-year prison term, he will be removed to his native home of Nigeria. For that reason, no term of supervised release was ordered. Imposition of a fine was also waived, in favor of the restitution award. Over $200,000 in proceeds from the sale of Sunmola’s four properties in South Africa has already been turned over to the District Court and will be proportionally disbursed to the individual identified victims. In the meantime, Judge Herndon expressed hope that the significant prison sentence would act as a deterrent for other scam artists, particularly Sunmola’s "underlings": "When they hear of what sentence the boss received, they will hopefully be incentivized to stop their illegal activity immediately."
The case was investigated by the St. Louis Field Office of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. "Criminals who look for or who expect anonymity of the mail or the borders of a country to protect them when conducting criminal activity are placed on notice today," said Inspector in Charge E.C. Woodson, Chicago Division U.S. Postal Inspection Service. "The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, in partnering with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will go beyond borders to ensure justice is served. Nothing is as painful as a broken heart, and this defendant caused extreme hardship to many of his victims."
A number of other law enforcement agencies assisted in the investigation and prosecution of this case, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security
Investigations, the U.S. Secret Service, the London Metropolitan Police Service, and the South African Police Service, which conducted its own extensive investigation into Sunmola’s activities in South Africa and initiated the foreclosure proceedings on his properties.
The case was referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office as part of an ongoing partnership between the two offices to identify, investigate and prosecute international scammers who prey on Illinois residents. This prosecution is also part of a larger initiative with the Chicago Office of the Federal Trade Commission to target romance scammers. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Nathan D. Stump, Bruce E. Reppert, and Emily J. Wasserman.
Shiloh Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Prison for Robbing Gas Station Twice. Case Was Brought as Part of the United States Attorney's Armed Robbery InitiativeRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that Michael L. Jackson, III, 21, of Shiloh, Illinois, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois to 148 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment and $917 in restitution for charges stemming from two armed robberies which occurred at Midwest Petroleum in Shiloh in December of 2011 and March of 2014.
Evidence at trial showed that on December 21, 2011, Jackson entered Midwest Petroleum located at 1551 Hartman Lane wielding a knife and demanded money from the clerk. He was wearing a ski mask which covered his entire face, and the clerk was unable to make any kind of identification. He fled southbound on foot and discarded the clothing and ski mask he wore during the robbery in a field adjacent to Midwest Petroleum. On March 13, 2014, Jackson again entered Midwest Petroleum, brandished a firearm, and demanded money and Newport cigarettes from the clerk. He again was wearing a ski mask which covered his entire face, and the clerk was unable to make any kind of identification. He fled southbound on foot and discarded the clothing and ski mask he wore during the robbery in the same field adjacent to Midwest Petroleum. Investigators from the Shiloh Police Department found the clothing after each robbery and collected it as evidence.
In listening to the surveillance videos, Shiloh investigators believed the robber was Jackson based upon the voice. The clothes worn and discarded in the field from both robberies were submitted to the Illinois State Police Crime Laboratory for DNA testing, and Jackson’s DNA was found on all of the clothing tested.
The investigation was conducted by the Shiloh Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura V. Reppert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Emily Wasserman.
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Mexican National Sentenced to 51-Months in Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy Involving over Ten Kilograms of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that Pablo Orlando Rivera-Pachecho, a 37-year old Mexican national, was sentenced by United States Chief District Judge Michael J. Reagan to 51 months in federal prison for one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, three years of supervised release to follow the imprisonment, a $300 fine, and a $100 special assessment fee.
Facts revealed at the sentencing and plea hearings that on one occasion, Rivera served as a courier for a drug organization in Mexico. On that occasion, Rivera received over ten kilograms of methamphetamine. At sentencing, Chief Judge Reagan commented that the offense involved "lots of methamphetamine," which is "horrible" and "ruins families." In sentencing Rivera to 51- months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, a $300 fine and a $100 special assessment fee, Chief Judge Reagan indicated that this sentence punishes Rivera, reflects the seriousness of the offense, and promotes respect for the law.
Evidence in support of this prosecution was obtained in an investigation conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF initiative is designed to bring federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and resources together to identify, target and dismantle large national and international drug trafficking
organizations. Agencies participating in this case include the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, the Illinois State Police, and Fontana, California Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Monica A. Stump.
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Madison County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that Michael E. Myers, a 60-year old resident of Godfrey, Illinois, was sentenced in United States District Court to 235 months’ imprisonment for one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography. The sentences will run concurrently. Meyers was also sentenced to 5 years of supervised release to follow imprisonment and ordered to pay $2500 restitution to one of the identified victims of the child pornography images.
According to court documents, on April 14, 2016, the Madison County Sheriff’s Department received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an email account belonging to Myers was used to send and receive images of child pornography. A subsequent investigation by detectives with the Sheriff’s Department revealed that on March 24, 2016, Myers sent another individual a video via email containing child pornography. Detectives further verified that on March 29, 2016, Myers received and viewed via email a video containing child pornography.
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."
The case was investigated by the Madison County Sheriff’s Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Hoell.
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Former Belleville Resident Sentenced for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Prepubescent Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on January 27, 2017, Eric M. Swancutt, 39, formerly of Belleville, IL, was sentenced for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Prepubescent Child Pornography. Swancutt was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 97 months on each count, to run concurrently, to be followed by a 10 year term of supervised release on each count, also to run concurrently. Swancutt was also ordered to a pay a fine of $300 and a $300 special assessment. Swancutt had been in custody since his arraignment on June 24, 2016.
The charges arose when, on October 23, 2015, a Compaq Presario laptop computer was seized from the residence that Swancutt previously shared with other individuals in Belleville. A forensic review of the laptop computer revealed that it contained image and/or video files of child pornography, many of which were of prepubescent children. The forensic review also revealed that on or about July 18, and August 19, 2015, the defendant received image and/or video files of child pornography, including, but not limited to, the video files charged in the Indictment, via the Internet.
On June 21, 2016, Swancutt provided a voluntary statement in which he admitted accessing and viewing child pornography. Swancutt also admitted viewing the child pornography on the
laptop computer, and that he had downloaded the child pornography while living in the Belleville residence.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 Aresources.@
The case was investigated by the Belleville Police Department and the FBI’s Springfield Child Exploitation Task Force. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
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Belleville Man Sentenced for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Prepubescent Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on January 27, 2017, Michael H. McDaniel, 37, Belleville, IL, was sentenced for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Prepubescent Child Pornography. McDaniel was sentenced to 97 months’ imprisonment on each count, to run concurrently, to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release on each count, also to run concurrently. McDaniel was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment. In addition, McDaniel paid $1,000 in restitution to one of the victims identified in the child pornography he collected and distributed. McDaniel was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service when the hearing ended.
The charges arose when, on April 6, 2016, several electronic devices, including a Hewlett Packard computer and a Hewlett Packard laptop, were seized from the residence in which Michael H. McDaniel resided with other individuals and from McDaniel’s place of employment. On that same date, McDaniel provided a voluntary statement in which he admitted first viewing child pornography in February 2014, and claimed that he last viewed it around April 5, 2015. McDaniel also admitted downloading child pornography, but said that the other individuals who lived at the residence did not know that he did so and did not view it with him. McDaniel said that there would be child pornography on the work laptop and the desktop computer seized from his
residence.
A forensic review of both computers revealed that both contained child pornography, and that many of the images were of prepubescent children. The forensic review also revealed that, between on or about April 3 and April 6, 2015, the defendant received image and/or video files of child pornography via the Internet.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 Aresources.@
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Springfield Child Exploitation Task Force. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
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Williamson County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On January 24, 2017, and January 26, 2017, Blake R. Gordon, 35, of Marion, was sentenced to a total of 216 months’ in federal prison for methamphetamine violations, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
On January 24, 2017, Gordon, who had previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, was sentenced to 180 months’ incarceration, 10 years’ supervised release, and was fined $500.00. At sentencing, the district court found that Gordon was responsible for the distribution of approximately 170 grams of "ice." Ice is methamphetamine which has a purity level of at least 80%. The offense occurred between August 2015 and December 15, 2015, in Williamson County. Gordon was classified as a Career Offender, based on multiple prior felony drug convictions.
At the time of Gordon’s 2015 methamphetamine offense, he was on supervised release for a 2006 federal conviction for conspiracy to manufacture more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. On January 26, 2017, Gordon’s supervised release was revoked and he was sentenced to an additional 36 months’ imprisonment. The judge ordered that the 36 month sentence be served consecutive to the previously imposed 180 month term.
Co-defendant Shara L. Peyton, a/k/a "Shara Smothers," 39, of Marion, was previously sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment for her role in the methamphetamine conspiracy.
The investigation was conducted by the Southern Illinois Enforcement Group, Illinois State Police/Southern Illinois Drug Task Force, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Herrin Police Department also assisted in the investigation.
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Alton Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that James Allen Ridder, 34, of Alton, Illinois, was sentenced in federal court today to ten years’ imprisonment, ten years’ supervised release, and a $100 special assessment, following his plea of guilty to possession of child pornography – that is, still images and video images of two minors, ages 15 and 17. The minor victims were children known to Ridder.
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."
The case was investigated by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, which has a detective assigned to the Federal Bureau of Investigations Metro East Cybercrime Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ali Summers and Stephen Clark.
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Former East Carondelet Man Sentenced for Distributing, Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on January 25, 2017, Richard Lee Doerr, III, 29, formerly of East Carondelet, Illinois, was sentenced for distribution of child pornography, three counts of receipt of child pornography, and possession of prepubescent child pornography. Doerr was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 120 months on each count, to run concurrently, to be followed by a five-year term of supervised release on each count, also to run concurrently. Doerr was also ordered to pay a $500 special assessment. In addition, Doerr agreed to pay $4,500 in restitution to four of the victims identified from his collection of child pornography. Doerr had been detained since his arraignment on February 12, 2016.
On December 27, 2013, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a cyber tipline report from Tumblr that an individual had uploaded approximately 34 images that appeared to be child pornography based on the hash values of the images. The FBI tracked the IP address to Doerr.
Doerr provided a voluntary statement, in which he admitted to downloading and sharing child pornography via Tumblr accounts. A forensic review of Doerr’s cellular telephone revealed that it contained 143 image and 28 video files of child pornography while a forensic review of his
Samsung Galaxy tablet, revealed that it contained eight video files of child pornography. More than half of the images contained on Doerr’s cellular telephone were of prepubescent children. In addition, the forensic review determined that, on or about December 27, 2013, Doerr distributed image files of child pornography. Moreover, the forensic review determined that, between July 11 and September 5, 2014, Doerr received image and/or video files of child pornography on several occasions.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 Aresources.@
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Springfield Child Exploitation Task Force. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
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Former Paramedic Charged in 37-Count Indictment with Wire Fraud, Making False Statements and Identity Theft Regarding the Theft of Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced the unsealing of a 37 count indictment against Jason Laut, 39, of O’Fallon, Illinois. The indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in East St. Louis, Illinois on January 18, 2017. Laut who was arrested by the FBI, was arraigned today in East St. Louis, Illinois, on six counts of wire fraud, 29 counts of making false statements and two counts of identity theft.
The indictment returned by the grand jury alleges that Laut, who was a paramedic supervisor for MedStar Ambulance, changed, altered, and falsified documents and records, between January of 2013 and May of 2015 to conceal the theft of Fentanyl and Morphine. Both Fentanyl and Morphine are addictive Schedule II controlled pain killers. The indictment alleged that the theft of these controlled substances was from narcotic boxes that are maintained on ambulances in order to render aid to injured individuals consistent with operating procedures approved by a medical director or hospital orders.
Counts 1 through 6 of the indictment allege a wire fraud scheme claiming that Laut, using his administrator access for MedStar Ambulance, altered records stored outside of Illinois, known as patient care reports, to falsely indicate that controlled substances were given to patients when they were not. The theft of these drugs and acts to conceal the theft caused a loss to Memorial Hospital who was responsible, at their own cost, for keeping ambulance narcotic boxes filled.
Counts 7 through 35 of the indictment allege that Laut made false statements on narcotics logs submitted to Memorial Hospital. Narcotics logs are used by paramedics to record the circumstances of the administering of drugs including Fentanyl and Morphine while treating patients. The indictment alleges that Laut claimed to have given Fentanyl and Morphine to patients
that did not exist (phantom patients) or to patients that did not receive Fentanyl or Morphine.
Counts 36 and 37 allege that Laut concealed his theft of Fentanyl and Morphine by utilizing the name of a former doctor at Memorial Hospital on a narcotics log as authorization for the administering of Fentanyl and Morphine, when none was actually administered.
Wire fraud as charged in Counts 1 through 6 each carry a possible penalty of up to 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,00, followed by up to 3 years of supervised release.
False statements as alleged in Counts 7-35 each carry a possible penalty of up to 5 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,00, followed by up to 3 years of supervised release.
Aggravated identity theft as alleged in Counts 36 and 37 each carry a mandatory 2 years of imprisonment consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, followed by one year of supervised release.
Trial has been set in the United States District Court in East St. Louis on March 27, 2017.
An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sparta, Illinois Police Department and Diversion Investigators of the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian.
MedStar Ambulance of Sparta, Illinois, and Memorial Hospital participated in the investigation.
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St. Clair County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine OffensesRead the Press Release
On January 18, 2017, Ricky M. Carle, 28, of Marissa, was sentenced to federal prison for methamphetamine offenses, Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Carle, who had previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with one count of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of pseudoephedrine knowing that it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine, was sentenced to 121 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and was fined $400.00. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Carle was involved with co-defendant Mistry D. Calvert and numerous other persons in the manufacture of methamphetamine and the distribution of ice and heroin in Williamson, Franklin, and Randolph Counties. Ice is methamphetamine which has a purity level of at least 80%. At sentencing, the district court found that Carle was responsible for the possession of 175.2 grams of pseudoephedrine and the distribution of 25.5 grams of ice and 2.6 kilograms of heroin. Co-defendant Calvert has pled guilty to her role in the drug offenses and is currently being held without bond pending an April 19, 2017, sentencing hearing.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Marissa Police Department.
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