Southern District of Illinois
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Florida Man Sentenced for Role in $30 Million Telemarketing Scam That Victimized over 22,000 PeopleRead the Press Release
Christopher J. Gilkey, 31, formerly of Syracuse, NY, was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $17,976 in restitution, a $500 fine, and a $100 special assessment, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Gilkey had previously plead guilty to a charge of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud for his role in a telemarketing scam operating under the names Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions. Gilkey also pleaded guilty to an Information charging conspiracy to commit mail fraud for his role in a similar telemarketing scam that operated under the name International Resort Solutions.
Gilkey admitted that he, along with many others, were involved in a telemarketing scam that operated under the names Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions. The scam companies, which operated in Florida and bilked over 22,000 victims of $30 million dollars, victimized consumers in all fifty states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, all ten Canadian provinces and the Northwest Territory of Canada. There were at least 54 victims in twenty eight (28) of the thirty eight (38) counties comprising the Southern District of Illinois. Gilkey admitted that he was employed by a Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions franchise office as a telemarketer.
Beginning in October 2007 and continuing through at least January 2010, telemarketers for Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions placed cold calls to timeshare owners. During the calls, the telemarketers falsely represented that their company had actual buyers for the owners’ timeshare property. Gilkey and others solicited advanced fees of up to several thousand dollars from each victim in purported closing costs – fees they promised would be refunded to the owner once the closing on the property occurred. Many timeshare owners were told that their closings were scheduled within the next 60 to 90 days. Despite collecting fees from 22,000 victims, not a single timeshare unit was ever sold. Gilkey and his co-conspirators simply pocketed the closing costs.
Approximately twenty-nine others have been charged in connection with the Creative Vacation Solutions telemarketing scam. The company’s former chief executive, Jennifer Kirk, pleaded guilty to a criminal Information on June 30, 2011. She was sentenced on January 9, 2012, to over 16 years in prison and five years’ supervised release. Approximately twenty others have also been sentenced, receiving prison terms that range from 1 to 14 years.
Gilkey also admitted that after leaving Creative Vacation Solutions he went to work for a company called International Resort Solutions, LLC, another fraudulent timeshare resale operation with offices in Lake Worth and West Palm Beach, Florida. International Resort Solutions used the same fraudulent business model as Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions, and Gilkey was recruited to work for the company by Jeffrey Fields, another former employee of Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions. In July 2012, Fields was sentenced to 101 months in prison for his role in fraudulent timeshare resale operations.
These prosecutions follow an investigation by the St. Louis Field Office of the Chicago Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Florida Attorney General’s Office, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Boynton Beach Florida Police Department. The prosecution of the case was handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Lewis, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan Stump and Bruce Reppert.
Crawford County Man Sentenced to Nearly Ten Years in Prison on Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
On March 21, 2013, Michael G. Yankey, 49, of Annapolis, IL, was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton on a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Yankey, who had previously pled guilty to the methamphetamine charge, was sentenced to 115 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and fined $300. The offense occurred between May 2011 and April 2012, in Williamson, Randolph, Jackson, and Crawford Counties. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Yankey was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. During the conspiracy, Yankey participated in numerous methamphetamine “cooks” at residences located in Randolph, Williamson, and Crawford Counties. Yankey also traveled with others to various towns in order to obtain pseudoephedrine and matches for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine.
The investigation was conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, Robinson Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office also assisted in the investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Indiana Man Pleads Guilty to Lying to the Federal Bureau of InvestigationRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today that on March 20, 2013, Paul R. Kramer, 63, of Vincennes, Indiana, pled guilty in federal district court to making false statements to Federal Bureau of Investigation agents.
Kramer was indicted along with the mayor of the city of Bridgeport, Illinois, on November 6, 2012, by a federal grand jury sitting in Benton, Illinois. The indictment charged Kramer with two counts of making false statements to federal officers. Each count of making false statements carries a maximum penalty of 5 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.
Sentencing for Kramer is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on June 27, 2013.
“The plea in this case should serve as a reminder that lies do not stop investigations. This office and its federal and state partners will not be deterred by those who seek to subvert justice.” said United States Attorney Wigginton. “It also should serve as notice that there are 38 counties in Illinois which comprise the Southern District of Illinois, and residents in each of those counties may rest assured that my office will work diligently to insure that those who violate federal law will be found and prosecuted in any of those 38 counties.”
At his plea, Kramer admitted that on August 5, 2011, he had lied when he told agents that an invoice he faxed to agents regarding the rental of a backhoe to the City of Bridgeport, was prepared for him by a person by the name of “C.S.” and that he had lied when he said it was not prepared or given to him by Max R. Schauf. In written court filings, Kramer admitted that “C.S.” did not prepare the invoice and that, in fact, he had obtained the invoice from Max R. Schauf, who was then the mayor of the city of Bridgeport, Illinois.
Kramer also admitted that on August 12, 2011, he had lied when he told agents that he owned a backhoe that had been rented to the City of Bridgeport, Illinois. In written court filings, Kramer admitted that the statements and representations were false because he knew at the time that the backhoe was actually owned by Max R. Schauf, the mayor of City of Bridgeport, Illinois.
Note: Under the law, a defendant who is charged but has not pleaded guilty is presumed to be innocent of a charge and is entitled to a fair trial at which the Government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A plea of guilty by a co-defendant does not extinguish the presumption of innocence for other defendants.
The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ranley R. Killian and William E. Coonan.
Highland Woman Sentenced for Access Device FraudRead the Press Release
A Highland woman, convicted of Access Device Fraud, was sentenced in federal district court on March 19, 2013, to 3 years of home detention as a condition of a term of her sentence of 5 years of probation, ordered to pay $8,099.68 in restitution, and ordered to pay a special assessment of $100.00, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
On September 14, 2012, Christina Dawn Whittaker, 52, admitted to using the social security number and date of birth of another person, without that person’s knowledge or permission, to open two credit card accounts. The credit cards were opened and utilized to defraud multiple companies between October of 2011 and March of 2012.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian.
Florida Man Sentenced for Role in $30 Million Telemarketing Scam That Victimized over 22,000 PeopleRead the Press Release
Daniel L. Gregg, 40, of Boynton Beach, FL, was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 3 years supervised release, and ordered to pay a $375 file and a $100 special assessment fee, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Gregg pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud. The indictment alleged that Gregg and others were involved in a telemarketing scam under the names Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions. The fraudulent companies, which operated in Florida and bilked over 22,000 victims of $30 million dollars, victimized consumers in all fifty states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, all ten Canadian provinces and the Northwest Territory of Canada. There were at least 54 victims in twenty eight (28) of the thirty eight (38) counties comprising the Southern District of Illinois.
The criminal indictment alleged that Gregg was employed by a Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions franchise office. Beginning in October 2007, and continuing through at least January 2010, telemarketers for Universal Marketing Solutions and Creative Vacation Solutions placed cold calls to timeshare owners and then falsely represented that their company had actual buyers for the owners’ timeshare property. Gregg solicited advanced fees of up to several thousand dollars from each victim in purported closing costs – fees they promised would be refunded to the owner once the closing on the property occurred. Many timeshare owners were told that their closings were scheduled within the next 60 to 90 days. Despite collecting fees from 22,000 victims, not a single timeshare unit was ever sold. Gregg and his co-conspirators simply pocketed the closing costs.
Approximately twenty-four others have been charged in connection with the Creative Vacation Solutions telemarketing scam. The company’s former chief executive, Jennifer Kirk, pled guilty to a criminal Information on June 30, 2011. She was sentenced on January 9, 2012 to over 16 years in prison and five years’ supervised release. More than a dozen others have also been sentenced, receiving prison terms that range from 1 to 14 years.
The prosecution follows an investigation by the St. Louis Field Office of the Chicago Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Florida Attorney General’s Office, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Boynton Beach Florida Police Department. The prosecution of the case was handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Lewis and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce Reppert.
Southern Illinois Residents Face Prison Terms for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that three Southern Illinois residents were recently sentenced as a result of their participation in conspiracies to manufacture methamphetamine.
On March 7, 2013, Bret A. Crunk, 42, of Anna, IL, was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton on a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Crunk was sentenced to 120 months in prison, 8 years of supervised release, and fined $600. The offense occurred between 2010, and March 12, 2012, in Union, Jackson, and Saline Counties. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Crunk was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. During the conspiracy, Crunk obtained over 195 grams of pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine. One co-defendant has previously been sentenced for his involvement in the methamphetamine conspiracy and one co-defendant has pled guilty and is awaiting sentencing. This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Union County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Union County State’s Attorney’s Office also assisted during the investigation.
On March 7, 2013, Emma J. York, a/k/a Emma J. Melton, 36, of Annapolis, IL, was also sentenced in United States District Court in Benton on a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. York was sentenced to 188 months in prison, 8 years of supervised release, and fined $600. This offense occurred between July, 2011, and August 12, 2012, in Crawford, Jasper, Randolph, and Jackson Counties. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that York was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. During the conspiracy, York participated in numerous methamphetamine “cooks” and also obtained over 98 grams of pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine. York received an enhanced sentence based on her classification as a Career Offender. This investigation was conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, Robinson Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office also assisted in the investigation.
Additionally, on March 7, 2013, Jason S. Thorne, 32, of Marion, IL, was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton on a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Thorne was sentenced to 156 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and fined $300. The district judge ordered the federal sentence to run consecutive to a state sentence that Thorne is currently serving. The offense occurred between 2009 and 2011 in Williamson County. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Thorne was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. During the conspiracy, Thorne participated in methamphetamine “cooks” and also obtained over 45 grams of pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine. Thorne received an enhanced sentence based on his classification as a Career Offender. This investigation was conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Police Department, Murphysboro Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
All three cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Madison Illinois Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy, Wire Fraud, and Identity Theft in Multi-State Auto Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on March 15, 2013, Gordon D. Caldwell, 46, of Madison, Illinois, pled guilty in federal court to Conspiracy to Possess and Pass Counterfeit Securities, Wire Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft, as charged in three-count information. Caldwell faces a mandatory minimum sentence of two years for Aggravated Identity Theft and could be sentenced up to 27 years of imprisonment. Caldwell also faces a fine of up to $500,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to three years and the payment of a $300.00 special assessment. Caldwell will also be required to pay approximately $100,000.00 in restitution when he is sentenced on June 21, 2013, at 1:30 p.m. in United States District Court in East St. Louis, Illinois.
“The significance of this prosecution rests not only with the conviction of Caldwell, who had crossed state lines and police jurisdictions to defraud citizens in eight counties in two states, but also with the outstanding team work that included multiple law enforcement and prosecutors’ offices from Illinois and Missouri working together to reach this result,” said United States Attorney Wigginton. “With federal and state agencies working together, the focus will not be on where you do the crime, instead, the focus is going to be where you’re going to do the time.”
During his plea, Caldwell admitted that from April of 2011 to August of 2012 he had schemed and conspired with others to use counterfeit cashier’s checks of financial institutions to defraud individuals in both Illinois and Missouri who had listed their vehicles for sale in various media sources. Caldwell admitted that he would go to the seller’s house or location the vehicle was held for sale, and while using false identification, he would give the counterfeit cashier’s check to the seller. Caldwell also admitted that on two occasions, he used the fraudulently obtained vehicle titles to take out vehicle loans.
The investigation was conducted by the Metro East Auto Theft Task Force with the assistance of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office; the Granite City, Madison, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Effingham, Decatur and South Roxana Police Departments in Illinois; the Jefferson, and Boone County Sheriff’s Offices; the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department and the St. Peters, St. Louis County and Arnold Police Departments in Missouri. Assistance was also given by the state’s attorneys’ offices in Madison, Macon, Effingham and Morgan Counties in Illinois, as well as prosecutors in Jefferson, St. Charles, St. Louis, and Boone Counties in Missouri. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian.
Jury: Cahokia Man Guilty of Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
A Cahokia man was found guilty on March 14, 2013, after a 3 day jury trial, for Production of Child Pornography (Count 1), Receipt of Child Pornography (Count 2), and Possession of Child Pornography (Count 3), the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Charles E. Hicks, 24, Cahokia, IL, faces a term of not less than fifteen years but not more than thirty years in prison on Count 1; on Count 2, Hicks faces a term of not less than five but not more than twenty years in prison; and, on Count 3, Hicks faces a term of not more than ten years in prison. Additionally, each count of conviction carries a potential fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of five (5) years to life. Upon his release from prison, Hicks must register as a sex offender as a condition of his supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for June 28, 2013, in East St. Louis, Illinois. Hicks was ordered detained (held without bond) after the jury’s verdict.
On January 14, 2011, an undercover operation conducted by a member of the United States Secret Service's Southern Illinois Cyber Crime Unit identified a computer that was offering to share images and videos of child pornography. The agent downloaded three images of child pornography from this computer, and later obtained a subpoena to identify the subscriber information related to this computer. The subscriber information identified Hicks’ residence as the location of the computer from which the images of child pornography were downloaded. Agents were able to make contact with Hicks at his mother’s house in Belleville, Illinois. While speaking with him, agents learned that he had two computers stored at his mother’s residence, one of them a HP Pavilion desktop computer. A forensic preview at the scene revealed images of child pornography on the HP computer.
While Hicks initially denied downloading child pornography, he admitted to using search terms on LimeWire that he knew would result in child pornography files that he was able to download. Hicks eventually admitted that he had been downloading child pornography for about two to three years, but that he only did so in the hope that law enforcement officers would track him down so they could find the person making the images available.
A forensic examination performed on the HP Pavilion desktop computer revealed 159 images and 130 video files of child pornography on this computer, and that the forensic evidence was consistent with Hicks being the person who downloaded and possessed the images. It also revealed that on April 3, 2008, Hicks knowingly downloaded several image and video files from LimeWire that he knew contained child pornography.
The investigation further revealed that, on August 1, 2008, Hicks took two pornographic photographs of a minor knowing that he/she was 16 years old at the time. One of the photographs depicted Hicks engaged in sexual intercourse with the minor. The other photograph was of the lascivious display of the minor=s genitals. The evidence at trial established that Hicks had persuaded or coerced the minor to engage in sexual activity for the purposes of photographing it.
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 Illinois State Police and United States Secret Service=s Southern Illinois Cyber Crime Unit. The case is assigned to Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Brooks and Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
East St. Louis Shooter Sentenced to Eight Years for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Cartez R. Beard, a 21-year old East St. Louis, Illinois, resident, was sentenced today in federal district court to 96 months (8 years) in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced.
According to court documents, on March 28, 2012, members of the WAVE Team came across a group of individuals, including Beard, standing on a street corner in East St. Louis. As law enforcement approached the group, Beard averted his eyes and turned his back away from the officers. One officer asked Beard if he had something on him that he should not, and Beard replied that he did. Beard told the officer he had a gun on his right hip. The officer recovered a Smith & Wesson, .40 caliber, semi-automatic pistol. The gun was loaded and a round was in the chamber. In late September 2012, Beard pled guilty to being a convicted felon who had knowingly possessed a firearm.
There is no parole in the federal prison system. In addition to the prison sentence, Beard will serve 3 years of supervised release and pay a $250 fine. United States Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton noted, “My office remains committed to prosecuting the district’s most violent criminals, especially those who illegally arm themselves with firearms and use them. As the Court recognized, Cartez Beard is an extremely dangerous and violent young man. A sentence this like one sends a strong message to the young people of East St. Louis -- Put down the guns or risk doing hard federal time.”
The WAVE Task Force investigated this case. The WAVE Task Force focuses its efforts on combating violent crime in East St. Louis, Washington Park, and surrounding communities. The WAVE Task Force receives financial support through the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, a nationwide federal program which endeavors to address gun-related violence.
Assistant United States Attorney Monica A. Stump prosecuted the offense.
Shiloh Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Sidney Davis, 38, of Shiloh, Illinois, was sentenced today in the United States District Court to 151 months (12 years and 7 months) in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced. Following his prison sentence, Davis will be on federal supervised release for 15 years and will also be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. Davis has been in custody since April 5, 2012.
“Anytime a person who preys on innocent children is made to pay for his crimes, society is made safer and justice is done.” said United States Attorney Wigginton. “Anyone who says these crimes are nothing more than perverts looking at images in their homes has no idea of the misery the child victims of this trade are made to suffer.”
Court documents establish that in January 2012, during an undercover investigation, agents from the Illinois Attorney General High Tech Crimes Bureau were able to download child pornography from Davis’ computer using a peer-to-peer network site. Based on this information, the agents obtained a search warrant from Davis’ apartment. During a forensic examination of Davis’ computers, agents recovered numerous video and image files containing child pornography that Davis had downloaded from the Internet.
This case is 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 investigation was conducted by the Illinois Attorney General High Tech Crimes Bureau. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.
Two Area Men Sentenced for Failing to File Federal Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced the latest sentences given in his office’s ongoing efforts to punish those who cheat their fellow citizens by refusal to pay their fair share of income taxes.
Mozell “Mo” Chaney, 62, of Washington Park, IL, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today for the offenses of failing to file a federal income tax return for 2010 and 2011. Chaney received a sentence of five years’ probation, five months home detention and was ordered to pay $40,442 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.
Kenneth Brian Cherry, Sr., 56, of Cottage Hills, IL, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today for the offenses of failing to file a federal income tax return for 2010 and 2011. Cherry received a sentence of five years’ probation, five months home detention and was ordered to pay $30,950 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.
Both men are independent truck drivers. Prior to being contacted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations in 2012, Chaney had not filed federal income tax returns since the 2007 tax year and Cherry had not filed since the 2005 tax year.
The prosecutions are the result of investigations conducted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations and are part of an ongoing initiative in the Southern District of Illinois to prosecute individuals who receive substantial income, but willfully fail to file federal income tax returns. The prosecutions were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith.
To report criminal tax fraud, call the I.R.S. Criminal Investigations at (618) 622-2160 or by sending the information to the Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93888.
Metro-East Businessman Sentenced in Conspiracy to Defraud the City of East St. Louis and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Stephen L. Carraway, 50, of Cahokia, IL, was sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 36 months in prison, a $2,000 fine and two years of supervised release for the offenses of Conspiracy to Defraud the City of East St. Louis’ Demolition Program and Engaging in a Monetary Transaction over $10,000 in Property Derived From Specified Unlawful Activity, in addition to a supervised release revocation for a previous controlled substance conviction, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Carraway received a sentence of 30 months in prison on the new offenses and received a consecutive six month sentence of incarceration on the supervised release revocation.
Stephen L. Carraway owned and operated Steve’s Hauling Inc., an Illinois corporation with its principle place of business in the City of East St. Louis. Steve’s Hauling provided demolition services to the City of East St. Louis. The convictions are the result of Carraway's conduct in 2010 when he made a cash payment in the form of a kickback to a City of East St. Louis official in order to receive an emergency demolition contract from the City of East St. Louis. Carraway was told how much to bid in order to be awarded the contract. Carraway thereafter submitted a falsified certificate of insurance in the bid proposal when he did not have an existing liability insurance policy in effect.
The investigation was handled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations with the cooperation of the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office. The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith.
East St. Louis Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
On February 7, 2013, Detrin C. Spraggins, a 46-year old East St. Louis, Illinois, man pled guilty in United States Federal District Court, in East St. Louis, to 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. Spraggins is scheduled for sentencing on May 31, 2013, at which time he faces a maximum potential sentence of 10 years’ in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, not more than 3 years’ of supervised release after his prison term, and a mandatory special assessment of $100. Spraggins also agreed to the forfeiture of the firearm.
Court proceedings revealed that on February 15, 2012, law enforcement officers patrolling in East. St. Louis, Illinois, observed individuals standing around a pickup truck with the door open parked across from an apartment building. As officers drove closer, the driver of the pickup truck closed the driver’s door and quickly sped off. Other officers stopped Spraggins when he pulled into a driveway. Spraggins consented to a body search, where contraband was discovered. This find led to an officer further opening the ajar door of the pickup truck to look for additional contraband. As he did so, he noticed the butt of a firearm sticking out of the driver’s side door pocket.
This case was investigated by the WAVE (Working Against Violent Elements) Task Force, which focuses its efforts on combating violent crime in East St. Louis, Washington Park, and surrounding communities. The WAVE Task Force receives financial support through the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, a nationwide federal program which endeavors to address gun-related violence.
This case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak for prosecution.
Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
On March 6, 2013, Andrew C. Henley, a twenty-five year old Michigan man, pled guilty in Federal District Court, in East St. Louis, to Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Henley is scheduled for sentencing on July 15, 2013. He faces a term of imprisonment of not more than ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both, a term of supervised release of five (5) years to life of supervised release after his prison term, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.
Henley was required to register as a sex offender under both Illinois law and the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) because he was convicted of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse on September 30, 2005, in Madison County, Illinois. After registering as a Sex Offender in the State of Illinois on July 11, 2011, Henley traveled to the State of Michigan. He was required to register as a sex offender in the State of Michigan or update his registration with the State of Illinois within three days of his move. Henley admitted that he knowingly failed to comply with either of these requirements after traveling in interstate commerce, thus violating SORNA.
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 United States Marshal Service. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak.
US Attorney Wigginton Announces Six-Count Indictment Against Belleville Martial Arts Instructor for Sexual Exploitation of A MinorRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that a United States Grand Jury has returned a six-count indictment against Belleville martial arts instructor, Christopher M. Horton, 20, of Highland, Illinois, charging him with five counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and one count of Attempt Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. The alleged violations took place between on or about May 1, 2012 and February 11, 2013, in Madison and St. Clair Counties. Horton had been charged in a two-count federal Criminal Complaint for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor on February 15, 2013, as part of a joint investigation and prosecution undertaken by the United States Attorney’s Office, the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. The Court has ordered that Horton be held without bond pending trial.
The offenses charged in the indictment allege that, between on or about May 1, 2012 and February 11, 2013, Horton video recorded himself engaged in sexual activity with three minors and attempted to engage a fourth minor in sexually explicit conduct for the purposes of producing a recording of the conduct.
A federal trial date has not yet been set. If convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Horton faces a term of imprisonment of not less than 15 years but not more than 30 years in prison on each count, a fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years, up to and including, a lifetime of supervision once he is released.
An indictment 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, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Metro East Cyber Crimes and Analysis Task Force, the Highland, Illinois Police Department and the Belleville, Illinois Police Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorneys Ali Summers.
Percy Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
On March 1, 2013, Kathy L. Griffin, 36, of Percy, IL, pled guilty in United States District Court in Benton to a one-count second superseding indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois.
The offense occurred between January 2011, and January 2013, in Perry, Jackson, and Randolph Counties. Evidence at the plea hearing established that Griffin was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Griffin obtained and supplied over 103 grams of pseudoephedrine for use during the manufacture methamphetamine.
Sentencing was set for June 6, 2013. At that time, Griffin faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, 4 years’ supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Sheriff’s Office, Percy Police Department, Murphysboro Police Department, Sparta Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Methamphetamine Indictment AnnouncedRead the Press Release
A Jackson County man and a Franklin County woman were indicted on February 21, 2013, in a one-count superseding indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois.
On February 25, 2013, Rachel L. Mills, 34, of Mulkeytown, Illinois, appeared in federal court in Benton, Illinois, on the one count superseding indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. At the February 26, 2013, detention hearing, Mills was ordered held without bond pending an April 29, 2013, jury trial. Co-defendant Joseph R. Green, 48, of Elkville, Illinois, has previously appeared in federal court on the charge and is also being held without bond pending trial.
According to the indictment, the offense occurred between August 2009 and September 4, 2012, in Jackson County. The offense carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, 3 years supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
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 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 also assisted in the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
'Meth' Indictment AnnouncedRead the Press Release
Two Jackson County, Illinois, residents were indicted on February 21, 2013, in an indictment, charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
On February 28, 2013, Leslie Blaine Clover, 48, of Desoto, and Crystal D. Kellems, 38, of Ava, were arraigned in United States District Court in Benton on an indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. The indictment alleged that the offense occurred between June 2012 and January 28, 2013, in Jackson and Randolph Counties. Both Clover and Kellems are being held without bond pending their 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, Clover and Kellems face up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, and Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
East St. Louis Man Sentenced on Crack Cocaine ChargesRead the Press Release
Anthony Montez Taylor, 45, of East St. Louis, Illinois, was sentenced in United States District Court in East St. Louis, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. The Court determined that Taylor was a career offender under the United States Sentencing Guidelines, and then sentenced Taylor to 144 months imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release. The Court also imposed a fine of $400 and a special assessment of $100. Taylor had previously entered a plea of guilty to a single count of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine.
Information contained in the Stipulation of Facts, which was filed at the time of the plea, shows that on March 5, 2012, officers of the Fairmont City Police Department conducted a business check at a motel in Fairmont City, Illinois. Officers smelled the odor of marijuana coming from a room occupied by Taylor and investigated. During a subsequent search of the room, officers located 42.8 grams of crack cocaine, which Taylor admitted belonged to him.
Evidence in support of the indictment was obtained in an investigation by the Fairmont City Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Randy G. Massey.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 108 Months' Imprisonment for Thefts of Firearms from Gun ShopsRead the Press Release
A Chicago, Illinois, man was sentenced to a prison term in federal district court in connection with burglaries of several firearms dealers in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Denis M. Joiner, 20, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced in federal district court in East St. Louis to 108 months’ imprisonment, 3 years’ supervised release, and a $300 special assessment, following his plea of guilty, on November 1, 2012, to an Indictment charging him with: Theft of Firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee; Conspiracy to Steal Firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee; and Possession Stolen Firearms.
Pleadings filed with the Court indicate that Joiner, together with three other Chicago men, burglarized DT Enterprises, also known as “Hunting Stuff,” in Salem, Illinois, on December 24, 2011, stealing 124 firearms, which they then took back to Chicago to sell. Law enforcement agents in Chicago learned of the conspirators’ identities after Joiner and a codefendant were caught shooting firearms into the air on January 1, 2012. After arresting one of the co-defendants for the shooting, agents were able to match fingerprints from a tote box left at the scene to those of the four suspects. Agents also learned that tote boxes such as the one found at the scene were sold at Lowe’s in Carbondale; the agents then recovered security videos from Lowe’s showing the four suspects selecting and paying for such totes and other items at Lowe’s on December 23, 2011. The four suspects in the Lowe’s video also appeared in DT Enterprises’ security video loading guns into the tote boxes.
One co-defendant, Kevin Winford, was sentenced November 2, 2012, to 70 months’ imprisonment for his role in the crimes; another co-defendant, Antoine White, was sentenced November 16, 2012, to 78 months’ imprisonment. The fourth conspirator, Earl Warner, was murdered in Chicago in January, 2012. Joiner’s sentence was higher than the others due to a greater criminal history and due to Joiner’s reckless flight from authorities prior to arrest.
Other gun shops victimized by the co-conspirators were: Maxon Shooters Supplies, Des Plaines, Illinois (190 guns stolen); Rinks Gun & Sport, Inc., Lockport, Illinois (34 guns stolen); Fletcher Gun, Waukeesha, Wisconsin (29 guns stolen); Deb’s Gun Range, Hammond, Indiana (30 guns stolen); The Gun Doctor, Roselle, Illinois (48 guns stolen).
The judge ordered restitution to all of the aforementioned victims.
The case was investigated by members of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen B. Clark.
Centreville Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Michael A. Cooper, 27, of Centreville, IL, was sentenced on March 1, 2013, in United States District Court in East St. Louis, on one count of 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.
Cooper was sentenced to 72 months in prison, three years of supervised release, fined $500 and ordered to pay $100 special assessment. He also forfeited the firearms. Cooper, who had previously pled guilty, admitted that he had possessed several guns, knowing that he was a convicted felon and that it was illegal for him to possess the guns.
Court documents revealed that on October 21, 2011, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant for a bedroom in a residence occupied by Cooper. During the search of the dwelling, firearms were discovered and seized.
Prior to October 21, 2011, Cooper had been convicted of a felony.
The investigation was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Metropolitan Enforcement Group for Southwestern Illinois.
This was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak.
Mexican Citizen Pleads Guilty to Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
Victor Castaneda, 39, a citizen of Mexico, who most recently resided in Madison, Illinois, entered a plea of guilty in federal court on February 26, 2013, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Count 1); Entry Into the United States Without Inspection (Count 4); and four counts of Unlawful Distribution of Cocaine (Counts 6, 7, 8, and 9), the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. No counts were dismissed against Castaneda in return for his plea. Castaneda had been charged on August 22, 2012, in an indictment charging ten individuals with being members of a large drug trafficking organization. Castaneda is currently scheduled to be sentenced on June 14, 2013. At that time he will face penalties of 5 to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment for Count 1. For Count 4, Castaneda faces penalties of not more than 6 months in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, and a $10 Special Assessment. For Counts 6 through 9, Castaneda faces penalties of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment on each count.
Castaneda admitted the Forfeiture Allegation in the Indictment and agreed to forfeit $30,240.00 to the United States. In addition, Castaneda agreed to the entry of a Judicial Order of Removal, which will require that he be deported from the United States following any term of imprisonment.
Of the nine individuals named in the indictment with Castaneda, three others have entered pleas of guilty and are awaiting sentencing; four others have been arrested and are awaiting trial; two are fugitives. Those not yet convicted are presumed innocent because an indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge and is entitled to a fair trial at which the Government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Evidence in support of the indictment 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. Participating agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI), U.S. Marshal Service, the Granite City Police Department, Fairview Heights Police Department, the Collinsville Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the St. Louis County (Missouri) Police Department, the St. Charles County (Missouri) Sheriff’s Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol. This case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Randy G. Massey for prosecution.
Alorton Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
On February 26, 2013, Termain D. Moore, a twenty-one year old Alorton, IL, man pled guilty in Federal District Court, in East St. Louis, to 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. Moore is scheduled for sentencing on June 10, 2013, at which at which time he faces a maximum potential sentence of ten years’ in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, not more than three years’ of supervised release after his prison term, and a mandatory special assessment of $100. Carter also agreed to the forfeiture of the firearm.
Court proceedings revealed that on October 12, 2012, an East St. Louis police officer sitting in his personal vehicle observed Moore walk into a liquor store in East St. Louis, raising his right arm holding a small revolver and pointing it. The officer called over the radio to report the incident and for backup. Two officers arrived on the scene as Moore was leaving the store. As one of the officers exited his vehicle, Moore took off running towards the back of the building. The officer began a foot chase, hearing a loud noise caused by something hitting the ground, as the pursuit continued. The other officers still on the scene saw Moore throw something on the ground, which was later identified as a firearm. Moore was caught and arrested. He admitted possessing the gun and that the officers saw him throw the firearm on the ground.
This case was investigated by the East St. Louis, IL, Police Department and assigned to Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew H. Brooks for prosecution.
Washington Park Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Sean J. Redd, Jr., 23, of Washington Park, IL, was sentenced in United States Federal District Court, in East St. Louis, IL, 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.
Redd was sentenced to forty-six (46) months in prison, to be followed by three years supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $300 fine. Court proceedings revealed that on March 11, 2012, law enforcement officers responded to a call for backup in Washington Park, IL, where a crime was committed. The officers noticed a group of men walking away from the scene and driving off in a visibly damaged vehicle. An officer then observed the vehicle for several blocks, noticing a missing front registration plate. The officer initiated a traffic stop of the vehicle, but the driver sped off. The officer continued pursuit. The vehicle stopped in the middle a street and two men got out. Redd exited the vehicle and began running through a residential neighborhood holding his pants, appearing as if he was holding something near his waist. Redd tripped and fell to the ground while running, causing the item to fall underneath him. Redd was arrested on the scene. The officer checked the area where the item fell and found a loaded firearm.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak for prosecution.
Union County Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
On February 22, 2013, Charles J. Brimm, 25, of Anna, IL, was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton on a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Brimm, who had previously pled guilty to the methamphetamine charge, was sentenced to 70 months in prison, 4 years of supervised release, and fined $300. The offense occurred between 2010, and March 12, 2012, in Union, Jackson, and Saline Counties. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearing established that Brimm was involved with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. During the conspiracy, Brimm obtained over 100 grams of pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine. Two additional persons charged in this indictment have pled guilty to their role in the methamphetamine conspiracy and are awaiting sentencing.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Union County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Union County State’s Attorney’s Office also assisted during the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
USP-Marion Inmate Sentenced for Assaulting A Correctional OfficerRead the Press Release
Henry Ingram, 34, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Marion, Illinois, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Benton to a term of 42 months’ imprisonment for assaulting a correctional officer at that facility, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The offense occurred on August 21, 2012. Ingram pled guilty to the single count indictment charging him with assault on November 19th.
Evidence supporting the guilty plea and sentence showed that Ingram struck a correctional officer in the face with his fist after the correctional officer conducted a pat-down search of Ingram in a hallway at the prison and found that he was in possession of contraband. The officer began to escort Ingram to an office to question him about the contraband and that is when Ingram turned and struck the officer in the face. The assault was captured on the prison’s internal video recording system.
The 42 month term of imprisonment was imposed consecutively to the 20 year sentence for conspiring to distribute powder cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and marijuana that Ingram was serving at the time of the assault. He was also ordered to pay fines and special assessments totaling $200 and was placed on a 2 year term of supervised release to follow his incarceration.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
St. Clair County Women Sentenced for Fraud on the Medicaid Home Services ProgramRead the Press Release
Lillie Vaughn, 56, of Cahokia, IL, a beneficiary of the Illinois Medicaid Home Services program, and Vickie Deal, 46, of Madison, IL, her personal assistant under the program paid by the State of Illinois, were sentenced in the District Court in East St. Louis, IL, on one count of making False Statements related to Health Care Matters, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
Each woman was sentenced to three years on probation, a $100 special assessment, and ordered to pay restitution in the total amount of $3,094.88 to the State of Illinois and to the United States Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Vaughn and Deal had previously pled guilty to defrauding the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Home Services Program, a Medicaid Waiver Program designed to prevent the unnecessary institutionalization of individuals who may instead be satisfactorily maintained at home at a lesser cost to the State. Each admitted making a materially false statement in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care services by reporting on a Home Services Time Sheet sent to the Illinois Department of Human Services, Office of Rehabilitation Services, that from July 1 through July 15, 2011, that Deal had performed and that Vaughn had received 48 hours of personal assistant services, even though both knew that Deal did not perform any personal assistant services on these days because Deal was incarcerated.
The case was investigated by agents of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Illinois State Police, Medicaid Fraud Control Bureau (MFCB) located in Collinsville, IL. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Quinley.
Mount Vernon Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on February 22, 2013, Mary Barnett-Johnson, 51, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, pled guilty to Theft of Government Funds as charged in a one count indictment returned on December 11, 2012, by a Federal Grand Jury sitting in East St. Louis, Illinois. Theft of Government Funds carries a statutory maximum possible punishment of up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of supervised release of up to three years and the payment of a $100.00 special assessment. Sentencing is scheduled for May 30, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. in United States District Court in Benton, Illinois.
During her plea, Barnett- Johnson admitted that she had fraudulently continued to receive and use her deceased mother’s social security benefits knowing that she was not entitled to receive or use those funds for her own personal benefit. Barnett-Johnson admitted that she received $85,353.00 in social security payments from August of 2003 through September of 2011 that were intended for her mother who died in 2003.
The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian.
East St. Louis Tow Truck Operator Sentenced for Theft of Government Property, Making False Statements to the F.B.I. and Making False Declarations Before A Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Eddie Johnson, Jr., 47, of Cahokia, IL, was sentenced to fifteen months in prison the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. In addition to the prison sentence, Johnson was ordered to serve three years supervised release and was ordered to repay to the F.B.I. $6,194.66 in investigative costs.
Johnson was charged in a three-count Indictment that charged theft or conversion of government property; making a false statement to a federal law enforcement officer; and making a false declaration before a federal grand jury.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation who was investigating allegations of potential corruption in the City of East St. Louis. The F.B.I. conducted an integrity test wherein federal agents placed diamond earrings, a purse, a debit card and other valuables in a Mercedes automobile which appeared to be an abandoned stolen vehicle. Audio and video surveillance was in place around the vehicle. On February 12, 2011, Johnson responded to the location following a call from the East St. Louis Police Department to a towing company. Johnson stole diamond earrings and other valuables from the vehicle which was set up as a stolen vehicle crime scene. Johnson subsequently made false statements to the F.B.I. and to a federal grand jury in the investigation of the theft.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman Smith.
Two St. Louis Residents Sentenced for Their Roles in Illinois Fraudulent Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
Phyllis Bradford, 20, and Andre Craig, 33, both of St. Louis, MO, were sentenced today in United States District Court for their respective roles in a fraudulent tax scheme, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced.
Bradford was sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to pay restitution totaling $45,740. Craig was ordered to serve fifteen months in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution totaling $5,621. These individuals were part of an eight defendant Indictment that charged conspiracy and Making and Subscribing a False 2010 Federal Income Tax Returns. The convictions stem from conduct of others convicted for falsely preparing and providing Forms W-2 to friends and relatives for the purpose of enabling them to file false federal income tax returns and receive false federal tax refunds. The W-2's were falsified in representing that certain individuals were employees of Masters Touch Cleaning Services, Inc., a Missouri corporation as well as the W-2's also falsely represented wages paid, falsely represented federal income taxes withheld, falsely represented Social Security taxes withheld, and falsely represented Medicare taxes withheld.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations and was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Theresa Dawson.
To report criminal tax fraud, call the I.R.S. Criminal Investigations at (618) 622-2160, or send the information to the Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93888.
Olney Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Fe bruary 15, 2013Brian K. Boulb, 43, of Olney, IL, was sentenced to federal prison on drug charges, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Boulb was sentenced to 235 months in prison, four years supervised release following his imprisonment, and fined $300.
Boulb had previously pleaded guilty to a three count federal indictment. Count 1 charged that from November, 2009, until August 7, 2012, Boulb conspired to manufacture more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Count 2 charged that from on or about November 20, 2009, to July 15, 2012, Boulb knowingly and intentionally possessed pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine. Count 3 charged that on August 7, 2012, Boulb knowingly and intentionally possessed equipment, chemicals, products, or materials, knowing the items would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
The investigation was conducted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.
Olney Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Christopher P. Stout, 31, of Olney, IL, was sentenced to federal prison on drug charges, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Stout was sentenced to 120 months in prison, six years supervised release following his imprisonment, and fined $200.
Stout had previously pleaded guilty to a two count federal indictment. Count 1 charged that from 2010, until January 26, 2012, in Richland and Clay Counties, Stout conspired with others to manufacture methamphetamine. Count 2 charged that from June, 2010, to May 17, 2012, in Richland County, Stout possessed pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that the pseudoephedrine would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
The investigation was conducted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.
Belleville Martial Arts Instructor Charged with Sexual Exploitation of A MinorRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that Christopher M. Horton, 20, a Belleville martial arts instructor who lives in Highland, Illinois, was charged in United States District Court (federal), in a two-count Criminal Complaint, with Sexual Exploitation of a Child. In making this announcement, United States Attorney Wigginton noted that the federal charges were brought as part of a joint investigation and prosecution undertaken by his office, as well as the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. The alleged federal violations took place between on or about May 1, 2012, and February 9, 2013, in Madison and St. Clair Counties. After a federal detention hearing held today, the Court ordered that Horton be held without bond pending trial. Charges and bonds in both St. Clair and Madison Counties have also been filed.
“The facts alleged in the criminal complaint are shocking and horrific. I will use all of my resources to ensure that these charges are proven beyond a reasonable doubt so that this person is placed where he can never prey upon our children again,” said United States Attorney Wigginton.
US Attorney Wigginton’s comments were echoed by Saint Clair County State’s Attorney Brendan Kelly, who said, “These alleged crimes against our children demand the swift and severe action taken by the US Attorney, my office, and my counterpart in Madison County.”
Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Gibbons noted: “I want to thank everyone who played a role in the investigation and charging of the defendant. By working together, we were able to uncover the vile acts committed by this man. These types of investigations are always heartbreaking and we will do everything we can to ensure that this predator is punished and removed from society and our victims get the justice they deserve.”
The offenses charged in the federal complaint allege that, between on or about May 1, 2012, and February 9, 2012, Horton video recorded himself engaged in sexual activity with two minors.
A federal trial date has not yet been set. If convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Horton faces a term of imprisonment of not less than fifteen (15) years but not more than 30 years of imprisonment on each count, a fine up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not less than five years, up to, and including, a lifetime of supervision once he is released.
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, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Metro East Cyber Crimes and Analysis Task Force, the Highland, Illinois Police Department and the Belleville, Illinois Police Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.
East St. Louis Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
James T. Carter, 41, of East Saint Louis, IL, was sentenced on February 14, 2013, in Federal District Court, in East St. Louis, on one count of 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.
Carter was sentenced to 60 months in prison, three years supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $200 fine. Carter also agreed to the forfeiture of the firearm. Carter pled guilty on November 8, 2012. The charges stem from a July 12, 2012, incident when two off-duty police officers witnessed a vehicle driven by Carter colliding with another vehicle, in front of a club in Alorton, Illinois. After exiting the vehicle, Carter approached the front passenger side door of the second vehicle occupied by two individuals with a gun in his hand. The officers exited their vehicle to stop Carter, instructing him to lie on the ground. Carter complied and dropped the gun. The officers contained Carter until the local police arrived.
Prior to July 12, 2012, Carter had been convicted of a crime that was punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than one year.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Alorton, IL, Police Department.
This case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak for prosecution.
Drug Dealer / Program Thief Faces 12 1/2 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced that on February 14, 2013, Kerry L. Smith, 41, of Carbondale, Illinois, was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton, Illinois. Smith, who had previously pled guilty to a five-count indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute marihuana, engaging in an unlawful monetary transaction, concealment of material information from the Social Security Administration, and making a false statement (2 counts), was sentenced to 150 months in prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $500 assessment. Smith was also ordered to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration and the Illinois Department of Human Services in the amount of $41,802.00. Additionally, the district court ordered Smith to pay a monetary forfeiture judgment in the amount of $790,020.00. Smith was also ordered to forfeit eight Carbondale residences, two vehicles, $10,576.03 cash, and other personal property to the United States.
“As if drug dealing, that is poisoning our citizens, was not enough, Smith stole from them, as well. This harsh but fair sentence should underscore the notion that such crimes will only result in tough federal prosecutions on my watch,” said United States Attorney Wigginton.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that, from at least May, 2001, through February, 2007, Smith was involved with others in the distribution of marihuana in the Jackson County area. Smith acquired certain properties and assets as a result of the marihuana distribution. On December 6, 2007, Smith used over $12,000 in marihuana proceeds to purchase a 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. During this time, Smith also concealed certain information from the Social Security Administration and the United States Department of Agriculture, including information that Smith was working and was acquiring real estate and other assets. This concealment allowed Smith to fraudulently collect Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and food stamps.
The investigation was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation and was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Division, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General, Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services - Office of Inspector General, Murphysboro Police Department, United States Marshals Service, Illinois Department of Corrections - Southern Region Intel Unit, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Union County Sheriff’s Office, Southern Illinois Enforcement Group, and Carbondale Police Department also participated in the investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda A. Robertson and H. Michael Thompson.
Doctor Enters Guilty Plea in Obstruction CaseRead the Press Release
Dr. Mahmoud Yassin, 60, of Robinson, IL, pled guilty in federal district court for obstructing a criminal health care fraud investigator, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Dr. Yassin will be sentenced for this felony offense on May 30, 2013, in Benton, Illinois, at which time he may be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, a special assessment of $100, and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release following prison.
Court proceedings revealed that the felony obstruction occurred on March 2, 2012, when a FBI agent, having served a subpoena for patient records on Dr. Yassin, was given a patient progress note that had been altered by the doctor to show an in-office examination previously claimed to an insurance carrier, but which had not taken place.
The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Illinois State Police Medicaid Fraud Control Bureau. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Michael Quinley.
Williamson County Woman Sentenced on Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
On February 13, 2013, a Williamson County resident was sentenced in United States District Court in Benton on a one-count indictment charging Possession of a Listed Chemical Knowing it was Going to be Used to Manufacture a Controlled Substance, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois.
Amber R. Stanton, 38, of Hurst, was sentenced to 87 months in prison, to be followed by 2 years of supervised release, and fined $300. Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings established that Stanton had purchased over 120 grams of pseudoephedrine knowing that the pseudoephedrine was going to be used to manufacture methamphetamine. The offense occurred between 2010 and January 2012, in Williamson, Jackson and Franklin Counties.
The investigation was conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Two Jackson County Men Charged in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Two Jackson County, IL, residents were indicted on February 5, 2013, in an indictment, charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today.
On February 7, 2013, Brian W. Davis, 30, of Desoto, was arraigned in United States District Court in Benton on an indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. The indictment alleged that the offense occurred between June, 2012, and November 1, 2012, in Jackson and Union Counties. Davis was ordered held without bond pending a February 12, 2013, detention hearing. Anthony R. Renth, 45, of Murphysboro, is scheduled to make his initial appearance on the indictment on February 25, 2013.
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, Davis and Renth face up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Murphysboro Police Department and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Johnston City Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
On February 8, 2013, Steven A. Smith, 33, of Johnston City, IL, pled guilty in United States District Court in Benton to a one-count indictment which charged conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
The offense occurred between 2010 and January, 2012, in Williamson, Jackson, and Franklin Counties. Evidence at the plea hearing established that Smith conspired with others in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Smith was involved in stealing anhydrous ammonia and obtaining pseudoephedrine for use during methamphetamine “cooks.” Smith stipulated that he was responsible for the manufacture of between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Sentencing was set for May 23, 2013. At that time, Smith faces from 20 years to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $20,000,000 and 10 years’ supervised release. Co-defendants Christopher D. Norris and Robert D. Starcher have previously been sentenced to prison terms of 216 months and 100 months, respectively, for their role in the methamphetamine conspiracy. Two other co-defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Murphysboro Police Department, Marion Police Department, Illinois State Police, Mt. Vernon Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Foreign National Sentenced for Controlled Substances and Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
Abel Camacho-Ortega was sentenced in U.S. District Court in East St. Louis on February 11, 2013, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Camacho-Ortega, 42, a citizen of Mexico who most recently resided in Granite City, Illinois, was sentenced to eighty-seven (87) months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also order to pay a fine of $300 and a special assessment of $210. In addition, the Court entered a Judicial Order of Removal, which requires Camacho-Ortega to be deported from the United States following the service of his term of imprisonment. Camacho-Ortega had previously pled guilty on October 18, 2012, to Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine (Count 1); Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Count 2); and Illegal Entry into the United States Without Inspection (Count 3).
According to the Stipulation of Facts filed with the Court at the time of his plea of guilty, Camacho-Ortega was stopped by the Granite City Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on August 20, 2012, after his vehicle was observed traveling 70 miles per hour in a 45 miles per hour construction zone. After a consensual search of the vehicle, officers located packages containing 598 grams of cocaine and 449.7 grams of actual methamphetamine. Camacho-Ortega also admitted that he was present in the United States illegally.
Evidence in support of the indictment 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. Participating agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI), the Granite City Police Department, and the Fairview Heights Police Department. This case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Randy G. Massey for prosecution.
Washington Park Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Joshua Hamilton, 28, from Washington Park, IL, was sentenced on February 8, 2013, in District Court in East St. Louis, IL, on one count of 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.
Hamilton was sentenced to 27 months in prison, three years of supervised release, fined $250 and ordered to pay $100 special assessment. Hamilton, who previously pled guilty, admitted on November 29, 2011, that a firearm recovered from a law enforcement operation involving a vehicle search in which he was a passenger belonged to him. Prior to November 29, 2011, Hamilton had been convicted of a crime that was punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than one year.
The investigation was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Illinois State Police. The case resulted from the efforts of the WAVE (Working Against Violent Elements) Task Force, which focuses its efforts on combating violent crime in East St. Louis, Washington Park, and surrounding communities. The WAVE Task Force receives financial support through the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, a nationwide federal program which endeavors to address gun-related violence.
This was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew H. Brooks.
Ten Persons Face Federal Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Benton, Illinois, has charged 10 individuals with methamphetamine related offenses, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Those charged with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine are: Clarence “Buster” Ridlin, 50, Creal Springs., Illinois, Rick D. Keebler, 44, Bush, Illinois, Zachary A. Willard, 28, West Frankfort, Illinois, Lexie L. Mutchek, 26, West Frankfort, Illinois, Daniel W. Reinbold, 33, Royalton, Illinois, John F. Richardson, 52, Johnston City, Illinois, Lowell L. Skelton, 39, Carbondale, Illinois, Brittany N. Stroud, 25, Marion, Illinois, and Brandi L. Dunfee, 29, West Frankfort, Illinois. Christina L. Meeks, 27, Willisville, Illinois, was charged separately with purchasing pseudoephedrine for use in methamphetamine manufacturing. Those individuals charged with conspiracy face a minimum of 10 years imprisonment up to life, a $10 million fine, and at least 5 years supervised release. Meeks faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to five 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 has thus far resulted in the indictment of 53 individuals for methamphetamine related activities in Williamson, Franklin, and Jackson Counties. The still ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Illinois State Police, Southern Illinois Drug Task Force along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Benton Police Department, Royalton Police Department, West City Police Department, Williamson County State’s Attorney’s Office, Franklin County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Jackson County State’s Attorney’s Office.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tom Leggans.
Mexican National Sentenced on Heroin, Immigration ChargesRead the Press Release
Ever Astorga-Ramirez, 34, who most recently resided in Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced on February 8, 2013, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Astorga-Ramirez had previously entered pleas of guilty on November 2, 2012, to Possession With the Intent to Distribute Heroin (Count 1) and Illegal Re-Entry Into the United States Following Deportation (Count 2). Astorga-Ramirez was sentenced to seventy (70) months imprisonment, followed by two years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $200. In addition, the Court entered an Order of Removal, which requires that Astorga-Ramirez be deported from the United States following the service of his term of imprisonment.
According to public documents filed with the Court, Astorga-Ramirez was arrested by the Illinois State Police on September 9, 2012, following a traffic stop on Interstate 55/70 in Madison County, Illinois. Following the traffic stop, approximately 1.4 kilograms of heroin was located in a hidden compartment within the center console of the vehicle. The Defendant had previously been deported from the United States in November 2010, through Laredo, Texas.
Evidence in support of the complaint was obtained in an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Illinois State Police, and the Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI). This case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Randy G. Massey for prosecution.
Gallatin County Woman Charged with Methamphetamine Related OffenseRead the Press Release
Jeannette L. Margenthaler, 41, of Equality, Illinois, was arraigned in United States District Court in Benton on an indictment charging her with possessing pseudoephedrine with the intent that it be used to manufacture methamphetamine, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The indictment, returned by a Federal Grand Jury on February 5th, alleged that the offense occurred on January 8, 2013.
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, Margenthaler faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release to follow her incarceration.
Margenthaler was ordered held without bond and was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal to await further proceedings.
The case was investigated by the Carmi office of the Southern Illinois Drug Task Force with the assistance of the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
Four Richland County Residents Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
Four Richland County residents were charged in separate indictments returned by a Federal Grand Jury sitting in Benton, Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Timothy L. Garrard
Timothy L. Garrard, 32, of Olney, Illinois, was charged in a three count indictment. Count 1 charges that from on or about October 2011, until on or about November 2012, Garrard conspired to manufacture methamphetamine. Count 2 charges that from October 25, 2011, to October 29, 2012, Garrard possessed pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that the pseudoephedrine would be used to manufacture methamphetamine. Count 3 charges that on November 4, 2012, Garrard possessed with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing Hydrocodone.
On Count 1, Garrard faces penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. On Count 2, Garrard faces penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to four years of supervised release. On Count 3, Garrard faces penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $500,000 fine, and at least two years of supervised release.
Brian Kelly Jenner
Brian Kelly Jenner, 50, of Olney, Illinois, was charged in a two count indictment. Count 1 charges that from on or about April 2010, to on or about September 2012, Jenner conspired to manufacture more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Count 2 charges that from April 23, 2010, to September 13, 2012, Jenner possessed pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that the pseudoephedrine would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
On Count 1, Jenner faces penalties of 5-40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release. On Count 2, Jenner faces penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to four years of supervised release.
Carol R. Wille
Carol R. Wille, 44, of Noble, Illinois, was charged in a one count indictment. Count 1 charges that from January 10, 2010, to June 1, 2012, Wille possessed pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that the pseudoephedrine would be used to manufacture methamphetamine. Wille faces penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to four years of supervised release.
Jeffrey T. Wimberly
Jeffrey T. Wimberly, 45, of Olney, Illinois, was charged in a one count indictment. Count 1 charges that from February 2011, to on or about October 2012, Wimberly conspired to manufacture more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Wimberly faces penalties of 5-40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release.
With respect to all four defendants, 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 these cases was conducted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, the Southeastern Illinois Drug Task Force, the Richland County States Attorney’s Office, and the Clay County States Attorney’s Office.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney George A. Norwood.
Federal Drug Indictment FiledRead the Press Release
Six Southern Illinois residents made their initial appearance in federal court on February 7, 2013, on a one-count second superseding indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, in United States District Court in Benton announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois.
Virgil Easton, a/k/a “Pee Wee,” 35, Joshua B. Kennedy, 22, Rebecca L. Fortner, 31, Samantha L. Schneider, 29, all of Cutler, Leila M. Jaimet, 45, of Campbell Hill, and Phillip D. Jaimet, 25, of Percy were charged in a one-count second superseding indictment charging conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. The offense occurred between November, 2011, and January, 2013, in Perry, Jackson, and Randolph Counties. The offense carries a penalty of up to 20 years’ imprisonment, 3 years’ supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000. All co-defendants are being held without bond pending their detention hearing which will be held on February 12, 2013. Previously, eight co-defendants have previously appeared in federal court on this charge.
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 ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Sheriff’s Office Percy Police Department, Murphysboro Police Department, Sparta Police Department, Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The United States Marshals Service has also assisted during the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson.
Alton Women Sentenced for Their Roles in Fraudulent Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
Angenita M. Smith, 39, of Alton, IL, was sentenced to 24 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release, and Tammy M. Smith, 37, of Alton, IL, was sentenced to 26 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. The sentencings occurred in federal district court.
A. Smith and T. Smith were indicted along with six other individuals in July, 2012. They were charged with participating in a Conspiracy to Impede, Impair, Obstruct and Defeat the Lawful Functions of the IRS in the Ascertainment, Computation, Assessment, and Collection of Federal Income Taxes; Filing a False Federal Income Tax Return and Making False Statements to the IRS Criminal Investigation agents. Each was ordered to pay restitution totaling $54,317.95. Tammy Smith was immediately taken into custody to begin serving her sentence.
The convictions stem from the Smiths’ conduct for falsely preparing and providing Forms W-2 to friends and relatives for the purpose of enabling them to file false federal income tax returns and receive false federal tax refunds. The W-2's were falsified in representing that certain individuals were employees of Masters Touch Cleaning Services, Inc., a Missouri corporation as well as the W-2's also falsely represented wages paid, falsely represented federal income taxes withheld, falsely represented Social Security taxes withheld, and falsely represented Medicare taxes withheld. When questioned, both Smiths lied to federal investigators, resulting in an increase in their prison sentences.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations, and was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith.
If you are aware of criminal tax fraud, you are urged to call the I.R.S. Criminal Investigations at (618) 622-2160 or to send the information to the Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93888.
Pay to Play: Former Madison County Treasurer Guilty of Structuring Property Tax Sales to Reward Campaign ContributorsRead the Press Release
The former treasurer of Madison County, Illinois, pled guilty in US District Court on February 5, 2013, to violating the Sherman Antitrust Act, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Fred Bathon, 58, was convicted of structuring Madison County property tax sales in a way that increased prices and rewarded campaign contributors.
The charges allege that at Illinois tax lien auctions, investors bid to purchase tax lien certificates issued against delinquent tax payers. Investors are supposed to compete to purchase these tax liens by bidding on the interest rate the property owner will be required to pay prior to redeeming the tax lien filed on the owner's property. The bid opens at no more than the statutory maximum of 18% and through a competitive bidding process can be driven as low as 0 percent. The bidder offering the least penalty percentage rate, i.e., the bidder who is willing to allow the owner to redeem his property for the smallest penalty, is allowed to purchase the tax lien. As such, competitive bidding benefits financially distressed homeowners by reducing the amount of money that they have to pay to save their home from foreclosure; however, that same system reduces the profit made by tax buyers. Tax buyers prefer to receive high interest rates, which correspond to higher profits.
It was revealed in Court today that for the tax sales conducted in 2005-2008, Bathon structured the tax sales in a way that eliminated competitive bidding and allowed the tax buyers to engage in price fixing by only bidding the statutory maximum interest rate of 18%. In addition to awarding properties at non-competitive interest rates, Bathon also used a seating chart to ensure that his largest campaign contributors were recognized by the auctioneer as the winning bidder.
By 2007 and 2008, the bid rigging and price fixing was so pervasive that distressed homeowners were charged the statutory maximum interest rate on nearly every property tax lien sold. During the tax auction occurring November 14-15, 2007, 2,549 out of 2,574 property tax liens were awarded to bidders for the statutory maximum interest rate of 18%, which represented 99.03% of the property tax liens auctioned. During the tax auction occurring November 13-14, 2008, 2,290 out of 2,364 property tax liens were awarded to bidders for the statutory maximum interest rate of 18%, which represented 96.86% of the property tax liens auctioned.
US Attorney Wigginton said, “This crime exploited financially-distressed homeowners who were at risk of losing their homes for the financial gain of political contributors. This type of pay-to-play politics is intolerable and will be aggressively prosecuted. It is time that those involved in politics learn that public office is a public trust that should never be manipulated to reward friends and supporters. I want to make it clear that not only is this particular investigation far from finished, but that I will continue to investigate violators wherever they are found. Note that today’s charge is a charge of conspiracy. By its very nature, conspiracy involves more than one person.”
A violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine. The maximum fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims if either amount is greater than the statutory maximum. However, the United States Sentencing Guidelines must be applied to the case and considered by the Court during sentencing. Sentencing has been scheduled for May 17, 2013.
Under Illinois law, Bathon will also forfeit his entire public pension as a result of his conviction. The Illinois Pension Code provides that “[n]one of the benefits herein provided for shall be paid to any person who is convicted of any felony relating to or arising out of or in connection with his or her service as a member.” This provision of Illinois law is oftentimes referred to as the “Ryan Rule,” following the Illinois Supreme Court’s decision in Ryan v. Bd. of Trustees of Gen. Assembly Ret. Sys., 236 Ill. 2d 315, 924 N.E.2d 970 (2010), which determined former Governor George Ryan forfeited all of his public pension benefits following his conviction on federal corruption charges. The state pension forfeiture provision reaches all public pension benefits, including those earned while serving in public positions with no connection or nexus to the federal conviction.
The investigation was conducted through the Metro East Public Corruption Task Force by agents from the Internal Revenue Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Steven D. Weinhoeft and Norman R. Smith.
Mother and Son Indicted on Heroin and Drug House ChargesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today that Deborah A. Perkins and Douglas W. Oliver have been indicted by a grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, and Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises. The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of the residence at 20 Kassing Drive in Fairview Heights, IL, which Perkins owns.
An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge and is entitled to a fair trial at which the Government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Wigginton stated, “My Office is determined to continue its anti-heroin initiative with every legal means we have. That includes, when appropriate, seeking the forfeiture of real property which has been used to facilitate heroin trafficking.”
Perkins, 65, and her son, Oliver, 46, were arrested on January 21, 2013, following the filing of a criminal complaint. After a bond hearing on January 25, 2013, Perkins and Oliver were ordered detained (held without bond) pending trial. A trial date has not yet been set.
According to the indictment filed on February 5, 2013, Perkins and Oliver are alleged to have conspired to distribute heroin between 2010, and 2013. The indictment alleges that the two distributed “in excess of one kilogram of heroin” during that time period. (A “kilogram” is equal to 2.2 pounds.) The indictment further alleges that Perkins and Oliver possessed heroin for distribution on January 21, 2013, the day of their arrest. Finally, the indictment alleges that Perkins and Oliver maintained a drug house at 20 Kassing Drive, Fairview Heights, for the purpose of distributing and using heroin between 2004, and 2013.
Perkins and Oliver also face pending state charges for Concealment of a Death. Those charges involve the death of Jessica M. Williams in the spring of 2012. Police discovered Williams’ body in Washington Park, IL several weeks after her death.
The investigation which resulted in the arrest and indictment of Perkins and Oliver was conducted by Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Fairview Heights, IL Police Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison for trial.
Freeburg Man Sentenced for Enticement of A Minor and Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
A Freeburg man, Clayton R. Collins, 35, plead guilty and was sentenced in federal district court to 25 years in prison on February 4, 2013, on a five-count indictment charging him with Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity, Transportation of Child Pornography, Receipt of Child Pornography, Possession of Child Pornography, and Receipt of Obscene Matter, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Following his prison sentence, Collins will be on federal supervised release for the remainder of his life and will also be required to register as a sex offender. Collins has been in custody since his arrest on June 15, 2012.
A factual stipulation filed with the Court revealed that in September, 2011, Collins began communicating with a 13-year-old female through an Internet social networking website. Collins used this website and subsequent text messages to induce the 13-year-old female to engage in sexual intercourse. Collins had sexual intercourse with the minor on four separate occasions between September 28, 2011 and October 16, 2011. During a forensic examination of Collins’ computer, numerous images containing child pornography were recovered. These images included 101 images of another identified 13-year-old female engaged in sexually explicit conduct whom Collins had also met through a social networking website. These images had been transported and received through Collins’ cellular phone and computer. Additional files recovered from Collins’ computer included numerous video and image files containing depictions of bestiality.
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 United States Secret Service Southern Illinois Cyber-Crime Unit and the Illinois State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ali Summers.