Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 235 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Hector I. Mendez, age 29, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before U.S. District Court Judge Holly A. Brady following his plea of guilty to distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Mendez was sentenced to 235 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents presented in this case, on October 19, 2018, Mendez distributed more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, and from August through October of 2018, Mendez distributed methamphetamine on multiple other occasions.
“Narcotics trafficking hurts the citizens of Fort Wayne,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division. “Law enforcement partnerships such as this local, state and federal effort will continue to investigate narcotics trafficking and violent crime plaguing our communities”
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Mission (Texas) Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Warsaw, Indiana Woman ChargedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Heather Bentley, age 35, of Warsaw, Indiana was charged in a criminal Complaint with making false statements in connection with the purchase of firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in this case, Heather Bentley purchased three firearms on November 4, 2020. When she purchased the firearms, she certified that she was the actual buyer of the firearms. However, it is alleged that other individuals had given her over $1,500 to purchase the firearms. Bentley indicated during a later interview that two individuals who she knew to be felons had asked her to buy guns because they were fleeing from the police. Bentley allegedly provided all three firearms to those individuals. Two days later, on November 6, 2020, two police officers in Delafield, Wisconsin responded to a call for service. Those officers encountered these same two individuals, one of whom shot both of the police officers. Both individuals were arrested in Wisconsin.
"The charges in this case allege the defendant made a straw purchase, which is when a person acquires a firearm from a federal firearms licensee for someone else, who is either ineligible to purchase the firearm or wishes to conceal their identity,” commented ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division. “ATF will continue to investigate these serious violations, which put not only the community at risk, but, as illustrated in this complaint, law enforcement as well.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a Complaint is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the Judge after a consideration of federal statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Delafield, Wisconsin Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly Donnelly.
Fort Wayne Woman Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE—Sierra O. Gill, age 34, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly A. Brady after her plea of guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Gill was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on or about October 8, 2019, Gill possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Allen County Drug Task Force, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Adams County Drug Task Force, the Huntington Police Department, the Montgomery County (Ohio) Sheriff’s Department, and the Dayton (Ohio) Police Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Former Elkhart, Indiana Resident Sentenced to over Six Years in Prison for Financing of TerrorismRead the Press Release
Samantha Marie Elhassani, aka Samantha Sally, 35, formerly of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon to 78 months in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Financing Terrorism, announced Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana Thomas L. Kirsch II, FBI Assistant Director of the Counterterrorism Division Jill Sanborn, and FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Indianapolis field office Paul Keenan.
“Once again, the Justice Department has held accountable an individual who turned her back on her country to support a terrorist organization,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “As Elhassani admitted, she made multiple trips to Hong Kong to smuggle tens of thousands in cash and gold, knowing that the funds would be used to support ISIS in Syria. We repatriated Elhassani from Syria because every nation is responsible for holding its citizens accountable and addressing the future threat they may pose. We will not stop.”
"Today's sentencing of Ms. Elhassani should serve as a stark reminder that ISIS and other terrorist organizations have no limits when it comes to recruiting people to join their violent agenda,” said Jill Sanborn, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “But it also demonstrates our resolve to diligently go after anyone who makes the fateful choice to provide material support to any terrorist organization, especially those who not only betray their country but who would also put their own children in harm’s way during the process.”
“Samantha Elhassani was sentenced today for providing financial support to individuals who desired to support ISIS, a terrorist organization that has committed acts of violence against Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II for the Northern District of Indiana. “She traveled with her husband and brother-in-law to Syria, both of whom became ISIS fighters, putting the lives of her children at risk. My Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to prosecuting those like Elhassani who provide support to terrorist organizations. ”
“Today's sentence serves as a strong reminder that the FBI will never relent in ensuring those who abandon their country to support a violent terrorist organization, such as Ms. Elhassani did, will be held accountable and justice will be served,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “Adding to her betrayal, Ms. Elhassani willfully chose to put her young children's lives at risk through her selfish actions, exposing them to an atmosphere of violence and hatred. She knew exactly what she was doing and why. She was an active participant in this heinous activity and is now facing the consequences.”
According to documents in this case, in November 2014, Elhassani was informed by her husband that he and his brother wanted to travel to Syria to join ISIS, which she knew at the time was a terrorist organization that engaged in terrorist activities. Between November 2014 and April 1015, Elhassani helped the two men join ISIS by making multiple trips to Hong Kong and transporting more than $30,000 in cash and gold from the United States and depositing it in a safe deposit box in Hong Kong. Elhassani melted down the gold to look like jewelry and did not disclose the cash and gold on customs declaration forms. At the time Elhassani transported the money and gold, she knew that her husband and brother-in-law had expressed an interest in joining ISIS and that they intended to use these resources to support ISIS.
During her last trip to Hong Kong, in late March 2015, Elhassani procured tactical gear, including rifle scopes and image-stabilized binoculars. From there, Elhassani and her family, including her seven year old son and two year old daughter, departed for Istanbul, Turkey, and entered ISIS-controlled territory in Syria sometime in or around June 2015. In the months leading up to the move to Syria, Elhassani helped conceal the plans by lying to family, friends and federal agents about her travel.
In July of 2018, Elhassani and her children were transferred from the custody of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to U.S. law enforcement custody.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Indianapolis Division and Joint Terrorism Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi, Jennifer Chang and Nathaniel Whalen and the National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section.
Former Elkhart, Indiana Resident Sentenced to over Six Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Samantha Marie Elhassani, aka Samantha Sally, 35, formerly of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon to 78 months in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Financing Terrorism, announced Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana Thomas L. Kirsch II, FBI Assistant Director of the Counterterrorism Division Jill Sanborn and FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Indianapolis field office Paul Keenan.
“Once again, the Justice Department has held accountable an individual who turned her back on her country to support a terrorist organization,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “As Elhassani admitted, she made multiple trips to Hong Kong to smuggle tens of thousands in cash and gold, knowing that the funds would be used to support ISIS in Syria. We repatriated Elhassani from Syria because every nation is responsible for holding its citizens accountable and addressing the future threat they may pose. We will not stop.”
“Samantha Elhassani was sentenced today for providing financial support to individuals who desired to support ISIS, a terrorist organization that has committed acts of violence against Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II for the Northern District of Indiana. “She traveled with her husband and brother-in-law to Syria, both of whom became ISIS fighters, putting the lives of her children at risk. My Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to prosecuting those like Elhassani who provide support to terrorist organizations. ”
“Today's sentence serves as a strong reminder that the FBI will never relent in ensuring those who abandon their country to support a violent terrorist organization, such as Ms. Elhassani did, will be held accountable and justice will be served,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “Adding to her betrayal, Ms. Elhassani willfully chose to put her young children's lives at risk through her selfish actions, exposing them to an atmosphere of violence and hatred. She knew exactly what she was doing and why. She was an active participant in this heinous activity and is now facing the consequences.”
According to documents in this case, in November 2014, Elhassani was informed by her husband that he and his brother wanted to travel to Syria to join ISIS, which she knew at the time was a terrorist organization that engaged in terrorist activities. Between November 2014 and April 1015, Elhassani helped the two men join ISIS by making multiple trips to Hong Kong and transporting more than $30,000 in cash and gold from the United States and depositing it in a safe deposit box in Hong Kong. Elhassani melted down the gold to look like jewelry and did not disclose the cash and gold on customs declaration forms. At the time Elhassani transported the money and gold, she knew that her husband and brother-in-law had expressed an interest in joining ISIS and that they intended to use these resources to support ISIS.
During her last trip to Hong Kong, in late March 2015, Elhassani procured tactical gear, including rifle scopes and image-stabilized binoculars. From there, Elhassani and her family, including her seven year old son and two year old daughter, departed for Istanbul, Turkey, and entered ISIS-controlled territory in Syria sometime in or around June 2015. In the months leading up to the move to Syria, Elhassani helped conceal the plans by lying to family, friends and federal agents about her travel.
In July of 2018, Elhassani and her children were transferred from the custody of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to U.S. law enforcement custody.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Indianapolis Division and Joint Terrorism Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi, Jennifer Chang and Nathaniel Whalen and the National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section.
California Man Convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute More Than One Kilogram of Heroin After Jury TrialRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Renato Salazar-Lopez, age 37, of San Ysidro, California, was convicted late yesterday, after a one-day jury trial in the Hammond District Court of possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, announced United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
U.S. District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio presided over this jury trial.
According to evidence presented at trial, on September 28, 2018, on Interstate 90 near the Portage Toll Plaza, a Hobart police officer made a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Renato Salazar-Lopez. During a search of the vehicle, police recovered approximately 4.8 kilograms of heroin in the trunk.
Sentencing is scheduled to take place on February 16, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Hobart Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath.
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Latin Dragon Nation Member Sentenced to 510 Months in Prison Following Conviction for Racketeering Conspiracy Including Two HomicidesRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Ralph Mendez, Jr., 24, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon to 510 months in prison following his guilty plea to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity as a member of the Latin Dragons Nation street gang, including admitting responsibility for two homicides, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in the case, Mendez, Jr., admitted to being a member of the Latin Dragon Nation street gang since approximately 2014. As a member of the gang, Mendez, Jr., participated in shootings of suspected gang members and associates, in addition to drug and firearms trafficking. On May 23, 2017, while accompanied by others, Mendez, Jr., left Hammond, Indiana, in a stolen vehicle to go to a rival gang neighborhood in Chicago. Upon arriving, he shot Jose Gomez, a suspected rival gang member, resulting in his death. On July 14, 2017, in Chicago, Illinois, Mendez, Jr., was accompanied by others when he fired in excess of 15 shots at four people whom he suspected were rival gang members or associates, resulting in the death of Mike Whitford and resulting in another victim being shot in the neck. From 2014 through 2017, Mendez, Jr., also accompanied others on shootings and himself shot four additional victims, including shooting one victim in the back as he attempted to flee.
“This sentence should send a loud message that if you are involved in illegal and violent activity in our communities, federal law enforcement is coming for you,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “I am extremely proud of the work of our agents and law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly on this case to ultimately hold the defendant accountable for his actions.”
“Violence, including firearms and narcotics trafficking, will not be tolerated by the community of Hammond,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division. “Coordination among local, state and federal law enforcement as well as across state lines between Indiana and Illinois is an effective force multiplier in ensuring gang members are held accountable for the violence they perpetrate.”
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Chicago Police Department Criminal Enterprise Unit; the Cook County Sheriff’s Office; the Bartlett Police Department; the Hammond Police Department; the East Chicago Police Department; the Merrillville Police Department; the Hobart Police Department; the Lake County Sheriff’s Department; and the Calumet City Police Department, with assistance from the Lake County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office, the Cook County, Illinois State’s Attorney’s Office, the Indiana Department of Corrections, and the Illinois Department of Corrections. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Maria N. Lerner and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Toth, with prior assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph A. Cooley.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 72 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE—Sean Dunham, age 25, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Dunham was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in or about June 2019, Dunham possessed a firearm after being previously convicted in 2018 of Possession of a Syringe, a felony, in Allen County Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of Indiana State Police and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Latin King Gang Member Sentenced to Life in Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy including Two Murders and Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Jeremiah Farmer, 39, of Hammond, Indiana, and a member of various Indiana factions of the Chicago-based Latin Kings, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon to life in prison following his conviction at trial in July 2019 of conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, marijuana, and alprazolam, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
At trial, the jury found that, as part of the racketeering conspiracy, on June 25, 1999, Farmer murdered Marion Lowry, 74, and Harvey Siegers, 67, by beating each to death with a hammer at their Hammond business, Calumet Auto Rebuilders. The jury also found that Farmer conspired to distribute or possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine as part of the racketeering conspiracy. The jury also found that Farmer conspired to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana as part of the drug conspiracy.
Approximately 43 defendants have been charged with racketeering conspiracy as members of the Latin Kings in a criminal conspiracy extending back to 1999. The racketeering conspiracy charge alleges that gang members and associates were participants in a racketeering conspiracy that involved murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, sex trafficking, and narcotics distribution.
"The defendant terrorized the community through his violent actions and today’s sentence ensures an extremely dangerous individual has been taken off the streets,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “This is an example of how the collective efforts of the FBI and our law enforcement partners impact crime in our neighborhoods and remain a top priority.”
“This defendant is responsible for terrorizing the community of Hammond with narcotics trafficking and violence,” remarked ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division. “Strong law enforcement partnerships among local, state and federal agencies allow us to focus on the most violent offenders.”
The investigation was conducted under the OCDETF program, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of OCDETF is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and money laundering organizations.
The agencies involved in these investigative efforts are the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the East Chicago Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Gary Police Department, the Hammond Police Department, the Lake County, Indiana, Sheriff’s Department and Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area officers and agents. The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Illinois, has also provided assistance. The Latin King case was prosecuted by Northern District of Indiana Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Nozick and Nicholas J. Padilla.
Gary Man Sentenced to 96 Months Imprisonment for Distribution of HeroinRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Terrence Ballard, 60, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Theresa L. Springmann to 96 months in prison following his guilty plea to distribution of heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in the case, on April 24, 2019, and May 2, 2019, Ballard distributed heroin in Gary, Indiana, while on federal supervised release for a prior heroin distribution conviction. Ballard has four prior felony convictions, including two prior federal convictions for distribution of heroin, one prior conviction for dealing a controlled substance, and one prior conviction for carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “The 8 year sentencing of Mr. Ballard was just and necessary for the fine citizens of Gary and our surrounding communities. Individuals like Mr. Ballard must be held accountable for their actions, especially when they are dealing debilitating drugs, such as heroin, while on federal supervised release. The DEA Merrillville Resident Office is committed to working with our other federal, state, and local partners to investigate and arrest drug traffickers and keep our communities safe. The DEA appreciates the exceptional work, by all involved, to bring Mr. Ballard to justice.”
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration/HIDTA Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.
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Illinois Man Charged with Defrauding the U.S Treasury Department’s Mortgage Assistance Program in IndianaRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Mohammed Shahbaz Khan, age 45, of Bourbonnais, Illinois was indicted for making false claims in connection with his receipt of money from the Hardest Hit Fund, a federal mortgage assistance initiative offered by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Troubled Asset Relief Program, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to the indictment, the purpose of the Hardest Hit Fund was to help stabilize communities in states, like Indiana, that were “hardest hit” by the 2008 economic and housing market downturn. The Hardest Hit Fund program in Indiana is administered by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority. In order to receive this mortgage assistance, an applicant was required to be an Indiana homeowner; own only one home; and reside in that home.
The indictment alleges that Khan knowingly submitted false statements about his residency in order to obtain Hardest Hit Fund mortgage assistance on an Indiana property, while living elsewhere. Over 18-months, Khan allegedly received $29,926.46 in mortgage assistance, to which he was not entitled.
“Today, an Illinois man was charged with defrauding a long-term federal economic stability program, intended to help people stay in their homes, knowing that he did not qualify,” said Christy Goldsmith Romero, Special Inspector General of the U.S. Treasury Department’s Troubled Asset Program (SIGTARP). “We commend the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana for standing with SIGTARP to combat fraud against homeownership preservation programs.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the Judge after a consideration of federal statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly Kelley.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 201 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE--Damien Thomas, age 40, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to possessing multiple controlled substances with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Thomas was sentenced to 201 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, Thomas sold fentanyl and cocaine to another individual, and on or about April 30, 2018, Thomas possessed in his residence almost a kilogram of heroin, over a half-kilogram of crystal methamphetamine, and large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. Thomas also possessed two pistols, a rifle, and over 1,300 rounds of ammunition in furtherance of his drug trafficking activity.
“Mr. Thomas’ sentence illustrates our collective mission to rid our communities of violent drug offenders who put our residents in harm’s way,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to identify and investigate these operators and put them out of business.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Allen County Sheriff’s Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Eric Lauderdale, 37, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon DeGuilio upon his plea of guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Lauderdale was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, in October 2019, Lauderdale sold approximately ¼ pound of methamphetamine to another person in South Bend, Indiana. In December 2019, agents executed a search warrant on the house Lauderdale left during the October transaction. During the warrant, investigators found loaded firearms and other items that were indicative of drug dealing.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department and the St. Joseph County Drug Investigation Unit. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE-Julius Moore, age 37, of Van Wert, OH, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Moore was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, Moore having a previous felony conviction for domestic violence, possessed a firearm in August 2019. Specifically, while being subject to a protective order, Moore appeared at the complainant’s place of work, and confronted the individual while having a firearm visible on his person. He was later found to have possessed a second firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department and Allen County Sheriff’s Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey Speith.
U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II Appoints Jacky Jacobs as A District Election Officer for the Northern District of IndianaRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II announced today that Supervisory Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Jacky Jacobs will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 3, 2020, general election. Supervisory AUSA Jacobs has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of Indiana, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights concerns in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will always act appropriately to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open through election day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights concerns during the voting period that ends on November 3, 2020, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Kirsch stated that AUSA/DEO Jacky Jacobs will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: main line 219-937-5500 or direct 219-937-5634.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 317-595-4000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
United States Attorney Kirsch said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 188 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE-Maurice Sewell, age 39, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Sewell was sentenced to 188 months in prison followed by 6 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in November 2016, Sewell possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute it. Sewell also possessed three firearms after having prior felony convictions in the Allen County Superior Court. Sewell had been previously convicted of dealing cocaine or a narcotic drug in both 2001 and 2012. He also had a prior felony conviction for a 2007 residential entry and strangulation.
“As the Court indicated today, Sewell’s long criminal history and recent conduct of illegally possessing firearms and illegal drugs led to the lengthy jail sentence the Court imposed today,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “My Office has always aggressively prosecuted felons who possess firearms and will continue to work with federal, state and local law enforcement partners in these type of cases.”
“I commend the United States Attorney’s Office and Fort Wayne Police Department for their partnership in investigating and prosecuting this individual,” commented ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division. “Holding those who illegally possess firearms accountable is important to the safety of the whole community.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
Hammond Man ChargedRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Murray Ford, age 57, of Hammond, Indiana was charged in a criminal Complaint with credit union robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in this case, on October 13, 2020, it is alleged that Ford entered Teacher’s Credit Union in Hammond, Indiana, wearing sunglasses and a mask. It is alleged that he displayed a firearm and demanded money, and employees handed over in excess of $14,000. Ford left on foot to a strip mall parking lot where his vehicle was parked. On October 14, 2020, agents subsequently executed a search warrant on Ford’s apartment and located approximately $14,000 in cash, some of which was stolen credit union funds, along with sunglasses consistent in appearance with the robber’s, and a silver revolver.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a Complaint is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the Judge after a consideration of federal statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Padilla.
South Bend, Indiana Man Sentenced to 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Lamont Jamerson, age 34, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio upon his plea of guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Jamerson was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, in August 2019, Jamerson was in an ongoing dispute with another individual about money. Jamerson called and texted that person multiple times, then went to the individual’s home and pointed a gun at the window where they were standing. The individual called 911 and police officers located Jamerson shortly thereafter outside the home with a loaded 9mm handgun that had an extended magazine. Jamerson has multiple prior convictions, including three for burglary as well as carrying a handgun without a license, residential entry, and battery resulting in moderate bodily injury.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Angola Woman Sentenced to 200 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE-Lauren Grant, age 36, of Angola, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly A. Brady after her plea of guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Grant was sentenced to 200 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, Grant entered a plea of guilty to distributing more than 50 grams of actual methamphetamine, and in her plea agreement, she agreed to being involved in the distribution of 1.5 to 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine. In August through October 2019, Grant supplied multiple ounce of methamphetamine to co-defendant Aric Starnes and others.
Co-defendant, Aric Starnes, age 47, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced October 9, 2020, to 130 months in prison.
“Keeping dangerous drugs off the streets helps reduce violence,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “We work in coordination with DEA and other law enforcement agencies to continue to fight drug distribution through enforcement.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “The over 16 year sentence of Ms. Grant was just and necessary for the fine citizens of Fort Wayne and our surrounding communities. Individuals like Ms. Grant must be held accountable for their actions. The DEA Fort Wayne Post of Duty is committed to working with the Allen County Drug Task Force and our other federal, state, and local partners to investigate and arrest drug traffickers and keep our communities safe. The DEA appreciates the exceptional work, by all involved, to bring Ms. Grant to justice.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Drug Task Force, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Fort Wayne Indiana Woman Ordered to Pay $646,690.32 in RestitutionRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Susanne “Suzi” Gawel, age 57, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after her plea of guilty to health care fraud and aggravated identity theft, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Gawel was sentenced to 48 months in prison, 1 year of supervised release and ordered to pay $646,690.32 in restitution.
According to documents in this case, in March of 2020, Gawel was charged by way of Information and subsequently entered a plea of guilty to the charges. She worked as an office manager at her Fort Wayne company which sold durable medical equipment (DME) to clients across northern Indiana. Some of the company’s clients were Medicaid beneficiaries. Through her work, Gawel had access to Medicaid patient information, including patients’ names, addresses, dates of birth, Medicaid ID numbers and treating physician information. From about January 2015 and continuing to about October 2018, Gawel devised a scheme to defraud Medicaid. During this time period, she submitted over 200 reimbursement claims to Indiana Medicaid for DME, including oximetry devices and pneumatic compressors, which were not provided to Medicaid recipients and/or for which they had no medical necessity and/or for which there was no physician order. In total, her scheme defrauded Indiana Medicaid of approximately $646,690.32.
“My Office is focused on prosecuting fraud cases such as this one,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “Defrauding a federally funded health care program like Medicaid cheats all taxpayers. This case demonstrates that when individuals exploit a federally funded program, our law enforcement partners will investigate and my Office will prosecute and hold accountable those responsible.”
“The investigation of health care fraud is a priority for the FBI and this type of illegal conduct will not be tolerated,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. "This sentence not only emphasizes the cooperation between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to identify and investigate those who engage in this type of crime, but also sends a clear message to those who would exploit federally funded health care programs that they will be held accountable.”
“We are committed to exposing waste, fraud and abuse of Medicaid funds and bringing to justice those who have broken the law,” Attorney General Curtis Hill said. “I am proud of the investigative work of our Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in this case, and I am grateful as well for the contributions of our federal partners.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Indiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah E. Nokes.
DOJ Charges More Than 14,200 Defendants with Firearms-Related Crimes in Fiscal Year 2020Read the Press Release
HAMMOND – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 14,200 defendants with firearms-related crimes during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020, despite the challenges of COVID 19 and its impact on the criminal justice process. These cases have been a Department priority since November 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr announced his commitment to investigating, prosecuting, and combatting gun crimes as a critical part of the Department’s anti-violent crime strategy. These firearms-related charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made firearms-related investigations a priority.
“The number one priority of government is to keep its citizens safe,” said Attorney General Barr. “By preventing firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who are prohibited from having them, we can stop violent crime before it happens. Violating federal firearms laws is a serious crime and offenders face serious consequences. The Department of Justice is committed to investigating and prosecuting individuals who illegally buy, sell, use, or possess firearms. Reducing gun violence requires a coordinated effort, and we could not have charged more than 14,000 individuals with firearms-related crimes without the hard work of the dedicated law enforcement professionals at the ATF, our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country, and especially all of our state and local law enforcement partners.”
“Protecting the public from violent crime involving firearms is at the core of ATF’s mission,” commented ATF Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “Every day the men and women of ATF pursue and investigate those who use firearms to commit violent crimes in our communities, many of whom are prohibited from possessing firearms from previous convictions. ATF, in collaboration with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the nation, is committed to bringing these offenders to justice for their egregious and violent criminal acts.”
“My Office has historically charged a large number of defendants with illegal firearms offenses,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “This year is no different. Despite the coronavirus pandemic, my Office has charged more defendants with firearm offenses this year than we charged during the last fiscal year. We work in coordination with our partners at the ATF, FBI and DEA, and will continue to focus on these type of crimes. Aggressively prosecuting illegal firearms offenses has a direct effect on reducing violent crime.”
Of the more than 14,200 cases charged, 208 defendants have been charged by the Northern District of Indiana, announced U.S. Attorney United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
Under federal law, it is illegal to possess a firearm if you fall into one of nine prohibited categories including being a felon, illegal alien, or unlawful user of a controlled substance. Further, it is unlawful to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense or violent crime. It is also illegal to purchase – or even to attempt to illegally purchase - firearms if the buyer is a prohibited person or illegally purchasing a firearm on behalf of others. Lying on ATF Form 4473, which is used to lawfully purchase a firearm, is also a federal offense. The Department is committed to prosecuting these firearms offenses as well as using all modern technologies available to law enforcement such as the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, known as NIBIN, to promote gun crime intelligence. Keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of violent criminals will continue to be a priority of the Department of Justice and we will use all appropriate, available means to keep the law abiding people of this country safe from gun crime.
For more information on the lawful purchasing of firearms, please see: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atf-form-4473.
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Niles, Michigan Man Sentenced to 71 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Clarence Bonds, 36, of Niles, Michigan was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty to transporting a firearm in interstate commerce knowing that a felony offense would be committed with it, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Mr. Bonds was sentenced to 71 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, Mr. Bonds was on federal supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine when he bought a .45 caliber handgun in Michigan. Mr. Bonds brought the gun from Niles, Michigan to South Bend, where he was caught with it while a passenger in a car stopped by police. Mr. Bonds has multiple prior convictions, including several for weapons-related offenses.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Granger, Indiana Man Sentenced to 30 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Jonathan Kassay, 50, of Granger, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty to production of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Mr. Kassay was sentenced to 360 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $12, 219.04 in restitution.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said, “Protecting children from child predators is one of our top priorities. Children are nearly defenseless to save themselves from abuse. Our investigative partners are some of the best in the world at working these cases, and today’s sentence should serve as a reminder that my Office will work diligently and aggressively to put child predators behind bars.”
According to documents filed in this case, in 2017 Mr. Kassay used minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography.
“This case is a reminder that child pornography is a serious crime – one that can cause sometimes irreparable harm to children. While this sentence can’t undo that damage, it does ensure the defendant will never be able to hurt anyone else,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “It also sends a strong message that there is no place in our communities for those who prey on vulnerable children. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively target those who exploit children.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
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North Judson, Indiana Man Sentenced to 14 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Henry Wood, 41, of North Judson, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty to receipt of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Mr. Woods was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
“Those who engage in crimes exploiting children are among the worst offenders in the criminal justice system. Lengthy prison sentences, like that imposed on Mr. Wood, are often the result in these types of cases,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “Every view or share of child pornography re-victimizes some of the most vulnerable victims. My Office and our investigative partners will do everything in our power to investigate and prosecute individuals who engage in this type of activity.”
According to documents filed in this case, Mr. Wood admitted that he downloaded child pornography to his cell phone in December of 2018. Wood, a former gang member with an extensive criminal history, possessed over 2000 images of child pornography, including multiple videos. Many of these images contained sadistic images of children under 12 engaging in sex acts.
“This sentence demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to investigating cases of child pornography with a sense of urgency to protect children from predators who engage in this type of activity,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, FBI Indianapolis. “Protecting the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community, and ensuring those who would harm them are held accountable, is a responsibility the FBI and our law enforcement partners take seriously.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to over 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE-Aric Starnes, age 47, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Holly Brady after his plea of guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Starnes was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, Starnes entered a plea of guilty to distributing more than 50 grams actual methamphetamine, and in his plea agreement, he agreed to being involved in the distribution of at least 50 grams but less than 150 grams of “ice” or crystal methamphetamine. In August through September of 2019, Starnes brokered multiple drug deals between his supplier and another person for multiple ounces of methamphetamine.
“Keeping dangerous drugs off the streets reduces violence,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “We work in coordination with DEA and other law enforcement agencies to continue to fight drug distribution through enforcement.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “The 10 plus year sentencing of Mr. Starnes was just and necessary. Individuals peddling poison into Fort Wayne and our surrounding communities must be held accountable for their actions. The DEA Fort Wayne Post of Duty is committed to working with the Allen County Drug Task Force and our other federal, state, and local partners to investigate and arrest these drug traffickers to keep our communities safe. The DEA appreciates the exceptional work, by all involved, to bring Mr. Starnes to justice.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Drug Task Force, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 60 Month in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Said El-Khatib, 34, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced before U.S. District Court Judge Holly A. Brady to 60 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to the documents in this case, from July 2018 through and including September 26, 2018, Said El-Khatib knowingly possessed a firearm after having been convicted in 2006 of Criminal Recklessness in Allen County, Indiana.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives- Fort Wayne Field Office, Indiana State Police, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives- Toledo, Ohio Field Office, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives Special Response Team 1, New York City Police Department Threat Assessment Protection Unit, Ohio State Police, and the Bronx, New York District Attorney’s Office The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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DOJ Charges 500 Plus Domestic Violence Firearm Related Cases in FY 20Read the Press Release
HAMMOND – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged, 13 cases have been brought by Northern Indiana, announced U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said, “My Office has no tolerance for convicted felons possessing firearms, particularly when these individuals also have a history of domestic violence. We always have and will continue to focus on these type of cases with our law enforcement partners.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Michigan City Man Convicted Following 2-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Rapheal Seay, age 30, of Michigan City, Indiana was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
U.S. District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio presided over this 2-day trial.
According to evidence presented at trial, in December of 2019 Mr. Seay was driving in Michigan City with a loaded 9 millimeter firearm that had an extended magazine. Police officers pulled his car over and recovered the firearm. During a later interview, Mr. Seay told investigators that he had the gun for protection and had bought it in South Bend a month previously. At the time of the offense, Mr. Seay was on federal supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Michigan City Police Department and LaPorte County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Molly E. Donnelly and Jerome W. McKeever.
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Hammond Woman Ordered to Pay $381,759 in RestitutionRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Tracy Cox, 52, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon upon her guilty plea to wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Ms. Cox was sentenced to 24 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $381,759 in restitution
According to documents in the case, between May of 2011 and July of 2018, Ms. Cox used her position at a Gary, Indiana trucking company to defraud her employer. She diverted over $381,759 for her own use by creating approximately 400 unauthorized transfers. She devised a scheme in which she entered the payment system and authorized a series of check numbers to make them available for use by truck drivers. She then obtained the authorization codes for the checks, made them payable to herself, and filled in the dollar amount or obtained a cash advance. To cover her scheme, Ms. Cox altered years of bank statements to hide the true balances.
“When an employee takes advantage of an employer’s trust to steal for the employer, the consequences can have a trickle-down effect for the employer and the other employees, costing jobs and causing economic hardship,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “My Office is dedicated to prosecuting fraud schemes like this and will continuously work with our law enforcement partners on these investigations.”
“Abusing the trust of your employer to further your own selfish and fraudulent scheme will not be tolerated by the FBI,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “The FBI takes our responsibility to identify and investigate those who would perpetrate these illegal activities seriously and will ensure they are held accountable.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Philip C. Benson.
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South Bend, Indiana Man Sentenced to 7 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –On October 1, 2020, Cody Miller, 28, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Mr. Miller was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, on July 24, 2019, agents executed a federal search warrant on Mr. Miller’s residence where he possessed approximately 160 grams of methamphetamine that he intended to sell.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, Mishawaka Police Department, and Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Latin Dragon Nation Associate Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Angelina Vilella, 21, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment following her guilty plea to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity as an associate of the Latin Dragons Nation street gang, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in the case, the Latin Dragons Nation is a criminal street gang that originated in Chicago and spread to other areas, including the Northern District of Indiana. Members and associates of the Latin Dragons Nation allegedly engage in acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, witness tampering, and assault, to protect the gang’s territory. The Latin Dragon Nation members have been charged with crimes involving in excess of 50 victims, including 15 murder victims.
As part of her involvement in the Latin Dragons Nation, Vilella participated with gang members and associates in acts of violence and other criminal activity. In May 2017, Vilella caused stolen checks to be deposited into her account and the accounts of others. In June 2017, at the direction of a Latin Dragon Nation member, Vilella and another Latin Dragon associate provided a firearm previously used to commit a murder to another Latin Dragon Nation member, with the intention that he would dispose of the murder weapon. In this case, a total of 19 members and associates have been charged with racketeering conspiracy for their participation in Latin Dragon Nation activity. Of those, 14 defendants have pled guilty and 9 are awaiting sentencing.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Chicago Police Department Criminal Enterprise Unit; the Cook County Sheriff’s Office; the Bartlett Police Department; the Hammond Police Department; the East Chicago Police Department; the Merrillville Police Department; the Hobart Police Department; the Lake County Sheriff’s Department; and the Calumet City Police Department, with assistance from the Lake County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office, the Cook County, Illinois State’s Attorney’s Office, the Indiana Department of Corrections, and the Illinois Department of Corrections. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph A. Cooley, Kevin F. Wolff, Maria N. Lerner, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Toth.
Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 25 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Denny Minix, 32, of Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by Judge Philip P. Simon following his guilty plea to a charge that he produced child sexual abuse images of a 16 to 17 year-old minor female, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Minix was sentenced to 300 months (25 years) in prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release.
Minix’s sentence was increased as a result of his earlier conviction for possessing child sexual abuse material here in the Northern District of Indiana in 2010. In that earlier case, Minix had received a 97-month prison sentence followed by a 20-year term of supervised release.
After being released from prison on that offense, and while on supervised release and registered as a sex offender, Minix posed as a gay woman on various social media platforms and offered to and did distribute depictions of minors being sexually abused and exploited. Following an investigation, Minix was found with over 6300 such images and videos, some of which he had made himself while engaging in sexual acts with the 16 to 17 year-old victim. As part of his plea agreement in the case, Minix agreed to have no future contact with the victim and to pay $10,000 toward her future therapy and lost income expenses.
“Not long after being released from prison on his first child pornography offense, Minix found it impossible to resist committing other, more serious child exploitation offenses. My office is committed to prosecuting repeat sex offenders like Mr. Minix to the fullest extent of the law,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “This case also serves as a good reminder to parents to please monitor the websites your children are visiting, and the people with whom they are communicating online.”
“This lengthy sentence clearly illustrates the FBI’s commitment to protect the most vulnerable members of our community from those who would exploit them in this heinous manner,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to work diligently to identify and hold accountable these abusers who prey on innocent children for their own gratification.”
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Tippecanoe County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office and the Purdue University Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill R. Koster.
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Gary Man Charged with Mail Fraud & Attempted Bank FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Da’Ione Fields, 23 of Gary, Indiana, was charged by way of an Indictment with two counts of mail fraud and one count of attempted bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
“Seniors are some of our more vulnerable citizens. Those in senior care facilities are dependent upon the care they receive there for their well-being,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “The alleged theft from a facility like this can have a severe negative impact on the residents in the facilities’ care. Theft results in diminished resources that should be available for the residents’ care and well-being. My Office is committed to protecting vulnerable seniors and working with our investigative agencies to investigate and prosecute those who steal from their employers.”
According to documents in the case, while working as a contract security guard for a senior living facility in Munster, Indiana, it is alleged that from October 18, 2019 to about December 3, 2019, Mr. Fields engaged in a scheme to defraud the facility of more than $280,000. The Indictment alleges that on two occasions Fields completed a USPS Change of Address form to redirect the facility’s mail to Fields’ residential address in Gary, Indiana. Between October 18 and November 22, 2019, Mr. Fields cashed approximately 31 insurance reimbursement and other checks payable to the facility totaling over $220,000. On November 21, 2019, Mr. Fields opened a corporate account at a bank in Gary, misrepresenting himself as an authorized representative of the facility and depositing 6 more checks totaling over $60,000.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of the Munster and Gary Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Diane Berkowitz and Abizer Zanzi.
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South Bend, Indiana Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Jeffrey Burnside, 32, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced to 60 months in prison by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in this case, during the night of March 28-29, 2020, police evicted several individuals, including Burnside, from a hotel in Mishawaka. During the eviction process, police found methamphetamine as well as two handguns. Later that night, Burnside tried to book another hotel room, hid from police, and then ran from police. Officers caught Burnside and checked his hiding place, where they found a loaded handgun and half an ounce of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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South Bend, Indiana Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Bradley O’Donnell, 28, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
O’Donnell was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on the night of March 28 into the morning of March 29, 2020, Mr. O’Donnell was distributing methamphetamine and had a loaded handgun with him while doing so. Police later found Mr. O’Donnell with 120 grams of methamphetamine and the handgun. Mr. O’Donnell has previously been convicted of three felony offenses.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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US Attorney Kirsch Reminds Parents About Online Predators with Recent IndictmentsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II announces three separate Indictments involving three defendants who were charged with a variety of crimes against children.
“My Office will continue to work with our investigative partners to investigate and prosecute those who commit crimes against children,” said United States Attorney Kirsch. “Victims of these horrific crimes lose their innocence through no fault of their own, and we take these matters very seriously.”
Today’s indictments include:
- Tyrone Johnson, age 32, of Merrillville, Indiana was charged with production of child pornography and possession of child pornography. It is alleged that after the victim disclosed that Johnson had been raping her, Johnson asked another individual to pick up his cellular telephone from property in the jail and destroy it. Instead, the person discovered a video on the phone of Johnson raping the girl and sent the video to another individual who alerted police. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the LaSalle, Illinois Police Department and the Lake County, Indiana Sherriff’s Office.
- Troy Kidwell, age 38, of Portage, Indiana was charged with attempted enticement of a minor and receiving sexual abuse images of a child. It is alleged that Mr. Kidwell arranged, using a facility of interstate commerce, to meet up with a 10 year-old girl. Additionally, sexually explicit images of another minor under the age of 16 were found on his cellular telephone. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Porter County, Indiana Sherriff’s Office.
- Stephen Coleman, age 29, of Gary, Indiana was charged with four separate production of child pornography charges based on images he allegedly took of 4 different prepubescent minor boys. He was also charged with possession of child pornography. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Gary, Indiana Police Department, the Michigan City, Indiana Police Department and the Portage, Indiana, Police Department.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that these Indictments are merely allegations and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
All the above cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Koster.
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Operation Legend: Case of the DayRead the Press Release
Each weekday, the Department of Justice will highlight a case that has resulted from Operation Legend. Today’s case is out of the Northern District of Indiana. While not a designated Legend district, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana works closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois, which encompasses Chicago. Operation Legend launched in Chicago on July 22, 2020, in response to the city facing increased homicide and non-fatal shooting rates. Similarly, Legend was also launched in the Southern District of Indiana, which includes Indianapolis, on Aug. 14, 2020.
United States vs. Darryl Ivery Jr.
“This case demonstrates my office’s commitment to partnering with our neighbors in Chicago to aggressively prosecute those who illegally supply guns to criminals in Indiana and Illinois,” said Thomas L. Kirsch II, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. “My office is committed to reducing gun violence, and the state line will not save criminals from federal investigations and prosecutions.”
Darryl Ivery Jr. was charged on Aug. 26, 2020, with making a material false statement in the acquisition of a firearm.
According to the charging document, during the course of an ATF investigation into straw purchasers, i.e. individuals who lie on ATF Form 4473 about their status as legal purchasers of firearms, Darry Ivery Jr. became a person of interest based on a large number of firearms he had purchased, some of which had been recovered by law enforcement.
It is alleged that between Jan. 7, 2019, and Aug. 10, 2020, Ivery purchased a minimum of 26 firearms from Federal Firearm Licensed (FFL) gun dealers in Indiana. Seven of the guns he purchased have been recovered by various law enforcement agencies, including six that were recovered in Chicago, Illinois, one of which was recovered at the scene of a shooting.
For each of the guns Ivery purchased, he answered, “Yes” on ATF Form 4473: “Are you the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm(s) listed on this form?”
When interviewed by ATF Special Agents, it is alleged that Ivery admitted that with the exception of one of the firearms that he purchased, all of the others were bought for individuals who resided in Chicago who asked him to buy firearms for them. They all paid Ivery in cash for every purchase he made.
Ivery purchased the following firearms:
01/07/2019
S & W
SD9VE
9mm
02/18/2020
Jimenez
IA
.380
02/18/2020
SCCY
CPX-1
9mm
03/03/2020
Jimenez
JA
9mm
03/03/2020
S & W
SD40
40
03/13/2020
Glock
27
40
03/13/2020
Glock
er
40
03/31/2020
S & W
M&P
40
04/19/2020
Glock
26
9mm
04/30/2020
Glock
43
9mm
04/30/2020
05/13/2020
Glock Century Arms
22
Micro Draco
40
7.62x.39
06/06/2020
Glock
17
9mm
06/10/2020
Glock
22
40
06/10/2020
Glock
48
9mm
06/10/2020
S & W
SD9VE
9mm
06/19/2020
Taurus
PT111 G2
9mm
06/19/2020
Taurus
PT111 G2
9mm
06/19/2020
HS Produkt
XD45
.45
07/06/2020
Glock
30
.45
07/07/2020
Glock
43x
9mm
07/13/2020
FN
509T
9mm
07/23/2020
Shadow
MR920
SSCO11797
07/23/2020
Springfield
XDM
.45
08/10/2020
Ruger
57
5.7x.28
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Background on Operation Legend
President Trump promised to assist America’s cities that have been plagued by violence. In July, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Operation Legend, a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative across all federal law enforcement agencies working in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime in cities across America that were experiencing an uptick in violence. Operation Legend is named after four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed on June 29th in Kansas City, Missouri, while asleep in his home.
Since its inception, Operation Legend has yielded more than 2000 local, state, and federal arrests, with more than 592 defendants charged with federal crimes.
Operation Legend was launched in Kansas City, Mo., on July 8, 2020, and expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020, to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020, to St. Louis and Memphis on Aug. 6, 2020, and to Indianapolis on Aug. 14, 2020. As part of Operation Legend, Attorney General Barr has directed federal agents from the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, DEA and ATF to surge resources to these cities to help state and local officials fighting violent crime. The Department of Homeland Security is also contributing agents to these efforts in St. Louis.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 121 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Roderick Dedeaux, age 30, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before U.S. District Court Judge Holly A. Brady following his plea of guilty to distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Dedeaux was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release and he was ordered to forfeit a 2011 Honda Pilot.
According to documents in this case, in May 2019, Dedeaux distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force comprised of the FBI, Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey R. Speith and Anthony W. Geller.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Troy Topp, age 25, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before U.S. District Court Judge Holly A. Brady following his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Topp was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in July 2019, Topp was observed on video stealing from a vehicle. When officers approached Topp, he ran but was apprehended and narcotics and paraphernalia were recovered. A stolen firearm was also recovered and Topp admitted to acquiring the firearm in exchange for money and drugs. Topp has a prior state court felony conviction in June 2015 out of Allen County for dealing methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine and possession of two or more precursors with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance.
The 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
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Gary Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Lafayette Caldwell, 32, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Judge Philip P. Simon to 120 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release following his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 280 grams of crack cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
“Selling dangerous drugs, such as crack cocaine, will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Indiana,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “I want to commend the outstanding job done of the FBI, in coordination with state and local law enforcement agencies, to remove this group from the streets of Gary.”
According to documents in the case, for some time between July of 2015 and November of 2016, Caldwell participated in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine in the Glen Park neighborhood of Gary, Indiana. The conspiracy involved a twenty-four hour a day operation in which sellers of crack cocaine worked in shifts and armed security communicated with walkie-talkies. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Caldwell sold crack cocaine from an abandoned residence on Massachusetts Avenue. The conspiracy included the distribution of crack cocaine from multiple houses, including one house in which law enforcement recovered over 100 grams of crack cocaine and two firearms during execution of a search warrant.
To date, eighteen other charged members of the conspiracy have been convicted of drug-related offenses in this case.
“Holding Mr. Caldwell accountable for his drug trafficking dealings in the Glen Park neighborhood with this long prison sentence should hopefully restore a feeling of safety for the residents of this community,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan. “It should also put other drug dealers on notice that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will utilize all resources available to ensure violent offenders are held responsible for their illegal activities.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of the Gary and Hobart Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas R. Mahoney and Alexandra McTague.
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Latin King Gang Member Sentenced to 216 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Pierre Forest, 25, of Harvey, Illinois, and a member of the Chicago-based Latin Kings street gang, was sentenced by Judge Simon to 216 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release following his guilty plea to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
“Pierre Forest, a Latin King Gang Member, was held accountable for his role in a senseless murder and will now spend 18 years behind bars. He was also involved in putting firearms and illegal drugs on our Northwest Indiana streets,” said Thomas L. Kirsch II. “Our well-coordinated law enforcement teams will continue to focus on fighting violent, senseless crimes like these.”
According to documents in the case, Forest trafficked firearms and was involved in the distribution of cocaine and marijuana in Hammond and East Chicago, Indiana, as a member of the Latin Kings street gang including participating in the July 2015 armed robbery of firearms from members of rival gangs. At a contested sentencing hearing, the court found Forest responsible for his role in the murder of Travis Nash, who was shot and killed by the Latin Kings on July 18, 2011, in Hammond, Indiana. Forest has a prior felony conviction for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.
“Today’s sentence sends a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to work diligently to disrupt and dismantle these gangs and rid our streets of these violent criminals and the violence associated with their activities,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, FBI Indianapolis. “The residents of neighborhoods these gangs have impacted through drug dealing and violence deserve to be able to peacefully go about their daily lives without fear.”
“ATF will aggressively investigate those who illegally traffic in firearms, as it threatens the safety of the whole community,” remarked the ATF Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Division Kristen de Tineo. “We will continue to work closely with our local and federal law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s office to bring these offenders to justice.”
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the East Chicago Police Department, the Gary Police Department, the Hammond Police Department, the Lake County, Indiana, Sheriff’s Department and Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area officers and agents. The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Illinois, have also provided assistance. The Latin King case is being prosecuted by Northern District of Indiana Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Nozick and Nicholas J. Padilla.
South Bend, Indiana Man SentencedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Jessie Richardson, 33, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio upon his plea of guilty for making a threat to injure through a means of interstate communication, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Richardson was sentenced to 33 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said, “Mr. Richardson has shown a pattern of threatening behavior in the past, culminating in him calling in bomb threats to FedEx. I want to thank the law enforcement team that worked this case and want others to know that threatening people over the phone or internet could focus my Office’s attention on you.”
According to documents in this case, in November 2019 Mr. Richardson called a FedEx facility in South Bend over 200 times in less than a month. On the evening of November 12, Richardson called a FedEx call center since it was too late to get through to the local facility in South Bend. During this call he told the call center that there was a bomb in the building and that the building was going to blow up. The following day, he called the South Bend facility directly and stated that there was a bomb in the building and he hoped the people inside were ready to die. The building was evacuated for safety so law enforcement could investigate. Mr. Richardson has three prior convictions for intimidation and one for invasion of privacy where he violated a protection order.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Five Individuals ChargedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Five individuals from Elkhart, Indiana were charged by way of a 2 count Indictment with robbery affecting interstate commerce and using a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
“I commend the FBI, in addition to the other agencies that participated in solving this case,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “Violent crimes, like those alleged, will be thoroughly investigated by our law enforcement partners and prosecuted by my Office.”
According to documents in this case, it is alleged that a small group known as the ChoppaBoyz robbed a homeowner on June 9, 2020. During the robbery, the homeowner was shot in the leg. The homeowner along with another person on the property were also allegedly beaten repeatedly with handguns while the robbers asked about the location of a safe in the home. The robbers stole the safe, drugs, money, a handgun, and jewelry. After the police arrived, they obtained a search warrant for the residence and discovered it to have cocaine, marijuana and prescription pills onsite that were overlooked by the robbers. The statements the robbers made, including asking for an AR-15 pistol that was recently traded, gave the victims an idea of who the robbers were. Based on this and other information: Marco Fernandez (age 24); Jose Trigo (age 20); Juantio Gould (24); Carlos Reyes (age 20); and Emmanuel Martinez-Guevara (age 20) were each indicted for robbery affecting interstate commerce and using, carrying, and discharging a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.
“This indictment is an example of the investigative focus on violence in our communities and the impact of collaboration among agencies in which crimes cross state lines,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, “The FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to work with our partners the Elkhart Police Department, the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Bend Police Department to pursue those who commit these violent crimes and take them off our streets.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, South Bend Police Department, Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement Unit, and Cedar City Utah Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Michigan City, Indiana Man Sentenced to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Daniel Boush, 29, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio upon his plea of guilty for being a felon in possession of firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Boush was sentenced to 15 years in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said, “This fifteen year sentence sends a strong message that my Office will pursue and prosecute armed career criminals to the fullest extent of the law. My Office has no tolerance for convicted felons possessing firearms, particularly when these individuals also have a history of domestic violence.”
According to documents in this case, in August of 2019, Boush was arrested for the possession of two .380 caliber firearms. This was following a domestic incident where he physically attacked a female and then chased after her in a car. Boush qualifies as an Armed Career Criminal based on his prior convictions, including strangulation of a different female as well as dealing controlled substances.
“ATF, in partnership with local and state law enforcement, will continue to pursue dangerous criminals to ensure they do not illegally possess firearms,” said Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the Chicago Field Division. “Coordination of these investigations, in combination with the prosecutorial strategies at the U.S. Attorney’s office, will deter felons and make communities safer.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department, and the LaPorte County Drug Task Force. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Whiting Mayor Charged with Wire and Tax Fraud and Enters into Agreement to Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Joseph Stahura, age 64, of Whiting, Indiana, was charged with wire fraud and filing a false income tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. He has entered into a plea agreement indicating his intent to plead guilty to both charges. His wife, Diane Stahura, age 64, also of Whiting, Indiana entered into a deferred prosecution agreement wherein she acknowledges that the Government has sufficient evidence to charge her with wire fraud.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said,
“Today’s charges and guilty plea are another black eye for Northwest Indiana. Mr. Stahura, an elected official for over 35 years, illegally used his campaign funds for personal activities and expenditures and lied about it on his publically filed campaign reports and tax returns. He knew his conduct was illegal, yet he persisted in it for over 5 years.
“My office has a long history of aggressively pursuing public corruption cases on behalf of the honest citizens of our community. That will continue as long as I am US Attorney. While most elected officials serve the public professionally and honestly, some do not. Those who seek illegal personal gain by virtue of their public office will be held accountable.
“If you have information concerning corrupt public officials, I encourage you to call my office or the FBI.”
According to documents in the case, Mr. Stahura, the Mayor of Whiting, Indiana since 2004, and his wife used his campaign fund for personal expenditures, like gambling, credit card debt and providing financial support to an adult daughter. Mr. Stahura has been the Mayor of Whiting since 2004 and prior to that he served as a Whiting City Councilman for 20 years. He was also the Chairman and Treasurer of his campaign committee entitled “Committee to Elect Joe Stahura” (“Committee”).
From February 2014 through 2019, Mr. and Mrs. Stahura used approximately $255,000 of funds from the “Committee” for personal purposes, while disguising the activity by filing campaign reports with false and misleading information and by omitting material information from the reports. To further defraud, they sought donations from individuals and entities, and held fund raising events to raise money for the “Committee”. Mrs. Stahura transferred money from the “Committee’s” bank account to the Stahuras’ personal bank account, which were then used the funds to pay personal bills, provide support for their daughter and gamble at casinos. To further the scheme, on multiple occasions between 2014 and 2019, Joe Stahura filed false and misleading campaign finance reports with the Board of Elections which omitted information about the personal use of the campaign funds that had been occurring from 2014 through November 2019.
In April 2019, Mr. Stahura filed a false tax return. He falsely listed his gross income, not accounting for the amount stolen from the Campaign Account in 2018 which was approximately $51,480. Additionally, on his campaign finance report he overstated the “loan repayment amount” to his campaign by approximately $40,000.
Indiana campaign finance law restricted the use of money contributed to a campaign committee. Candidates could use committee money to pay expenses reasonably related to a campaign for political office, continuing political activity, and activity related to service in elected office. Candidates could not use committee money for a primarily personal purpose or commingle personal funds with campaign funds. Indiana campaign finance law also required campaign committees to regularly file public reports using a state form containing instructions including “WARNING: Using campaign funds for primarily personal purposes is prohibited.” Reports had to itemize each expenditure above $100, name the recipient and state a purpose. These reports provided citizens with a record of the expenditure of campaign funds, provided donors with a measure of accountability regarding the funds, and assisted voters in making informed decisions at the polls.
Mr. Stahura entered into a plea agreement, which has been filed with the court, to resolve the criminal charges. If this signed plea agreement is accepted by the court, the length of sentence and amount of restitution will be determined by the court at a sentencing hearing after consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
“Public corruption continues to be a high priority for IRS Criminal Investigation”, stated Special Agent in Charge Kathy A. Enstrom of the IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Public officials stealing campaign funds for personal purposes is an unacceptable practice and IRS Criminal Investigation will be there to uncover the fraud and tax evasion in order to bring the dishonest officials to justice.”
“Public corruption is the top criminal investigative priority for the FBI. The American people and the FBI do not tolerate public officials who use their position for private gain. Public corruption erodes the trust constituents put in their elected officials and undermines the integrity of government,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, FBI Indianapolis. “The FBI and our partner law enforcement agencies will continue our mission to root out fraud and corruption in all forms and serve our communities."
This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, both members of the US Attorney’s Public Corruption Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Benson and Gary Bell.
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Westville Woman Ordered to Pay $708,971.93 in RestitutionRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Debra McCall, 46, of Westville, Indiana was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Theresa L. Springmann upon her guilty plea to bank fraud and filing a false tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
McCall was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release to include 6 months of home confinement and ordered to pay $708,971.93 in restitution.
“Ms. McCall took advantage of her employer’s trust for her own selfishness,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “Many small businesses operate on a thin margin and pilfering money from employers could cause severe financial issues, disrupting the lives of many who rely on those businesses for their livelihoods. My Office and our federal partners take these crimes seriously and will continue to prosecute schemes like these throughout the District.”
According to documents in the case, McCall, while employed as a bookkeeper for a small local sales company, used her position of trust to steal more than $700,000 from her employer during a three year period. She devised and executed a scheme to embezzle money from her employer’s accounts by using her knowledge of the bookkeeping and accounting software. She created and printed checks drawn on the company’s accounts. She made the checks payable to her boyfriend and forged the manager’s signature on each check. She then canceled the checks in the accounting system and balanced the company’s books by incorporating the amounts she took into other entries to avoid detection. McCall admitted that she stole the money and gambled it away.
“As we often see in embezzlement cases, the victims are not only the taxpayers, but also the individuals and entities who suffer the financial harm”, stated Special Agent in Charge Kathy A. Enstrom of the IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. "We would like the taxpayers to take notice that today’s 27-month sentence of Debra McCall resulted in serious prison time because she misused her position of trust at her company by embezzling company funds and failing to report the funds on her income tax return.”
“Ms. McCall thought she could use her position of trust in the office and her access to company funds for her own personal benefit. But, instead, her greed and self-interest means she is headed to prison for her crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, FBI Indianapolis. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively investigate those who abuse their positions and hold them accountable.”
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexandra McTague.
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South Bend, Indiana Man Sentenced to 57 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Geneco Glover, 39, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty upon his plea of guilty for mail fraud and aggravated identity theft, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Glover was sentenced to 57 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $162,465.85 in restitution.
According to documents in this case, from at least January 2006 to February 2020, Glover defrauded more than 50 individual victims after obtaining their personal information and either adding himself as an authorized user on the victims’ credit card accounts or opening additional credit card accounts in the victims’ names. After gaining access to the victims’ accounts, Glover would change the mailing addresses for these accounts to mailing addresses under his control in order to receive credit cards mailed to the victims. Glover stole at least $160,000 from his victims. After being charged, Glover initially agreed to self-surrender in November 2018. Instead of turning himself in, he spent the next 15 months fleeing from law enforcement, but was finally captured in February 2020.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service; Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department; Mishawaka Police Department; South Bend Police Department; Parma Heights Police Department (Ohio); and Middleburg Heights Police Department (Ohio). The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
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Multi-Defendant Indictment ReturnedRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Multiple individuals were charged with drug and firearms offenses by way of a 19 count Indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to the Indictment, Frederick Morgan II, Frederick Morgan Sr., Monica Duvalon, Larry Lamb, Sarah Waltz, Eddie Knox, and James Russell Jr., were each indicted on conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl. The indictment alleges that the conspiracy to distribute controlled substances occurred between May 6, 2019 and August 26, 2020.
“Today’s drug and gun charges allege that many highly addictive controlled substances were flooding the streets of Northern Indiana, which increases the propensity for violence, particularly when firearms are present,” said US Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. “I commend the ATF and DEA along with all the other law enforcement agencies involved in this case for their hard work. We will continue to focus on these type of cases to keep our communities safe.”
In addition to the conspiracy charges, Morgan II was also charged with 15 counts of distributing controlled substances and 1 count of maintaining a drug involved premises. Duvalon was charged with 2 additional counts of distributing controlled substances. Morgan Sr. was charged with 2 additional counts of distributing controlled substances. Lamb was charged with 2 additional counts of distributing controlled substances, 1 count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and 2 counts of providing a firearm to a felon. Waltz and Russell Jr. were charged with 1 additional count of distributing a controlled substance. Knox was charged with 5 additional counts of distributing a controlled substance and 1 count of maintaining a drug involved premises.
“The individuals arrested today, allegedly peddled poison into our communities,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Gannon. “This group is allegedly responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl and crack cocaine throughout Fort Wayne area. Anytime we can take dangerous addictive drugs and firearms off the streets it is a big win! DEA is committed to working with our state, local and federal partners and arresting drug traffickers to keep our communities safe. DEA appreciates the exceptional work in this multi-jurisdictional investigation by all involved.”
“Working closely with our state, local and federal partners, ATF will continue to investigate felons in possession of firearms and those responsible for distributing narcotics in the Fort Wayne community,” remarked Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Chicago Field Division. “When partnering with law enforcement agencies and the United States Attorney’s Office, we focus our resources and these charges illustrate the effectiveness of those relationships.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the Judge after a consideration of federal statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is a result of a joint investigation conducted by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the US Marshals Service and multiple local law enforcement agencies, including the Indiana State Police, Allen County Sheriff’s Department, Allen County Drug Task Force, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Huntington Police Department, Auburn Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey R. Speith and Brent A. Ecenbarger.
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Indiana Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing PesticidesRead the Press Release
An Indiana man who distributed unregistered pesticides to the tenants and managers of an apartment building he owned has pleaded guilty to three counts of violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
Cai Feng Yang, aka Kevin Yang, 41, of La Porte, Indiana, pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Martin in the Northern District of Indiana. Sentencing has been scheduled for Oct. 27, 2020.
According to court records, during trips to China in September 2015 and January 2016, Yang purchased multiple boxes of unregistered pesticides labeled “cockroach killer bait” and “cockroach gum bait,” as well as several small unlabeled bottles of liquid pesticide containing the active ingredient dichlorvos. Yang transported these pesticides to the United States in his checked luggage with the intent to use them in his La Porte apartment buildings to exterminate cockroaches and bed bugs. None of these pesticides were registered with the EPA as required by FIFRA. For that reason, Yang was obligated to submit a Notice of Arrival (NoA) prior to importing these products into the United States, which he failed to do. He also failed to declare this merchandise to Customs upon his return to the United States.
After returning from China, Yang distributed the vials of granular cockroach killer bait and the syringes of gelatinous cockroach gum bait to tenants renting apartments at 701 Maple St. and 606 Tipton Street. Yang also provided his part-time assistant building managers at 701 Maple Street an unlabeled bottle of pesticide containing dichlorvos to be applied in apartments to kill bed bugs. On several occasions, Yang applied the liquid pesticide in tenants’ apartments himself.
This case was investigated by the EPA-Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the Office of Indiana State Chemist.
Trial Counsel R.J. Powers of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Toi Denise Houston, Northern District of Indiana and Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel David Mucha are prosecuting the case.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Gary Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Varnell Dixon, 24, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
In the plea agreement, the parties agreed that the Court should impose the statutory mandatory minimum five year term of imprisonment.
In the plea agreement, Dixon admitted that on December 28, 2019, he was driving a rented vehicle speeding eastbound on Interstate 80/94. At the time, he possessed a fully loaded Glock nine millimeter firearm, four bags of marijuana, some of which he intended to distribute, and $323.00 in small bills. Upon being pursued by the Indiana State Police, Dixon attempted to elude the police at a high rate of speed and ultimately exited onto the Cline Avenue ramp. Dixon lost control of the vehicle, causing it to leave the roadway and roll over several times. Dixon was thrown from the vehicle and arrested by police.
“There have been several high speed pursuits in the recent months that have garnered media attention in Northwest Indiana,” said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch. “Some of these chases have occurred solely within Indiana and some have crossed state lines. This type of criminal activity – fleeing police and putting many lives at risk while doing so – is entirely intolerable. I have instructed federal law enforcement and my office to charge these type of cases federally, whenever possible, and to seek appropriate sentences for these criminals. We are fortunate in Northwest Indiana to have so many outstanding law enforcement officers and departments. Although many separate municipalities, they all work together for one purpose, to keep crime down in Northern Indiana. We will do everything we can to deter this criminal conduct.”
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team and the Indiana State Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph A. Cooley.