Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Goshen Man Sentenced to 97 Months in Prison and Ordered to Pay $2,313,873.28 in RestitutionRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Earl D. Miller, 44 years old, of Goshen, Indiana, was sentenced today by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio on guilty verdicts returned by a federal jury after a five-day jury trial in May 2022, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
On May 13, 2022, Miller was found guilty by the federal trial jury of five counts of wire fraud and one count of securities fraud. That same jury acquitted Miller of one count of wire fraud and one count of bankruptcy fraud.Miller was sentenced to 97 months in prison, 1 year of supervised release and ordered to pay $2,313,873.28 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, Miller became the sole owner of “5 Star”, a real estate investment firm, in July of 2014. Through 5 Star and it its numerous related entities, Miller obtained funds from multiple investors’ by fraudulently telling them he would invest their funds in certain real estate investments but then actually using their funds in other ways, such as paying interest to other investors, investing in non-disclosed entities, paying for a spiritual advisor and a pontoon boat. From July of 2014 to January of 2016, Miller made over $4.5 million worth of payments from 5 Star accounts to entities not disclosed or approved by investors. Approximately 80% of investors in 5 Star were Amish or Mennonite.
On January 25, 2016, Miller filed petitions for bankruptcy relief on behalf of eleven 5 Star related business entities. In these bankruptcy proceedings, the United States Trustee appointed a chapter 11 trustee to administer the cases, and the chapter 11 trustee was able to recover some improper payments Miller had made and, on July 2, 2018, negotiate an agreement with Miller to pay $600,000 to the bankruptcy estates. As of April 2021, he had only paid approximately $36,000.00 of the agreed amount to the bankruptcy estates.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “The essence of this defendant’s crime is that he convinced people to invest in businesses by telling them a lie: that their money would be invested one way, while he used those funds in other ways. Mr. Miller’s crimes are particularly offensive because trial evidence showed that he perpetrated his fraud against Amish and Mennonite community members. This case shows that my office will vigorously prosecute affinity frauds.”
“Today’s sentencing should serve as a strong reminder that there are consequences for this illegal behavior and those who choose fraud will be held accountable,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI and our partners will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those engaging in criminal behavior.”
“Today’s sentence shows that abusive and fraudulent conduct will not be tolerated, and the bankruptcy system and its integrity will be protected through the commitment of U.S. Attorney Johnson and our law enforcement partners,” said Nancy J. Gargula, the United States Trustee for Indiana and the Central and Southern District of Illinois (Region 10). The United States Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. Region 10 is headquartered in Indianapolis with additional office in South Bend, IN and Peoria, IL.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Northern Indiana Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by Region 10 U.S. Trustee Nancy J. Gargula. The U.S. Security Exchange Commission along with the Fairfax County Virginia and Salinas California Police Departments also assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John M. Maciejczyk and Jerome W. McKeever
Sin City Deciples Members Convicted of Racketeering and Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Kenneth Christopher McGhee a/k/a “Sonny” and “Angel,” age 74, of Merrillville, Indiana, Richard White a/k/a “Ignorant Bastard,” age 56, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Brandon Romand Parks a/k/a “Baywatch,” age 45, of Chicago, Illinois, and Herman Troy Jefferson a/k/a “G-Rilla,” age 51, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, were each found guilty of various felony charges following an eighteen-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury found McGhee and Jefferson guilty of the racketeering conspiracy and the drug conspiracy and additionally found McGhee guilty of possessing a firearm while being an unlawful user of controlled substances. The jury further found White and Parks guilty of the racketeering conspiracy.
According to the Second Superseding Indictment, the Sin City Deciples, originally formed in 1967 in Gary, Indiana, is a motorcycle organization in which its members and associates engaged in acts of violence, extortion, and narcotics distribution in the Northern District of Indiana and elsewhere.
The agencies involved in the Sin City Deciples prosecution are: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the East Chicago Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Gary Police Department, the Griffith Police Department, the Hammond Police Department, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area officers and agents, the Merrillville Police Department, the Munster Police Department, and the Schererville Police Department. The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of Arkansas, Northern District of Illinois, Southern District of Indiana, Western District of Kentucky, and Western District of Pennsylvania also provided assistance.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David J. Nozick, Michael J. Toth, and Kimberly L. Schultz.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 102 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Damone McFerren, 28 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
McFerren was sentenced to 102 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in October 2022, following a verbal argument in a South Bend residence, McFerren fired three gunshots at one of the persons inside the house. Officers who responded to the scene were able to recover the firearm McFerren attempted to hide in a discarded tire in the alley he ran to after leaving the residence. At the time of the offense, McFerren was on federal supervised release for a felony drug conviction, and he had multiple prior felony convictions, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Settlement with Purdue University for False Claims in Research Grant Applications to Federal AgenciesRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson and Purdue University announced a pre-suit settlement resolving allegations that an associate professor of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology in Purdue’s College of Veterinary Medicine falsified documentation provided to the National Institutes of Health and Department of the Army. The university will pay the government $737,391, to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act, which includes restitution and punitive damages.
Between February 2014 and June 2020, Dr. Alice C. Chang (formerly named Chun-Ju Chang) of West Lafayette, Indiana, formerly an Associate Professor of Basic Medical Sciences at Purdue University, falsified and fabricated data in two (2) published papers and in multiple (17) grant applications submitted to the National Institutes of Health and Department of the Army.
When the university received evidence from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services calling into question the authenticity of research that Dr. Chang had included in submissions to federal agencies, Purdue University cooperated and thoroughly investigated the alleged misconduct. Purdue, based on its findings, agreed with the federal government that the funding was not deserved and should be returned.
“Academic integrity is the cornerstone of scientific research, and we take our commitment to protect U.S.-funded research grants seriously,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “Failure to be truthful on an application for U.S.-funded grants is a violation of the law and my office will continue to make it a priority to pursue cases to recover grant funds awarded through fraud.”
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Research Integrity has also entered into a Voluntary Exclusion Agreement with Dr. Chang banning her from any contracting or subcontracting with any agency of the United States for ten years. As part of this agreement, she will also request that her published papers be corrected.
The settlement was reached as a result of an investigation by United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana with assistance from the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Dirk D. De Lor.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Gregory Johnson, 47 years old, of Franklin, Ohio, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady on his conviction for Attempted Child Exploitation following a two-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Defendant Johnson was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in April 2020, Johnson engaged in sexually explicit online conversations with an undercover officer who Johnson believed to be sexually active with a minor. Over the course of several online conversations, Johnson made sexual comments about the minor and expressed an interest in watching a livestream of the minor engaged in sexual activity with the undercover officer. Johnson attempted to commit this crime by providing the undercover officer with graphic detail about exactly what he wanted to see.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lesley J. Miller Lowery and Justin Sheridan.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Former Gary, Indiana, Police Officer Sentenced for Using Excessive Force in Violation of Federal Civil Rights LawsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A former officer with the Gary, Indiana, Police Department (GPD), was sentenced today to one year and a day in prison, and one year of supervised release after pleading guilty to violating the civil rights of an arrestee. Terry Peck, 48, previously admitted to having used unreasonable force during the arrest of the victim, a man the defendant had stopped for an alleged traffic infraction.
“All people in our country have a right to be free from excessive force by police officers,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The sentencing of this defendant makes clear that officers cannot violate people’s civil rights with impunity. The Justice Department will continue to aggressively prosecute any law enforcement officer who willfully violates the civil rights of the people they are sworn to serve and protect.”
“When interacting with members of the public, even when those public members may have engaged in criminal activity, law enforcement officers are under an obligation to conduct themselves within the limits of the Constitution,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “This successful prosecution demonstrates how justice can prevail when victims and witnesses bravely report criminal misconduct by those who took an oath to serve and protect.”
“This sentence should send a clear message the FBI won’t tolerate the abuse of power of those who took an oath to serve and protect,” said Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “The action of this officer not only violated the victim’s civil rights but damaged the community’s trust in law enforcement. When there is excessive use of force that rises to a federal crime, the FBI will investigate, and those individuals will be held accountable.”
According to the plea agreement, Peck admitted that, on March 19, 2019, while on duty and acting as an officer for GPD, he conducted a traffic stop and placed the driver under arrest. While the driver was handcuffed and not posing a threat to Peck or anyone around him, Peck slammed the driver’s face and head against a police vehicle, breaking the man’s tooth and causing him bodily injury.
The Merrillville Resident Agency of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Anita Channapati of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas McGrath and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Chang for the Northern District of Indiana prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office encourages anyone who may have been a victim of a civil rights or hate crime violation to contact the FBI at (219) 769-3719 or submit a tip to [email protected].
Former Gary, Indiana, Police Officer Sentenced for Using Excessive Force in Violation of Federal Civil Rights LawsRead the Press Release
A former officer with the Gary, Indiana, Police Department (GPD) was sentenced today to one year and a day in prison and one year of supervised release for violating the civil rights of an arrestee.
Terry Peck, 48, previously pleaded guilty to having used unreasonable force during the arrest of the victim, a man the defendant had stopped for an alleged traffic infraction.
“All people in our country have a right to be free from excessive force by police officers,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The sentencing of this defendant makes clear that officers cannot violate people’s civil rights with impunity. The Justice Department will continue to aggressively prosecute any law enforcement officer who willfully violates the civil rights of the people they are sworn to serve and protect.”
“When interacting with members of the public, even when those public members may have engaged in criminal activity, law enforcement officers are under an obligation to conduct themselves within the limits of the Constitution,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “This successful prosecution demonstrates how justice can prevail when victims and witnesses bravely report criminal misconduct by those who took an oath to serve and protect.”
“When a police officer uses excessive force, it erodes the trust between law enforcement and the community they are sworn to protect,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI and our partners will work to ensure law enforcement officers who use unreasonable force are held accountable under the law.”
According to the plea agreement, Peck admitted that, on March 19, 2019, while on duty and acting as an officer for GPD, he conducted a traffic stop and placed the driver under arrest. While the driver was handcuffed and not posing a threat to Peck or anyone around him, Peck slammed the driver’s face and head against a police vehicle, breaking the man’s tooth and causing him bodily injury.
The FBI Indianapolis Field Office, Merrillville Resident Agency investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Anita Channapati of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas McGrath and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Chang for the Northern District of Indiana prosecuted the case.
Anyone who may have been a victim of a civil rights or hate crime violation should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip to [email protected].
Elkhart Man Convicted of Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Nathan Keosackdy, 24 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Keosackdy is scheduled for sentencing on March 14, 2024. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Lydia T. Lucius.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Gary Man Sentenced to 51 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Larry D. Carter III, 30 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to possessing an unregistered machinegun, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Carter was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on October 18, 2022, law enforcement responded to a call of a domestic battery and determined Carter had an outstanding arrest warrant. From Carter’s possession, law enforcement recovered a loaded semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device attached to it. The machinegun conversion device made the pistol capable of firing multiple shots with a single pull of the trigger. The machinegun was not registered to him in the National Firearm Registration and Transfer record, making his possession of the firearm illegal. Additionally, Carter’s criminal history revealed he had three felony convictions, including a 2018 conviction for trafficking in stolen weapons, and as such, he was prohibited from possessing the firearm.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eamonn P. Sheehan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Hamilton Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE–David L. Westfall, 44 years old, of Angola and Hamilton, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady upon his plea of guilty to illegally possessing an unregistered sawed-off shotgun and for possession of a firearm by a felon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Westfall was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on February 19, 2023, officers responded to a rural area east of New Haven, Indiana, regarding a suspicious occupied vehicle. When Officers arrived, they located Westfall who had active warrants for his arrest. They attempted to detain Westfall, but he retreated to his vehicle, indicating he had a firearm. Westfall then fired a shotgun, shattering the driver’s window of his truck. Officers called the Allen County SWAT team for assistance, and the officers eventually convinced Westfall to surrender after a standoff of at least 10 hours.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the New Haven Police Department, the Woodburn Police Department, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department Special Weapons and Tactics Team, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Indiana U.S. Attorney’s Offices Announce $6 Million in Department of Justice Funding for Hoosier Public Safety ProgramsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Today, the U.S. Department of Justice announced several new commitments as part of its Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime. Instituted by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in May 2021, the strategy focuses on harnessing federal resources, intelligence, and expertise as a force-multiplier with state and local law enforcement.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco and Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta highlighted the more than $334 million in critical grant funding to law enforcement agencies and stakeholders nationwide, awarded today by the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office).
The COPS grants announced today include funding to help law enforcement agencies hire over 1,730 new law enforcement officers across the country while also providing critical funding to support school safety and continue to advance community policing nationwide.
Through this funding, U.S. Attorney’s Offices for both the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana are pleased to announce that the Department’s COPS Office awarded a total of $6,689,417.00 to combat violent crime and maintain public safety in the state. Specific recipients and amounts are as follow:
Award
Recipient
Amount
COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program
Indiana State Police
$2,000,000
COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
City of Hobart
$500,000
COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
Lake Station Community Schools
$375,000
COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
Logansport Community Schools
$478,843
COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
New Castle Community Schools
$358,132
COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
Valparaiso Community Schools
$390,000
COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
Vincennes Police Department
$337,422
COPS Hiring Program
City of Frankfort
$250,000
COPS Hiring Program
Porter County
$125,000
COPS Hiring Program
Town of Roseland
$125,000
COPS Hiring Program
Tippecanoe County
$1,250,000
COPS Hiring Program
Vincennes Police Department
$500,0000
Lastly, the Deputy Attorney General and Associate Attorney General announced that the Justice Department will host a Violent Crime Reduction Summit December 11-13, in Indianapolis. The summit, organized by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs and Bureau of Justice Assistance will bring together 1,500 local and federal partners from across the country, including community and law enforcement representatives from Project Safe Neighborhoods and the more than 50 jurisdictions that have participated in the National Public Safety Partnership.
“We are excited to announce this important Justice Department funding to help make our communities safer, and to host the Department’s 2023 Violent Crime Reduction Summit right here in Indianapolis,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I welcome the many dedicated community and law enforcement leaders from across the country to our wonderful city as we work together to reduce violent crime. The work done at this summit will help make our communities safer by sharing interventions and strategies to prevent violence and hold violent criminals accountable.”
“These grants will help departments, in my District and throughout the State, address a myriad of issues that undermine public safety, such as violence in schools, illicit methamphetamine activities, and a shortage of law enforcement officers.” Said Clifford D. Johnson, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. “These grants also exhibit yet another way the Department of Justice provides support to our public safety partners.”
“Law enforcement officers across the country are showing up every day to protect their communities in the face of unprecedented challenges,” said U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “These grants, which support the hiring of more than 1,700 new officers and make critical investments in school safety and crisis intervention efforts, will help provide local law enforcement agencies with the resources they need to keep their communities safe, support officers, and build public trust.”
Complete lists of all program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found at cops.doj.gov/grants.
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Three Convicted by Jury of Housing Authority Kickback ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Tonya Robinson, 60 years old, Albert Smith, 47 years old, and Douglas Donley, 42 years old, were each found guilty of various federal felony charges following an eight-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury found Robinson, Smith, and Donley guilty of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud. Donley was also found guilty of a single count of bank fraud. Robinson and Smith were found guilty of 6 counts of bank fraud, one count of wire fraud along with a single count of federal program theft. Smith was also found guilty of an additional wire fraud count. Three counts were dismissed against Donley during the trial and he was acquitted of four counts while Robinson was acquitted of one count.
Robinson, Smith, and Donley are all scheduled for sentencing on February 29, 2024. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander, Joel Gabrielse, and Jerome W. McKeever.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 63 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE–Lydell E. Trainor Jr., 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady upon his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Trainor was sentenced to 63 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on or about April 29, 2022, Trainor traveled to his in-laws’ residence in the early morning hours while possessing a loaded 9mm firearm. During an argument, Trainor pointed the firearm which he later hid underneath a vehicle. Based on his prior felony convictions for battery and possession of cocaine, Trainor was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin Sheridan and former Assistant United States Attorney Brent Ecenbarger.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney’s Offices for Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana Celebrate Funding Announced During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-The Department of Justice joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors; honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
As part of its’ monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana are proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $790, 618 to the state of Indiana to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
The announced grants will reach Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, culturally specific communities, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes.
Specifically, Indiana received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year:
- OVW awarded $340,618 under State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault.
- OVW awarded $450,000 under the Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program) to support programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “I am pleased to announce, along with U.S. Attorney Myers, that our State has been awarded funding from the Office on Violence Against Women. Domestic Violence, in all forms, undermines the safety and security that one should have in their homes and intimate relationships. These grant funds will support the ongoing work being done to create communities free of domestic violence.”
“No one should be subjected to abuse, especially by those closest to them. Whether or not we’re aware, everyone knows someone impacted by domestic and intimate partner abuse, said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “This trauma leaves an indelible mark on survivors and their families, from physical harm and psychological distress to negative impacts on housing, employment, and education. The grants provided by the Office of Violence Against Women this fiscal year will fund valuable resources bolstering the many dedicated organizations serving survivors across the state of Indiana.”
“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.”
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OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
Lafayette Man Sentenced to 240 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Richard Allan Joesph Crowley, 32 years old, of Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to Production, Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Crowley was sentenced to 240 months in prison, 15 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $15,000 assessment for victims of these crimes.
According to documents in the case, on or about May 16 through May 17, 2021, Crowley produced sexually explicit content of a minor by persuading, inducing and enticing the minor to photograph their genitals and send those images to Crowley through the internet. Crowley further distributed at least one of these images through a group chat. On multiple occasions between May 1 and June 30, 2021, Crowley received child sexual abuse material of another minor through the internet. And finally, on or about June 8, 2022, Crowley possessed child sexual abuse material of an additional minor that was produced using a cell phone.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indianapolis Field Office/Lafayette Resident Agency, with assistance from the FBI Criminal Investigation Division/Child Exploitation Operational Unit, the FBI Boston Field Office/Portland Resident Agency, the City of Sioux Falls Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensic Unit, the Tippecanoe County High Tech Crime Unit, the Lafayette Police Department, and the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 64 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Elijah Jackson, 34 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jackson was sentenced to 64 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in June 2022, Jackson forced his way into a home, struggled with a resident, and then fired a gunshot after leaving the home. Police officers located him walking in the area of the incident, at which point he fled from officers and dropped a backpack. After a foot pursuit, Officers recovered a loaded handgun from his waistband and another loaded handgun from his pocket. His backpack contained a loaded extended magazine for a firearm as well as marijuana and pills.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Griffith Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Allen Crouse, 47 years old, of Griffith, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a destructive device, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Crouse was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on July 21, 2021, law enforcement purchased from Crouse two destructive devices that he had manufactured. The destructive devices were intended to work as explosives or bombs and would have functioned as designed if detonated. His criminal history revealed ten prior felony burglary convictions between 1995 and 2002, and as such, he was prohibited from possessing the destructive device.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Griffith Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Gary Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and MurderRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Devontae Martin, age 30, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and using a firearm to commit murder.
Martin was sentenced to Life in prison for using a firearm to commit murder. He was also sentenced to 240 months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Both sentences are to run concurrently.
According to documents in the case, between June 2016 and February 2018, Devontae Martin and numerous others conspired to distribute cocaine from a car wash located in Gary, Indiana. Additionally, on July 28, 2017, Martin and a codefendant discharged a firearm during and relation to a drug trafficking crime that resulted in the murder of K.H.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team, the Gary Police Department, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. The trial was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys David J. Nozick, Caitlin M. Padula, and Kimberly L. Schultz.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Gary Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Dwight Culver, 30 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Culver was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on April 6, 2022, during a traffic stop, Culver admitted to possessing a pistol that was located on the passenger floorboard. A trace of the firearm revealed that it was reported stolen from Indianapolis. Culver’s criminal history revealed that he had prior felony convictions for possession of marijuana in 2012 and criminal recklessness in 2015, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Gary Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Dwight Culver, 30 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Culver was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on April 6, 2022, during a traffic stop, Culver admitted to possessing a pistol that was located on the passenger floorboard. A trace of the firearm revealed that it was reported stolen from Indianapolis. Culver’s criminal history revealed that he had prior felony convictions for possession of marijuana in 2012 and criminal recklessness in 2015, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Former Indiana Police Officers Sentenced for Civil Rights Violations in Assault of Handcuffed DetaineeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON-A former police officer with the Elkhart Police Department, Joshua Titus, 34, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release for his role in assaulting a handcuffed detainee in his custody.
On Dec. 8, 2022, Titus’s co-defendant, former Elkhart Police Officer Cory Newland, 40, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for his role in the same offense. Titus and Newland were both sentenced by District Court Judge Phillip P. Simon, in the Northern District of Indiana, after pleading guilty to their respective roles in the assault.
“When officers abuse their power by assaulting handcuffed and defenseless arrestees, it erodes the public trust and tarnishes the reputation police officers everywhere,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one is above the law, and the Justice Department will continue to ensure that officers who violate the rights of individuals in their custody are held accountable.”
“To have effective law enforcement, the public must be confident that the officers will perform their duties consistently, within the boundaries of the constitution and federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “Instead of honoring their duties by protecting and serving the public, these defendants engaged in criminal behavior. When this happens, my office will fulfill our duties by vigorously prosecuting those officers.”
“The majority of law enforcement officers are well trained professionals who uphold their oath to serve and protect and do so with the utmost integrity. But the few who violate that oath and betray public trust will be held accountable,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert “Alex” Middleton of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “There is no acceptable level of abuse of power and the FBI will vigorously investigate those officers who violate that oath.”
According to court documents, on Jan. 12, 2018, while on duty, Newland assisted in the arrest of an individual identified by the initials M.L. and transported him to the booking area at the police department. Once at the police department, M.L. was placed in a chair with his hands handcuffed behind his back, with both arms behind the back of the chair. While seated in the chair, M.L. spat in the direction of Newland, at which point both Titus and Newland began punching M.L. in the face, causing him to fall backwards onto the concrete floor. Titus and Newland then hunched over M.L. and punched him approximately 10 more times in the face and body. Both former officers have acknowledged that they knew at the time of the assault that their use of force on M.L. was unjustified and unlawful under the circumstances.
The FBI Indianapolis Field Office investigated this case.
Trial Attorney Katherine G. DeVar of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and General Crimes Unit Chief Abizer Zanzi for the Northern District of Indiana prosecuted the case.
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Oregon Man Sentenced to 192 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE–Julian Muriera, 30 years old, of Hillsboro, Oregon, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after being found guilty by a jury of Attempted Child Exploitation, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Muriera was sentenced to 192 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between April and May 2019, Muriera engaged in sexually explicit online conversations with an undercover Officer who Muriera believed to be related to a minor with whom he was sexually active. Over the course of several online conversations, Muriera expressed his preference for teenage girls and an interest in watching a livestream of the purported relative engaging in sexual activity with the minor. Muriera also provided graphic detail he wanted to see in the anticipated sexual activity.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Settlement for $1.25 Million with Edgewater Systems for Balanced Living, Inc. for Fraudulently Billing the Indiana Medicaid ProgramRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced today a pre-suit settlement for $1.25 million to resolve civil claims of the United States of America and the State of Indiana against Edgewater Systems for Balanced Living, Inc., a healthcare provider in Gary, Indiana that provides mental health services, for fraudulently billing the Indiana Medicaid program.
The Indiana Medicaid program provides healthcare for low income, often uninsured, Indiana residents who cannot otherwise afford needed medical care. Indiana Medicaid is jointly funded by the United States and the State of Indiana. The case involves Indiana Medicaid’s requirement that, before conducting, and billing Indiana Medicaid for, mental health counseling sessions, the provider first must draft an Individualized Integrated Care Plan (Care Plan), and the Care Plan must be signed and approved by either a physician or a Health Service Provider in Psychology, which is a provider with a Ph.D. Degree in Psychology. Despite knowing of the requirement because of negative Indiana Medicaid audits during prior time periods, during the period from November 1, 2012 through and including December 31, 2017, Edgewater repeatedly billed Indiana Medicaid for mental health counseling sessions that failed to meet the requirement.
The False Claims Act prohibits an entity from knowingly submitting claims for payment to a Medicaid program that fail to comply with required billing standards. Under the False Claims Act such non-compliant billing constitutes a fraudulent claim even though services were in fact rendered. Edgewater has agreed to pay the United States and the State of Indiana $1.25 million for falsely billing Indiana Medicaid for the mental health counseling sessions.
The settlement was reached as a result of an investigation initiated by United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana with assistance from the Indiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit within the Indiana Attorney General’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Wayne T. Ault handled the settlement negotiations.
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Gary Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Yesterday, Gary Burnett, 62 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Burnett was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in April 2021, law enforcement purchased cocaine from Burnett. Later, during the execution of a search warrant conducted on his residence, law enforcement recovered 5 grams of heroin, 44.6 grams of cocaine, 22 grams of methamphetamine, a drug ledger as well as a .223 rifle with an extended magazine and multiple handguns.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 198 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Pablo Pedraza, 30 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Pedraza was sentenced to 198 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in February 2023, Pedraza sold 1 pound of methamphetamine. When law enforcement later executed a search warrant at his residence, they recovered over 2 kilograms of methamphetamine and over $18,000 cash.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the St. Joseph County Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
US Attorney Hosts United Against Hate Event in Gary, IndianaRead the Press Release
HAMMOND, IN– Last week, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana partnered with the Gary Indiana Police Department and, hosted its first “United Against Hate” Community Outreach Event, bringing together local and federal law enforcement and the community to discuss effective strategies to prevent, report, and respond to hate crimes and incidents.
“United Against Hate” is a nationwide Department of Justice initiative to combat unlawful acts of hate. “We are excited to bring this initiative to the Northern District of Indiana and thankful to our law enforcement partners and community leaders for joining us in this necessary step to help provide education on combating hate and protecting civil rights,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The event, held Thursday, September 14, 2023, at the New Friendship Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana, featured remarks by U.S. Attorney Johnson and Gary Chief of Police, Anthony Titus, as well as presentations from Assistant U.S. Attorneys, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a representative from the Department of Justice’s Community Relations Service (CRS) on the topics of identifying hate crimes and incidents, the importance of reporting, and resources available to help communities dealing with such crimes.
“Combating hate crimes and bias incidents is one of the top priorities of the Department of Justice and our office,” said U.S. Attorney Johnson. “It is very fitting to be discussing strategies to tackle these issues on this day and in this forum, as September 15th marks the 60th anniversary of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama by members of the KKK. Addressing and defending against hate crimes requires all of us to be attentive and vigilant.”
As part of its United Against Hate Program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office hopes to engage with diverse communities across the District to further education and prevention efforts and encourage reporting of hate crimes, bias incidents, and discrimination to local and federal authorities. By convening community forums and providing education about civil rights statutes and incident reporting mechanisms, the goal is to build relationships and root out hate in the district.
Community Organizations or Leaders that wish to partner with the United States Attorney’s office to explore holding such an event in their community should contact the District via the following link: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndin/northern-district-indiana-us-attorney-speakers-bureau.
Finally, if you believe you are the victim of a hate crime or have witnessed a hate crime, immediately report the crime to your state or local police by dialing 9-1-1, then quickly report the incident to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). You can report to the FBI online at tips.FBI.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). If you believe a bias incident or act of discrimination may not involve a hate crime, you should still report such incident to the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division at civilrights.justice.gov or by contacting the Civil Rights Coordinator in the Civil Division at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Gary Man Sentenced to 130 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Bobby Wright, 41 years old, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Wright was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Wright sold fentanyl on two separate occasions in September and October 2021. At the time of the sale, Wright was on federal supervised release for his 2019 felony conviction for distributing heroin and fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a school. Wright was also previously convicted in 2009 for felony dealing in cocaine in Lake County, Indiana.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and DEA North Central Laboratory. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Eamonn P. Sheehan.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Devin J. Weaver, 19 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Weaver was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on January 18, 2023, Weaver, a convicted felon, was riding around Fort Wayne in a vehicle waving a Glock pistol while live-streaming on social media. Weaver discharged the firearm several times outside the vehicle in a populated area. Officers were able to locate and arrest Weaver and recovered the firearm. Weaver has been convicted of firearms related offenses on two prior occasions.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 90 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Christopher C. Myers, 42 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to receipt of child sexual abuse material and transferring obscene material to a minor, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Myers was sentenced to 90 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $4296.89 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, Myers used social media account to chat with a minor. During online chats in September 2021, Myers requested the minor send him child sexual abuse material of themself, which they did. Myers also sent the minor videos of himself performing sex acts on himself.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from Salinas, California Police Department and the Fairfax County (VA) Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE–Gerardo Nino Romero, 41 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Uriangato, Guanajuato, Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Nino Romero was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Romero was operating a drug premises at his Fort Wayne residence where he was storing and trafficking large amounts of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department; and the DEA North Central Regional Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 220 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Joshua R. Letner, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Letner was sentenced to 220 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between March 2020 and October 2021, Letner distributed and possessed with intent to distribute controlled substances in Fort Wayne, including over 50 grams of methamphetamine. Letner, a convicted felon, who could not legally possess the firearm in this case, also possessed a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Regional U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, Tribal Leaders Join Together to Host Great Lakes Native American ConferenceRead the Press Release
Conference focused on strengthening partnerships, U.S. Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland a keynote speaker
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN. Today kicked off the two-day 2023 Great Lakes Native American Conference focused on Native American issues and strengthening relationships with Tribal communities across the region. The conference is sponsored by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Wisconsin, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana.
“This conference brings together victim support specialists, law enforcement officials, advocates, and others who work on Tribal matters across the Great Lakes Region,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office is deeply committed to carrying out our responsibilities to protect Tribal communities and preserve their status as sovereign nations. This conference is one tool to help us advance that mission.”
U.S. Department of Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten, U. S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Dawn N. Ison, U. S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana Clifford D. Johnson.U.S. Department of Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland served as a keynote speaker. In 2021 Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland launched the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative, a comprehensive effort to recognize the troubled legacy of federal Indian boarding school policies with the goal of addressing their intergenerational impact and shedding light on the traumas of the past. Assistant Secretary Newland, who has led the Initiative, used his remarks to address this important effort.
"For the first time, the federal government is examining its role in the federal Indian boarding school system and how that contributed to the forced assimilation of Indigenous Peoples, resulting in the breakup of families and Tribal Nations and the loss of languages, cultural practices, and relatives," Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland said. "The Federal Indian Boarding School system left lasting scars that continue to impact Tribal communities. Today, the federal government is working to help heal these scars as we support Tribes in their efforts to revitalize their economies, languages, and cultural practices and promote public safety and justice so that they can continue to exist as Indigenous Peoples."
Preparation for the conference, which is being held in New Buffalo, Michigan at the Four Winds Casino, was a collaborative effort between various tribes, Tribal advocates, and the various U.S. Attorneys’ Offices. Some of the topics covered include Sextortion: History, Methods, and Impact on Victims; Indian Boarding Schools; Drugs: Myths, Trends, and Opportunities to Intervene; Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons; and Federal Indian Law changes.
“My office is committed to furthering and strengthening our relationship with our Native American community in the Eastern District of Michigan,” said Dawn N. Ison, U. S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan. I welcome the opportunity to collaborate and discuss issues that directly impact our Tribal partners. This conference and its focus on hope and healing helps facilitate not only communication, understanding, and opportunities for law enforcement partners serving Native American communities to further learn ways in which we can best serve Native Americans, it also allows for the type of engagement that helps build trust and legitimacy between the tribes and law enforcement.”
“This conference provides an opportunity to discuss public safety issues with our Tribal partners, such as combatting violence against women and addressing the devastating consequences of drug trafficking and substance use disorder in Indian country,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea of the Western District of Wisconsin.
Pokagon Band Tribal Vice Chair Gary Morseau; Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Ogema Larry Romanelli; Dr. Colleen Lane, MD, of Corewell Health; Dan Wicklund, DNPA, RN, of Corewell Health; and Katheryn E. Fort, Director of the Indian Law Clinic at the Michigan State University College of Law also served as speakers at the conference. Attendees of the conference included Tribal members, Tribal law enforcement, Tribal governments, federal government partners, and other victim service providers that work with Indian Country victims.
“This conference highlights what collaboration can do by gathering Tribal nations and units of governments together, to create better communication and strengthen relationship between the participants,” said Ogema Larry Romanelli. “I am thankful to the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for their sponsorship, and the Department of Interior’s involvement. I am honored to participate.”
“On behalf of the Pokagon Tribal Government, we would like to acknowledge the purpose of this conference focused on Native American issues, our collaboration with federal partners, and the role of the U.S. Department of Justice in successfully defending the constitutionality of the Indian Child Welfare Act before the Supreme Court,” said Pokagon Tribal Vice Chair Gary Morseau.
U.S. Department of Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland speaking at the 2023 Great Lakes Native American Conference in New Buffalo, Michigan.The 2023 Great Lakes Native American Conference and events like it, are components of the Justice Department’s ongoing initiative to increase engagement, coordination, and action on public safety in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
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Hammond Man Sentenced to 151 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Johnny Wilbourn, 42 years old, of Hammond, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Wilbourn was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Wilbourn sold cocaine on three separate occasions throughout August and September 2020. During a search of Wilbourn’s home, law enforcement found fentanyl, a cutting agent, and a digital scale. Wilbourn’s criminal history included prior felony convictions for murder, manufacturing cocaine, and retail theft.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department and the DEA’s North Central Laboratory in Chicago. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Toth.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Kevin T. Leshore, 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Leshore was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Fort Wayne Police observed Leshore at a gas station with a handgun sticking out of his pocket. Officers were able to determine that Leshore was a convicted felon and had an active arrest warrant. When they attempted to apprehend Leshore, he got into his vehicle and led officers on a high-speed chase through a residential area before stopping and fleeing on foot. When officers apprehended Leshore, they located a handgun near him with a round in the chamber in addition to a loaded firearm magazine that Leshore had discarded as he fled. At the time of his apprehension, Leshore was also in possession of a bag containing a large amount of U.S. Currency and narcotics.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Lafayette Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Angel J. Zanex, 37 years old, of Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Zanex was sentenced to 84 months in prison, five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $71,000 in restitution to the victims of the charged offense as well as victims of uncharged offenses.
According to documents in the case, on or about December 15, 2021, Zanex distributed child sexual abuse material by posting a video to an online platform.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) GRIT/Merrillville Field Office, with assistance from the FBI Milwaukee Field Office, the Winnebago County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensic Unit, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Tak Force (ICAC), the Tippecanoe County Hight Tech Crime Unit, and the Lafayette Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan and former Northern District of Indiana Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Chang and Jill Koster.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to 168 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Keith Wigfall, 57 years old, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty on his plea of guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Wigfall was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in January 2021, law enforcement executed a traffic stop of a vehicle Wigfall was driving and recovered $47,500 in cash as well as controlled substances. A search of his residence resulted in the seizure of over 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, 9.5 kilograms of marijuana, fentanyl, cocaine, morphine, 9 other types of controlled substances, 3 firearms, and $30,000 cash.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly and former AUSA Frank E. Schaffer.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to 145 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Bryon Fisher, 42 years old, of Huntington, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Fisher was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. The Court also revoked Fishers’ supervised release on his prior conviction for mail theft and sentenced him to an additional 24 months in prison. The Court ordered these sentences to be served consecutively for a total term of 145 months in prison.
According to documents in the case, from about July 2022 through August 2022, law enforcement conducted 6 controlled buys of methamphetamine from Fisher. A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of evidence indicating drug trafficking, including a drug ledger. In total, Fisher delivered and possessed with intent to deliver over 244 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Huntington Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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City of Gary Receives $1 Million in DOJ FundingRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson and Gary Police Chief Anthony Titus announce that the City of Gary have been awarded $1 Million Dollars in Byrne Discretionary Community Project Funding.
The City of Gary received notice of this funding late August 10, 2023, from the Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs.
The funding will be utilized for permanent mounted LPR cameras, stationery video surveillance cameras & associated reoccurring costs. This technology and equipment will continue to be a driving force and deterrent within the city community. The benefits of having this technology and equipment will build on officer safety, engaging the officers to be proactive, developing the situation before occurrence, focusing on high crime targeted areas and connecting with the residents will make them feel safer knowing the technology is there and with assistance from more police engagement.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “A key component to increasing public safety in local communities is having the funding to acquire and deploy available technology. The Department of Justice, through its grant programs, is committed to assisting local governments, as shown by this 1 million dollar grant to the City Of Gary, in funding these modernization efforts. My office will continue to work with the Gary Police Department to increase safety for City residents and visitors.”
“It’s not the dollar amount of the grant as much as it is the relationship with our Federal partners that I’m pleased about today. The citizens of Gary are better served when all law enforcement entities come together with a common goal,” said Gary Police Chief Anthony Titus. “This $1 million dollar grant will help the Gary Police Department acquire technology that will be used to serve the citizens of Gary. It will enhance our already robust LPR and mobile video camera systems. A heartfelt thanks to the Department of Justice, and everyone involved in helping the City of Gary secure this funding.”
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Huntington Man Sentenced to 230 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Stephen Pax, 54 years old, of Huntington, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of material involving the sexual exploitation of minors, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Pax was sentenced to 212 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. The Court also revoked Pax’s supervised release on his prior conviction for distribution of child sexual abuse material and sentenced him to an additional 18 months in prison. The Court ordered these sentences to be served consecutively for a total term of 230 months in prison.
According to documents in the case, from about February 2020, through February 2021, Pax knowingly distributed child sexual abuse materials using a means of interstate commerce.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service with the assistance of the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller Lowery.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Ohio Man Convicted by Jury of Crimes Against Children OffenseRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Gregory Johnson, 47 years old, of Trenton, Ohio, was found guilty after a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury returned a verdict of guilty against Johnson on the single count of the Superseding Indictment charging him with Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lesley J. Miller Lowery and Justin Sheridan.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Gary Man Sentenced to 240 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Lamont Coleman, 41 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after a jury found him guilty of conspiring to distribute heroin, possessing a firearm as a felon, and possessing with intent to distribute heroin, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Coleman was sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Coleman ran a heroin trafficking operation out of an apartment building that he owned in Gary, Indiana. He also owned the house next door, with both properties sharing a common courtyard. During the execution of a search warrants, law enforcement located three loaded firearms, heroin, cocaine, and approximately $19,000 in cash from his residences. Coleman’s sentence was enhanced for his career offender status based on prior felony convictions for manufacturing/delivery of cocaine and aggravated battery.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Porter County Multi-Enforcement Group. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay, and former Northern District of Indiana Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Chang and Molly Kelley.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 90 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Jacqualon M. Royal, 27 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to trafficking in firearms without a license and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Royal was sentenced to 90 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between April 30, 2021, and May 22, 2022, Royal, who was a convicted felon, willfully engaged in the unlawful sale of firearms. Records show that Royal possessed and sold at least 40 firearms during this period of time. One of the firearms Royal sold had been used in the attempted murder of two people and another firearm he sold was recovered from a drug trafficker.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Derriel L. Jones, 39 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jones was sentenced to 120 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, from July through October 2021, Jones conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. These charges stemmed in part from a traffic stop in October 2021, during which officers seized cocaine, fentanyl, and cash.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, with the task force members being the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Also assisting in this investigation were the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony Geller and Brent Ecenbarger.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Northern District of Indiana US Attorney’s Office to Participate in Community Events During National Night OutRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana will join community organizers, neighbors, and law enforcement partners to participate in National Night Out events on August 1, 2023. During this year’s National Night Out, United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson has directed staff to attend community events throughout the Northern District, which includes areas within Northwest Indiana, South Bend and Fort Wayne. Staff will be meeting law enforcement and first responders during this yearly event.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “National Night Out activities are important steps in building bridges between law enforcement and the communities they serve. I encourage all District residents to participate in National Night Out activities in order to create law enforcement and community partnerships, which will, in turn, build safer neighborhoods and stronger communities.”
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country.
National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the United States Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.
Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.
For more information, visit https://natw.org/.
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Merrillville Woman Sentenced to 84 MonthsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Stephanie Fazekas, 50, of Merrillville, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Fazekas was sentenced to 84 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in the case, on or about April 3, 2021, Fazekas distributed visual depictions of minors being utilized in sexually explicit conduct using a telecommunications application.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Merrillville Man Convicted of Crimes Against Children OffenseRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Tyrone Johnson, age 35, of Merrillville, Indiana, was found guilty following a 2-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Philip P Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury found Johnson guilty of two (2) counts charged in the Second Superseding Indictment. Johnson was convicted of sexual exploitation of a minor for purpose of producing a visual depiction. He was also convicted of committing a felony offense involving a minor while being required by law to register as a sex offender.
Johnson will be scheduled for sentencing by separate order of the Court. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Lake County, Indiana Sheriff’s Department, the Peru, Illinois Police Department, the LaSalle County, Illinois Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois State Police Offender Registration Unit. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Morgan, Abizer Zanzi and Philip Benson as well as former Assistant United States Attorneys Molly Kelley and Jill Koster.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Hammond Man Sentenced to 41 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Brian Long, 32 years old, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Long was sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on January 30, 2020, Brian Long possessed a semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine in a parking lot of a business in Hammond, Indiana. Long’s criminal history revealed he has a prior felony conviction for continuing criminal financial enterprise, and as such is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case. At the time of his current offense, Long was on probation from his prior felony conviction.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Hammond Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Gary Man Sentenced to 130 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Kevin Lee Myers, age 42, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to making counterfeit U.S. currency and being a felon in possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Myers was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, the investigation revealed that from March to July 2022, Myers manufactured more than $150,000 in counterfeit U.S. currency. A search warrant at Myers’ residence resulted in the recovery of counterfeiting equipment including, computers, printers, paper cutters, and ink cartridges, as well as a briefcase containing more than $138,000 in counterfeit bills. Various firearms and ammunition were also discovered. Myers has prior felony convictions and, as such, cannot possess the firearms and ammunition in this case.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service with assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Department and the Portage Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin F. Wolff.
Peru, Indiana Man Sentenced to 348 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – James Rippy, 40 years old, of Peru, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Rippy was sentenced to 348 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Rippy took photos and videos of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, he possessed other images of child pornography downloaded from the internet.
This case was investigated by United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Peru Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
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South Bend Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Tyler Crawford, 32 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Crawford was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in January 2023 police officers attempted to pull over Crawford’s car, but instead of complying, he fled at a high rate of speed. During the pursuit, Crawford threw bags of methamphetamine and a loaded handgun out of the car. Officers recovered the methamphetamine, which totaled over 150 grams along with the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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