Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Winona Lake Man Charged with Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Darin Devon Hurd, age 25, of Winona Lake, Indiana was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to documents in this case, Hurd’s girlfriend was found dead on September 5, 2017in a residence Winona Lake, Indiana. During a search of the residence, investigators found a loaded Llama 9 millimeter pistol, 21 unused syringes, a digital scale, narcotics packaging materials, and approximately 8.9 grams of heroin. Hurd admitted that he had used heroin with his girlfriend on the morning of September 5, 2017. He further admitted that he regularly sold heroin in the Winona Lake area, turning a profit of approximately $400.00 for every 7 grams of heroin sold. Hurd was previously convicted of Class D Felony Possession of a Schedule V Controlled Substance Without a Prescription in Allen County, Indiana.
“My Office is committed to reducing the availability of heroin on the streets of Northern Indiana,” U.S. Attorney Thomas Kirsch II said in a statement. “We are focusing the resources of the federal government to investigate and prosecute people who deal in illegal narcotics.”
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that a Complaint is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Winona Lake Police Department, Warsaw Police Department, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, and Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Former Merrillville Town Councilman Indicted for BriberyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Hammond Grand Jury returned an indictment against Thomas Goralczyk, age 51, of Merrillville, Indiana on a federal bribery charge.
The indictment alleges from February 2013 to February 2014 Goralczyk, while a Merrillville Town Councilman, did knowingly and corruptly solicit, demand, accept and agree to accept bribes from Individual A in exchange for a towing contract between the Town of Merrillville and Individual A’s company. Goralczyk accepted the following: a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a 2008 Ford Focus, 4 camper tires and free storage for his personal motorcycle, from Individual A, intending to be influenced and rewarded in connection with a transactions or series of transactions of the Town of Merrillville.
Also filed today with the Indictment, was a plea agreement in which Goralczyk will be pleading guilty to the charge contained in Indictment. The plea agreement signed by Goralczyk states that Goralczyk was first elected as a Merrillville Town Councilman in 2007 and took office in January 2008. He was re-elected in 2011 and began his 2nd term as 4th ward councilman in January of 2012. He served as President of the Town Council in 2011 and 2015. Goralczyk also held various other positions on the Merrillville Redevelopment Commission, Lake County Solid Waste Management Board and the governing board of NIRPC (Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission). As alleged in the indictment, Goralczyk identified that he accepted bribe payments from a Federal Bureau of Investigation “cooperating individual” in the form of two vehicles. He obtained a Jeep Grand Cherokee for $400 when he knew the value was in excess of $2500. In an attempt to cover up the bribe, he presented a false bill of sale to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles representing that he paid $1000 for the vehicle. In addition, Goralczyk accepted a 2008 Ford Focus with a value in excess of $5000. He paid nothing for this vehicle, but presented a false bill of sale to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles indicating that he paid $2750 for the vehicle. Goralczyk acknowledged that he accepted both the vehicles for his own personal gain, in exchange for his promise to engage in official conduct by using his influence and power as a Merrillville Town Councilman to obtain a Town of Merrillville towing contract for the FBI “cooperating individual’s” towing company. A date for the plea hearing has not yet been set.
United States Attorney Kirsch said, “Public officials, like Mr. Goralczyk, elected and entrusted to do the public’s work, are required to do that work free from self-dealing and graft. This is not optional. The public demands and is, in fact, entitled to honest public servants. Mr. Goralczyk violated this trust for the purpose of enriching himself. This will not be tolerated at any level of government. Public corruption must be routed out where it exists. If you are in the community and are aware of an elected or appointed official engaging in illegal conduct, I encourage you to notify the FBI or US Attorney’s Office.”
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 results from an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division. This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Philip C. Benson.
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LaPorte County Man SentencedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Timothy Bennitt, age 27, of Rolling Prairie, Indiana was sentenced before South Bend District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
Bennitt was sentenced to 180 months imprisonment followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, Bennitt committed 6 armed robberies in St. Joseph and LaPorte County restaurants and businesses. During his January 2017 crime spree, Bennitt used a handgun during these armed robberies. In addition, during 4 of the robberies, Bennitt was assisted by co-defendant Nathan Kellogg, who drove and provided the car. Bennitt and Kellogg used the money from the robberies on food, lodging and drugs. Bennitt’s accomplice, Kellogg pled guilty to 4 of the robberies and is scheduled for sentencing November 21, 2017.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department, Mishawaka Police Department, South Bend Police Department and the St. Joseph County Police Department. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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South Bend Man IndictedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced the return of a four-count indictment charging Cordero Love, age 25, of South Bend, Indiana with 3 counts of Hobbs Act Robbery and 1 count of using a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to documents in this case, it is alleged that Love committed 3 robberies in the South Bend/Mishawaka area. The three robberies are outline below:
- August 13, 2017 a Gas Station in South Bend was robbed by means of actual or threatened force, violence and fear of injury
- On October 1, 2017 a Gas Station in Mishawaka was robbed by means of actual or threatened force, violence and fear of injury.
- On October 3, 2017, a Gas Station in Mishawaka was robbed during which Love allegedly brandished a firearm.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 South Bend Police Department. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Munster Man Indicted in East Chicago, Post Office Bombing CaseRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that a grand jury sitting in South Bend returned a 5-count indictment against Eric P. Krieg, age 45, of Munster, Indiana.
Krieg was indicted on the following charges:
- Count 1- Making an Unregistered Destructive Device
- Count 2- Mailing a Destructive Device
- Count 3- Malicious Use of Explosive Materials
- Count 4- Possessing a Destructive Device In Furtherance of a Crime of Violence
- Count 5- Mailing a Threatening Communication
The indictment alleges from at least 2012 through August 2017, Krieg engaged in a series of online postings and communications concerning other residents of Northwest Indiana. Krieg made these statements in multiple online forums, including a webpage “blog” format that he controlled. A lawsuit was filed in the Lake County, Indiana Superior Court in 2013 based upon statements Krieg made on his blog. After the lawsuit was filed against Krieg, he filed for bankruptcy. Victim 1 was the attorney who represented an individual in a lawsuit against Krieg. Through filings in Bankruptcy Court, Victim 1 claimed the lawsuit could not be discharged in bankruptcy. Krieg and Victim 1’s client agreed to settle the lawsuit. The settlement required Krieg to pay the client $45,000 and post an apology on Krieg’s blog.
The indictment alleges that an explosion took place at an U. S. Postal facility in East Chicago, Indiana on or about September 6, 2017 injuring a Postal Service employee (Victim 2). The package that exploded was addressed to Victim 1. The indictment also alleges that on or about September 29, 2017, a suspicious package was mailed to Victim 3 that contained a threat to injure Victim 3.
U.S. Attorney Kirsch said, “When individuals use dangerous, explosive devices as the means to commit or attempt to commit violent acts, those individuals will be held accountable for their actions. We will continue to partner with our Federal, State and Local law enforcement agencies to vigorously investigate and prosecute all manner of violent crime.”
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 complaint results from an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives; United States Marshal’s Service; East Chicago Police; Hammond Police; Indiana State Police; Munster Police; and Porter County Sheriff’s Department. This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua P. Kolar and Jennifer Chang.
Logansport Man SentencedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Justin Birnell, age 30, of Logansport, Indiana was sentenced before South Bend District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Birnell was sentenced to 85 months imprisonment followed by 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on February 19, 2017 Birnell knowingly possessed several firearms and ammunition in Logansport, Indiana after being convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than one year.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank E. Schaffer.
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Chicago Man Sentenced to 30 MonthsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Paul Fowlkes, 23, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced on November 2, 2017 by District Court Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 30 months imprisonment to be followed by two years of supervised release for providing false information to a Federal Firearms Licensee in acquiring firearms.
According to Court filings, the Defendant purchased over 25 firearms during a one year period between March of 2016 and March of 2017 utilizing a false home address on required forms to acquire firearms from Federally Licensed Firearms Distributors within the Northern District of Indiana. Fowlkes received a sentencing enhancement for trafficking in firearms due to the determination that at least eight of the firearms purchased by him in Indiana were later recovered by law enforcement in the possession of other persons, including juveniles and convicted felons, in Indiana, Illinois and Ohio.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in cooperation with the Indianapolis and Chicago Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
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South Bend Woman Convicted During 4-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Sharon Ramos, age 56, of South Bend, Indiana was convicted of ten counts of making false entries in government records, two counts of conversion of government money, and one count of wire fraud, after a four-day jury trial before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio.
According to documents filed in this case, from approximately January 2008 and continuing until in and around December 2013 Ramos devised a scheme to defraud the Social Security Administration by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises. Ramos, an employee of the Social Security Administration made numerous false and fictitious representations in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) accounts of numerous SSI claimants. These improper entries in the accounts resulted in numerous SSI claimants obtaining payments they were not entitled to receive. As a result, Ramos fraudulently converted money belonging to the Social Security Administration.
United States Attorney Kirsch said, “When a public employee misuses her position to break the law and violate the public trust, we will hold the employee accountable for her actions by prosecution. This case is an example of the outstanding work done by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General to root out fraud and corruption, and in this case, to hold Ms. Ramos accountable for her conduct.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander and Frank E. Schaffer.
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Valparaiso Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Martin Knight, age 38, of Valparaiso, Indiana was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for one count of possessing child pornography by District Court Judge Philip Simon.
According to documents in this case, between 2000 to 2012, Knight collected and possessed over 17,000 images and 300 videos depicting children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Knight entered a plea of guilty on August 1, 2017.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Indiana State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abizer Zanzi.
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South Bend Man Charged with Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Lawrence Holley, age 45, of South Bend, Indiana was charged with possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine; possession with intent to deliver heroin; possession with intent to deliver cocaine; felon in possession of a firearm; and armed drug trafficking.
The affidavit supporting the complaint alleges that investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for a house in St. Joseph County. During that search, agents located narcotics and ammunition. In October, agents observed Lawrence Holley driving a pickup truck. Holley had outstanding warrants, so police stopped the truck. Inside the truck agents found approximately 2 pounds of crystal methamphetamine (“ice”), quantities of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, and a loaded handgun. Mr. Holley was also searched, and agents recovered additional quantities of a crystal substance that tested positive for methamphetamine.
Holley’s detention hearing is scheduled for Friday, October 27, 2017, at 2:00 pm before the United States Magistrate Judge for the South Bend Division.
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 sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This complaint results from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Elkhart Police; the Indiana State Police; the Mishawaka Police; the South Bend Police; the St. Joseph County Police and the St. Joseph County Drug Investigations Unit. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Gary Man Entered A Guilty Plea of Conspiracy to RacketeeringRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that William Salazar, age 41, of Gary, Indiana entered a guilty plea of conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity before Judge Phillip Simon.
According to documents in this case, Salazar entered a guilty plea for conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity for his role and participation in the Latin Kings street gang. Salazar has been in custody since his arrest on August 4, 2016.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of 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 also has provided assistance. The Latin King case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Nozick, Dean Lanter and Abizer Zanzi of the Northern District of Indiana.
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South Bend/Mishawaka Men IndictedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced the return of a seven-count indictment that alleges a heroin distribution conspiracy. Named in today’s indictment are:
- Corey Harris, age 22, of South Bend, Indiana
- Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin (Count 1)
- Distribution of Heroin (Count 3)
- Isaiah Whitmore, age 25, of South Bend, Indiana
- Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin (Count 1)
- Distribution of Heroin (Count 2)
- Reginald Blackburn, age 25, of Mishawaka, Indiana
- Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin (Count 1)
- Distribution of Heroin (Count 4)
- Ryan Williams, age 27, of South Bend, Indiana
- Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin (Count 1)
- Distribution of Heroin (County 5)
- Terron Taylor, age 22, of Mishawaka, Indiana
- Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin (Count 1)
- Distribution of Heroin (Count 6)
- Anthony Owens, age 30, of South Bend, Indiana
- Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin (Count 1)
- Distribution of Heroin (Count 7)
According to documents in this case, from March 2017 up to and including October 2017, the above individuals knowingly and intentionally conspired to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance, heroin, in excess of 1 kilogram.
Four of the individuals named in the indictment have been arrested. Law enforcement is currently seeking the whereabouts of Corey Harris and Terron Taylor. If you have any information as to the whereabouts of the above individuals please contact Michiana Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Indiana State Police; the Mishawaka Police Department; St. Joseph County Drug Investigations Unit; the St. Joseph County Police Department; the St. Joseph County Prosecuting Attorney; and the United States Marshals Service. The above agencies were also supported by Project Disarm, a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Task Force; the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force; Elkhart Police ICE Unit; and the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Molly Donnelly.
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- Corey Harris, age 22, of South Bend, Indiana
Munster Man Charged with Possession of an Destructive Device and Transporting Explosive MaterialsRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Eric P. Krieg, age 45, of Munster, Indiana was charged with knowing possession of a destructive device and transporting explosive materials.
The complaint alleges that, on or about September 6, 2017, Krieg mailed a package at an US Postal Facility in East Chicago, Indiana that exploded. On or about September 29, 2017, Krieg mailed a suspicious package to another individual. On October 12, 2017, search warrants were executed on Krieg’s residence, place of employment and vehicle. After executing the search warrants, Krieg was arrested on the above charges.
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 sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This complaint results from an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives; United States Marshal’s Service; East Chicago Police; Hammond Police; Indiana State Police; Munster Police; Porter County Sheriff’s Department. This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua P. Kolar and Jennifer Chang.
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Missouri Man Sentenced to 180 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that, Timothy Gilmore, age 37, of Doniphan, Missouri, was sentenced, before United States District Court Chief Judge Theresa Springmann after being convicted of using a computer to entice of a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct.
Gilmore was sentenced to 180 months imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, between January 8, 2016 and April 18, 2016, Gilmore began communicating with a 16 year old juvenile from Fort Wayne, Indiana, over social media. The communications transitioned into telephone communications. During the course of the communications, Gilmore solicited and enticed the juvenile to engage in sexually explicit conduct and to produce videos and still images of said conduct and to transmit the videos and images to him via the internet. Gilmore then reposted the transmitted images on his on-line blog.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department and was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 26 Years ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that, Booker T. Sewell, age 37 of Fort Wayne, IN was sentenced, before United States District Court Chief Judge Theresa Springmann after being convicted by a jury for being a felon in possession of a firearm and maintaining a drug-involved premises.
Sewell was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment for the gun charge and 192 months imprisonment on the drug charge to run consecutively for a total of 312 months imprisonment. Sewell will also serve 2 years of supervised release and was ordered to forfeit $21,917
According to documents in this case, Sewell was distributing multiple kilograms of cocaine and pounds of marijuana from a residence in Fort Wayne.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, whose members are the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Assistance was also provided by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United State Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
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Latin Dragon Gang Member Charged with Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
An alleged member of Chicago’s criminal street gang, the Latin Dragons, has been charged with murder in aid of racketeering, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana.
According to the criminal complaint, filed yesterday, Manuel Diaz, 26, of Hammond, Indiana, is a member of the Latin Dragons, a criminal gang whose members engage in acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, robbery, kidnapping and assault, to protect the gang’s territory and drug operations. Latin Dragons gang members are required by gang rules to take immediate violent action against anyone who threatens them, and gain respect and status within the gang by doing so.
According to the allegations, on Sept. 30, Diaz engaged in a brief confrontation with the driver of an SUV at a local gas station, during which Diaz’s passenger flashed gang signs at occupants of the SUV and the driver of the SUV displayed a semi-automatic handgun to Diaz. After Diaz and the SUV left the gas station parking lot, Diaz pursued the SUV in his vehicle. A third car, traveling with the SUV, intervened and refused to allow Diaz’s vehicle to pass. According to the allegations, Diaz retrieved a revolver from under the driver’s seat of his vehicle and fired one shot into the third car, striking the driver in the head and killing him.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, the Hammond Police Department, the East Chicago Police Department, along with the Chicago and Calumet City, Illinois Police. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Joseph A. Cooley of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick.
A complaint is merely an allegation and all persons charged are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Latin Dragon Gang Member Charged with Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - An alleged member of Chicago’s criminal street gang, the Latin Dragons, has been charged with murder in aid of racketeering, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana.
According to the criminal complaint, filed yesterday, Manuel Diaz, 26, of Hammond, Indiana, is a member of the Latin Dragons, a criminal gang whose members engage in acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, robbery, kidnapping and assault, to protect the gang’s territory and drug operations. Latin Dragons gang members are required by gang rules to take immediate violent action against anyone who threatens them, and gain respect and status within the gang by doing so.
According to the allegations, on Sept. 30, 2017, Diaz engaged in a brief confrontation with the driver of an SUV at a local gas station, during which Diaz’s passenger flashed gang signs at occupants of the SUV, and the driver of the SUV displayed a semi-automatic handgun to Diaz. After Diaz and the SUV left the gas station parking lot, Diaz pursued the SUV in his vehicle. A third car, traveling with the SUV, intervened and refused to allow Diaz’s vehicle to pass. According to the allegations, Diaz retrieved a revolver from under the driver’s seat of his vehicle and fired one shot into the third car, striking the driver in the head and killing him.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, the Hammond Police Department, the East Chicago Police Department, along with the Chicago and Calumet City, Illinois Police. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Joseph A. Cooley of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick.
A complaint is merely an allegation and all persons charged are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
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Fremont, Ohio Man Sentenced to 145 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that, Uryan Frymire, age 37, of Fremont Ohio, was sentenced, before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann for possession with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
Frymire was sentenced to 145 months imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, there was a traffic stop conducted in Texas on January 17, 2017, of a semi-tractor where 62 packages, containing approximately 70 kilograms of a white powdery substance, were found. The substance field tested positive for cocaine. The driver of the semi-tractor, who was the only occupant, said he was destined for Fort Wayne. On January 19, 2017, the driver made a controlled delivery of the cocaine to Frymire who was arrested by Homeland Security Agents.
This investigation was conducted by the United States Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Allen County, Indiana Sheriff’s Department, Greenville, Indiana Police Department, Indiana State Police, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Hammond Man Convicted After 6-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that Ronnie C. Cosby, age 42, of Hammond, Indiana was convicted of 5 out of 7 federal criminal charges after a 6-day jury trial before District Court Judge Philip P. Simon.
The jury convicted Cosby on one count of sex trafficking of a minor, two counts of production of child pornography and two counts of transporting a minor for prostitution.
According to documents in the case, between December 2014 and February 2015, Cosby caused two minor females to engage in prostitution at his apartment in Hammond, Indiana, and other nearby locations. Cosby met one victim, then 14 years old, through an online dating website. Cosby took sexually explicit images of the victim at his apartment, which he then transmitted to prostitution customers and posted online. Cosby transported a second minor victim, then 15 years old, across state lines to a hotel in Lansing, Illinois, where he caused her to engage in prostitution. Cosby took sexually explicit images of the second victim and posted the images on a website advertising prostitution.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and members of the Northwest Indiana Human Trafficking Working Group. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi and Jill Koster.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to Life ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Larry Norton, age 66, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 1 kilogram or more of heroin. He was found guilty after a 6-day jury trial in May of 2017.
Norton was sentenced to life imprisonment.
According to documents in this case, Norton faced a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of life imprisonment without release because he has two prior final felony drug convictions. Norton’s criminal history actually consisted of three felony drug convictions, two convictions for dealing and distributing cocaine (one federal and one state) and another conviction for possessing cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, which includes FBI, Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Stacy R. Speith and Anthony W. Geller.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 22 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Dean Zimmerman, age 48, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann on his plea of guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit mail fraud.
Zimmerman was sentenced to 22 months imprisonment followed by 1 year of supervised release. Restitution was ordered payable to the victims, United Technologies Electronic Controls, Inc. and PayPal, Inc. the total sum of $346,753.33, and a 1 million dollar money judgement was also entered. Additionally, 103 items, which include sums of U.S. currency and various items of property (ie computers, jewelry, coins, firearms and vehicles) were ordered forfeited as proceeds of his criminal conduct.
According to documents filed in this case, from on or about January 1, 2014 and continuing until on or about May 17, 2016, Zimmerman conspired with his wife Linda Zimmerman to devise a scheme to obtain money through fraud by stealing property from his employer and then selling the stolen property on eBay and utilizing the United States Postal Service to deliver the stolen merchandise to unwitting buyers. Linda Zimmerman has plead guilty to the same charge, conspiracy to commit mail fraud and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigations with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and the Huntington Police Department and was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Stacey R. Speith.
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Lake County Indiana Sheriff Convicted After 14-Day TrialRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that John Buncich, age 71, of Crown Point, Indiana was convicted of all 6 counts of the superseding indictment, after a 14-day jury trial before District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody.
John Buncich, Timothy Downs and William Szarmach were indicted in November 2016 on multiple federal charges. Buncich, the current Lake County Sheriff, served as sheriff from 1994-2002, and was re-elected in 2010 and again in 2014. Timothy Downs, formerly the Chief in the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, was the second person in command at that Department; Downs was appointed to that position by Buncich. William Szarmach owns and operates CSA Towing in Lake Station, Indiana.
Pursuant to a Lake County ordinance, the sheriff has exclusive authority to determine who would do vehicle towing as required by the sheriff’s department. From February 2014 continuing into October 2016, Buncich devised a scheme to deprive the citizens of Lake County of their right to the honest services of the sheriff’s office. The scheme was designed to enrich Buncich personally and his campaign committee, known as Buncich Boosters. The trial evidence established that a number of checks and cash payments, often collected by Downs, from Szarmach and Scott Jurgensen were exchanged for Buncich awarding them county towing business and towing in the City of Gary for ordinance violations. Mr. Jurgenson, a former Merrillville Police Officer, is the owner of Sampson Relocation and Towing. Mr. Jurgenson provided significant assistance to the United States during the course of this investigation.
The jury convicted Buncich of 5 counts of Honest Services Wire Fraud in connection with this scheme. The jury also convicted Buncich of a charged violation of the federal bribery statute in connection with corruptly soliciting, demanding, and receiving over $25,000 in cash and $7,000 in checks in exchange for favorable actions by Buncich regarding the towing contracts.
Both Szarmach and Downs, who both testified at trial, await sentencing on their guilty pleas to the following charges in the indictment: Timothy Downs entered a plea of guilty to one count of Honest Services Wire Fraud and; William Szarmach entered a plea of guilty to three counts of Honest Services Wire Fraud, Bribery and Failure to File a Tax Return.
Acting United States Attorney Clifford Johnson states that “The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to vigorously prosecute public officials who use their public office as means for personal enrichment. All citizens deserve public officials who work for the public interest and not their own interest.”
"Public officials who abuse their positions for personal financial gain at the expense of the taxpayers will not be tolerated. The FBI and our federal, state, and local partners will continue to aggressively pursue those across Indiana who corrupt their office for self-serving motives," said W. Jay Abbott, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Indianapolis Division. "Also instrumental in these investigations are the honest and patriotic citizens who come forward and assist in uncovering the truth as was the case in Lake County."
Gabriel Grchan, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge stated, "Taxpayers expect their elected officials to protect and improve their communities. Rather than serve his community Buncich abused his position and devised a pay-to-play towing scheme that benefited him and few others financially. Today's verdict reminds us that public corruption will not be tolerated and no one is above the law."
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Philip C. Benson and Maria N. Lerner.
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South Bend Man Sentenced to 125 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Anthony Huey, 34, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Prostitution.
Huey was sentenced to 125 months of imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release. Restitution to the minor victim, if any, will be decided within the next 30 days.
According to documents in this case, from on or about October 3, 2014 to on or about October 6, 2014, Huey transported Jane Doe, whom he knew to be under the age of 18, from Indiana to Illinois, with the purpose that she engage in prostitution.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
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Hammond Man Sentenced to 510 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Eric M. Dillon, 28, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced before Judge Philip P. Simon for Armed Robbery and Use of a Firearm to Cause Death during a Crime of Violence.
Dillon was sentenced to consecutive sentences of 240 months for armed robbery and 270 months for using the firearm to cause death for a total sentence of 510 months imprisonment.
According to documents in this case, on January 20, 2016, at approximately 4:30 am, Dillon entered the 7-Eleven store at 6031 Hohman Avenue in Hammond, Indiana with a handgun, demanded money, and shot and killed the store clerk, Roger Unton.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Hammond Police Department with assistance from the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas M. McGrath and Jennifer Chang.
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Michigan Man Sentenced to 145 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Johnny Jones, 39, of Benton Harbor, Michigan was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Jones was sentenced to 145 months of imprisonment and 8 years of supervised release. The sentence is to be served consecutive to a sentence imposed by a federal district court in Nevada.
According to documents in this case, Jones was convicted by a jury of conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine mixture and of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. One of his co-defendants (Stephine Smith) has already been sentenced to 41 months in prison. The other co-defendant (Jen-nai Rowland) is still awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force with the assistance of the St. Joseph Count Drug Investigations Unit and Michigan Southwest Enforcement Team. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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LaPorte Man Sentenced to 87 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Justin C. Pratt, 34, of LaPorte, Indiana was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for receiving child pornography.
Pratt was sentenced to 87 months of imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $5000 in restitution.
According to documents in this case, between April 2014 and July 2015, Pratt used his cell phone to download child pornography images and videos from the internet.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 97 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Japheth Sims, age 29, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann on his plea of guilty to the crime of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
Sims was sentenced to 97 months imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, August 19, 2016, Sims possessed a firearm after having been convicted of felony Possession of Cocaine.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department Vice and Narcotics Unit, with the assistance of the United States Marshal’s Service and was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Lansing, Illinois Man Sentenced to 170 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Bobby Ray Dejohnette, 46, of Lansing, Illinois, was sentenced on July 26, 2017 by District Court Judge James T. Moody for conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Dejohnette was sentenced to 170 months imprisonment followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in 2015 an investigation revealed that Dejohnette conspired with others to sell crack cocaine within the Northern District of Indiana. A search of his then residence in Calumet City, Illinois revealed that he maintained both drugs and firearms within the residence.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security, Hammond Police Department, Calumet City Police Department and with assistance from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas McGrath and Abizer Zanzi.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 70 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Antonio Cortez Harris, age 25, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann to possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Harris was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, on or about February 9, 2016, Harris possessed with intent to distribute less than 100 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 70 MonthsRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Ronnie Rutherford Jr., age 40, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann on federal convictions of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Rutherford was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, between December 30, 2013 and February 17, 2014, Ruthererford possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possessed a firearm after having been convicted felony Attempted Burglary and felony Theft.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of Fort Wayne Police Department and was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Westfield Man Indicted for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Hammond has returned an indictment against William Moit, age 70, who was formerly a resident of Rensselaer, Indiana but now resides in Westfield, Indiana.
According to documents in this case, Moit, who was convicted in Jasper County, Indiana in 2000 for possessing child pornography and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, was charged, in the federal indictment, with receiving child pornography.
If you have any information about Moit’s activities involving children, please contact Task Force Officer Jones at the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 219-942-4900.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Indiana State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill R. Koster.
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Hammond Man Indicted for Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Hammond has returned a 2-count indictment against Charles Stroud, age 73, of Hammond, Indiana.
According to the indictment, between January 2015 and August 2016, Stroud received child pornography. On or about August 2016, Stroud was also found in possession of child pornography.
If you have any information about Stroud’s activities involving children, please contact Task Force Officer Jones at the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 219-942-4900.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Indiana State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill R. Koster.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 100 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – The Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Tyquane Lamar Stewart, age 25, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced on July 21, 2017, before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann for the federal crime of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Stewart was sentenced to 100 months imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, on or about November 16, 2016, Stewart possessed a firearm after previously being convicted of attempted robbery, a class C felony, in December of 2010 before Allen Superior Court.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department and was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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South Bend Man Found Guilty After 2-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that Tyrone Miller, age 31, of South Bend, Indiana was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, after a two-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller.
According to documents filed in this case, in February 2017, Tyrone Miller was in possession of a 9mm firearm with an extended magazine. Miller was previously convicted of a felony offense in St. Joseph County.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander and Frank E. Schaffer.
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Three Arrested in the Fort Wayne Area as Part of the National Health Care Fraud TakedownRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced today that a federal grand jury returned a ten -count indictment against Fort Wayne physician Dr. James E. Ranochak and two Fort Wayne area pharmacists, Brent A. Losier and Charles N. Ringger.
The indictment charges Ranochak, Losier and Ringger with conspiring to illegally distribute and dispense controlled substances (Methadone, Hydrocodone and Testosterone) outside the scope of professional practice and not for legitimate medical purpose. The three defendants also face eight separate counts of distributing and dispensing controlled substances to specific patients outside the scope of professional practice and not for legitimate medical purpose. Finally, all three defendants are charged in a health care fraud conspiracy aimed at defrauding the Indiana Medicaid program through the submission of thousands of dollars in fraudulent claims for medically unnecessary drugs and non-emergency supplies of controlled drugs issued to patients without the patients actually being seen by a physician.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration, the Indiana State Police and the Indiana Office of the Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane L. Berkowitz.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 125 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – The Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that, Eddie Martin, Jr., age 18, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann for robbery under the Hobbs Act along with using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Martin was sentenced to 125 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $1,586 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents filed in this case, on or about November 19, 2016, Martin took U.S. currency from an employee of Pizza by Vito’s using physical force and violence and the threatened use of force, violence and the fear of injury and in doing so brandished a firearm.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department and was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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East Chicago Man Found Guilty After 3-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that Mauricio Portes, age 49, of East Chicago, Indiana was convicted of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine after a three-day jury trial before United States District Court Philip P. Simon.
According to documents filed in this case, Mauricio Portes was part of a conspiracy that was distributing cocaine within the Northern District between January 1, 2015 and May 28, 2015.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath and Special Assistant United States Attorney Armando Salinas.
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Wakarusa Man Sentenced to 57 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Willard Quinn, 42, of Wakarusa, Indiana was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Quinn was sentenced to 57 months of imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on July 28, 2016, Quinn was pulled over in a vehicle stop. There was a loaded firearm under the front passenger seat and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. Quinn has multiple felony convictions.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 72 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – The Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announces that Stephan Davis, age 30, of Waterloo, Indiana, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Theresa Springmann to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Davis was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents filed in this case, on or about May 20, 2016, Davis possessed a .40 caliber firearm and eight rounds of ammunition in Kendallville, Indiana after having prior felony convictions in Dekalb County, Indiana.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Kendallville Police Department and was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Elkhart Man Sentenced to 125 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Jeffrey Wilson, 29, of Elkhart, Indiana was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for bank robbery.
Wilson was sentenced to 125 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on November 16, 2016, Wilson and two accomplices robbed a bank in Mishawaka. Wearing masks and gloves, they used a rifle and a handgun to threaten both bank employees and customers while they stuffed cash into backpacks. Police caught the robbers at a house in Elkhart a short time later. One of the accomplices, Lamont Hawkins, was already sentenced in May, 2017 to 117 months imprisonment for his role in this robbery. The other accomplice, David Woods, has pled guilty and is currently scheduled for sentencing on August 2.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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20 Gary Individuals Indicted on Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced federal drug conspiracy charges against 20 individuals all residing in Gary, Indiana. Named in the indictment are:
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Antonio Walton, a/k/a “Buck”, age 40 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Yahtzee Harris, a/k/a “Black”, age 38 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of being a felon in possession of a firearm
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1 count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime
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5 counts of distribution of crack cocaine
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Claude Tate, age 49 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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2 counts of distribution of crack cocaine
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Dujuana Dubose, age 44 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of distribution of crack cocaine
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John Tyson, age 55 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of distribution of crack cocaine
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Kevin Hatter, age 28 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of distribution of crack cocaine
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Christopher Green, a/k/a “Unc”, age 43 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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2 counts of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of being a felon in possession of a firearm
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1 count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime
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Telisha French, a/k/a “TiTi”, age 43 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Keana Porter, age 33 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime
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Janice Walton, age 66 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
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Ben Hickman, Jr, age 46 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
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Charles Gould, a/k/a “Mooney”, age 34 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Courtney Crouch, age 23 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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David Mackey, age 43 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Emmanuel French, a/k/a “E”, age 30 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Leroy Elmore, age 64 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Richard Smith, age 45 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Robert Blue, age 51 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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Rosalind Cherry, age 62 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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1 count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
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Termaine Ervin, age 33 was charged with:
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1 count of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
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According to documents in this case, the above individuals were charged with conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine. In addition to the conspiracy charges, some were charged with a substantive charges of distribution and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and firearms violations. Four firearms were seized as a result of these arrests. This indictment is part of the ongoing effort by local and federal law enforcement to remove criminal organizations from the streets of northwest Indiana.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, 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 the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of Gary and Hobart Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas R. Mahoney.
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Oxford, Indiana Man Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Michael R. Bennett, 47, of Oxford, Indiana, was sentenced before District Court Judge Philip P. Simon for wire fraud.
Judge Philip P. Simon sentenced Bennett to 15 months imprisonment followed by 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, Bennett was President of the United Auto Workers Local 2317. He used his position as President to embezzle and steal more than $100,000 dollars from the Union over a five-year period.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua P. Kolar.
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Fort Wayne Woman ChargedRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – The Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that Erin Clowser, age 34, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was charged via a federal criminal complaint with theft of US Mail, access device fraud and aggravate identity theft.
The criminal complaint alleges that on or about November 2016, the United States Postal Inspection Service began receiving complaints of mail theft from the 46845 zip code area. Clowser allegedly, took both mail that was delivered before it could be picked up by the respective owners and mail that was outgoing in boxes with the flags up before it could be picked up by postal carriers. Once the mail was taken, Clowser allegedly converted stolen checks for her own personal use. Clowser allegedly obtained a debit card belonging to another individual, and from March 2017 through April 2017, used that debit card to make unauthorized purchases and ATM withdrawals totaling over $50,000.
Clowser is scheduled for an initial appearance on these charges today before a United States District Court Magistrate Judge. .
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 sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
These charges result from a joint investigation conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police. This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
Any individuals or businesses located within the 46845 zip code that suspect that their mail may have stolen between November 2016 and April 2017 are urged to report such information to the Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 or the FBI at 317-595-4000.
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Chicago Men Sentenced for Printing, Spending MoneyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Christopher Pierce, 24, and Harold Jones, 20, both of Chicago, Illinois were sentenced before District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody for the passing of counterfeit securities.
Pierce was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment followed by 1 year of supervised release. Jones was sentenced to time served (113 days) followed by 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, beginning in December 2015 and continuing through spring of 2016, Pierce and Jones passed currency manufactured by Pierce four to five times a week. Pierce utilized a color scanner and printer to create counterfeit currency on linen paper. Pierce manufactured the counterfeit currency in $5, $10, and $20 denominations, because he felt they were less likely to be detected. The defendants used the counterfeit currency to make numerous daily small purchases at fast food restaurants, gas stations, and “mom and pop” neighborhood businesses so they could obtain legitimate change in return. According to documents in the case, the two allegedly made up to $250 in legitimate United States’ currency per day before they were caught.
United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge John Koleno, Chicago Field Office stated, “This is one of many cases that are investigated daily with the help of state and local law enforcement. Businesses that handle cash are encouraged to go to www.uscurrency.gov to learn the security features of United States currency.”
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jill R. Koster.
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East Chicago Man Sentenced for Gang-Related ShootingRead the Press Release
An East Chicago, Indiana man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison on a firearms charge related to the activity of a street gang known as the Two Six Nation. Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson of the Northern District of Indiana made the announcement.
Julio Ivan Cartagena Jr, 22, pleaded guilty on March 22, to Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence for his role in a car chase and shooting on Aug. 31, 2013. The uncontested facts proffered at Cartagena’s guilty plea hearing showed that on that evening, Cartagena’s stepbrother had been denied admission to a party in Hammond by members of a rival street gang. Responding to a call for assistance from his stepbrother, Cartagena and another individual joined the stepbrother and a fourth individual in a car. Possessing two handguns, Cartagena and the other occupants drove back to the location of the party, where they saw individuals believed to be members of the rival gang getting into a car. Cartagena and the other occupants of the first vehicle followed that car, shooting at the rival gang members as they went. Shots fired from the car in which Cartagena was riding hit the rival gang members’ vehicle, striking one occupant in a finger. Several shots also went wide, penetrating the house of a Hammond Police Department officer who lived in the neighborhood.
Cartagena was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 10 years in prison and to a two year term of supervised release.
The FBI Gang Response Investigative Team; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Hammond Police Department; and the Lake County Police Department investigated the case. They were assisted by the East Chicago Police Department and the Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick of the Northern District of Indiana and Trial Attorneys Andrew L. Creighton and Robert Tully of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
East Chicago Man Sentenced for Gang-Related ShootingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An East Chicago, Indiana man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison on a firearms charge related to the activity of a street gang known as the Two Six Nation. Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson of the Northern District of Indiana made the announcement.
Julio Ivan Cartagena Jr, 22, pleaded guilty on March 22, to Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence for his role in a car chase and shooting on Aug. 31, 2013. The uncontested facts proffered at Cartagena’s guilty plea hearing showed that on that evening, Cartagena’s stepbrother had been denied admission to a party in Hammond by members of a rival street gang. Responding to a call for assistance from his stepbrother, Cartagena and another individual joined the stepbrother and a fourth individual in a car. Possessing two handguns, Cartagena and the other occupants drove back to the location of the party, where they saw individuals believed to be members of the rival gang getting into a car. Cartagena and the other occupants of the first vehicle followed that car, shooting at the rival gang members as they went. Shots fired from the car in which Cartagena was riding hit the rival gang members’ vehicle, striking one occupant in a finger. Several shots also went wide, penetrating the house of a Hammond Police Department officer who lived in the neighborhood.
Cartagena was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 10 years in prison and to a 2 year term of supervised release.
The FBI Gang Response Investigative Team; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Hammond Police Department; and the Lake County Police Department investigated the case. They were assisted by the East Chicago Police Department and the Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick of the Northern District of Indiana and Trial Attorneys Andrew L. Creighton and Robert Tully of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
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Crown Point Man Charged with Online StalkingRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – The Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that Adam Russell Hegyi, age 30, of Crown Point, Indiana was charged with transferring obscenity to a person under 16 and online stalking.
The complaint alleges that between on or about January 1, 2015 and June 2, 2017, Hegyi used a variety of social media applications to communicate with a minor child beginning when she was 12 years old. Through these applications, Hegyi sent photos of his genitals and coerced the child to send nude photos to him. Thereafter, Heygi caused the minor to take additional photos by threatening to release the photos she had already sent online.
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 sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This complaint results from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in both Merrillville, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina, with the assistance of the Gary and Hammond Police Departments, the Indiana State Police, the Lake County, Indiana Sheriff’s Department and the Rowan County, North Carolina, Sheriff’s Office. This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jill R. Koster.
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South Bend Man Sentenced to 41 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that, on May 30, 2017, Gregory Broadnax, 35, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Broadnax was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on August 27, 2016, the South Bend Police Department responded to a complaint of an individual sleeping in a vehicle. When approaching the vehicle, the officers saw a firearm next to the occupant of the vehicle. The occupant was identified as Gregory Broadnax who was on supervised release for a prior felony drug conviction.
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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Fort Wayne Man Convicted by Jury TrialRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson, announced that Larry Norton, age 66, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, after a six-day jury trial, before United States District Court Chief Judge Theresa L. Springmann.
According to documents filed in this case, Norton and four other individuals conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 1 kilogram of heroin along with over 5 kilograms of cocaine in the Northern District of Indiana and elsewhere between October 2014 and January 2015. The other four defendants named in the indictment previously pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force which includes the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Indiana State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Stacey Speith.
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Merrillville Man Sentenced to 27 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Terry Kilburn, 34, of Merrillville, Indiana was sentenced before District Court Judge Joseph S. Van Bokkelen for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Kilburn was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on the morning of February 22, 2015 Merrillville Police responded to a dispatch regarding a male shooting a shotgun in the yard of a residence in Merrillville, Indiana. Police responded to the residence of Kilburn and recovered a sawed off shotgun -- measuring approximately 14.5 inches. Twenty four (24) shotgun shells and a few spent shells were recovered. When interviewed by law enforcement, Kilburn stated that he had purchased the firearm a week before the incident in the sawed off condition. Kilburn has a prior felony conviction for theft through Lake County, Indiana in 2013.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Merrillville Police Department. This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Dean R. Lanter.
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