Southern District of Illinois
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Granite City Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois announced today that Antonio M. Avila, age 46, of Granite City, Illinois, was sentenced to 92 months imprisonment on September 24, 2015 for Possession With Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Avila had earlier pled guilty to the federal charge on May 14, 2015 in United States District Court in East St. Louis, Illinois.
At his change of plea hearing in May, the Government presented evidence that Avila was arrested in Madison, Illinois on June 1, 2013 in possession of 17 grams of methamphetamine and a digital scale. Avila admitted to arresting officers that he had been dealing ounce quantities of methamphetamine in and around Granite City for several weeks.
Avila has been continuously confined in federal custody since December 2014. Upon release from prison, Avila will be placed on supervised release for a term of 3 years.
The investigation which resulted in Avila’s arrest and conviction was conducted by the Madison, Illinois Police Department and by the Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI).
The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
DEA to Hold 10th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day This SaturdayRead the Press Release
September 22 - (Washington, D.C.) – This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time, come to one of the almost 5,000 collection sites around the nation to return all unwanted, unneeded, or expired prescription drugs for safe and anonymous disposal. This is the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) 10th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day in the past five years. Collection sites in every local community, manned by DEA and its local law enforcement and community partners, can be found by going to www.dea.gov or calling 800-882-9539. All states and some territories will be participating Saturday (with the exception of Pennsylvania and Delaware, which held their events earlier in the month).
The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day addresses vital public safety and health issues. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medications, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – posing safety and environmental hazards.
“Our goal is to reduce the risk of addiction and the 46,000 overdose deaths a year that come with prescription drug abuse. Take Back Day is a great opportunity for folks to help reduce the threat,” Rosenberg said. "Please clean out your medicine cabinet and make your home safe from drug theft and abuse.”
DEA’s previous nine nationwide Take-Back events collected 4,823,251 pounds—more than 2,411 tons—of drugs.
East St. Louis Tax Preparer Indicted for Preparation of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Evelyn Johnson, d/b/a E.J. Johnson Tax Service, 53, from East St. Louis, Illinois, was charged by Indictment with twenty-nine counts of Aiding and Assisting in the Preparation of False Federal Tax Returns, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Johnson faces a total maximum sentence of eighty-seven years in prison, a $250,000 fine and up to one year supervised release, plus mandatory restitution. The indictment alleges that Johnson operates the E.J. Johnson Tax Service in East St. Louis. The indictment further alleges that the I.R.S. sent in an undercover agent to have her taxes prepared after the I.R.S. Scheme Development Center detected a potential pattern of fraudulent returns. The indictment alleges that Johnson prepared a false return for the undercover agent that falsified itemized deductions. The indictment also charges Johnson with preparing twenty-eight other false federal tax returns.
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 indictment is the result of an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Two St. Louis Area Men Sentenced for Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 18, 2015, Steven Syms, 41, of St. Louis, Missouri, and Antoine Jenkins, 27, of Cahokia, Illinois, were sentenced for their involvement in a drug distribution organization that funneled cocaine from Houston, Texas, to the St. Louis metro area between April 2011 and February 2013. Syms, a leading co-conspirator, was sentenced to 151 months in prison, 5 years’ supervised release, and ordered to pay a $500 fine and a $100 special assessment. Jenkins was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 3 years’ supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 fine and a $100 special assessment. Jenkins’ 27 month sentence was ordered to run consecutive (in addition) to a previously imposed sentence of 308 months for kidnapping and using or carrying a firearm during or in relation to kidnapping. To date, ten other members of the drug trafficking organization have been convicted and sentenced.
Evidence in support of the sentencing was obtained in an investigation which was 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. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura V. Reppert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Drucker.
Centralia Woman Pleads Guilty to Meth ChargesRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that RACHEL L. REEVE, 24, of Centralia, Illinois, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Methamphetamine, and Possession of Pseudoephedrine with the Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine, charges returned against her by a federal grand jury sitting in East St. Louis, Illinois, in November 2014. The offenses are in violation of the federal Controlled Substances Act. The conspiracy charge carries a statutory penalty of not less than 5 years’ imprisonment up to 40 years’ imprisonment, not less than 4 years’ supervised release to follow imprisonment, and up to a $4 million fine. The possession charge carries a statutory sentence of not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, up to 3 years’ supervised release to follow imprisonment, and up to a $250,000 fine. A $100 assessment for each count is mandatory.
According to court documents, the conspiracy operated from approximately December 2012, to February 21, 2014, in Marion, Clinton and Jefferson Counties. During this time, Reeve obtained and provided pills containing pseudoephedrine to others in the conspiracy who manufactured methamphetamine, and she knew the pills would be used for that purpose. She generally obtained cash in exchange for the pills which she used to support her own drug habit.
Information leading to the charges against Reeve was obtained in an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, assisted by the Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team, and the Centralia Police Department. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Centralia Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Conspiracy to Manufacture MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that BRIAN LEE FEAR, 40, of Centralia, Illinois, was sentenced on September 18, 2015, to 84 months’ imprisonment, 4 years’ supervised release, a $500 fine and a $300 special assessment. There is no parole in the federal system. Sentencing followed Fear’s May 27, 2015, guilty plea to Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession of Equipment, Chemicals, Products and Materials with Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine, and Possession of Pseudoephedrine with the Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine. The offenses are in violation of the federal Controlled Substances Act.
According to court documents, from approximately December 2012, to February 21, 2014, in Marion, Clinton and Jefferson Counties, Fear and others worked together to manufacture methamphetamine to support their drug habits and to make extra cash. Fear produced methamphetamine using the "one-pot" or "shake and bake" method, and used as many as 30 people to obtain pills containing pseudoephedrine for use in the production process.
Information leading to the conviction of Brian Fear was obtained in an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, assisted by the Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team, and the Centralia Police Department. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Five Southern Illinois Residents Charged with Crack Cocaine OffenseRead the Press Release
Five southern Illinois residents were indicted on September 8, 2015, in a one-count superseding indictment, charging conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Keenon J. Farr, a/k/a "Keeno," 32, Roderick L. McClain, a/k/a "Big Bama," 30, and Jeffery L. Cain, a/k/a "Fatz," 35, all of Carbondale, Tommy T. Langston, a/k/a "G," 35, of Herrin, and Tammy R. Whitton, 45, of Mt. Vernon, are charged with conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. The indictment alleges that the offense occurred between October 2014 and July 2015, in Williamson and Jackson Counties. Farr and McClain made their initial appearances in federal court in Benton on September 17, 2015. They are currently being held without bond pending a September 22, 2015, detention hearing. Cain, Langston, and Whitton have previously made court appearances and are being held without bond pending a November 14, 2015, jury trial.
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.
If convicted, the crack cocaine offense carries a penalty of a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of 40 years in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release, and a $5,000,000 fine.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Southern Illinois Enforcement Group, Drug Enforcement Administration, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Carbondale Police Department. The Williamson and Jackson County State’s Attorney’s Offices also assisted in the investigation.
The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
FCI-Greenville Inmate Sentenced for Possession of Contraband by A Federal InmateRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 18, 2015, Anthony Johnson, 25, was sentenced on a one- count indictment charging him with Possession of Contraband by a Federal Inmate. Johnson was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution located in Greenville, Illinois, commonly known as FCI-Greenville, at the time the offense was committed. Johnson was sentenced to a term of 28 months’ imprisonment, which must be served consecutively to his current sentence, 3 years’ supervised release, fined $100, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment. Johnson has been held without bond since his arraignment on May 12, 2015.
The charge arose when, on September 28, 2014, an officer monitoring the visiting room at FCI-Greenville observed the defendant swallow an unknown object. Based on this behavior, the defendant was immediately placed in a dry cell after his visit ended so that his bowel movements could be monitored. On October 1, 2014, the defendant defecated out one (1) balloon which contained a white powdery substance, later determined to be heroin. Federal inmates are prohibited from possessing heroin.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Prisons’ Special Investigation Section. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Altamont Man Sentenced for Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today that Ricky T. Garner, 47, of Altamont, Illinois, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison on Wednesday, September 16, 2015, for Possession With Intent to Distribute Alpha-PVP.
"Alpha-PVP" is a prohibited controlled substance very similar to methamphetamine. It is chemically similar to methamphetamine and produces similar effects when ingested.
Garner pled guilty to the federal charge on June 2, 2015. At his change of plea hearing, the Government presented evidence that Garner was arrested near Beecher City, IL, on October 1, 2014. At the time of his arrest, Illinois State Police troopers found 70 grams (2 ½ ounces) of Alpha-PVP next to Garner in the truck which he was driving.
Garner has been continuously confined since his arrest last October.
Upon release from prison, Garner will also have to serve a term of 3 years on supervised release.
The investigation which resulted in Garner’s arrest and conviction was conducted by an Illinois State Police Swat Team based in Effingham, IL.
Garner’s case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
O'Fallon Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Being a Convicted Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Kevin Lamar Smith, 28, of O’Fallon, Illinois, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Previously Convicted Felon, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Following his prison sentence, Smith will be on federal supervised release for 5 years. Smith was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment and a $150 fine. Smith has been in custody since his arrest on November 17, 2013.
"As I have demonstrated, prosecution of gun crimes is a priority of mine. Guns in the hands of convicted felons will only lead to an increase in the violence which plagues the citizens of Southern Illinois. I hope that this very long and well-deserved sentence will help send the message persons who defy the law by illegally possessing firearms – you will be caught and you will be sent to federal prison for a very, very long time." said United States Attorney Wigginton.
Court documents establish that on November 17, 2013, O’Fallon officers received a complaint that Smith was in possession of a firearm. Later that same day, O’Fallon officers located the vehicle being driven by Smith and attempted a traffic stop. While the officers were following Smith, who was traveling at a high rate of speed through a residential area, Smith told his passenger to throw the gun out of the vehicle. The firearm was recovered from the front yard of a homeowner and determined to be a fully loaded .45 caliber Hi-Point semiautomatic pistol. Smith and his passenger were arrested. The passenger of the vehicle was interviewed and stated that Smith had the Hi-Point semiautomatic firearm when he got into car and that he had seen Smith with the firearm on two other occasions. He also stated that Smith told him to throw the gun out of the vehicle while the police were following them.
Court documents further establish that Smith was a previously convicted felon, having been convicted in 2009 of residential burglary in the Circuit Court of St. Clair County, Illinois. That conviction, as well as other findings made by the Court mandated the 15 year sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the O’Fallon Police Department and successfully prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.
Godfrey Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Adam B. Hill, 35, of Godfrey, Illinois, was sentenced Tuesday, September 15, 2015, in federal court to 10 years in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois announced today. Following his prison sentence, Hill will be on federal supervised release for 5 years and will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. Hill was also ordered to pay $24,000 in restitution to the victims, a $200 fine, and a special assessment of $100.
Court documents establish that on June 30, 2015, the Madison County Sheriff’s Department responded to a complaint of a suspicious man who appeared to be photographing young children while sitting in his vehicle outside a local swimming pool in Godfrey, Illinois. Based upon a description of the vehicle, including the license plate number, a Madison County Sheriff’s deputy identified the suspect as Adam B. Hill. The deputy made contact with Hill later that same day and confronted him about his activities at the swimming pool. During that conversation, Hill gave the officer consent to search his vehicle, during which the deputy recovered a Kodak digital camera and a metal pipe used for smoking cannabis. Hill was arrested and subsequently interviewed further regarding his activities at the swimming pool and his involvement in viewing and downloading of child pornography. Hill admitted that he had used file sharing programs to download child pornography on the internet for several years and that he had a large collection of images and videos on his computer. During a forensic examination of Hill’s iMac computer, law enforcement agents recovered over 3,500 image files and 185 video files which contained child pornography.
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."
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Cyber Crimes Task Force and the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.
Godfrey Man Sentenced for Three Robberies in Eight DaysRead the Press Release
Joseph E. Schwank, 24, of Godfrey, Illinois, was sentenced in federal district court, in East St. Louis today, for his recent conviction on one count of Bank Robbery and two counts of Interference with Commerce by Robbery, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced. Schwank was sentenced to 92 months in prison; three years supervised release; a $300 fine; and ordered to pay a total of $300 in special assessments.
Schwank pled guilty on May 22, 2015, to charges stemming from a February, 23, 2015, robbery of a Pizza Hut restaurant in Alton, Illinois, during which Schwank demanded money from an employee in a threatening tone, displayed an airsoft gun, and was handed approximately $475 by the employee before fleeing; a March 2, 2015, bank robbery at a US Bank branch in Alton, Illinois, during which Schwank entered the bank wearing a hunter’s hat and large white sunglasses, handed a teller a note which read, "DON’T BE A HERO PUT ALL OF THE MONEY IN YOUR CASH REGISTER ON THE COUNTER FOR ME. ROBBERY," and was handed $1,613 before fleeing; and a March 3, 2015, robbery of a Domino’s Pizza in Bethalto, Illinois, during which Schwank disguised his face, demanded money from an employee, and was provided approximately $53 before fleeing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as the Alton, Illinois, Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak.
Williamson County Woman Pleads Guilty to Escape OffenseRead the Press Release
On September 11, 2015, Latoya M. McDaniel, 29, of Marion, pled guilty to a one-count indictment charging Escape from Federal Custody, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Evidence at the plea hearing established that McDaniel was serving a 78 month federal sentence for Conspiracy to Distribute Crack Cocaine. McDaniel was being housed through the Centerstone facility in Marion, Illinois. On April 6, 2015, McDaniel failed to return to Centerstone as required. McDaniel fled the area and was located and arrested by the United States Marshals Service in Missouri on June 23, 2015.
The escape offense carries a penalty of up to 5 years of federal prison, in addition to the sentence already being served, to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release, and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Marshals Service. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Jackson County Resident Sentenced on Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On September 11, 2015, Amye L. Sandidge, 29, of Murphysboro, IL, was sentenced for her involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Sandidge, who had previously pled guilty to the one-count indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, 3 years’ supervised release and fined $200. The offense occurred between 2010 and May 2014, in Jackson, Williamson, Union, and Franklin Counties. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Sandidge was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Sandidge purchased pseudoephedrine for her use in the manufacture of methamphetamine and also obtained pseudoephedrine from others. During the execution of a June 6, 2014, search warrant at Sandidge’s Murphysboro residence, agents located a methamphetamine lab. Sandidge was present at the residence along with a 17 year-old juvenile. In addition to the 17 year-old, evidence also established that a 15 year-old juvenile was involved with Sandidge in the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine. At the sentencing hearing, the district court found that Sandidge was responsible for the illegal possession of 211 grams of pseudoephedrine. Sandidge also received a sentencing enhancement based on her use of juveniles in the offense. Eleven co-defendants have previously been sentenced for their involvement in the methamphetamine conspiracy. Two co-defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, Carbondale Police Department, Illinois State Police/Southern Illinois Drug Task Force, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Franklin County Resident Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On September 11, 2015, Russell A. Stokes, 24, of Benton, pled guilty to one-count of conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Evidence at the plea hearing established that between 2013 and January 2015, Stokes was involved with co-defendants Michael Boyt, Jr., Jonathan Haslett, and others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Stokes provided pseudoephedrine to multiple other persons to use to manufacture methamphetamine. The offense occurred in Perry, Randolph, Williamson, Jackson, and Franklin Counties. Stokes is currently being held without bond pending a December 29, 2015, sentencing hearing. The methamphetamine offense carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years’ imprisonment, to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Steeleville Police Department, Coulterville Police Department, Sparta Police Department, Perry County Drug Task Force, and Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team. The Randolph County State’s Attorney’s Office also assisted in the investigation.
The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Chicago Resident Sentenced Forwilliamson County Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
On September 11, 2015, Antuan D. Perkins, a/k/a "Little Man," was sentenced for a federal drug violation, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Perkins, who had previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and heroin, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years supervised release, and fined $200.00. The district court awarded Perkins 3 months credit for time previously served on a related state case. The offense occurred between 2012 and May 2014, in Williamson County. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings, established that defendant was involved with co-defendant Ahamad Atkins, a/k/a "Omar," "O," and others in the distribution of crack cocaine and heroin in Colp, Illinois. On multiple occasions, defendant and Atkins sold crack cocaine and heroin to confidential sources working for law enforcement. At sentencing, the district court found that Perkins was responsible for the distribution of at least 127 grams of heroin and 45 grams of crack cocaine. Perkins received a sentencing enhancement because he possessed firearms during his drug dealing. Co-defendant Atkins was previously sentenced to 216 months in prison for his role in the crack cocaine and heroin offense.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Southern Illinois Enforcement and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Williamson County State’s Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation.
The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Centralia Woman Sentenced on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Jayme Lee Barnes, 36, of Centralia, Illinois, was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $200 fine and a $200 special assessment. There is no parole in the federal system.
Court records showed that on June 9, 2015, Barnes entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging her and others with Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Methamphetamine, and Possession of a Listed Chemical (Pseudoephedrine) Knowing It Would Be Used to Manufacture a Controlled Substance. The conspiracy is alleged to have existed from February 28 through October 1, 2014, in Marion and Clinton Counties.
Information leading to the conviction of Barnes was obtained in an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, assisted by the Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team, and the Centralia Police Department. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Altamont Man Pleads Guilty to Identity Theft, Extortion, and Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
On September 14, 2015, Stephen B. Mislich, 24, of Bowling Green, Ohio, formerly of Altamont, Illinois, pled guilty to identity theft, extortion, and child pornography offenses, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Evidence at the plea hearing established that Mislich stole the online identity of a victim from Effingham County, Illinois, and then used that identity to extort and attempt to extort nude images and videos form several other victims in the area. One of the victims was 16 years old at the time of the offense and the images Mislich forced her to produce constituted child pornography under federal law.
The offenses carry a maximum penalty of 63 years in federal prison, $2,000,000 in fines, and a lifetime of supervised release. Sentencing is currently scheduled to occur on December 29, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. Mislich continues to be held without bond pending sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Effingham Police Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Thomas E. Leggans.
Centralia Man Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Federal Prison for Burglarizing Gun DealerRead the Press Release
Dakota R. Moss, 20, of Centralia, Illinois, was sentenced to 248 months in federal prison on September 11, 2015, for burglarizing the Buchheit of Centralia farm and home supply store and stealing thirty nine (39) guns, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Moss was also ordered to pay $29,712.75 in restitution, to pay a $400 special assessment, and to serve five years of supervised release after he is released from prison.
Moss was arrested days after the burglary and was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 16, 2014. Moss’ accomplice was not identified because that person is a juvenile. Moss pleaded guilty on April 29, 2015, in US District Court.
On November 29, 2014, the Buchheit of Centralia farm and home supply store was burglarized and thirty nine (39) firearms were stolen, along with at least one thousand rounds of ammunition. The burglary was accomplished using a full size pickup truck, which was stolen from the Centralia, Illinois High School. The suspects used the stolen truck to ram the locked security gate to make entry onto Buchheit’s parking lot, where the suspects then broke out store windows to make entry into the store. The surveillance video established that the initial burglary occurred at approximately 2:40 am. However, the video evidence revealed that the two suspects left the scene and returned to steal additional firearms and ammunition on two occasions - thereby making a total of three separate entries into the FFL between 2:40 am and 4:00 am.
Evidence established that Moss and his juvenile accomplice were armed while inside of Buchheit’s and intended to shoot anyone who interrupted the burglary – including police. Moss and his accomplice stole the firearms in order to sell the guns for profit. It was established during sentencing that Moss and his accomplice discussed selling the firearms while also participating in the ongoing rioting and looting of businesses in the Ferguson, Missouri area in the summer of 2014.
Centralia Police and agents from the ATF identified the suspects soon after the burglary and have recovered 37 of the 39 stolen guns as of this date. Anyone with knowledge of the remaining stolen firearms or the ammunition is encouraged to call law enforcement.
US Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton credited the law enforcement response when he stated, "The ATF, the Centralia police department and Clinton County State’s Attorney John Hudspeth all deserve credit for the cooperation and outstanding investigation that made this sentence possible." US Attorney Wigginton said, "I hope this sentence serve as a warning to others who would consider stealing and trafficking in firearms. We will find you, and you will go to prison. Moss is now scheduled to serve more time in prison than he has been on this earth."
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 State’s Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
Indictment Filed in Husband and Wife Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Marcus Dewayne Thompson, 28, and his wife, Robin Thompson, 24, from Park Hills, Missouri, were indicted today by a federal Grand Jury in Benton, Illinois, for one count of sex trafficking of a minor by force, fraud, or coercion, and one count of conspiracy to do the same, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced.
An Indictment is a formal, legally required method of bringing charges against a defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Division, and members of the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, Fairview Heights. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
East St. Louis Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking, Firearms Offenses, and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
On September 8, 2015, Ayiko L. Paulette, 40, of East St. Louis, Illinois, pled guilty to a superseding indictment charging him with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises, being a Felon in Possession of Firearms, Distribution of Cocaine, Interstate Travel In Support of Racketeering, and Conspiracy to Obstruct Justice, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Sentencing in the matter is set for January 13, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. before United States District Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel. At sentencing, Paulette faces a minimum of 20 years in federal prison, to a maximum of Life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least 10 years’ supervised release, and a $100 special assessment per count.
Evidence in support of this prosecution was obtained in an investigation which was 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Illinois State Police, and the East St. Louis Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald S. Boyce.
Centralia Man Sentenced on Gun, Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Craig Allen Heitkamp, 51, Centralia, Illinois, was sentenced on Friday, September 4, 2015, on Possession of Pseudoephedrine with the Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine and Unlawful User of a Controlled Substance in Possession of Firearms charges to 87 months in federal prison, to be followed by 12 months of supervised release, a $500 fine and a $200 special assessment. Heitkamp was also ordered to forfeit certain firearms.
Court documents establish that from approximately May 2010, through and including June 4, 2014, Heitkamp manufactured methamphetamine in Centralia, Illinois, using pseudoephedrine pills he obtained from various people or merchants. In exchange for the pseudoephedrine pills others obtained for him, Heitkamp traded cash or methamphetamine he manufactured. Heitkamp was a methamphetamine user who also possessed handguns in violation of federal law.
Information leading to the charges against Heitkamp was obtained in an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, assisted by the Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team, the Centralia Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department and the Mt. Vernon Police Department. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Two Plead Guilty to Heroin Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Dwayne K. Thompson, 38, of Chicago, IL, and Fetara D. McCarter, 31, of Belleville, IL, entered pleas of guilty this week to charges of Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Attempted Distribution of Heroin. McCarter pled guilty in the United States District Court in East St. Louis, IL on September 3, 2015, and Thompson on September 4, 2015.
At their change of plea hearings, Thompson and McCarter both admitted that they had cooperated to sell heroin in the metro east area during the first half of 2014. A third co-defendant, Ronald G. Murphy, pled guilty on February 3, 2015, to participating in the same heroin distribution scheme.
McCarter’s sentence hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2016 in United States District Court in East St. Louis. Thompson’s sentence hearing is scheduled for January 14, 2016, also in East St. Louis. Both face a possible maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, a term of supervised release of not less than 3 years, and a $100 special assessment.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison.
St. Louis Woman Pleads Guilty to Passing Counterfeit CurrencyRead the Press Release
Stephen R, Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 3, 2015, Shawnta L. Thomas, 37, of St. Louis, Missouri, pled guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Possess and pass Counterfeit United States Currency. Thomas faces up to 5 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and up to 3 years of supervised release to follow any period of incarceration, when she is sentenced on December 10, 2015.
At her plea, Thomas admitted that between May 16, 2013, and May 19, 2013, she, along with two other individuals traveled into Southern Illinois to pass counterfeit currency at various businesses. Prior to being caught by law enforcement, Thomas and the other members of the conspiracy passed counterfeit United States Federal Reserve notes in Madison and St. Clair Counties. When arrested, Thomas was found to be in possession of an additional $380.00 in counterfeit currency that had not yet been passed.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service, Bethalto Police Department, and Pontoon Beach Police Department, and the case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian.
Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Christopher Jenkins, 42, of East St. Louis, Illinois, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge David R. Herndon to 108 months in federal prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute at least 15 kilograms of cocaine and using or carrying firearms in furtherance of the drug conspiracy.
According to court documents, in July 2013, Jenkins agreed with two men to rob a drug stash house containing cocaine. Jenkins and another codefendant brought two loaded firearms with them to assist in the robbery. ATF agents, who had been investigating Jenkins and his codefendants’ plans to commit the robbery, arrested the three men in St. Louis. Jenkins was charged in federal court in East St. Louis, Illinois and pled guilty.
There is no parole in the federal prison system. In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Herndon also sentenced Jenkins to serve a total of five years of supervised release and to pay $200 in court fees.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case and Assistant United States Attorney Monica A. Stump prosecuted the case.
Controlled Substance User Sentenced to Prison for FirearmRead the Press Release
Kareem Pollard, 28, of Granite City, Illinois, was sentenced today in the United States District Court to 3 years in prison for two counts of Unlawful User of a Controlled Substance in Possession of a Firearm, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, has announced. Pollard will also be on federal supervised release for 2 years following his term of imprisonment. Pollard has been in custody since his arrest on March 26, 2015.
Court documents establish that on May 13, 2014, Pollard was seen walking into a convenience store in Madison, Illinois with a gun in the pocket of his sweatshirt. Law enforcement officers stopped him while he was walking away from the store and located a Rohm .22 caliber revolver in his pocket. When Pollard was interviewed by Madison officers, he admitted to being in possession of the firearm and admitted that he has been addicted to heroin for approximately four years. Then, between December 2, 2014 and January 2, 2015, the Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI) caught Pollard selling small amounts of heroin on four separate occasions. During a subsequent search of his residence, a Taurus Judge Revolver was found in Pollard’s bedroom.
The investigation was conducted by the Madison Police Department and the Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers and Special Assistant United States Attorney Vanessa Lu.
Metro-East Man Charged with Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 2, 2015, Anthony M. Williams, 33, East St. Louis, IL, was arraigned on an Indictment charging him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Previously Convicted Felon. Williams’ trial is scheduled for October 26, 2015. Williams was ordered held without bond pending trial.
The indictment alleges that, on April 10, 2015, Williams unlawfully possessed an FEG, .9mm pistol, after having been previously convicted of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon in St. Clair County, Illinois.
The penalty for the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Previously Convicted Felon is a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a fine up to $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years.
An indictment is merely the method by which federal charges are lodged. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Illinois State Police’s Metro-East Police Assistance Team. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Cahokia Man Charged with Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 2, 2015, Anthony D. Bradley, 26, Cahokia, IL, was arraigned on an Indictment charging him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Previously Convicted Felon. Bradley’s trial is scheduled for November 2, 2014, and he was ordered held without bond until that time.
The indictment alleges that, on July 18, 2015, Bradley unlawfully possessed a Ruger, .9mm pistol, after having been previously convicted of Second Degree Murder in St. Clair County, Illinois.
The penalty for the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Previously Convicted Felon is a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a fine up to $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years following incarceration.
An indictment is merely the method by which federal charges are lodged. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Fairview Heights Police Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Two Perry County Men Indicted by Feds on Explosives and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
Freedom C. Davis, 19, of Tamaroa, IL, and Samuel L. Dunson, 19, of DuQuoin, IL, were indicted on August 21, 2015, on explosives and firearm charges in a three count Indictment returned by a Federal Grand Jury, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Count 1 charges that on August 5, 2015, around 5:00 a.m., in Perry County, Illinois, Davis and Dunson did knowingly possess a destructive device, further described as an Improvised Explosive Incendiary Device, which had not been registered to either of them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record in violation of federal law.
Count 2 charges that on August 5, 2015, around 5:30 a.m., in Perry County, Illinois, Davis and Dunson did knowingly possess a destructive device, further described as an Improvised Explosive Incendiary Device, which had not been registered to either of them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record in violation of federal law.
Count 3 charges that on August 5, 2015, in Perry County, Illinois, Dunson did knowingly possess a firearm, that is, a weapon made from a Revelation model 350M shotgun, with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, and commonly referred to as a sawed-off shotgun, which had not been registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record in violation of federal law.
Each Count carries a possible penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and no more than 3 years’ supervised release.
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 in this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the DuQuoin, IL Police Department, and the Illinois State Police Department.
The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.
Centralia Woman Sentenced on Drug CaseRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Jennifer Ann Keller, 34, of Centralia, Illinois, was sentenced on September 1, 2015, to 70 months in federal prison, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $300 fine and a $300 special assessment. Sentencing followed a guilty plea in May 2014 to charges relating to the production and distribution of methamphetamine. Specifically, Keller was sentenced for Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Methamphetamine from October 2013 through May 2014 in St. Clair, Clinton, and Marion Counties (Count 1); Manufacture of Methamphetamine from February 21, 2014, through February 26, 2014, in St. Clair County (Count 2); and Possession of a Listed Chemical (Pseudoephedrine) Knowing It Would Be Used to Manufacture Methamphetamine on March 6, 2014, in Clinton County (Count 5). Four co-defendants have pleaded guilty to charges arising out of the same indictment. Two have previously been sentenced and two are awaiting sentencing.
Information leading to the charges against Keller was obtained in an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, assisted by the Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Cahokia Man Sentenced to Prison for Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
A Cahokia man, Jeremy L. Harris, 25, of Cahokia, Illinois, convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of federal law, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Harris was also sentenced to 3 years supervised release to follow imprisonment, a $300 fine and a $100 special assessment. Harris pleaded guilty to the charge on May 15, 2015. Harris has been in custody since his arrest on December 24, 2014. According to court documents, a federal search warrant was obtained for Harris’s cellular telephone. The search revealed an image of Harris holding a rifle while carrying two pistols in his waistband. The image was taken in an East St. Louis residence between April 2014 and June 9, 2014. On June 9, 2014, the rifle was seized by law enforcement during the execution of a federal search warrant at the East St. Louis residence.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Belleville Resident Guilty of Unlawful Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 2, 2015, Jared L. Seats, 25, Belleville, IL, pled guilty to an Indictment charging him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Previously Convicted Felon. Seats faces a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a fine up to $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years. Seats also agreed to the forfeiture of the firearm he illegally possessed. Seats’ sentencing is scheduled for November 13, 2015, in East St. Louis, Illinois. Seats has been detained since his bond was revoked on August 24, 2015.
The charge arose when two individuals saw Seats with a firearm at his residence on January 31, 2015, and contacted the Belleville Police Department. During a search of the Seats’ residence that same day, officers recovered a Ruger, 22 caliber rifle from the residence, which Seats admitted that he possessed. Seats has a 2011 conviction for Unlawful Possession with Intent to Deliver Cannabis in St. Clair County, Illinois, and is thus prohibited from possessing a firearm by federal law.
The case was investigated by the Belleville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Chicago Man Admits Heroin Distributions in Marion CountyRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Marquise E. Ross, 24, of Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty today to charges returned against him in an indictment by a Federal Grand Jury in November 2014. Specifically, Ross pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin in Marion County (Count 1); and Distribution of Heroin on two occasions in July, 2014, in Marion County (Counts 5 and 7).
Each count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison, a $1 million fine, and not less than 3 years of supervised release after leaving prison. Both counts require an assessment of $100.
According to court documents, Ross agreed with his co-defendants to distribute heroin for profit in Centralia, Marion County, Illinois. Ross and the others shared a cell phone which customers would contact to order heroin. While a co-defendant often answered the shared cell phone and took the order, Ross or another would be sent to complete the transaction with the customer at whatever location was agreed upon.
Information leading to the charges against Ross was obtained in an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kit Morrissey.
Belleville Woman Sentenced to Prison for Scheme to Defraud Survivors Benefit Fund and Backstoppers, Inc.Read the Press Release
Pamela Denise Robtoy, 55, from Belleville, Illinois, was sentenced to a year and a day in federal prison as a result of her convictions for Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud in a Scheme to Defraud and Embezzle from the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and The BackStoppers, Inc. the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Following her release from prison, Robtoy was ordered to serve three years supervised release and pay restitution in the amount of $18,293.83.
Evidence revealed in Court showed that Robtoy embezzled funds from the 3rd Annual John Perry Golf Benefit held in October of 2013. The proceeds from the charitable event were to benefit the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and The BackStoppers, Inc. The Annual John Perry Golf Benefit Tournament was a charitable benefit held annually to remember Deputy U.S. Marshal John Brookman Perry, who was killed in the line of duty on Tuesday, March 8, 2011. The wire fraud count charged that Pamela Denise Robtoy sent an email to a Deputy United States Marshal falsely indicating that the checks to the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and The BackStoppers, Inc. had been reissued in an effort to avoid detection of her scheme.
The investigation was conducted by the Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Marshal's Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Belleville Woman Sentenced for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today that Roshanda J. Story a/k/a Roshanda J. Guyton, 34, of Belleville, Illinois, was sentenced on the charge of Theft of Government Funds to a total of eight months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. The court also ordered her to pay restitution of $2,379.25 to the Illinois Department of Human Services - Bureau of Child Care and Development, and a special assessment of $100.
Story admitted that from 2012 through May of 2013, she falsified documents in order to receive child care benefits from the Illinois Department of Human Services, which receives funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In those documents Story fraudulently claimed that she was a single parent caring for a child and was in need of federally funded resources, when in fact she was at the time living with, and receiving assistance from, the father of the child.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office for the Southern District of Illinois with the assistance of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, Office of Inspector General, Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William E. Coonan.
Two Perry County Residents Sentenced for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On August 27, 2015, and August 31, 2015, Joseph E. Soldan, Sr., 45, of Tamaroa, and Donald K. Brown, Jr., 32, of DuQuoin, were sentenced for their involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Both Soldan and Brown had previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment charging them and four others with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Soldan was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release, and fined $850.00. Soldan was given 17 months’ credit for time served on related state case for a total prison sentence of 134 months. Brown was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release, and fined $725.00. The offense occurred between 2012 and September 2014, in Perry, Jackson, Randolph, Williamson, and Franklin Counties. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Soldan and Brown were involved with each other and with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. At sentencing, the district court found Soldan responsible for 55.2 grams of pseudoephedrine, which was possessed for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine. Brown was found responsible for 165.36 grams of pseudoephedrine. Three co-defendants have previously been sentenced for their roles in the methamphetamine conspiracy. One co-defendant has pled guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Drug Task Force, Murphysboro Police Department, and DuQuoin Police Department. The Pinckneyville Police Department and Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team assisted in the investigation.
The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Justice Department Settles Housing Discrimination Lawsuit Against Owners of Marion, Illinois, Mobile Home ParkRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that the owners and operators of the Williams Trailer Court mobile home park in Marion, Illinois, had agreed to pay $75,000 to settle allegations that they discriminated against African Americans and families with children, in violation of the federal Fair Housing Act. The settlement was approved today by the U. S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois.
The settlement agreement resolves a lawsuit alleging that the owners and operators of the park, located at 200 East Patrick Street in Marion, Illinois, violated the Fair Housing Act by refusing to rent mobile homes to African Americans and families with children. The lawsuit is based on the results of testing conducted by the department’s fair housing testing program. Testing is a simulation of a housing transaction that compares responses given by housing providers to different types of home-seekers to determine whether illegal discrimination is occurring. The testing conducted by the department revealed that the manager and part owner of the park, Lyle Williams, falsely told African Americans inquiring about renting mobile homes that no homes were available, while telling white home-seekers that such mobile homes were available. The testing also revealed that Williams unlawfully discouraged families with children from living there. In addition to Lyle Williams, the lawsuit also names as defendants the park’s other two owners, Kyle Williams and David Williams.
“The right of people to live in the housing of their choice regardless of their race or whether they have children is fundamental,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will continue its vigorous enforcement of the Fair Housing Act, which seeks to protect that right.”
“It is both shocking and sad that in this day and age any person would try to discriminate against a fellow citizen on the basis of race,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton of the Southern District of Illinois. “Neither the Department of Justice nor my office will tolerate such behavior. Opportunity and justice must remain equal for all.”
Under the terms of the settlement, defendants will establish a settlement fund in the amount of $45,000 to compensate victims of the discriminatory practices. Defendants also will pay $30,000 in civil penalties to the United States. In addition, the agreement requires defendants to implement a nondiscrimination policy, establish new nondiscriminatory application and rental procedures, and undergo training on the Fair Housing Act. Persons who believe they may have been discriminated against at Williams Trailer Court should contact the department at 1-800-896-7743, extension 3, or by email at [email protected].
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.usdoj.gov/crt. Individuals who believe that they have been victims of housing discrimination can call the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743, e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected] or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777.
Marion Prison Inmate Sentenced to an Additional 2 Years for Possessing WeaponsRead the Press Release
Juan Luevanos-Montiel, 33, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois, was sentenced on August 26, 2015, in United States District Court in Benton to a term of imprisonment of 24 months for possessing two weapons within that facility, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Luevanos-Montiel previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with two counts of possessing a weapon. The offenses were committed at USP-Marion on September 11, 2014.
At the time he possessed the weapons, Luevanos-Montiel, who is an illegal alien from Mexico, was serving a 46 month sentence for reentering the United States after having been deported or removed. The 24 month sentence was imposed consecutively to that sentence.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Luevanos-Montiel was ordered to pay the United States fines and special assessments totaling $300 and was placed on a three year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration.
Luevanos-Montiel 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.
Husband and Wife Charged with Sex Trafficking of MinorRead the Press Release
Marcus Dewayne Thompson, 28, and his wife Robin Thompson, 24, from Park Hills, Missouri, were charged by a criminal complaint, unsealed on August 24, 2015, in federal court in East St. Louis, Illinois, for one count of sex trafficking of a minor by force, fraud, or coercion, and one count of conspiracy to do the same, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Division, and members of the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, Fairview Heights. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit
www.projectsafechildhood.gov
A Criminal Complaint is merely a procedural method of bringing charges against a defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of those charges unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Former Financial Manager of Wayne-White Counties Electric Cooperative and Church Treasurer Receives 18 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
Bruce L. Johnson, 50, of Wayne City, Illinois, the former Manager of Finance and Office Services for Wayne-White Counties Electric Cooperative and Treasurer of the Wayne City First Christian Church, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Benton to 18 months in prison for defrauding both organizations, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Johnson pled guilty in April to charges that between 2007 and 2013 he used his trusted positions with both organizations to steal over $350,000 in Cooperative and Church funds. Throughout that time period Johnson regularly used the United States mail to send unauthorized, and in many cases forged, checks drawn on the organizations’ respective bank accounts to his personal creditors and others.
In addition to the 18 month term of imprisonment, Johnson was ordered to pay $400 in special assessments to the United States and restitution as follows: 1) a total of $334,871.24 to Wayne-White Electrical Cooperative and its insurer, Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange; and 2) a total of $47,876.96 to the First Christian Church of Wayne City and its insurer, Erie Insurance Company. Johnson was also placed on a 3 year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration during which time he will be required to perform 250 hours of community service.
Johnson will remain on bond pending designation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons to the facility where he will begin serving his sentence.
The investigation was a cooperative effort by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Fairfield Police Department and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
Eldorado Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Possessing Methamphetamine and A Gun in Saline CountyRead the Press Release
Joseph Scott Robertson, 45, of Eldorado, Illinois, was sentenced on August 26, 2015, in United States District Court in Benton to 14 years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute four ounces of highly pure methamphetamine (commonly known as "crystal" or "ice") and for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The offenses occurred on August 19, 2014, in Eldorado.
Evidence introduced in support of the guilty plea and sentence showed that in August 2014 Robertson took delivery of four ounces of methamphetamine that had been sent to him through a commercial carrier service, but was intercepted by law enforcement before its delivery. The delivery to Robertson was made by an undercover law enforcement agent. A subsequent search of the residence Robertson was living in revealed $18,845 in cash which Robertson admitted was obtained from the sale of methamphetamine, delivery receipts for numerous other shipments of methamphetamine he had previously received, and a .38 caliber revolver Robertson admitted he possessed to protect his drugs and cash. Robertson had previously been convicted of several felony offenses. Laboratory tests conducted by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration showed that the methamphetamine Robertson possessed was 100% pure.
In addition to the 14 year prison sentence, Robertson was ordered to pay fines and special assessments totaling $400 to the United States and was placed on a 4 year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration. Following his sentencing, Robertson was returned to the custody of the United States Marshal, where has been held without bond since his arrest on the federal charges in December, to await designation to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility.
The case was investigated by the Carmi office of the Southern Illinois Drug Task Force with the assistance of the DEA. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
Clinton County Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Miguel Angel Vasquez Torres, 34, from Beckemeyer, Illinois, was charged in federal court by a two-count criminal complaint with distribution and receipt of child pornography, United States Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton announced today. After a detention hearing held today, Vasquez Torres was held without bond pending trial.
The offenses charged in the complaint allege that on May 4, 2015, Vasquez Torres received and distributed multiple video files containing child pornography. A trial date has not yet been set.
If convicted of distribution and/or receipt of child pornography, Vasquez Torres faces a term in federal prison of not less than five years, up to twenty years, a fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not less than five years up to life on each count.
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."
This investigation was conducted by the Madison County Sheriff’s Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Metro East Cyber Crimes and Analysis Task Force, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers for prosecution.
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.
Williamson County Resident Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On August 20, 2015, Michael A. Boyt, Jr., 19, of Marion, pled guilty to one-count of conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Evidence at the plea hearing established that between 2013 and January 2015, Boyt, Jr. was involved with his father, Michael Boyt, Sr., and others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Boyt, Jr. cooked methamphetamine and collected pseudoephedrine pills from others. On January 5, 2015, Boyt, Jr., also sold methamphetamine to a confidential source working for law enforcement. The offense occurred in Perry, Randolph, Williamson, Jackson, and Franklin Counties. Boyt, Jr. is currently being held without bond pending a December 8, 2015, sentencing hearing. The methamphetamine offense carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years’ imprisonment, to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine. Two co-defendants have pled not guilty and are awaiting jury trial.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Steeleville Police Department, Coulterville Police Department, Sparta Police Department, Perry County Drug Task Force, and Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team. The Randolph County State’s Attorney’s Office also assisted in the investigation.
The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Owner of Local Tax Preparation Business Indicted for FraudRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Eyob Tilahun, the owner of a local tax return preparation business known as "Tax King," was indicted on charges of conspiring to submit false claims to the United States Government and Aiding and Abetting the Filing of False Tax Returns.
Tilahun owned and operated several Tax King locations in St. Louis, Missouri, and East St. Louis, Illinois. According to the indictment, Tilahun and co-defendant Mason B. Richmond trained Tax King’s return preparers on how to increase their customers’ refunds by falsifying certain information on their tax returns. The false information that was allegedly placed on the returns includes: (1) false Business Income and Schedules Cs which caused the clients to qualify for larger Earned Income Credits ("EICs"); (2) false wages, which again caused the clients to qualify for larger EICs; (3) false education expenses which enabled the clients to qualify for American opportunity education credits; and (4) false information regarding fuel taxes which qualified the clients for federal fuel tax credits.
The indictment alleges that Tilahun and Tax King profited by charging its clients fees which ranged from approximately $400 to $650. The indictment states that the return preparers also profited by requesting cash "tips" from the clients that ranged from approximately $100 to $1,000.
"Every American citizen is harmed when false tax returns are filed seeking fraudulent refunds," United States Attorney Wigginton noted. "My office will continue to aggressively prosecute the tax cheats who engage in these types of schemes."
Tilahun was arraigned on Monday at the Federal Courthouse in East St. Louis. A detention hearing for Tilahun will be held Tuesday (today) at 1:00 p.m. This detention hearing will determine whether Tilahun is held in custody pending his trial or whether he is released on bond. Richmond was also arraigned yesterday in East St. Louis. Richmond was released on bond.
On January 22, 2015, five of the return preparers who worked at the East St. Louis location were indicted on federal tax charges. The return preparers who were charged are: Edric A. Russell, Lakesha R. Wilson, Melissa L. Wiley, Tanesa L. Beverly, and Pierre J. Carter. Beverly and Wiley have both pled guilty. The charges against Russell, Wilson, and Carter are still pending.
The charge of conspiring to submit false claims carries a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and restitution. Each charge of preparing false income tax returns carries a maximum sentence of 3 years of in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.
The investigation is being conducted by agents from the Fairview Heights, Illinois, and St. Louis, Missouri Offices of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
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.
Murphysboro Resident Sentenced for Crack cocaine and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
On August 20, 2015, Martell L. Brown-Wright, a/k/a "Low Key," 29, of Murphysboro, was sentenced in federal court in Benton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Brown-Wright, who had previously pled guilty to a four-count indictment charging distribution of crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of a public housing facility (2 counts); possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a public housing facility; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking, was sentenced to a total term of 123 months in federal prison, to be followed by 6 years of supervised release, and fined $500.00. The offenses occurred on September 4-5, 2014, at the New Horizons Housing Complex, in Murphysboro, Jackson County. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Brown-Wright sold crack cocaine to a confidential source working for law enforcement. When agents executed a search warrant at the New Horizons apartment where the drug sales had occurred, they located firearms, crack cocaine, a large amount of U.S. Currency, ammunition, and drug packaging materials. Young children were residing at the apartment containing the drugs and firearms. At sentencing, the district court also ordered the forfeiture of a Taurus, model PT-22, .22 caliber semiautomatic pistol, a Jennings, model J22, .22 caliber semiautomatic pistol, along with assorted ammunition.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Murphysboro Police Department. The Jackson County State’s Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation.
The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson for prosecution.
Metro-East Woman Sentenced for Fraudulent Tax Refund SchemeRead the Press Release
Sylvia Baker, 30, of Fairview Heights, Illinois, was sentenced to six months halfway house incarceration followed by six months home detention with electronic monitoring as a condition of three years supervised release for her convictions of conspiracy to defraud the United States by making false claims for tax refunds to the Internal Revenue Service by submitting false federal income tax returns, and five additional counts for making false claims for federal tax refunds, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Sylvia Baker was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $16,356 and a special assessment of $600.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Marion Prison Inmate Sentenced to an Additional 5 Years for Assaulting Correctional OfficersRead the Press Release
Erick Roman, 38, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois, pled guilty today in United States District Court in Benton to charges that he assaulted three different correctional officers on three different occasions at that facility, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The offenses were committed at USP-Marion on August 20, 2014, September 13, 2014, and September 28, 2014. At the time of the assaults Roman was serving a 60 year federal sentence imposed in the District of Maryland for Conspiracy to Participate in a Racketeering Enterprise.
A sentencing hearing was held immediately following the entry of the guilty pleas. Roman was sentenced to a 5 year term of imprisonment for the assaults and that sentence was imposed consecutively to the 60 year sentence he was already serving. Roman was also ordered to pay $383 in restitution to the victims of his assaults and $300 in special assessments to the United States. A three year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration was also imposed.
Roman 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.
Jefferson County Man Sentenced to 210 Months on Methamphetamine Related ChargesRead the Press Release
A Jefferson County man was sentenced on August 20, 2015, to federal prison on methamphetamine related charges, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Robert A. Tate, 31, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison, three years’ supervised release following his imprisonment, and fined $200. Tate was convicted following a two day jury trial on both counts in a federal indictment.
"If you are wondering about this very lengthy and well-deserved sentence, I would simply say that meth is a killer and destroyer of lives, and those who sell it do so knowing that they are killing people in our communities. If you think about making or selling meth, please think about spending a good part of your life behind federal bars." noted United States Attorney Wigginton.
Count 1 charged that from February 2013, until on or about June 2014, in Jefferson County, Tate knowingly conspired to manufacture methamphetamine. Count 2 charged that on March 31, 2014, in Jefferson County, Tate knowingly and intentionally distributed methamphetamine.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Joint Narcotics Unit of the Mt. Vernon Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department.
The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.
Ex-Employee of SIUE Sentenced for Lying to Federal AgentsRead the Press Release
Kwa Mister, 38, from Fairview Heights, Illinois, received a sentence of three years of probation, a fine of $2,500, and a $200 special assessment as a result of his conviction of two counts of Making A False Statement to the United States Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General and the U. S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. "Simply put," United States Attorney Wigginton noted, "there is no right to lie to federal agents conducting an investigation."
The Illinois Department of Transportation entered into an intergovernmental agreement with Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIU-E) to be the fiscal agent for the Highway Construction Preparatory Training Program. Kwa Mister was the Director/Project Manager at the Small Business Development Center at SIU-E and served as the project manager for the Highway Construction Preparatory Training Program. Other facts revealed in Court showed that an investigation and an audit revealed that Kwa Mister obtained five contracts between SIU-E and Phoenix Support Services for Phoenix Support Services to purportedly serve as an independent consultant to assist with the training program, but that from March 2010 through January 2011, an audit discovered five Purchase Orders, five Contracts, and at least four Justification for Sole Source Purchase or Contract forms concerning the procurement of services from "L. A. S" [name removed]., Director, d/b/a Phoenix Support Services. The procurement of these contracts with Phoenix Support Services was initiated by the Program Manager for the Highway Construction Preparatory Training Program, Kwa Mister. Kwa Mister procured the services of his mother, L. A. S., for sole source contracts and concealed the family relationship and the potential conflict of interest from SIU-E. When the propriety of the contracts with Phoenix Support Services was under investigation by SIU-E, Kwa Mister lied to SIU-E as to whether the owner of Phoenix Support Services was his mother. Kwa Mister was charged with lying to federal agents concerning whether he provided false information to SIU-E.
The successful prosecution is the result of an investigation conducted by the United States Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, the U. S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of Southern Illinois University and the Office of Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor. The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Ex-Employee of Postal Service Indicted for FraudRead the Press Release
Ashton Luck, 29, of South Roxana, Illinois, was indicted for one count of workers compensation fraud and five additional counts of making false statements, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. If convicted, Luck faces up to thirty years in prison, a $250,000 fine, up to three years supervised, plus mandatory restitution. The indictment alleges that Luck worked for the U.S. Postal service as a mail carrier for the East Alton Post Office and while in her position she submitted a fraudulent workers compensation claim for a purported on-the-job injury. The indictment also alleges that she submitted a number of false leave slips, fabricated a doctor's note and falsified hospital records in support of claimed emergency and sick leave.
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 indictment is the result of an investigation conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith.