Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Michigan City Woman Sentenced to 63 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Carissa McCoy, 42 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
McCoy was sentenced to 63 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from June through mid-August 2021, McCoy conspired with others to distribute fentanyl in the Michigan City area. Her home, which she shared with one of her co-defendants, housed currency, firearms, and ammunition related to the conspiracy. In August 2021, McCoy and one of her co-defendants were stopped by law enforcement while traveling back to Michigan City. At that time, McCoy had over a kilogram of fentanyl pills on her person.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (including the Chicago Field Division, the Merrillville District Office, the Amarillo Texas Resident Office and the Albuquerque New Mexico District Office) with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, an Indiana HIDTA Initiative, and the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly L. Schultz and 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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Settlement with Rakesh Kansal, M.D. for Violations of the Stark Law Regarding Physician Self-ReferralsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced today a settlement of the United States’ claims against Rakesh Kansal, M.D., age 70, for submitting claims to Medicare for patients he referred for cardiovascular stress testing at a testing facility in which he had an ownership interest. Dr. Kansal has agreed to pay $310,000 to the United States to settle the United States’ claim that he violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting claims to Medicare in violation of the Stark Law.
The Stark Law provides that the government will not pay for designated health services if such services were furnished by an entity that had a financial relationship with the referring physician because such financial relationships can cause overutilization of those services and compromise the physician’s professional judgment. The cardiovascular stress tests for which Dr. Kansal billed Medicare are designated health services. The False Claims Act prohibits a physician from knowingly submitting claims for payment to Medicare for such services.
The United States alleges that from January 1, 2010, to May 31, 2020, Dr. Kansal submitted claims to Medicare for patients he referred for cardiovascular stress tests to a testing facility where he had an ownership interest, in violation of the False Claims Act and the Stark Law.
“All medical decisions should be based on the best interests of patients and not on the personal financial interests of referring physicians,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “My Office will continue to make it a high priority to avoid overutilization of health care services by enforcing the Stark Law prohibiting physician self-referrals.”
The settlement was reached as a result of an investigation of Dr. Kansal conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Dirk D. De Lor.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 57 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Kevin Brazier, Jr., 45 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Brazier was sentenced to 57 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in August 2022, law enforcement found Brazier in the early morning hours asleep in a car in a parking lot in South Bend with a gun on the dashboard. Police later learned the gun was loaded with 18 live rounds. Brazier has a history of violent crime, including convictions for felony domestic battery in the presence of a child, and misdemeanors for violating a protection order, attempted aggravated menacing, domestic violence, and intimidation of a victim. As a felon, Brazier is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
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 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.
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Rochester Man Sentenced to 33 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Justin Overholser, 40 years old, of Rochester, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Overholser was sentenced to 33 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in September 2021, Overholser broke into the store of a federal firearms licensee and stole 11 firearms and several boxes of ammunition. He caused over $2,000 in damage and left the store with firearms valued at over $10,000.00. Overholser later sold the stolen guns for drugs and money.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and the Logansport Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and 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.
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Michigan City Woman Sentenced to 130 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Meliki Marion, 42 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Marion was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from June through mid-August 2021, Marion conspired with others to distribute fentanyl in the Michigan City area. Marion’s co-defendants sold pills purporting to be oxycodone that were actually fentanyl. In August 2021, two co-defendants were stopped while traveling back to Michigan City with over a kilogram of fentanyl pills. Marion was in possession of over $3,000 when apprehended by law enforcement as she attempted to run away from her residence as it was to be searched. Marion admitted that she collected money related to the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (including the Chicago Field Division, the Merrillville District Office, the Amarillo Texas Resident Office and the Albuquerque New Mexico District Office) with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, an Indiana HIDTA Initiative, and the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly L. Schultz and 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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South Bend Man Sentenced to 138 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Victor Gamez, 43 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Gamez was sentenced to 138 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on four occasions between May 2021 and March 2022, Gamez sold varying amounts of pure methamphetamine to a person in South Bend. The total weight distributed was 264.9 grams.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the South Bend Police Department, and the DEA North Central Laboratory. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.
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Kouts Woman Sentenced for Tax OffensesRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Kathy Lynch, age 64, of Kouts, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after being found guilty of nine counts of willful failure to pay employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), following a 3-day jury trial in March 2023, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Lynch was sentenced to 15 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, for years Lynch failed to remit and pay federal payroll taxes for the Kouts, Indiana, nursing clinic she owned and operated. Over the course of 16 years, Lynch withheld payroll tax money from her employees’ paychecks, but instead of paying those taxes over to the IRS, as she was obligated to do, she kept more than $474,000 which she spent on personal and business expenses.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi and Kevin Wolff.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 144 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Kevin Roell, 40 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. on his plea of guilty to attempted sex trafficking of a minor, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Roell was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in August 2022, Roell communicated over the internet with a person he agreed to pay to facilitate him having sex with a 15-year-old girl. Roell used Bitcoin to pay a deposit, and then arrived at a hotel in South Bend with roses, jewelry, and cash planning to have sex with the 15-year-old. He was then arrested.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and Collin County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office. This 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 .
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Indiana Man Sentenced to 66 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Bryshawn Terry, 31 years old, of Fort Wayne, IN, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Terry was sentenced to 66 months in prison to be followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in December 2022, law enforcement responded to a 911 call about a man with a handgun. When officers arrived, they located Terry who started walking away while tossing a 9mm handgun. In Terry’s vehicle, officers located a rifle with a bump stock and a 50-round drum. Terry had prior felony convictions for dealing cocaine and resisting law enforcement, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of 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
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Winamac Woman Sentenced to 80 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Laci Lindsey, 49 years old, of Winamac, Indiana, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to distributing over 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Lindsey was sentenced to 80 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between May 2021 and April 2022, Lindsey sold methamphetamine multiple times in an amount totaling approximately 295 grams. A search of her residence resulted in the recovery of more methamphetamine, a scale, drug ledger, packaging material and other drug paraphernalia.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Porter County Multi-Enforcement Group and the DEA North Central Laboratory. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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South Bend Man Sentenced to 228 in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Archie Taylor, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to 3 counts of robbery affecting commerce, 1 count of bank robbery, and 1 count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Taylor was sentenced to 228 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $5999 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, over the course of a week in September 2022, Taylor robbed 3 convenience stores and a bank in the Elkhart and Mishawaka areas. During all of the robberies, Taylor pointed a handgun at the convenience store clerks and bank employees. He robbed each location of either cash or merchandise.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Elkhart Police Department and the Mishawaka 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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Illinois Man Sentenced to 37 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Darius Dudley, 30 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Dudley was sentenced to 37 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release
According to documents in the case, in July 2021, law enforcement responded to shots fired call in the 4800 block of Northcote Avenue in East Chicago, Indiana. Upon arrival, Dudley was observed in possession of a semi-automatic pistol. The pistol had an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device attached to it. The machinegun conversion made the pistol capable of firing multiple shots with a single pull of the trigger. Dudley’s criminal history revealed that he has prior felony convictions for burglary, manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, and as such is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
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 East Chicago 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.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison and Ordered to Pay RestitutionRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Charles Ray Smith, 52 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Smith was sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $315,020 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, from November 2016 to October 2021, Smith represented to several people that if they invested money with him, they would receive large returns on their investments. Induced by Smith’s representations, certain individuals gave him money. Smith did not invest the money as promised, but instead used it for his own personal benefit including purchasing his 3,500-square-foot residence. As a result of this scheme, Smith fraudulently obtained over $300,000.00.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
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Merrillville Man Sentenced to 102 in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Phillip Carter, Jr., 32 years old, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting the making of false statements to acquire firearms, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Carter was sentenced to 102 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in April 2021, Carter provided another individual money to purchase two pistols for him from a federally licensed firearms dealer. As a convicted felon, Carter was unable to purchase firearms himself and he knew that the other individual would have to lie in order to purchase the pistols for him. During the investigation, it was determined that Carter had another individual buy up to 24 firearms for him. Carter’s prior felony convictions, which include being a felon in possession of a firearm and discharging a firearm, prohibit him purchasing and possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the LaPorte County Drug Task Force and the Michigan City Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly L. Schultz and 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.
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Peru Man Sentenced to 110 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Curtis Birner, 37 years old, of Peru, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after being found guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial in January, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Birner was sentenced to 110 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in October 2021, Birner entered a Peru gas station with a gun concealed in his sweatshirt. He displayed the firearm to another person prompting a call to law enforcement. At the time law enforcement located Birner, he was in a car in the parking lot of a different gas station with a rifle and handgun on his seat along with shotgun in the back seat area. Birner has been convicted of several prior felony offenses, including a federal conviction for felon in possession of a firearm. Any one of his prior felony convictions prohibited Birner from possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Miami County Sheriff’s Department and the Peru Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Katelan M. 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.
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Elkhart Man Sentenced to 94 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jeremy Eash, 39 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Eash was sentenced to 94 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $72,500 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, during a 4-month period between 2021/2022, Eash received child pornography images and videos over the internet. Law enforcement recovered over 1,200 images and 400 videos of child pornography from his electronic devices.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the Elkhart Police and the LaGrange Police Departments. This 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.
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Gary Man Sentenced to 292 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Anthony Day, age 55, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after a jury found him guilty of armed robbery, brandishing a firearm during that robbery, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Day was sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to the documents in this case, the convictions stemmed from the October 8, 2019, robbery of a bank in Hammond, Indiana where the defendant brandished a gun during the commission of the offense. Wearing a disguise, Day approached a bank teller, displayed a gun and requested cash from the teller’s drawer. Day and his accomplice ordered the bank employees and patrons to lie down on the ground before fleeing the bank. When apprehended, Day’s DNA was on multiple items recovered, including a revolver, a firearm with an extended magazine, and his disguise.
Co-defendant, Omar Williams, pled guilty to armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during that robbery, and he was previously sentenced to 235 months in prison.
This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance of the Hammond Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula and Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay.
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 Imprisonment of Life Plus 25 YearsRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Steven Hecke, 47 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after previously being found guilty following a 5 day trial in June 2022, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury found Hecke guilty on all counts charged in the Indictment, which included distributing methamphetamine, maintaining a drug-involved premises, possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing firearms as a convicted felon.
Hecke was sentenced to Life plus 25 years in prison. Hecke’s sentence was enhanced because he had previously been convicted of a serious drug felony and armed drug trafficking in a 2007 federal case in the Northern District of Indiana.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “As the trial evidence showed, Mr. Hecke was a cartel-connected drug trafficker who sold massive amounts of illegal drugs in the Northern District of Indiana and elsewhere. This prosecution shows that my office will spare no effort to bring drug dealers to justice. Let Mr. Hecke’s life sentence plus 25 years warn those engaged in illegal drug trafficking that when justice is served, the consequences are rightfully harsh.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration is focused on disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations at all levels, specifically those with connections to Mexican drug cartels, such as the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco Cartel. Mr. Hecke had those criminal connections. Through his violent, drug related crimes, Mr. Hecke caused great harm and damage to northern Indiana, but thanks to a collaborative law enforcement effort, he is no longer a threat to Hoosiers. DEA will continue to strive for a safer and healthier northern Indiana and America,” said Alfred A. Cooke, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration-Merrillville District Office.
According to documents in the case, Hecke was distributing massive quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in both powder and pill form, along with other drugs. Law enforcement conducted several controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Hecke in November and December 2019. Agents and officers arrested Hecke at his Fort Wayne home after he returned with a drug shipment from Chicago in January 2020. In this one shipment, Hecke possessed approximately 19 pounds of crystal methamphetamine. From Hecke’s residence and a separate stash house, law enforcement recovered additional methamphetamine, fentanyl powder and pills, other drugs, ammunition and high-capacity magazines, body armor, and nine firearms, including two AK-47 style rifles and other rifles and pistols. The investigation further revealed that Hecke had obtained multiple prior drug shipments and that he was working closely with the Sinaloa Cartel by supplying them with vehicles, ATVs, generators, firearms, and other merchandise. Hecke demonstrated a significant potential for violence and danger to the community in several ways: by protecting his drug houses with multiple firearms; making threats of violence against others to collect drug debts and to protect his drug operation; and invoking cartel members as intimidation and as a means of enforcing his threats.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Allen County Drug Task Force, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Special Weapons and Tactics Team, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Noble County Sheriff’s Department, the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department, the New Haven Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Joseph Golden, 36 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Golden was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Golden engaged in the sale of methamphetamine and heroin to law enforcement on two occasions in August and September 2022. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement located over 800 grams of methamphetamine in Golden’s vehicle, which had a purity level of 99 percent.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brent Ecenbarger.
DeMotte Man Sentenced to 210 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Thomas Spangle, age 42, of DeMotte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio on his plea of guilty to receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Spangle was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release.
According to the documents in this case, on or about July 19, 2019, Spangle began his 15-year term of supervised release following his conviction for distribution of child pornography. In March 2021, information was received that Spangle was viewing child pornography on his cellphone while on supervised release. While being monitored, several potential images of child pornography were identified. In April 2021, a search warrant was conducted on his electronic devices and a forensic exam revealed his cell phone contained 48 videos files, 31 of which depicted child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (GRIT) with assistance of the Indiana State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily A. Morgan and Philip C. Benson.
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.
Connecticut Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Ismael Ortiz-Vargas, 37 years old, of Bristol, Connecticut, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Ortiz-Vargas was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in November 2022, the car Ortiz-Vargas was driving was stopped on the Indiana Toll Road and police discovered that he was transporting a kilogram of cocaine from Connecticut to Wisconsin to sell in Milwaukee. At the time of the stop, an arrest warrant had been issued for a violation of his federal supervised release based on his previous federal conviction for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana.
This case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Indiana State Police as part of a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Gary Man Sentenced to 92 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Michael A. Davis, 34 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.
Davis was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in February 2022, law enforcement responded to a 911 call and upon arrival, located Davis. A firearm with an obliterated serial number was also recovered which Davis possessed. Davis’ criminal history revealed he has prior felony convictions for armed robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon and was prohibited from possessing the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Patrick D. Grindlay.
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.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 151 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Cameron Moore, 52 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Moore was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Moore sold methamphetamine throughout 2022. Additionally, in October 2022, investigators intercepted two packages intended for delivery to him through the United States Postal Service. One package contained approximately 3.6 kilograms of methamphetamine while the other package contained approximately 2.7 kilograms of marijuana.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of the Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement Unit and the Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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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LaPorte Man Sentenced to 210 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Donta Bridges, 39 years old, of LaPorte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty by a jury in October 2022 of heroin distribution, attempted heroin distribution, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Bridges was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 6 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in the fall of 2019, Bridges was selling various substances to include heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and the horse tranquilizer xylazine. During one sale, Bridges told a customer to be careful with the drugs because Bridges knew that someone had overdosed on the drugs he was selling. During the execution of a search warrant at his house, investigators recovered a gun along with heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Bridges was sentenced on the instant offense as a career offender based on his two prior felony convictions for controlled substance offenses; possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and heroin distribution.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the LaPorte County Drug Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly L. Schultz and 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.
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Oregon Man Convicted of Crimes Against Children OffenseRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Julian Muriera, 30 years old, of Hillsboro, Oregon, was found guilty after a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury returned a verdict of guilty against Muriera on the single count of the Superseding Indictment for attempting to produce child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery, with assistance of AUSA Brent Ecenbarger.
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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Illinois Man Sentenced to 108 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Justin Davis, 65 years old, of Maywood, IL, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after his plea of guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Davis was sentenced to 108 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in July 2021, Davis was observed driving well over the posted speed limit. Indiana State Police conducted a traffic stop and located a container with a white granular substance that Davis was attempting to hide. When confronted, Davis admitted the substance was crack cocaine. Additional narcotics and items related to drug dealing were also recovered, in addition to a loaded handgun. Davis admitted to previously dealing drugs while armed for his protection. Due to multiple prior felony convictions, Davis is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brent A. 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
Illinois Man Sentenced to 24 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Levar Tyms, 20 years old, of Country Club Hills, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to possessing an unregistered machinegun, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Tyms was sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release
According to documents in the case, on March 9, 2022, law enforcement attempted to stop a stolen vehicle driven by Tyms in Gary, Indiana. Tyms fled from officers at a high rate of speed and crashed the vehicle. From the vehicle, officers recovered a loaded semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine. The firearm also contained a conversion device known as a “Glock Switch” which converted the semi-automatic firearm to a fully automatic weapon. The machinegun was not registered to Tyms in the National Firearm Registration and Transfer record, making his possession of it illegal.
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 U.S. Attorneys Joel L. Mathur and Kevin F. Wolff.
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.
Arizona Man Sentenced to 54 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Rico Prunty, 41 years old, of Sierra Vista, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to aggravated identity theft and a criminal violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Prunty was sentenced to 54 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $132,521.98 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, between July 2014 and May 2017, Prunty, an employee at an Arizona medical facility, unlawfully accessed medical intake forms containing patients’ individually identifiable health information (e.g., names, dates of birth, addresses, employer information, social security numbers, diagnoses, and medical information) and provided that information to his co-conspirators in northwest Indiana. His co-conspirators used the information to open new credit card accounts and access existing credit card accounts without the knowledge, permission, or authority of these patients. Over the course of the scheme, Prunty illegally accessed the individually identifiable health information of almost 500 patients, resulting in a total loss of $132,521.98.
Co-conspirators Vincent Prunty, Temika Coleman, and Gemico Childress were previously sentenced for their roles in the scheme to terms of imprisonment of 154 months, 121 months, and 134 months respectively.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa, and former Assistant United States Attorney Toi Denise Houston.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Shaine Shepherd, 28 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Shepherd was sentenced to 120 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
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Gary Man Sentenced to 108 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Tommy Watkins, 32 years old, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Watkins was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT with the assistance of the Porter County Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip C. Benson.
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.
Justice Department and EPA Announce Settlement to Reduce Hazardous Air Emissions at BP Products’ Whiting Refinery in IndianaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a Clean Air Act Settlement with BP Products North America Inc., (BPP), a subsidiary of BP p.l.c., requiring control technology expected to reduce benzene by an estimated seven tons per year, other hazardous air pollutants (HAP) by 28 tons per year, and other volatile organic compound emissions (VOC) by 372 tons per year at its Whiting Refinery in Indiana. The United States’ complaint, filed simultaneously with the settlement, alleges that BPP violated federal regulations limiting benzene in refinery wastewater streams, and HAP and VOC emissions at its Whiting Refinery, as well as the general requirement to use good air pollution control practices. As part of the settlement, BPP will install one or more permanent benzene strippers to reduce benzene in wastewater streams leading to its lakefront wastewater treatment plant.
“This settlement sends an important message to the refining industry that the United States will take decisive action against illegal benzene and VOC emissions,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Under the settlement, the refinery will implement controls that will greatly improve air quality and reduce health impacts on the overburdened communities that surround the facility.”
“This settlement will result in the reduction of hundreds of tons of harmful air pollution a year, which means cleaner, healthier air for local communities, including communities with environmental justice concerns,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Larry Starfield of the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This is one of several recent settlements that show that EPA and the Department of Justice are committed to improving air quality in local communities by holding industrial sources accountable for violations of emission standards under the Clean Air Act.”
“This settlement advances my office’s environmental justice initiative by providing cleaner air and reducing the negative health impacts on the low income and minority residents who live near BPP’s refinery,” said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana Clifford D. Johnson. “My office is committed to continuing to enforce the Nation’s environmental laws so that all residents of Northern Indiana can live, work, and play in a cleaner, healthier environment.”
In addition to securing injunctive relief, including capital investments, estimated to exceed $197 million, the settlement obligates BPP to pay a total financial penalty of $40 million, comprised of civil penalties and stipulated penalties for violations of an earlier settlement. This is the largest civil penalty ever secured for a Clean Air Act stationary source settlement. BPP separately agreed to undertake a $5 million supplemental environmental project to reduce diesel emissions in the communities surrounding the Whiting Refinery. BPP will also install 10 air pollutant monitoring stations to monitor air quality outside of the refinery fence line. The settlement terms are included in a proposed consent decree filed with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.
Benzene is known to cause cancer in humans. Short-term inhalation exposure to benzene also may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as well as eye, skin, and respiratory tract irritation, and, at high levels, unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation exposure can cause various disorders in the blood, including reduced numbers of red blood cells and anemia in occupational settings. Reproductive effects have been reported for women exposed by inhalation to high levels, and adverse effects on the developing fetus have been observed in animal tests.
VOCs along with NOX, play a major role in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone, which is the primary constituent of smog. People with lung disease, children, older adults, and people who are active can be affected when ozone levels are unhealthy. Ground-level ozone exposure is linked to a variety of short-term health problems, including lung irritation and difficulty breathing, as well as long-term problems, such as permanent lung damage from repeated exposure, aggravated asthma, reduced lung capacity, and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
The Whiting Refinery is surrounded by communities with environmental justice concerns. This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s and EPA’s ongoing focus on assisting communities that have been historically marginalized and disproportionately exposed to pollution.
This settlement also supports EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative (NECI): Creating Cleaner Air for Communities by Reducing Excess Emissions of Harmful Pollutants. To learn more about this NECI /www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-enforcement-and-compliance-initiative-creating-cleaner-air-communities
The State of Indiana assisted in the negotiations and is also a party to the settlement.
The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The consent decree will be available for viewing at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Justice Department and EPA Announce Settlement to Reduce Hazardous Air Emissions at BP Products’ Whiting Refinery in IndianaRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a Clean Air Act Settlement with BP Products North America Inc., (BPP), a subsidiary of BP p.l.c., requiring control technology expected to reduce benzene by an estimated seven tons per year, other hazardous air pollutants (HAP) by 28 tons per year and other volatile organic compound emissions (VOC) by 372 tons per year at its Whiting Refinery in Indiana. The United States’ complaint, filed simultaneously with the settlement, alleges that BPP violated federal regulations limiting benzene in refinery wastewater streams, and HAP and VOC emissions at its Whiting Refinery, as well as the general requirement to use good air pollution control practices. As part of the settlement, BPP will install one or more permanent benzene strippers to reduce benzene in wastewater streams leading to its lakefront wastewater treatment plant.
“This settlement sends an important message to the refining industry that the United States will take decisive action against illegal benzene and VOC emissions,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Under the settlement, the refinery will implement controls that will greatly improve air quality and reduce health impacts on the overburdened communities that surround the facility.”
“This settlement will result in the reduction of hundreds of tons of harmful air pollution a year, which means cleaner, healthier air for local communities, including communities with environmental justice concerns,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Larry Starfield of the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This is one of several recent settlements that show that EPA and the Department of Justice are committed to improving air quality in local communities by holding industrial sources accountable for violations of emission standards under the Clean Air Act.”
“This settlement advances my office’s environmental justice initiative by providing cleaner air and reducing the negative health impacts on the low income and minority residents who live near BPP’s refinery,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “My office is committed to continuing to enforce the nation’s environmental laws so that all residents of Northern Indiana can live, work and play in a cleaner, healthier environment.”
In addition to securing injunctive relief, including capital investments, estimated to exceed $197 million, the settlement obligates BPP to pay a total financial penalty of $40 million, comprised of civil penalties and stipulated penalties for violations of an earlier settlement. This is the largest civil penalty ever secured for a Clean Air Act stationary source settlement. BPP separately agreed to undertake a $5 million supplemental environmental project to reduce diesel emissions in the communities surrounding the Whiting Refinery. BPP will also install 10 air pollutant monitoring stations to monitor air quality outside of the refinery fence line. The settlement terms are included in a proposed consent decree filed with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.
Benzene is known to cause cancer in humans. Short-term inhalation exposure to benzene also may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as well as eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation, and, at high levels, unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation exposure can cause various disorders in the blood, including reduced numbers of red blood cells and anemia in occupational settings. Reproductive effects have been reported for women exposed by inhalation to high levels, and adverse effects on the developing fetus have been observed in animal tests.
VOCs, along with NOX, play a major role in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone, which is the primary constituent of smog. People with lung disease, children, older adults, and people who are active can be affected when ozone levels are unhealthy. Ground-level ozone exposure is linked to a variety of short-term health problems, including lung irritation and difficulty breathing, as well as long-term problems, such as permanent lung damage from repeated exposure, aggravated asthma, reduced lung capacity and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
The Whiting Refinery is surrounded by communities with environmental justice concerns. This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s and EPA’s ongoing focus on assisting communities that have been historically marginalized and disproportionately exposed to pollution.
This settlement also supports EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative (NECI): Creating Cleaner Air for Communities by Reducing Excess Emissions of Harmful Pollutants. To learn more about this NECI, visit www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-enforcement-and-compliance-initiative-creating-cleaner-air-communities.
The State of Indiana assisted in the negotiations and is also a party to the settlement.
The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The consent decree will be available for viewing at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Indiana Man Sentenced to 72 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Michael Snyder, 35 years old, of Francesville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty in two cases, one for distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Snyder was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in these cases, in November 2021, Snyder, who was driving a stolen vehicle in Mishawaka, was stopped by law enforcement officers. A loaded, stolen handgun was recovered from under his seat. Snyder had a prior felony conviction, and as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm. In April 2022, an investigation revealed that Snyder was the source of a pound of methamphetamine that was sold in Winamac, Indiana.
These cases were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Porter County Multi-Enforcement Group, and the Mishawaka Police Department. These cases were 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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Honoring National Police WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson salutes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 14, 2023 through Saturday, May 20, 2023.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Today is Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 224 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2022, with four of those officers having served in the State of Indiana. One officer, Noah C. Rainey, from the Northern District of Indiana lost his life in 2022.
“It is my solemn duty to honor all law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “Law enforcement officers undertake great risks every day to protect others. These selfless acts deserve the upmost respect and honor. On behalf of my Office, I want to say to all law enforcement officers; we are grateful for the work that you perform each day.”
The names of the 556 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial were read on Saturday, May 13, 2023, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C. Starting last Friday and continuing throughout the current week, US Attorney staff will be attending District events in remembrance of fallen officers.
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South Bend Man Convicted of Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Late yesterday, Leontis Cornelius, 43 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was found guilty after a 2-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
The jury returned a verdict of guilty against Cornelius on two counts of the Superseding Indictment for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. This trial was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and 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.
Huntington Man Sentenced to 54 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Adam Meekin, 26 years old, of Huntington, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to engaging in the business of dealing and manufacturing firearms and the unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Meekin was sentenced to 54 months in prison to be followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in 2018, ATF observed that Meekin was advertising firearms for sale on social media. In 2017 and 2018, completed rifles were seized in investigations involving homicides, attempted homicides, robberies, and other criminal gang activity in Detroit, Chicago, and Fort Wayne. Eleven of these crime guns were traced to AR-15 style lower receivers purchased by a Meekin family member. The investigation revealed that Meekin’s family members completed paperwork and purchased at least 122 lower receivers on his behalf. In the summer of 2018, ATF agents performed a series of undercover operations from Meekin which involved purchasing completed rifles and ordering an illegal and unregistered firearm, which was a non-serialized, short-barreled fully automatic rifle, referred to as a “ghost gun”. During recorded conversations, Meekin admitted to being in business for several years and said that he could build any firearm.
“Gun violence is a problem plaguing our communities,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “The flow of illegally purchased firearms, especially “ghost guns”, must stop. As this case shows, often the source of trafficked firearms is a person, like Mr. Meekin, who illegally manufactures and illegally sells them to violent criminals. With the assistance of the ATF and other law enforcement partners, my office will continue to prosecute, to the full extent that federal law allows, any person who illegally engages in the business of dealing and manufacturing firearms.”
“When privately made firearms end up in the hands of prohibited people, it threatens the safety of the community,” remarked ATF Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon of the Chicago Field Division. “We will continue to investigate these important cases alongside our prosecutorial partners at the United States Attorney’s Office.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 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.
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Atlanta Man Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Mylin Murel, 20 years old, of Atlanta, GA, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to stealing firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Murel was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in June 2021, Murel broke into a federal firearms licensed dealer’s store and stole 15 handguns, a shotgun, 2 sound suppressors, and ammunition. In the days following the burglary, Murel spoke with other individuals about buying/selling firearms. As part of these conversations, Murel exchanged a photo of numerous guns he had stolen. Murel sold one of the stolen firearms to an individual for $650.
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 Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and 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.
Justice Department Continued Efforts to Address the Crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous PersonsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-- The Justice Department joins its partners across the federal government, as well as people throughout American Indian and Alaska Native communities, in recognizing May 5, 2023 as National Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day. Responding to the unacceptable levels of violence that have led to the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) is a priority of the Department of Justice every day.
The department’s work to respond to the MMIP crisis is a whole-of-department effort that takes many forms. One year ago today, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco joined Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to launch the Not Invisible Act Commission, a joint Commission established by the Not Invisible Act with an essential mission — to reduce violence against American Indians and Alaska Natives. In February, they welcomed the first in-person plenary meeting of the Not Invisible Act Commission. Since then, the department’s representatives on the commission—who are department leaders and subject matter experts—have participated in the Commission’s field hearings, which will continue through the summer. Later this year, the Commission will deliver recommendations for addressing the MMIP crisis to the Attorney General and the Secretary. In addition to supporting the Not Invisible Act Commission, the department remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the MMIP crisis.
“The Justice Department is marshalling the full strength of its resources to confront the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons, which has devastated the lives of victims, their families, and entire Tribal communities,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Addressing this crisis requires a whole-of-government approach, and we are grateful for the partnership of Tribal and other law enforcement agencies across the nation that are working alongside the Justice Department to help reduce crime and support victims in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.”
“Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day calls on our nation to pause and honor the loved ones who have gone missing or who have been the victims of violent crime,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Acknowledging the many American Indian and Alaska Native people who have suffered, and continue to suffer, from the pain of a missing loved one or of violent crime serves as an important reminder of the urgency and importance of the department’s work to respond to the crisis of missing or murdered indigenous persons. The Justice Department—including our dedicated agents, analysts, and prosecutors—remains steadfast in our pledge to work as partners with Tribal governments in preventing and responding to the violence that has disproportionately harmed Tribal communities.”
“The Justice Department is committed to using every resource at its disposal to combat the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Crisis,” said Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta. “In addition to our core law-enforcement work, we are providing grant funding and guidance to help Tribes develop response plans for missing-persons cases, partner effectively with local law enforcement, and provide resources for victims of crime.”
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “Since their federal recognition in 1994, my Office and the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi have built a very deep and strong relationship in which concerns are openly discussed. One of the topics we have discussed is the unacceptable levels of victimization of American Indian and Alaska Native community members. Through those discussions, into which we invited our local, state, federal and tribal law enforcement partners, we have developed plans and strategies to address any incident of violence directed at members of the Pokagon Band that occur in the Northern District of Indiana.”
Department Prioritization of MMIP Cases - In July 2022, Deputy Attorney General Monaco issued a memorandum reiterating that it is a priority of the Department of Justice to address the disproportionately high rates of violence experienced by American Indians and Alaska Natives, and relatedly, the high rates of indigenous persons reported missing. The memorandum directed each United States Attorney with Indian country jurisdiction — along with their law enforcement partners at DOJ — to update and develop new plans for addressing public safety in Indian country.
Publication of Updated Attorney General Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance- In October 2022, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland issued revised Attorney General Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance. The revised guidelines, which was updated for the first time in a decade, address when and how department employees work with victims and witnesses of crime to ensure that their voices are heard and that they are protected during criminal justice proceedings. For the first time the guidelines include cultural and linguistic considerations for victims from American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
National Native American Outreach Services Liaison- Last year, the department announced the creation of a new National Native American Outreach Services Liaison. Since that announcement, the Liaison has begun to help amplify the voice of crime victims in Indian country and their families across the department as they navigate the federal criminal justice system. In the coming months, the Liaison will meet with survivors and family members of MMIP to learn more about the current challenges in MMIP cases and to make recommendations about the department’s continued response.
Federal Law Enforcement Strategy to Prevent and Respond to the MMIP Crisis - In July 2022, the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior submitted a report pursuant to Sections 2 and 4(a) of Executive Order 14053, which called for “coordinated and comprehensive Federal law enforcement strategy to prevent and respond to violence against Native Americans, including to address missing or murdered indigenous people where the federal government has jurisdiction.” The report was published late last year and is available on the department website here.
Guide for Tribal Community Response Plans for Missing Persons Cases - In December 2022, the department published a Guide to Developing a Tribal Community Response Plan for Missing Persons Cases. This Guide is a resource for Tribes interested in developing a plan to respond to missing person cases that is tailored to the specific needs, resources, and culture of Tribal communities.
Launch of the COPS Office Tribal MOU/MOA Resource Library - On Monday of this week, the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) published its Tribal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)/Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Sample Resource Library. This library provides users with the resources to research and successfully draft agreements that will help agencies develop and solidify partnerships to address missing or murdered Indigenous persons cases.
Expanded Scope of the Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Grant Program - The department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) expanded the scope of allowable activities under its Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside (TVSSA) grant program to permit Tribal communities to pay for costs related to generating awareness of individual missing persons cases involving American Indians and Alaska Native persons, supporting private search efforts for missing American Indians and Alaska Native persons in certain circumstances, and supporting efforts to coordinate the Tribal, state, and federal response to MMIP cases.
Government-to-Government Tribal Consultation on Violence Against Women - In September 2022, the department’s Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) held the 17th Annual OVW Government-to Government Tribal Consultation on Violence Against Women in Anchorage, Alaska. OVW is responsible for conducting annual government-to-government consultations with the leaders of all Federally recognized Indian Tribal governments on behalf of the Attorney General. The 2022 Tribal consultation report is available here.
National Institute of Justice Study of MMIP Cases in New Mexico -Last year, the department’s National Institute of Justice (NIJ) funded a study that will provide vital information regarding the prevalence and context of cases of MMIP in New Mexico and, importantly, will inform long-term data collection, analysis, and reporting strategies on MMIP cases. These improvements will support data-driven decision-making regarding MMIP in New Mexico moving forward.
Additional Department of Justice Resources - For additional information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to address the MMIP crisis, please visit the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons section of the Tribal Safety and Justice website.
Click here for more information about reporting or identifying missing persons.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 46 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Erskine Jones, 31 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jones was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in October 2022 Jones was on federal supervised release and state parole with active arrest warrants on both cases. When investigators found Jones, he had a loaded .380 semi-automatic firearm in his pocket. Jones’ prior convictions include two for robbery and one for felon in possession of a firearm. Any one of Jones’ prior felony convictions prohibit him from possessing the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the St. Joseph County Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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.
Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor victims, promote their rights and recognize victim advocates. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and right of victims of crime. To observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week , the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana is co-sponsoring an Intimate Partner Violence Training on April 25, 2023 in coordination with the South Bend Police Department and the Office of Victims of Crime.
The Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. According to a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2021, there were more than 4.6 million violent victimizations and 11.7 million property crimes.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. On the evening of Wednesday, April 26th, a candlelight vigil will be held on the National Mall near the U.S. Capitol from 7:00pm-8:00pm EST. In recognition of this year’s theme: Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change. – the vigil is an opportunity to commit to elevating and engaging survivors to lift their voices, inform policy and practice, thereby effect change. For more information on the candlelight vigil, please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/events.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “My office collaborates with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners to highlight the importance of providing services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.”
For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov. For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas throughout the year on how you can support victims, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at https://ovc.ojp.gov/subscribe/news-from-ovc.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Spencer Roberson, 43 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady, April 20, 2023, after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Roberson was sentenced to 78 months in prison to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on October 2, 2021, Roberson possessed heroin, cocaine, and more than 40 grams of fentanyl or more than 10 grams of a fentanyl analogue, all of which were intended for distribution.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Gary Man Sentenced to 2 Consecutive Terms of Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Hailey Gist-Holden, age 28, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philp P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of armed bank robbery, and using, carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during that bank robbery. The jury specifically found that, as part of the bank robbery and the discharging of the firearm, Gist-Holden killed/murdered the bank security guard. This prosecution arose out of the June 11, 2021, armed robbery of a First Midwest Bank on Ridge Road in Gary, Indiana.
Gist-Holden received two consecutive life sentences in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Gist-Holden and other individuals formulated a plan to rob the Bank on Ridge Road in Gary, Indiana. Before actually entering the Bank, Gist-Holden, at point blank range, shot the Bank’s security guard. Gist-Hilden then proceeded into the Bank to complete the robbery. While another member of the robbery crew entered the Bank building and stole approximately $9,000.00, Gist-Holden remained in the doorway of the building firing bullets that shattered windows. After the robbery, Gist-Holden and a co-defendant fled Indiana. Gist-Holden, was subsequently apprehended in Georgia by local law enforcement following a high-speed car chase.
Previously, co-defendants James Anthony King and Kenyon Hawkins pled guilty to armed bank robbery and murder resulting from the discharge of a firearm during the robbery. Both are awaiting sentencing. Another alleged participant in this bank robbery is set to be tried separately.
“First, I want to express by sincerest condolences to the victims in this case. I fully recognize that Gist-Holden’s prosecution does not diminish the anxiety you face or the sorrow that you are – and will continue—to experience because of this senseless act of violence,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “Second, as this case proves, my office, with the support and assistance of federal, state and local enforcement agencies, will prosecute vigorously persons who commit volent crimes that destroy the peace of Northern District of Indiana residents and businesses.”
“While this senseless act of violence will have a lifelong impact on the victims, I hope that knowing this defendant has been held accountable for his crimes helps their healing process,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “Violent acts such as this in our communities are intolerable and the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue our efforts to remove dangerous individuals such as the defendant from our streets.”
“I commend the efforts of the numerous law enforcement agencies who participated in this investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office for their partnership in prosecuting those accountable for this tragedy,” commented Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon. “ The men and women of ATF stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to ensure our communities are safe.”
This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of the Lake County Sheriff’s Department; the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office; the Indiana State Police; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Gary Police Department. Additional investigative assistance was provided by the FBI Offices in Chicago, Miami, and Atlanta along with the Georgia State Police, the Atlanta Police Department, and the Lowndes County (GA) Sheriff’s Department. Additional investigative assistance was provided by the FBI Offices in Chicago, Miami, and Atlanta along with the Georgia State Police, the Atlanta Police Department, and the Lowndes County (GA) Sheriff’s Department. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Northern District of Georgia, Middle District of Georgia, and the Middle District of Florida were involved in this cooperative effort. This case was tried by Assistant United States Attorneys Caitlin M. Padula and Michal J. Toth, who are joined by the prosecution team which includes Assistant United States Attorneys David Nozick and Kimberly Schultz.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Earl Rauschenberg, 46 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to transportation of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Rauschenberg was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 7 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in July 2020, Rauschenberg uploaded to the internet a video depicting child pornography. A year earlier, July 2019, Rauschenberg had been released from prison following his conviction for possession of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and the Michigan City Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John M. Maciejczyk.
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Geneva Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Chad Billington, 38 years old, of Geneva, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Billington was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Billington engaged in the sale of methamphetamine to law enforcement on several occasions during November and December of 2020. The methamphetamine obtained from Billington had a purity level of 97 percent or higher.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brent A. Ecenbarger.
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Fort Wayne Woman Sentenced to 69 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Kelly Krieger, 38 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting armed bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Krieger was sentenced to 69 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $202,184 in restitution to the victim bank.
According to documents in the case, a bank in Fort Wayne was robbed on Christmas Eve 2019 by an individual armed with a deadly weapon, later identified later as Horia Malutan.
During their investigation, law Enforcement determined that one of the bank employees, the branch manager, Kelly Krieger, was involved in the robbery. Krieger admitted to law enforcement that she and Malutan planned the robbery. Krieger said that she told Malutan where to stand before coming into the bank, what words to use once inside the bank and how to exit the bank.
Co-defendant Malutan pled guilty to the armed bank robbery. He was sentenced in May, 2022, to 57 months imprisonment and ordered to pay restitution to the victim bank.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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Chicago Man Sentenced to 33 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Rajesh Kanuru, 46 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to wire fraud and embezzlement against a bankruptcy estate, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Kanuru was sentenced to 33 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $348,388.50 in restitution.
According to documents in this case, Kanuru was an attorney with a practice located in Chicago, Illinois. From March 2012 through August 2018, Kanuru devised a scheme to defraud clients who had filed for bankruptcy, the Bankruptcy Trustee and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Indiana. In particular, Kanuru represented clients in a personal injury lawsuit. When these clients later filed for bankruptcy, Kanuru was appointed by the bankruptcy court to gather the settlement proceeds from their personal injury lawsuit to turn over to the bankruptcy estate on behalf of the clients. Instead, Kanuru embezzled the personal injury settlement proceeds totaling $348,388.50 for his own personal use and benefit.
“The Bankruptcy system, to work as it is designed, relies upon attorneys to act in the best interest of their clients and to comply with orders issued by the Bankruptcy judges,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “When, as happened in this case, an attorney violates both his clients trust and his obligations to the Bankruptcy court to unlawfully enrich himself, my Office will seek justice by prosecuting to the fully extent of the law.”
“Abuse of the bankruptcy system by embezzling estate funds and concealing those acts strikes at the very core of the integrity of the bankruptcy system and undermines public confidence in that system,” stated Nancy J. Gargula, United States Trustee for Indiana, Central and Southern Illinois (Region 10). “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message that these actions will not be tolerated. I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Johnson and our law enforcement partners for their strong commitment to combating fraud and abuse in bankruptcy cases.”
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.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service in collaboration with the Northern Indiana Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by the United States Trustee for Region 10. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Luke Reilander.
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Gary Man Sentenced to 51 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Modesto Ricard IV, 32 years old, 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.
Ricard was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on August 9, 2021, law enforcement arrested Ricard on an outstanding arrest warrant and recovered a .380 caliber firearm from his pants pocket. Ricard’s criminal history revealed he has a prior felony conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force, and the East Chicago 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.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 71 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Bart Ely, 51 years old, of Ohio City, Ohio, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Ely was sentenced to 71 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $401.00 to the victim bank.
According to documents in the case, on June 4, 2021, Ely entered a bank in Bluffton, Indiana. He wrote and presented a note directing the teller to not make a sound and give him money or he would shoot. After obtaining an amount of bank funds, Ely fled. He was arrested later in the day after being identified from photographs posted by law enforcement. Ely’s criminal history includes several prior robbery convictions in Ohio.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the Bluffton Police Department, the Wells County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Federal, state, and local authorities in Ohio also assisted in this investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Marcel Toussaint, 37 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Toussaint was sentenced to 120 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between June 25, 2020, and August 24, 2020, Toussaint distributed various quantities of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Man Sentenced to 292 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE-Hector Castaneda, age 60, of Michoacan, Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady on his plea of guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 or more kilograms of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Castaneda was sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case and in related cases, from March of 2010 through April of 2011, Castaneda, also known as “El Pariente” conspired to distribute many kilograms of cocaine from Mexico into Allen County, Indiana, and elsewhere. Castaneda was indicted in 2012, and he remained a fugitive in Mexico until he was arrested in 2017.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, with the members being the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Other law enforcement agencies providing assistance were the Allen County Drug Task Force, the New Haven Police Department, and the San Bernardino County, California, Police Department. This 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.
This case is also 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.
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