Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS
- Timothy Heckaman, 53, of Bremen, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $34,126.25 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. According to documents filed in this case, from in or around March 2010 through September 2011, Heckaman applied for and received extended unemployment insurance benefits through the State of Indiana Department of Work Force Development (“IDWD”). Defendant submitted weekly vouchers to IDWD and intentionally answered “No” to the question asking if he was working when, in truth, he was employed during the specified week. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor and the Indiana Department of Work Force Development. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
- Gerardo Martinez-Quinonez, 22, of Lansing, Illinois was sentenced to time served after pleading guilty to the felony offense of use of a false social security number. According to documents filed in this case, in January 2014, in the Northern District of Indiana, with the intent to deceive, Martinez-Quinonez falsely represented a number to be the social security account number assigned to him by the Commissioner of Social Security. This case was the result of an investigation by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
- Eric M. Gainer, 45, of Kewanna, Indiana was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after being found guilty by jury trial to the felony offense of making false statements during firearm acquisition. According to documents filed in this case, Gainer attempted to purchase a firearm on October 1, 2012 at firearms dealer. Gainer attempted to buy a Rossi 410/22 firearm despite being a convicted felon, despite being under a court restraining order and despite having a prior misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence. Gainer filled out an ATF Form 4473 and falsely stated that he did not have a prior felony conviction, falsely stating that he was not subject to a court order restraining him from harassing, stalking, or threatening his child or an intimate partner or child of such partner, and falsely denying that he had previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of violence (battery) involving his own daughter. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
- Leroy J. Clark, 22, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, on November 7, 2013, a car Clark was riding in was stopped by police. He had a handgun in his possession in the car. Clark had a previous felony conviction in the State of Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
- Christopher R. Candler, 39, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment and 5 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of failure to register and update registration as a sex offender as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. According to documents filed in this case, on May 29, 2001, Candler was convicted in New Jersey Superior Court, Law Division-Criminal, Morris County for the offense of Sexual Assault. As a result of this conviction, he was required to register as a sex offender in New Jersey at least until May 29, 2016. Candler last registered as a sex offender in New Jersey on July 11, 2012. In 2013, Candler moved to South Bend, Indiana and did not register in Indiana as a sex offender. This case was the result of an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Darian Lyndon Brown, 36, of Merrillville, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of mail fraud. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 10/2/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randy Stewart.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Chopper Loughran, 32, of Lake Station, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years’ probation, 12 months’ home confinement and to pay $12,942.70 in restitution after being found guilty by a jury to the felony offenses of worker’s compensation fraud, wire fraud, federal program fraud and making false statements. According to documents filed in this case, Loughran worked as a mail carrier with the U.S. Postal Service in Northwest Indiana for less than a year when she filed a claim stating that she injured her ankle while delivering mail. At trial, the evidence established that Loughran filed the claim shortly after being advised that her performance was not up to standard. Loughran knowingly submitted materially false statements and information on various forms connected with applications for compensation and payable benefits. This case was the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Service, the United States Department of Labor and the United States Department of Agriculture. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
- Jose Arriaga, 45, of Merrillville, Indiana was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment, followed by 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of intent to distribute cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, in August 2013, Arriaga was arrested while attempting to sell 4 kilograms of cocaine to a Drug Enforcement Administration confidential informant and an additional 7 kilograms of cocaine and $24,000 in cash was recovered from Arriaga’s property in Merrillville, Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS
- Christopher Smith, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, Fort Wayne Police Department personnel attempted to pull over the vehicle Smith was driving, but Smith failed to stop and led police on a high speed chase until his car crashed into a residence. During a search of the vehicle, officers found a firearm along with ammunition. At the time, Smith was on probation for his state offense of 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. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
- Trevor R. Rodriguez, 23, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 57 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to selling a firearm and ammunition to a known convicted felon. According to documents filed in this case, ATF was conducting a firearms investigation that resulted in contact with Rodriguez who agreed to sell them firearms on several occasions. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris King.
- David Williams, 29 of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 1 year probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making a false statement on an ATF form 4473. According to documents filed in this case, Fort Wayne Police conducted a traffic stop and multiple weapons were recovered as a result of the stop. One of the guns recovered from the vehicle had been purchased by Williams who was not in the vehicle at the time of the stop. ATF agents confirmed that the firearm had been purchased by Williams. Williams would have filled out an ATF form 4473 in order to purchase the firearm. After interviewing Williams, he admitted to making a false statement on the form when he bought the gun, indicating he was the actual purchaser when he was not. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Demarcus Moran, 24, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Bend Police Department. Sentencing has been set for 10/23/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
- Robert Alphonse Deschepper, III, 24, of Edwardsburg, Michigan pled guilty to the felony offense of lying to a licensed firearms dealer during the acquisition of firearms. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Sentencing has been set for 10/16/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Jack Marsh, 35, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 97 months imprisonment and 3 years Supervised Release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of possession a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute crack. According to documents filed in this case, Marsh knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of crack. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Gerardo Mendez, 27, pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and with intent to defraud passing counterfeited obligations. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Christopher Chico, 26 years old, of Blue Island, Illinois, was sentenced to 8 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of Narcotics – Distribution of Cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, on May 23, 2012, Chico, a member of the Latin Dragons street gang, sold one ounce of cocaine to a confidential informant in Whiting, Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
- Augustin Jacobo-Pagan, 36 years old, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment, with credit for time served after pleading guilty to the felony offense of Re-Entry of Deported Alien and False Statement in a Passport Application. No term of supervised release will be imposed due to the defendant’s deportable alien status. According to documents filed in this case, in March of 2010, Jacobo-Pagan, under an alias, submitted a United States Passport application at a post office. In the passport application, Jacobo-Pagan listed the following false information, name, date of birth and social security number. This case was the result of an investigation by the State Department and the Bureau of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip C. Benson.
- Jennifer Kurek, 41 years old, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced to 30 days imprisonment, 3 years supervised release and to pay $25,144.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. According to documents filed in this case, Kurek stole $25,144 from the Social Security Administration. As a SSA representative payee, Kurek had a fiduciary duty to use social security benefit funds for her daughter’s benefit. Instead, after her daughter was removed from defendant’s home by State officials, Kurek used the social security benefit funds on herself. This case was the result of an investigation by the Office of Inspector/Social Security Administration Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary T. Bell.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Maricruz Mendoza, aka Erika L. Luna, 36, of Elkhart, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Department of Labor and the Indiana Department of Work Force Development. Sentencing has been set for 10/16/ 2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
- Alfonso Serrano, 46, of Logansport, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute cocaine over 500 grams. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Sentencing has been set for 10/17/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
- Jose Luis Lopez, 24, of Logansport, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of distribution of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Sentencing has been set for 10/17/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Daniel Haslam, 43, of Crawfordsville, Indiana was sentenced to 181 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of possession of unregistered silencers, illegal manufacture of methamphetamine, possession of multiple firearms as a drug user and possession of multiple firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to documents filed in this case, Haslam had a number of completed firearm silencers as well as silencers that he was still manufacturing. Additionally, there were a number of firearms in the house (several loaded rifles, a shotgun, and a revolver). Haslam was manufacturing and using methamphetamine. Records for pseudoephedrine purchases show that Haslam made 30 pseudoephedrine purchases in 2011 and through August 2012. Local police executed a search warrant and discovered evidence of methamphetamine manufacturing and use, ammunition and multiple firearms and silencers. None of the silencers or firearms were registered to Haslam in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
- Davon Stewart, 39, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 106 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of possessing cocaine base (crack) with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to documents filed in this case, local law enforcement went to a residence in South Bend searching for a wanted individual. At the location being visited, Stewart answered the door and gave officers consent to enter and search. Officers detected and observed marijuana within the location. Stewart readily admitted that he smoked marijuana. After officers obtained search warrants for the residence, a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol with a loaded magazine was discovered. Near the gun, police found 4 grams of crack cocaine and 6 grams of powder cocaine in two plastic baggies. Officers also discovered a video surveillance system, digital scales, ammunition, additional cocaine powder concealed in a ceiling fan and marijuana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
- Tiffany J. Miller, 28, of Ligonier, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $15,062 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. According to documents filed in this case, from in or around September 2010 through August 2011, Miller applied for and received extended unemployment insurance benefits through the State of Indiana Department of Work Force Development (IDWD.) Miller submitted weekly vouchers to IDWD and intentionally answered “No” to the question asking if she was working when in truth she was employed in Elkhart, Indiana during the specified week. Miller also failed to disclose she received wages during that time period. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor and the Indiana Department of Work Force Development. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
- Patrick J. Condon, Jr., 41, of South Bend Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $40,251.50 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. According to documents filed in this case, April 2010 through July 2011, Condon applied for and received extended unemployment insurance benefits through the State of Indiana Department of Work Force Development (IDWD). Condon submitted weekly vouchers to IDWD and intentionally answered “No” to the question asking if he was working when in truth and in fact he was employed in Elkhart, Indiana during the specified week and earned wages. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor and the Indiana Department of Work Force Development. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS
- Timothy Yatsko, 42, of Portage, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to felony possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, on March 14, 2013, Yatsko was found in possession of nine firearms and an assortment of ammunition after previously being convicted of a felony in the Superior Court of Lake County. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Portage Police Department, Lake Station Police Department, and Porter County Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
- Armando Ortega, 36, of Hammond, Indiana was sentenced to 5 months on home detention with 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, on February 25, 2012, law enforcement officers responded to a domestic call at the defendant’s residence and smelled a strong smell of marijuana. On April 6, 2012, a Hammond detective decided to do a “knock and talk” at same residence, when he approached it he smelled a strong odor of marijuana. He left the residence without contact. Three days later, Hammond Police officers did a trash pull, and recovered the remains of marijuana blunts and stems. On April 13, 2012, Hammond Police executed a search warrant on the residence. They recovered around 240 grams of cocaine and redistribution amounts of marijuana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Nozick.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS
- Bryant Davis, 40, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, local law enforcement obtained and executed a state search warrant for the Davis’ residence. During the search, a firearm was located in the bathroom and one was thrown out a window of the residence. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
- Christopher M. Salas, 41, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation concurrently on both counts of conviction after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, on April 12, 2011, law enforcement served a search warrant at Salas’ residence. During the search, firearms and cocaine were discovered in the bedroom. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and its Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department. The Fort Wayne Police Department Vice and Narcotics Division and the Allen County Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris King.
- Ben B. Fisher, 38, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 8 months imprisonment with time served and 1 year supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of using a telephone to facilitate a drug felony to include conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana. According to documents filed in this case, this investigation progressed with a spinoff wiretaps through two different supply chains. Interceptions over Fisher’s telephone led to an immediate supplier. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. A number of law enforcement agencies also assisted with this investigation, including the Fort Wayne Police Department Vice and Narcotics Division and Gang Unit, the Allen County Drug Task Force, United States Marshals Service, New Haven Police Department, Orange County California Regional Narcotics Suppression Program, San Bernardino County California Sheriff’s Department, and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department Drug Interdiction Unit. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Jeremy L. Hall, 38, of Warsaw, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possession and distribution of child pornography. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Michigan City Police Department. Sentencing has been set for 10/2/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Keon Lovelady, 25, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 12 months and a day imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of lying during the attempted acquisition of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, in July 2012, defendant agreed to make a “straw purchase” of a .40 caliber pistol firearm from Midwest Gun Exchange for another person. On July 13, 2012, Lovelady went to a firearms store, falsely filled out the 4473 form that was required for the purchase of the pistol and paid for the pistol. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Bend Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
- Joseph H Golden, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of bank robbery and conspiracy to commit bank robbery. According to documents filed in this case, in late 2013, Golden was released from Indiana State Prison. On December 11, 2013, the defendant called a bank teller in Goshen, Indiana, and stated he had gotten the teller’s name from an inmate friend. Golden indicated he wanted to commit a bank robbery at the bank where the teller worked. Over the next several weeks, Golden discussed with the teller (who was cooperating with law enforcement after the initial call) plans for an armed bank robbery. The plan eventually evolved into a plan to commit larceny inside the bank. The two exchanged subsequent conversations of Golden’s preparation to rob the bank. As he left his residence and approached Goshen, Indiana, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop on Golden’s vehicle and arrested him. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Goshen Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
- Marcelino Ruiz-Robles, 36, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, on September 25, 2013, Ruiz-Robles sold a package of cocaine to an individual he did not know was working for law enforcement. This illegal drug transaction occurred in St. Joseph County, Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
PLEA
- Bruce T. King, 36, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Sentencing will be set after the district court judge accepts the recommendation of the magistrate judge. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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.
DISPOSITION
- Nathan Arnold, 30, of Berne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and ordered to pay $78.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft or receipt of stolen mail matter. According to documents filed in this case, beginning on or about October 9, 2012, and continuing to on or about August 12, 2013, Arnold had stolen mail from mailboxes around the town of Berne. This case was the result of an investigation by United States Postal Inspection Service and the Berne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Steven M McCloughan, 57, of Elkhart, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possession and distribution of child pornography. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Secret Service. Sentencing has been set for 9/25/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Alvin Blade, III, 22, of South Bend, IN was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release and a $100 Special Assessment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime/crime of violence, where the firearm was discharged. According to documents filed in this case, Javon Thomas and Alvin Blade III agreed and planned to sell ecstasy pills to Jerrell Sanders and his brother William Sanders. A January 21, 2011 meeting for the sale of the ecstasy pills was set and was to occur near the Olive St. convenience store. Instead of the sale, Thomas had decided to rob Jerrell and his brother William. Thomas was armed with a 9mm pistol. In the course of the meeting/confrontation, Blade was also armed with a handgun and shot Jerrell Sanders and also fired at William Sanders. Javon Thomas shot William Sanders. Javon Thomas went through the pockets of the two victims and stole the cash that the Sanders had brought for the planned drug purchase. Blade's participation in this episode included his setting up the drug sale of ecstasy pills with Thomas' concurrence, pulling a handgun, and shooting Jerrell Sanders. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI and the South Bend Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
- Robert D Carrico, 29, of South Bend, IN was sentenced to 92 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release and a $100 Special Assessment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of federal drug trafficking crimes. According to documents filed in this case, Carrico was distributing ecstasy pills and marijuana in the South Bend area. He was aware that dealing in drugs created a risk that he would be robbed of the drugs he was selling and the money that he was making from his illegal drug trafficking. In order to try and protect himself from such robberies, he armed himself with multiple firearms including a .44 caliber revolver, a .45 caliber pistol, a 9mm pistol, a .380 caliber pistol, an AK-47 assault rifle, two 12 gauge shotguns, a 20 gauge shotgun and a large amount of ammunition for these firearms. On October 23, 2013, four armed men tried to rob Carrico of his drugs and cash. Gunfire was exchanged. Carrico was wounded, one of the intruders was killed and another was wounded. Two women who were at Carrico’s home were also present during the armed home invasion/robbery attempt. Police who investigated the shooting found a kilogram of marijuana, ecstasy pills, other drug trafficking materials, and several thousand dollars cash (along with some of the firearms) in a safe that Carrico kept. When Carrico was arrested on February 14, 2014 on the federal warrant for this case, police found Carrico carrying a loaded .45 caliber Beretta pistol. Police also found a small amount of marijuana and a loaded 12 gauge Hawk shotgun in his home on February 14, 2014. This case was the result of an investigation by Elkhart County Immigration and Customs Enforcement Drug Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
- David Diederich, 58, of LaPorte, IN was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment, 1 year supervised release and to pay a $1000 fine after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, on August 23, 2013, Diederich possessed an Empire Ejector shotgun while in LaPorte County, IN. He had been convicted of a felony in St. Joseph County in 1976 in Superior Court. Diederich knew he could not lawfully possess a firearm and he did not dispute that this firearm had traveled through interstate or foreign commerce. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
- Brian L Baker, 23, of Chicago, IL was sentenced to 75 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing heroin with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to documents filed in this case, the South Bend Police did a traffic stop for no taillight on August 23, 2013 on a vehicle in which the defendant was riding. Brian Baker was the front seat passenger and his girlfriend Stephanie Rodriguez driving; another man, Michael Mason, was in the back seat. Having consent to search the vehicle, the police found a handgun in a purse along with 42 baggies of heroin (approximately 7.1 grams) and three baggies of marijuana (approximately 3.4 grams). Baker had $384 cash in his pocket. Both the handgun – a Taurus pistol, model PT132 Millennium Pro, .32 caliber, Serial No. FCS12041 – and the drugs belonged to and were in the possession of the defendant Brian Baker. The firearm was used to protect the defendant while he was engaged in heroin trafficking. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the South Bend Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Robert Barker, 28, of Calumet City, Illinois pled guilty to the felony offense of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Sentencing has been set for 9/9/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Rhonda Murphy, 38, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 2 year term of probation to include 6 months home confinement after pleading guilty to the felony offense of tax fraud. According to documents filed in this case, Murphy prepared and filed fraudulent tax returns to obtain grossly inflated refunds for clients. This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
- Jeanetta Brown, 33, of Markham, Illinois was sentenced to 2 years probation, with a special condition of 6 months home detention after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making false statements regarding her residence address and state of residence in connection with the purchase of firearms. According to documents filed in this case, on January 31, 2013, Brown purchased two firearms at a federal firearms dealer in Gary, Indiana, and in so doing represented on the firearms paperwork to purchase the firearms that she was living at a residence in East Chicago, Indiana, when in truth and fact she was at that time a resident of Illinois. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Sandra Hatton Mills, 64, of Lafayette, Indiana was sentenced to a 1 year term of probation to include 6 months of home confinement after pleading guilty to the felony offense of filing a false tax return. According to documents filed in this case, Mills failed to report to the IRS approximately $223,000 in income from her home healthcare business in 2006. Mills also paid her employees wages from which no employment taxes were withheld. Mills failed to report similarly derived income to the IRS in each of 2005 ($12,900 in unreported income), 2006 ($22,300), 2008 ($176,000) and 2009 ($87,600). This case was the result of an investigation by Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
- Paul Deshaun Robinson, 23, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of heroin. According to documents filed in this case, In May 2013, in Gary, Indiana, Robinson distributed heroin to a confidential informant. This case was the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) GRIT Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS
- Michael C. Bure, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 67 months imprisonment; 2 years supervised release and to and pay $2,535 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of bank robbery. According to documents filed in this case, in 2011, Bure was involved in a bank robbery. Bure aided in planning the robbery and drove the vehicle away from the crime. This case was the result of an investigation by FBI Bank Robbery Task Force and the New Haven Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
- Alfred Alcaraz, 34, of Tucson, Arizona was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment; 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. According to documents filed in this case, Alcaraz had utilized individuals to send 117 pounds of marijuana from Arizona to Indiana. Through a series of recorded telephone conversations, he agreed to assist an individual living in Ft. Wayne acquire quantities of marijuana for that individual to distribute to others. Alcaraz was to supply the marijuana to the individual living in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
- Pedro Salud Rubio-Garcia, 26, of Fremont, Indiana was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment and 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, distribution of a controlled substance and selling a firearm to a convicted felon. According to documents filed in this case, Rubio-Garcia was involved in the distribution of cocaine, methamphetamine and the trafficking of firearms. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department. The New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department, and IMAGE Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
- Amanda J. McBride, 32, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years on probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of maintaining drug-involved premises. According to documents filed in this case, from on or about April 15, 2013, to on or about June 27, 2013, McBride was the owner of a building which others used for crack cocaine distribution. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tony Geller.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Africa Gunn, 36, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to tax claims. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-CID. Sentencing has been set for 9/18/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
- Oscar Martinez, 34, of Logansport, IN pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute cocaine over 500 grams. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency. Sentencing has been set for 9/25/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
- David Carranza, 32, of Goshen, IN pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly using a communication facility in causing or facilitating another felony. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency. Sentencing has been set for 9/17/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- John O. Williams, 43, of Osceola, IN was sentenced to time served, 2 years supervised release, $36,962.50 restitution and a $100 special assessment fee after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. According to documents filed in this case, John O. Williams from in or around June 2010 through December 2010, applied for and received extended unemployment insurance benefits through the State of Indiana Department of Work Force Development. He submitted weekly vouchers to IDWD and intentionally answered “No” to the question as to whether he was working when in truth and in fact he was employed at Company A in Elkhart, Indiana during the specified week. He also failed to disclose that he received wages during that time period. He spent the unemployment benefit payments he received on personal expenses. He does not dispute that the money for these unemployment insurance benefits came from the federal government, extended unemployment insurance benefits and ARRA funds and was in excess of $9,000. This case was the result of an investigation by Department of Labor and Indiana Department of Work Force Development. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
- Joseph D. McLaren, 31, Howe, IN was sentenced to 2 years supervised probation, Restitution of $44,002.25 and $100 special assessment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. According to documents filed in this case, Joseph D. McLaren from in or around June 2009 through October 2010, applied for and received extended unemployment insurance benefits through the State of Indiana Department of Work Force Development. He submitted weekly vouchers to IDWD and intentionally answered “No” to the question as to whether he was working when in truth and in fact he was employed at Company A and/or Company B, in Elkhart, Indiana during the specified week. He also failed to disclose that he received wages during that time period. He spent the unemployment benefit payments he received on personal expenses because he needed the money. He does not dispute that the money for these unemployment insurance benefits came from the federal government, extended unemployment insurance benefits and ARRA funds and was in excess of $20,000. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor and Indiana Department of Work Force Development. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA- Melissa Yates, 37, of Michigan City, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 8/26/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Michael McClellan, 40, of Richton Park, Illinois was sentenced to 51 months, supervised release of 2 years and to pay $212,675.68 in restitution of which $203,844.77 shall be joint and several with co-defendant Tina McClellan after being found guilty of the felony offenses of bringing in and harboring aliens, mail fraud and monetary transactions in criminally derived property. According to documents filed in this case, McClellan and his wife submitted false bills to the State of Illinois and Healthy Start for child care services. They used more than $10,000 of fraud proceeds to buy the Paragon Restaurant in Schererville. At the restaurant, Michael filed false reports with Indiana Work Force Development not reporting the illegal aliens he paid in cash. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Labor. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
- Tina McClellan, 38, of Richton Park, Illinois was sentenced to 1 day time served, 24 months of supervised release with home detention of 12 months and to jointly pay $203,844.77 to the State of Illinois in restitution after being found guilty of the felony offenses of bringing in and harboring aliens, mail fraud and monetary transactions in criminally derived property. According to documents filed in this case, McClellan and her husband submitted false bills to the State of Illinois and Healthy Start for child care services. They used more than $10,000 of fraud proceeds to buy the Paragon Restaurant in Schererville. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Labor. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
- Robert Ross, 28, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 63 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, an employee of the Gary Sanitation District testified that Ross had pointed a firearm at him and another Gary city worker, prompting them to call 911. Police responded to the scene and arrested Ross. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
- Melissa Yates, 37, of Michigan City, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 8/26/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITION
- Troy Ditiway, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, 5 years supervised release, $100 special assessment and $2,000 restitution, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing visual depictions which were shipped and transported using any means and facility of interstate and foreign commerce, the production of which involved the use of an actual minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. According to documents filed in this case, in February 2012 a Federal Search Warrant was executed at a residence in Fort Myers, Florida after an online undercover investigation led members of the Fort Myers, Florida FBI to identify a child pornography distributor. A confession was obtained by the individual who indicated that he routinely “chatted” with individuals via an instant messenger service. When receiving child pornography during “photoshare” sessions during these chats, the individual would save the received images within a folder. A review of the consensual takeover account was performed and task force officers observed messenger conversations with Ditiway. These conversations contained verbiage indicative of child pornography distribution between both parties. A forensic preview on a laptop was conducted and observed were images depicting child pornography. This investigation led officers to the Fort Wayne, Indiana area wherein a Federal Search Warrant was executed in September 2012, and graphic images of child pornography were recovered. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Jose Mario Sanchez, 40, of Goshen, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiring to distribute cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency. Sentencing has been set for 9/11/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
- Melvin Darnell White, 26, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the South Bend Metro Special Operations and St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit. Sentencing has been set for 9/16/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Grimmer.
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.
DISPOSITION
- Brittany Coburn, 24, of LaPorte, Indiana was sentenced to 1 year supervised probation and 100 hours community service after pleading guilty to the misdemeanor offense of obstructing the mail. According to documents filed in this case, Coburn was hired as a mail carrier in LaPorte, Indiana, in September 2013. In October 2013, she abandoned a large quantity of mail in several locations behind a baseball field. The mail she abandoned included approximately 514 items, of which approximately 237 were first class mail. This mail was addressed to 152 different individuals. Coburn lied about her conduct but ultimately admitted it when confronted. This case was the result of an investigation by United States Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Fayez Abdallah, 69, of Chicago, Illinois pled guilty before District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of wire fraud in a scheme to defraud the Indiana SNAP program. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
- Amjad Muhamad, 38, of Chicago, Illinois pled guilty before District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of wire fraud in a scheme to defraud the Indiana SNAP program. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
- Ashraf Muhamad, 41, of Oak Lawn, Illinois pled guilty before District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of wire fraud in a scheme to defraud the Indiana SNAP program. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
- Yousef Muhamad, 44, of Chicago, Illinois pled guilty before District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of wire fraud in a scheme to defraud the Indiana SNAP program. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Israel Castro, 25, of Mexico was sentenced to 4 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of entry of alien at improper time or place. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
- Natisha Hillard, 25, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 292 months imprisonment, followed by supervised release for life after pleading guilty of sale of a child by a parent for production of child pornography and sexual exploitation and permitting a child by a parent to participate in the production of child pornography. The investigation of this case began on February 13, 2013 when a third party contacted the FBI and reported that Bour had invited her to watch him sexually abuse a child. Bour’s home was searched later that day and child pornography was found, but Bour adamantly denied sexually abusing any children and claimed his texts with the third party were “fantasy” and “role playing.” Nine days later, law enforcement found depictions of Bour sexually abusing an infant on his computer and noted the presence of an adult female, later identified as Natisha Hillard. Hillard was interviewed later that day admitted that Bour had paid her a total of approximately $500 in exchange for her allowing him to sexually abuse her youngest child on several different occasions. Hillard signed a plea agreement with the government and agreed to testify against Bour. Prior to Hillard’s sentencing, the government filed a motion pursuant to United States Sentencing Guideline Section 5K1.1 and Title 18, United States Code, Section 3553(e) asking the Court to give Hillard credit for her substantial cooperation in the case. This case was the result of an investigation by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Indiana State Police, the Gary Police Department and the Michigan City Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS
- Scott Robb, 44, of West Chester, Ohio was sentenced to time served, 2 years supervised release and ordered to pay $197,770.06 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of property of the Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC) and misdemeanor offense of introduction into interstate commerce of stolen medical devices that were misbranded. According to documents both filed in this case and information made public during the prosecution, in August 2010 Northern Indiana Veterans Administration Police Chief reported that four Olympus scopes were reported missing and possibly stolen from the Endoscopy Department at the Fort Wayne, Indiana VAMC. Olympus service records showed that Robb was at the Fort Wayne VAMC on 7/1/2010 for a service call. Investigators learned that in May 2010, in Ohio, Veterans Administration Police Chief reported that two Olympus endoscopes had been missing since 4/1/2010 and were last used in between April 2009 and March 2010. A third missing scope was identified during further review, which was last used in March 2010. A fourth scope was identified as missing on 8/17/2010 and was believed to be missing as long as the previous three. The value of the prescription medical devices range between $25,775.36 and $28,102.30 and the loss to Ohio VAMC totaled $108,670.06. According to the investigation, Robb stole the medical devices and sold them to an individual in Mexico and the information was discovered after one of the stolen devices that had been sold was found in a medical facility in Nebraska and traced back to the VAMC. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, Office of the Inspector General and the United States Food and Drug Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
- Darwin Altamirano, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment with time served and given 1 year supervised released after pleading guilty to the felony offense of withholding information on a crime. According to documents filed in this case, between July 2011 and February, 2013, Altamirano concealed cocaine within a vehicle used to transport it intended for distribution by another. This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department. The New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department, and IMAGE Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITION
- Javier Gomez-Sanchez, 32, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly or intentionally distributing a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. According to documents filed in this case, on March 27, 2012, Gomez-Sanchez distributed a package containing over 50 grams of methamphetamine. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Veronica Woods-Smith, 61, of Hammond, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration. Sentencing has been set for 8/1/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nick Padilla.
- Desman Thomas, 38, of Griffith, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of bank robbery. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 8/21/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Dwayne Allen Jackson, 28, of Chicago, Illinois pled guilty to the felony offense of making a materially false statement. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Department of Treasury - Secret Service. Sentencing has been set for 8/19/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randy Stewart.
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.
DISPOSITION
- Sidney Sellers, 42, of Chicago, Illinois was sentenced to 64 months and 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of crack cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, in February 2008, Gary Police Department made a traffic stop of Sellers and discovered him to be in possession of a loaded Glock semiautomatic handgun. Law enforcement searched the car and recovered three clear bags containing 87 gross grams of crack cocaine and 223 gross grams of powder cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
- Christopher Castro, 34, of Lorain, Ohio was sentenced to 63 months and 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, Castro travelled with others from Ohio to Northwest Indiana to purchase cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josh Kolar.
- Carmalita Stewart-Cannon, 48, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly possessing, in and affecting commerce, a firearm after having been convicted of a felony offense. According to documents filed in this case, on October 7, 21st, and 22nd, Gary Police officers conducted three recorded controlled buys of heroin (for 0.53, 0.87, and 0.83 gross grams respectively) through a confidential informant from Stewart-Cannon at her residence. On October 29, based on the heroin buys, a state search warrant was issued and executed for Stewart-Cannon’s residence. Within the residence was a purse containing both Stewart-Cannon’s identification and a Ruger .22 caliber pistol. Also in the room were 15 clear ziplock bags of marijuana. Stewart Cannon was arrested and gave a post arrest statement where she stated that she was holding the gun as collateral for someone she had lent $20.00. Stewart-Cannon has a prior felony conviction for Aggravated Robbery in 1999 and two possessions of controlled substance felonies from 2003 and 2011. She fled from probation on the 2011 count and there has been a warrant for her arrest since December 2011. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tom McGrath.
- Derrick Green, 23, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making materially false statements with respect to information required to be kept in the records of a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the purchase of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, in 2012, Green entered several federally licensed firearms dealers in Northwest Indiana, and completed several ATF Form 4473’s to purchase firearms. Green lied on each form by answering that he was the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm(s) listed. In 2012, one of the firearms was recovered from a convicted felon by law enforcement officers. In July 2012, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted a recorded, consensual interview with Green, who indicated that he straw-purchased all of the firearms for another individual. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Duane Spears Jr., 24, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making materially false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the purchase of firearms. According to documents filed in this case, on June 21, 2012, Spears purchased a firearm from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Hammond, Indiana. Spears filled out an ATF Form 4473 for the purchase of a Ruger, .45 caliber, semi-automatic pistol, and a Glock, .40 caliber, semi-automatic pistol. In filling out this ATF Form 4473, Spears lied lied on the form by answering that he was the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm(s) listed when in truth he was actually purchasing the weapons for another individual. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Claude Hunter, 57, of Schererville, Indiana was sentenced to 5 months and 5 on detention after pleading guilty to the felony offense of selling firearm and ammunition to a known felon. According to documents filed in this case, on multiple dates including August 13, 2012, September 20, 2012 and October 3, 2012, Hunter met with an individual, who was a convicted felon, for the purpose of selling a firearm. Hunter knew the individual to be a convicted felon. In subsequent meetings, Hunter did sell firearms in a controlled buy and was later arrested. When in custody, Hunter admitted to providing two firearms for sale. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josh Kolar.
- Christopher Lewis, 38, of Merrillville, Indiana was sentenced to 27 months, 1 year supervised release and to pay $6,000 in fines after pleading guilty to the felony offense of attempt and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. According to documents filed in this case, Lewis was part of a widespread mortgage fraud conspiracy. He recruited buyers and misrepresented home values to the buyers. Homes were sold at inflated values. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Beau A. Eldridge, 28, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
- James B. Nelson, 32, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possessing with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of LSD. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Agency, Fort Wayne Police Department, Indiana State Police and the Allen County Police Department. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Maria Patricia Herrera, 52, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to time served and 1 year supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, Herrera was part of a network to distribute cocaine. She also assisted in destruction of incriminating evidence of drug dealing. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department. The New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department, and IMAGE Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
- Rico J. Parrish, 28, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, on May 17, 2013, Fort Wayne police officers performed a traffic stop of a vehicle whose passengers included Parrish. Officers recovered a .45 caliber Glock pistol. During the inventory search prior to tow, officers located a Llama 9mm pistol handgun under the front edge of the front passenger seat. After being taken into custody, Parrish admitted to purchasing and owning the Llama firearm. Parrish also admitted that he had placed the firearm underneath the front passenger seat earlier that day prior to being stopped by the Fort Wayne Police Department. Parrish is a convicted felon. He has a prior conviction of carrying a handgun without a license on August 1, 2011, in Allen County, Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Week in Review - South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Erskine Jones, 22, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 8/27/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
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.
DISPOSITION
- Lorenzo Coben, 25, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 264 months imprisonment to run consecutively to an undischarged prison term imposed on 6/10/2013, and concurrently with the another undischarged prison term imposed on 6/10/2013, 3 years supervised release and to pay $13,131.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of using a firearm during and relation to a crime of violence. According to documents filed in this case, on or about April 11, 2013, Coben did knowingly use and carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, specifically, an armed bank robbery. During the bank robbery, Coben brandished the firearm. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
- Gigi Riley, 33, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release and to pay $2,572,350.52 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to filing of false, fictitious, and fraudulent claims. According to documents filed in this case, Riley led and participated with others in a false tax return preparation and filing scheme in South Bend, Indiana. She prepared and submitted Forms 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, with false or inflated Forms W-2 to obtain false tax refunds. Within the scheme approximately 1,189 tax returns were submitted for tax years 2008, 2009, and 2010 requesting a total of approximately $3,543,794.00 in tax refunds. Riley owned and maintained a bank account that received approximately $518,343.50 in tax refunds and she owned and maintained another account that received approximately $30,035.00 in tax refunds. She also oversaw and controlled bank accounts opened by others that received tax refunds from the false tax returns. This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
- William Cooper, 52, of Mishawaka, Indiana was sentenced to 46 months imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing a firearm as an unlawful drug user. According to documents filed in this case, on April 22, 2013, Mishawaka police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle pulled into a residence. Cooper was the driver and police found two loaded guns in the console of the car. Indications of a methamphetamine lab were discovered in the basement of the house. Police officers entered the house initially for safety reasons and then proceeded to search on the basis of consent from Cooper. Police found three persons inside the residence who had outstanding warrants for arrest. Cooper admitted that he had approximately 15-16 long guns in the house in addition to the two handguns in the vehicle. He also admitted to being a regular methamphetamine user. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS
- Theodis Lanfair, 42, of Calumet City, Illinois pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 8/12/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
- Dwayne Ashford, 52, of Michigan City, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and mail fraud. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 8/26/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
- Nathan Huey-Dingle, 32, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of traveling in interstate commerce, transporting an individual across state lines, and trafficking an individual by force, fraud or coercion, with intent to engage in, promote, and facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on of a prostitution enterprise, and thereafter committing a crime of violence that resulted in the death of an individual. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sentencing has been set for 10/17/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
- John Dates of Gary, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and intentionally possessing with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Gang Response Task Force. Sentencing has been set for 10/7/2014. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josh Kolar.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Cahleb Smith-Conrad, 22, of Delphi, Indiana was sentenced to probation for a term of one year after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing a firearm as a felon. According to documents filed in this case, on March 16, 2013, the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle after a 911 caller observed an intoxicated person drive his vehicle into the ditch and the intoxicated person was picked up by a vehicle driven by Smith-Conrad. The deputy sheriff conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The deputy sheriff observed a 12 gauge shotgun in the back seat of the vehicle. This case was the result of an investigation by Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department and the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Tiana Williams, 30, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to probation for a term of one year after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making a false statement in connection with the acquisition of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, Williams admitted to agents that she purchased a Ruger 9mm pistol for a convicted felon. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nick Padilla.
- Azzam Al-Hindi, 68, of Whiting, Indiana was sentenced to 7 months of home detention, payment of $2,000 in fines and payment of $32,667.64 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of mail fraud. According to documents filed in this case, between 2006 and 2010, Al-Hindi and others conspired to use false purchasers and often stole luxury vehicles to fraudulently obtain auto loans from different financial institutions. Those false purchasers intentionally submitted fraudulent consumer credit applications with no ability or intention to repay the loans. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Treasury - Secret Service. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randy Stewart.
- Eloise Blackmon, 55, of Gary, Indiana was sentenced to 21 months, 1 year supervised release and to pay $200,000 in fines after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. According to documents filed in this case, on May 9, 2006, Ms. Blackmon purchased a home in Gary, Indiana. The home was sold for significantly more than its actual value and the Department of Housing and Urban Development statement for the sale included a payment to Horizon Development for $37,750.46 for repairs to the property. The evidence collected in the investigation has revealed that no such repairs were ever actually done by Horizon - either before or after the sale. This home was one of ten involved. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nick Padilla.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Deandre Banks, 24, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of bank fraud. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS (before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey:)
Courtney Crusoe, 24, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit money laundering. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Alejandro Luna, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Calvin L. Miller, 23, of Indianapolis, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of armed bank robber, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and forcibly assaulting and impeding a postal employee. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Northeast Indiana Federal Bank Robbery Task Force, Allen County Police Department, Fort Wayne Police Department and Indiana State Police.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Marcel Banks, 24, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of bank fraud. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Brandon S. Keister, 22, of Russell, Kentucky pled guilty to the felony offense of theft/burglary of a licensed firearms dealer. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
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.
DISPOSITIONS (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Darnell Bontempo, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a violent felon in possession of body armor.According to documents filed in this case, on May 31, 2013 members of the Northeast Indiana Federal Bank Robbery Task Force met with Bontempo regarding his reported stolen vehicle which was used in a robbery.When detectives arrived at the residence, Bontempo was found to be in possession of a ballistic vest.Further investigation revealed that Bontempo has a prior conviction for a crime of violence. In 2001, Bontempo pointed a semi-automatic handgun at another person at close range during an attempted auto theft. As result, Bontempo was charged with, and convicted of Criminal Recklessness as a Class D Felony. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Federal Bank Robbery Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Crissy Till, 38, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $51,949.18 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft/embezzlement of United States property.According to documents filed in this case, Till continued to receive and spend Social Security money paid to her father despite his death in February 2012. This case was the result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration and the Office of the Inspector General.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay
Leobardo Gaona, 40, of Huntertown, Indiana was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment (time served) after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute less than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, between July, 2011 and February, 2013 investigation revealed the existence of a large scale narcotics distribution conspiracy operating in northeastern Indiana and southern lower Michigan.Through the use of several wiretaps, it was discovered that an individual by the name of Leobardo Gaona was obtaining quantities of cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.The Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department.The New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department, and IMAGE Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
J.D. Richey, 65, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $7,300.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of embezzlement of labor organization funds.According to documents filed in this case, J.D. Richey worked for Norfolk Southern Railway.As secretary-treasurer, Richey was responsible for taking minutes and handling the union’s finances, including maintaining the financial books and records, and preparing and signing checks.The union had one checking account located and Richey was the sole signatory on the account.The bank statements were sent to Richey at this residence.During a March 2011 audit of the Union’s books, a National Division Auditor discovered that Richey had written a check $7,300 to himself and negotiated it, without the knowledge or authorization of the Union.In his discussion with union officials after discovery of the $7,300 check, Richey stated that he had intended the money to be a short term loan that he knew he had committed a wrong against the Union and that he would try to make amends. The National Division gave Richey an opportunity to repay the Union, but Richey failed to repay the money by an agreed upon deadline. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor .This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS:
- Michael Nash, 39, of Lake Station, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of conspiracy to defraud the United States with respect to claims (i.e. preparing tax returns known to be false so as to increase the refund amount) and aggravated identity theft. Sentencing has been set for 10/16/14. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Kolar.
- Chauncey Hackett, Jr., 23, of East Chicago, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Sentencing has been set for 9/3/14. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Otis Irvin, Jr., 40, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of distribution of crack cocaine. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- John Lytle, 37, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge James Moody to the felony offenses of distribution of crack cocaine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
- Robert Lemon, 49, of Michigan City, Indiana, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of mail fraud. Sentencing has been set for 8/27/14. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
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.
DISPOSITIONS:
- Andrew Bolden, 30, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 30 months of imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Nozick.
- Keyosha Toney, 26, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody 1 year of probation to include 8 months of home detention after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making false statements in the purchase of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, Toney straw-purchased three firearms for another individual whom she knew dealt marijuana. She purchased two additional firearms for herself and lied about her residence address. Finally, Toney purchased all of the firearms while an unlawful user of marijuana and was untruthful about her marijuana use on the forms for purchasing the firearms as well. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
- Thomas Grad, 57, of Frankfort, Illinois, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 1 year of probation and a fine of $1000.00 after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly operating a source in violation of a pretreatment standard (Clean Water Act), that is, he caused to be introduced, hauled and trucked pollutants into a publicly owned treatment works operated by the Hammond Sanitary District. Grad was the Operations Manager at Tierra Environmental & Industrial Services, Inc. This case was a result of an investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency-Criminal Investigations and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management Criminal Enforcement. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
- Joiey Jones, 36, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 12 months and 1 day imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Jones has a prior felony conviction for possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the East Chicago Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
Week in Review - Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEA
- Courtney Crusoe, 24, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to commit money laundering. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
- Alejandro Luna, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
- Calvin L. Miller, 23, of Indianapolis, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of armed bank robber, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and forcibly assaulting and impeding a postal employee. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Northeast Indiana Federal Bank Robbery Task Force, Allen County Police Department, Fort Wayne Police Department and Indiana State Police. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
- Marcel Banks, 24, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of bank fraud. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
- Brandon S. Keister, 22, of Russell, Kentucky pled guilty to the felony offense of theft/burglary of a licensed firearms dealer. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
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.
DISPOSITIONS
- Darnell Bontempo, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a violent felon in possession of body armor. According to documents filed in this case, on May 31, 2013 members of the Northeast Indiana Federal Bank Robbery Task Force met with Bontempo regarding his reported stolen vehicle which was used in a robbery. When detectives arrived at the residence, Bontempo was found to be in possession of a ballistic vest. Further investigation revealed that Bontempo has a prior conviction for a crime of violence. In 2001, Bontempo pointed a semi-automatic handgun at another person at close range during an attempted auto theft. As result, Bontempo was charged with, and convicted of Criminal Recklessness as a Class D Felony. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Federal Bank Robbery Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
- Crissy Till, 38, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $51,949.18 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft/embezzlement of United States property. According to documents filed in this case, Till continued to receive and spend Social Security money paid to her father despite his death in February 2012. This case was the result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration and the Office of the Inspector General. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay
- Leobardo Gaona, 40, of Huntertown, Indiana was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment (time served) after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute less than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. According to documents filed in this case, between July, 2011 and February, 2013 investigation revealed the existence of a large scale narcotics distribution conspiracy operating in northeastern Indiana and southern lower Michigan. Through the use of several wiretaps, it was discovered that an individual by the name of Leobardo Gaona was obtaining quantities of cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department. The New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department, and IMAGE Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
- J.D. Richey, 65, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation and to pay $7,300.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of embezzlement of labor organization funds. According to documents filed in this case, J.D. Richey worked for Norfolk Southern Railway. As secretary-treasurer, Richey was responsible for taking minutes and handling the union’s finances, including maintaining the financial books and records, and preparing and signing checks. The union had one checking account located and Richey was the sole signatory on the account. The bank statements were sent to Richey at this residence. During a March 2011 audit of the Union’s books, a National Division Auditor discovered that Richey had written a check $7,300 to himself and negotiated it, without the knowledge or authorization of the Union. In his discussion with union officials after discovery of the $7,300 check, Richey stated that he had intended the money to be a short term loan that he knew he had committed a wrong against the Union and that he would try to make amends. The National Division gave Richey an opportunity to repay the Union, but Richey failed to repay the money by an agreed upon deadline. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Week in Review – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITION (before District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio)
Larry Jones, 54, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 151 months imprisonment with 4 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a stolen firearm.According to documents filed in this case, on June 21, 2013, Jones possessed a stolen Taurus handgun. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS (before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey:)
Brandon Sizemore, 23, of Indianapolis, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of armed bank robbery. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Bank Robbery Task Force.Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Phillip Biddle, 36, of Kendallville, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possession of materials depicting minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by Internet Crimes against Children Task Force.Sentencing has not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Billy Gonzalez, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Police Department, Allen County Drug Task Force and the New Haven Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Alejandro Luna, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Police Department, Allen County Drug Task Force and the New Haven Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
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.
DISPOSITION (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Luis Tapia, 52, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, Tapia, did knowingly open, lease, rent, use, and maintain a place in Fort Wayne for the purpose of distributing cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Baldemar Robles, 43, of Phoenix, Arizona was sentenced to 240 months, 2 years supervised release and to pay $18,240 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly maintaining drug-involved premises and with being a felon in possession of a firearm.According to documents filed in this case, from August 2011 to September 2011, Robles did knowingly open, lease, rent, use, and maintain a place in Warsaw, Indiana for the purpose of distributing cocaine and marijuana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Kosciusko County Drug Task Force, Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS:
Keith Cloudy, 37, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge James Moody to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Richard Dickus, 71, of Hebron, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of theft of government property.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
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.
DISPOSITIONS:
Karen Stone, 57, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 12 months of probation and restitution of $9,169.59 after pleading guilty to the felony offense of embezzlement from the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, a labor organization.This case was a result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Labor Management Standards.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Christopher Bour, 40, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to life plus 85 years imprisonment and lifetime supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of the purchase of a child for production of child pornography, production of child pornography and possession of child pornography featuring a minor under the age of 12.According to documents filed in this case, Bour admitted that, for a period of over a year, he repeatedly purchased and obtained custody and control of a female child aged four to eighteen months with knowledge that she would be videotaped engaging in sexually explicit conduct.Bour also admitted to producing child pornography featuring a six to nine-month-old victim on at least two occasions, producing child pornography of another child aged three to five, and possessing pornography featuring these and many other prepubescent minor children being caused to engage in sexually explicit conduct. This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana State Police, the Gary Police Department and the Michigan City Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Stewart Roth, 48, of Griffith, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 2 years’ probation and to pay $4000 in fines after pleading guilty to the felony offense of violation of the Clean Water Act, a national pretreatment standard.According to documents filed in this case, Roth, along with defendant NH Environmental Group, Inc. (“Tierra”) a waste water transporter and centralized waste water treatment facility, knowingly discharged, trucked or hauled liquid wastes, including industrial, sanitary, and food industry-related wastes, into the Hammond Sanitary District’s publicly-owned treatment works (“POTW”) at location that had not been designated, approved, or otherwise permitted by the POTW. This case was a result of an investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Federal Grand Jury in South Bend Returns IndictmentRead the Press Release
Hammond South Bend Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana - The United States Attorney's Office announced that a Grand Jury sitting in South Bend, Indiana, returned the following Indictment on May 14, 2014:
Alvaro Rivera-Arvayo, 23, Luis A. Ramirez-Perez, 49, and Matthew D. Hottinger, 38, all of Fort Wayne, Indiana, are charged in a two count Indictment. All defendants were charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and Hottinger was also charged with managing and controlling a drug involved premises, all occurring on or about April 15, 2014. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Immigration Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Indiana State Police, Allen County Drug Task Force, Allen County Police Department, New Haven Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
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.Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS (before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey:)
Charley Gonzalez III, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Police Department, Allen County Drug Task Force and the New Haven Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Damion Alexander, 20, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Narciso Soto III, 32, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly maintaining drug-involved premises. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Police Department, Allen County Drug Task Force and the New Haven Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Joseph Luna, 37, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Police Department, Allen County Drug Task Force and the New Haven Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Manuel Herrera, 44, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled a substance. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea. Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.The Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of FBI agents and officers from the Indiana State Police, Allen County Police Department, and Fort Wayne Police Department.The New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department, and IMAGE Drug Task Force assisted with this investigation.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
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.
DISPOSITION (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Armando Gonzalez-Gutierrez, 44, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 1 year and 1 day with time served and 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.According to documents filed in this case, between July 2011 and February 2013 investigation revealed the existence of a large scale narcotics distribution conspiracy operating in northeastern Indiana and southern lower Michigan.Gonzales – Gutierrez was a part of that network and obtained quantities of cocaine for distribution to his customers.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation .This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS:
Jeremy Lloyd, 22, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge James Moody to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force, the Gary Police Department and the Indiana State Police.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Padilla.
Tambra Ducker, 25, of Indianapolis, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge James Moody to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute heroin.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dean Lanter and Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Kiontay Pennington, 35, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of homicide in the aid of racketeering activity. Sentencing has been set for 9/2/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David Nozick and Thomas McGrath.
James Huddleston, 41, of Wheatfield, Indiana, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dean Lanter and Gary Bell.
Jennifer Kurek, 40, of Hobart, Indiana, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of theft of government property.Sentencing has been set for 7/17/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
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.
DISPOSITION:
Alejandro Murillo, 27, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 57 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.According to documents filed in this case, Murillo was arrested on Interstate 65 near Demotte, Indiana, while driving a vehicle containing 1,498 gross grams of methamphetamine, which he had hidden near the motor of the vehicle. Immigration law enforcement officials determined that Murillo is an illegal alien. This case was a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration HIDTA Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Week in Review – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITION (before District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio:)
Tyrone Franklin, 35, of Michigan City, Indiana was sentenced to 100 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm.According to documents filed in this case, on July 24, 2013, Franklin possessed a Rock Island semi-automatic handgun. Franklin had been previously convicted of a felony in Porter County Superior Court in 2004. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITION (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Natalie Catalan, 26, of Warsaw, Indiana was sentenced to time served for imprisonment and to serve 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.According to documents filed in this case, in 2010, Catalan assisted convicted drug dealer Jonathan Aramburo with arranging for and delivering marijuana from Mexico into the United States. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Kosciusko County Drug Task Force and the Whitley County Sheriff's Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS:
Linda Rosenberg, 60, of Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offenses of participating in a conspiracy to receive kickbacks for the referral of Medicaid and Medicare patients to other services providers, dispensing a controlled substance outside the scope of professional practice and legitimate medical purpose and misbranding.Sentencing has been set for 9/10/14.These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
Rene Patterson, 32, of Griffith, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge James Moody to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
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.
DISPOSITIONS:
Gary Lindsey, 35, of Markham, Illinois, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 27 months of imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of passing counterfeit obligations.Lindsey was also ordered to pay $4,550 in restitution. In a separate matter, Lindsey was also sentenced to 30 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of a stolen firearm.These sentences will run concurrently. This case was a result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Jermel Washington, 38, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 8 months of imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a non-registered firearm (sawed off shotgun).According to documents filed in this case, Washington not only possessed a sawed off shotgun, for which he failed to obtain a license, but according to his own statement, fired it in a residential neighborhood after his was assaulted by another individual. When police initially attempted to question him about the shooting, Washington ran into an apartment which caused a short pursuit before he finally voluntarily surrendered. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Gary Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
Brandon Reign Jackson, 40, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 63 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Jackson has prior convictions for domestic violence and dealing in a lookalike controlled substance.This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hammond Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
Week in Review – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein:
David Perry, 55, of South Bend, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 7/30/14.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Demarcus Bowling, 21, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 7/30/14.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
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.
DISPOSITIONS:
Christopher Simmons, 43, of Goshen, Indiana was sentenced by United States Magistrate Judge Christopher Nuechterlein to 1 year on probation and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of taking, killing, or possessing migratory birds.According to documents filed in this case, in March 2012, Simmons illegally killed and took migratory birds native to the United States, specifically, great horned owls and red tailed hawks. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Fish and Wildlife Services.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid .
Silvino Alonso-Pineda, 37, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Robert Miller, Jr. to 30 months of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to two (2) felony offenses: illegally re-entering the United States after being deported and having a prior aggravated felony conviction; and possessing cocaine with intent to distribute.According to documents filed in this case, in October 2013, law enforcement officers met with a confidential informant for the purpose of making a purchase of cocaine from Alonso-Pineda. When Alonso-Pineda arrived at a predetermined location, he was apprehended with 14.7 grams of cocaine and $766.00 in his possession. In April 1999, Alonso-Pineda, a Mexican citizen, was charged in California with possession of heroin and cocaine with the intent to distribute.He later pled guilty and was ordered removed back to Mexico at the Calexico Port of Entry. At no time thereafter was Alonso-Pineda given permission to lawfully re-enter the United States. This case was the result of an investigation by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid .
Adam Shetler, 33, of Goshen, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon DeGuilio to five years of supervised probation, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. Shetler was also ordered to pay $32,689.50 in restitution. According to documents filed in this case, from approximately January 2009 through December 2010, Shetler applied for and received extended unemployment insurance benefits through the State of Indiana Department of Work Force Development. He submitted weekly vouchers to IDWD and intentionally answered "No" to the question as to whether he was working.In truth, Shetler was employed.This case was the result of an investigation by the United States Department of Labor .This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Lashaun Murry, 33, of Michigan City, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon DeGuilio to 70 months of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.According to documents filed in this case, in October 2013, Murry possessed a Smith & Wesson handgun. Previously, Murry had been convicted in 2011 of a felony in the LaPorte County Superior Court. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Charles Douglas, 34, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon DeGuilio to 110 months imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.According to documents filed in this case, Douglas possessed in October 2012, a shotgun at 1407 Fremont Street in South Bend, Indiana. At the time he possessed the shotgun, Douglas was a convicted felon, having been convicted of several felony crimes including: dealing cocaine, criminal confinement, residential entry, and battery. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid .
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS before US Magistrate Judge Roger Cosbey:
Augustine Luna, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Nathan Hasty, 36, of Huntington, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of sexual exploitation of children. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Edward Williams, 32, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
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.
DISPOSITIONS before United States District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:
Ryan Lasuer, 27, of Warsaw, Indiana, who has been detained since his arrest in 2011, was sentenced to time served and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and with being a felon in possession of a firearm.According to documents filed in this case, Lasuer maintained a drug relationship with Jonathan Aramburo and obtained marijuana from Aramburo for distribution. Lasuer recruited Whitney Sparkman to transport marijuana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Kosciusko County Drug Task Force and the Whitley County Sheriff's Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller .
Christine Hagan, 33, of Fort Wayne, IN was sentenced to 2 years of probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.According to documents filed in this case, Hagan was involved in the transport of marijuana for Jonathan Aramburo. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Kosciusko County Drug Task Force and the Whitley County Sheriff's Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller .
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITIONS:
John Michael Johnson, 44, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 24 months of probation, to include 12 months of home detention, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.According to documents filed in this case, Johnson has a prior conviction for battery. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lake County Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Nozick.
Federal Grand Jury in South Bend Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
South Bend, IN—The United States Attorney's Office announced that a Grand Jury sitting in South Bend, Indiana, returned the following Indictments on April 9, 2014:
Kevin Becerril, 19, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a one count Indictment with felon in possession of a firearm.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank E. Schaffer.
Jerome White, 24, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a three count Indictment with one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of felon in possession of firearm(s).These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank E. Schaffer.
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.
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.
Week in Review – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein:
Timothy Heckaman, 52, of Bremen, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Department of Labor.Sentencing has been set for 7/22/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Frederick Dotson, 40, of Mishawaka, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.Sentencing has been set for 7/17/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Shaffer.
Leroy Clark, 22, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 7/24/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
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.
DISPOSITION before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein:
Ronald Simmons, 44, of Goshen, Indiana was sentenced to 1 year probation and ordered to pay a fine of $1000 after pleading guilty to the misdemeanor offense of taking, killing, or possessing migratory birds.According to documents filed in this case, in March 2012, Simmons illegally killed and took migratory birds native to the United States or its territories and protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, specifically great horned owls and red tailed hawks.This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Fish and Wildlife Services.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS before United States Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey:
Trevor Rodriguez, 23, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of knowingly selling a firearm to a convicted felon and aiding and abetting . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Devonte Travier, 23, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of aiding and abetting the use and carrying of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
Travon Russell, 22, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller Lowery.
Deyante Stephens, 22, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of aiding and abetting armed bank robbery . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Northeast Indiana Federal Bank Robbery Task Force and the Fort Wayne Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Darwin Altamirano, 30, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a misprision of a felony . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigations Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Haven Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff's Department, Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, South Bend Police Department and the IMAGE Drug Task Force.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller Lowery.
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.
DISPOSITION before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:
Whitney Sparkman, 26, of Warsaw, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.According to documents filed in this case, in July 2010, Sparkman was involved in the transport of marijuana from Arizona to the Northern District of Indiana for distribution.This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Javier Madrigal, 36, of Wawaka, Indiana was sentenced to 262 months imprisonment, 5 years supervised release and to pay $22,729.38 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of methamphetamine.According to documents filed in this case, in 2013, Madrigal, a major drug trafficker, was involved in the distribution of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency, and the IMAGE Drug Task force, Indiana State Police, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Ligonier Police Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department and the FWPD Emergency Services Team.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Jasper Williams, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment and 60 months imprisonment to be served consecutively, 3 years supervised release and to pay $280 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly or intentionally possessing with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and with knowingly carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2012, Williams sold crack and carried a Hi-Point, .40 caliber firearm while distributing the narcotic.This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Beth Boger, 47, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release and to pay $364,395 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of wire fraud and income tax evasion.According to documents filed in this case, in March 2006, Boger filed a false tax return greatly reducing her taxable income and tax due to the United States government.This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Trent Moore, 44, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 188 months imprisonment with 8 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of cocaine and crack.According to documents filed in this case, between February and June 2010, Moore sold more than 50 grams of crack.In April 2010, Moore also sold cocaine.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Jonathan Aramburo, 26, of Warsaw, Indiana was sentenced to 157 months imprisonment with 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of carrying a firearm during and relation to a drug trafficking crime and conspiracy to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana.According to documents filed in this case, from January 2010 until February 2011, Aramburo and others were involved in a conspiracy to distribute marijuana in the Northern District of Indiana.This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Kosciusko County Drug Task Force and the Whitley County Sheriff's Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Antonio Flores, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment with 5 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana.According to documents filed in this case, from January 2011 until March 2011, Flores along with several others, trafficked narcotics in the Fort Wayne area.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Police Department, Allen County Drug Task Force, New Haven Police Department, with assistance from GRIT and the Indianapolis Metro PD.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Week in Review - HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
INDICTMENTS:
Jeremiah Ellis, 28, and Ashley Patterson, 24, both of East Chicago, Indiana were charged with the bank robbery of the First Merchants Bank in East Chicago and with the use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Chicago Police Department.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
DeCarlos Frazier, 30, of Chicago, Illinois, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Akeem Dillon, 28, of Chicago, Illinois, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Chicago Police Department.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
William D. Cantrell, 59, of Valparaiso, Indiana, was charged with internet stalking.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Susan Collins.
Nathan Huey-Dingle, 32, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a superseding indictment with additional counts of a Mann Act violation, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and a Travel Act violation.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
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.
PLEAS:
Dajon Rowlett, 31, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of distribution of crack cocaine.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Hudie Scott, 27, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of distribution of crack cocaine.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Beaver Bernard Russell, 59, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offenses of the bank robbery of each of the following banks:Mutual Bank in South Bend, Indiana, Fifth Third Bank in Munster, Indiana and M&I Bank in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin.These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David Nozick and Dean Lanter.
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.
DISPOSITIONS:
Cedric Payton, 39, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 37 months of imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Payton has a prior felony conviction for sexual misconduct with a minor and failure to register as a sex offender. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Padilla.
Jeannie Bellar, 55, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 1 day imprisonment, with time considered served, and 1 year of supervised release to include 8 months of home detention after pleading guilty to the felony offense of embezzlement from First Financial Bank.Bellar is also to pay a $4000 fine and she has already paid $17,000 in restitution. This case was a result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Lafayette Man Sentenced for Filing False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - United States Attorney David Capp announced that Steven Borchert was sentenced to 51 months of imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release after being found guilty of filing nine false income tax returns for the years 2001 – 2009.
Borchert , age 53, of rural Warren County, Indiana, operated a carpet cleaning business in West Lafayette.Borchert’s business generated over $1.8 million in gross revenue during the years in question which should have been reported on his tax returns.Borchert, however, maintained that only income received directly from the federal government was taxable and that his private income did not constitute reportable income.Borchert filed bogus tax returns and reported “zero income.”Borchert’s arguments were categorically rejected by the district court and the jury.
Borchert’s assertions were based, in part, on the website LostHorizons, and a book called “Cracking the Code” written by Peter Hendrickson. Both the website and book encouraged people to file “zero income” tax returns because the Internal Revenue Code only applied to a very small group of people.Some of the theories included that wages and business activity are not income under the Code.The website and book fail to mention that Hendrickson has been twice convicted for federal tax offenses. Hendrickson’s most recent conviction was for filing “zero income” tax returns, the same conduct for which Borchert was convicted. For more information, please go to http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/June/13-tax-657.html ; US v. Hendrickson, 664 F. Supp. 2d 793 (E.D. MI 2009), and 2103 WL 1759170 (E.D. MI 2013).
United States Attorney Capp stated, “The Borchert conviction should serve as fair warning to any other persons who subscribe to this “zero income” argument.The United States Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service, will continue to vigorously investigate and prosecute those who file these bogus tax returns.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
Indictments Returned in Hammond Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana- The United States Attorney’s Office announced that the following Indictments were returned on April 17, 2014:
Jeremiah Ellis, 28, and Ashley Patterson, 24, both of East Chicago, Indiana were charged with the bank robberies of the First Merchants Bank in East Chicago and use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Chicago Police Department.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
DeCarlos Frazier, 30, of Chicago, Illinois, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Akeem Dillon, 28, of Chicago, Illinois, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Chicago Police Department.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
William D. Cantrell, 59, of Valparaiso, Indiana, was charged with internet stalking.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Susan Collins.
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.
Public Corruption Indictments Returned in Hammond Federal CourtRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT: Mary Hatton
www.usdoj.gov/usao/inn/ CELL: (219) 314-9993
Hammond, Indiana- United States Attorney David Capp announced today two indictments naming Keith Soderquist, the Mayor of Lake Station.
The first indictment charges Soderquist, age 44, and his wife, Deborah Soderquist, age 55, who was employed as the administrative assistant to Mayor Soderquist.
The indictment alleges a conspiracy between Keith and Deborah Soderquist to commit wire fraud in connection with financial transactions involving the Mayor’s campaign finance account and the Lake Station Food Pantry account. These accounts were allegedly utilized by the Soderquists to obtain cash for personal expenses, including gambling activities at casinos in Indiana and Michigan.
The indictment also charges both Keith and Deborah Soderquist with filing false tax returns for the years 2010, 2011 and 2012. The basis for the tax charges is their failure to disclose the money they took from the campaign and food pantry account that they converted to their own personal uses.
The second indictment names Keith Soderquist, Deborah Soderquist, and Miranda Brakley, age 33, a former employee of Lake Station. Brakley is charged in Count 1 of the second indictment with theft of funds from Lake Station from August 1, 2011 through July 31, 2012. Brakley is also charged in Count 2 with bankruptcy fraud for failing to disclose certain payments received from Lake Station on her bankruptcy schedules.
Keith and Deborah Soderquist are charged in Count 3 of the second indictment for being accessories after the fact. That Count alleges that, after knowing that Brakley had committed the theft alleged in Count 1, they assisted Brakley in order to hinder and prevent Brakley’s apprehension, trial and punishment.
The last count alleges that Keith and Deborah Soderquist structured a series of financial transactions in order to avoid the reporting requirements under federal law. The indictment alleges that in December 2012, the Soderquists obtained $15,000 from an individual. They instructed that individual to write three checks in amounts less than $10,000 (the reporting requirement under federal law) and to back date two of those checks. From December 8-12, 2012, those checks were cashed at different branches of JP Morgan Chase bank.
The investigation which led to the second indictment was initiated after a State Board of Accounts audit disclosed missing funds that had been posted as bond money with the Lake Station City Court.
United States Attorney David Capp stated, “These indictments are part of this office’s ongoing public corruption investigation. Today’s indictments were the result of an extensive investigative effort by the FBI, IRS and ISP. This investigative team will continue to investigate allegations of abuse of the public trust.”
The Soderquists and Brakley are expected to surrender to authorities at the Hammond federal courthouse Thursday morning.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service and the Indiana State Police.This case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Kolar and Philip Benson.
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.Week in Review – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein:
Shan Skinner, 44, of Portage, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 7/17/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Willie Long, 23, of Elkhart, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm . The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 7/15/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
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.
DISPOSITIONS before District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio:
Angela White, 28, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years supervised probation and to pay $36,705 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to defraud the United States Department of the Treasury.According to documents filed in this case, White participated with others in a false tax return preparation and filing scheme in South Bend, Indiana. Individuals prepared and submitted Forms 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, with false or inflated Forms W-2 to obtain false tax refunds. Within the scheme approximately 1,189 tax returns were submitted for tax years 2008, 2009, and 2010 requesting a total of approximately $3,543,794.00 in tax refunds. White opened and controlled bank accounts that received tax refunds from these false tax returns. This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Brian Lindsey, 27, of La Porte, Indiana was sentenced to 1 year supervised probation, 94 hours community service, and to pay $680, $100 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of passing counterfeit Federal Reserve notes.According to documents filed in this case, in December 2012, Lindsey purchased two Nook Notebook tablet computers using counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes in the denomination of twenty dollars in the total amount of $240 at a local department store.Lindsey was aware the bills were falsely made, forged and counterfeited at the time that he gave them to the cashier.This case was the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS before District Roger B. Cosbey:
Stefanie Redfern, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of maintaining a drug involved premises. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Service, and the Indiana State Police.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
Hayley VanDurmen, 23, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly selling a firearm to a convicted felon and aiding and abetting. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
Christopher Smith, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
Eddie Carlisle, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The magistrate is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 14 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
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.
DISPOSITION before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:
Contrel Johnson, 23, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 57 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.According to documents filed in this case, on February 3, 2013, Fort Wayne Police Department stopped Johnson while driving due to potential intoxication while operating the vehicle.Officers searched Johnson’s vehicle and found a loaded firearm in the glove box.This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
On June 20, 2012, Jamerson Was Indicted by A Federal Grand Jury on 11 Counts of Willfully Failing to File Quarterly Employment Tax Returns with the IRS and Willfully Failing to Pay the IRS the Federal Income Taxes and the Federal Insurance ContributionsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Assistant Attorney General Kathryn Keneally for the Tax Division and U.S. Attorney David A. Capp of the Northern District of Indiana announced today that Ronald Eugene Jamerson, 56, of Schererville, Ind., was sentenced to serve [XX] months in prison by U.S. District Judge Phillip P. Simon. Jamerson was also ordered to pay $___ in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for unpaid individual income taxes and employment taxes. On Oct. 25, 2013, Jamerson pleaded guilty to one count of willfully failing to truthfully account for, collect and pay over employment taxes to the IRS.According to the plea agreement, the total tax loss owed for all tax periods from 2003 through 2008 is approximately $541,083.
The case was investigated by Special Agents from IRS - Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Erin S. Mellen and Chris J. Maietta of the Tax Division, with valuable support from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Hammond, Ind.
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