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:
PLEA (before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein:)
Marcelino Ruiz-Robles, 37, of South Bend, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly or intentionally distributing a mixture or substance containing 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 7/3/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Patrick Condon, Jr., 41, of South Bend, 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 7/10/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Tiffany J. Miller, 28, of Cromwell, 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 7/10/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Devon Stewart, 40, of South Bend, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of possession of crack with the intent to distribute and possession of 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 7/3/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
DISPOSITIONS (before District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio:)
Areryaunna Parahams, 21, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 3 years supervised probation, 8 months location monitoring on home detention and ordered to pay $32,629.16 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, Parahams participated with others in a false tax return preparation and filing scheme in South Bend, Indiana.At least two U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, with false or inflated W-2 forms were submitted in Parahams’ name to obtain refunds. Within the scheme, over 1,000 tax returns were submitted for tax years 2008, 2009, and 2010 requesting improper tax refunds. Parahams opened and controlled bank accounts, where some of these false tax returns were deposited.She also shared in the funds received from the fraudulent tax returns. This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Department.The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Demonte Brantley, 19, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment with 3 years on supervised release, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number.According to documents filed in this case, law enforcement officers became aware of Brantley, his possession of a firearm and his plan to commit a robbery. Law enforcement officers were able to identify this person as Brantley and steered him into a controlled operation.While traveling to commit a robbery under the sting, Brantley was stopped by police officers directed by federal agents.Brantley attempted to discard a loaded Intratec 9mm handgun, but the weapon was recovered by federal agents.When Brantley initially took possession of the firearm, prior to the time of the planned robbery, the serial numbers of the firearm had been already been scratched off and Brantley was aware of the alteration to the serial number. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.The 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:
DISPOSITIONS:
Ronier Scott, 42, of Gary, Indiana, a Gary City Councilman, was sentenced by Magistrate Judge John Martin to 3 months imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of willful failure to file a federal tax return for the tax years 2008 and 2009.Scott was also ordered to perform 400 hours of community service to be completed within 10 months after release from the Bureau of Prisons.According to documents filed in this case, in addition to not filing tax returns for 2008 and 2009, he also chose not to file for the years 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003. For 2004, Scott filed a joint return and collected a refund. For 2005, Scott filed a joint tax return and expected to receive a refund, but it was applied to the 2003 debt. For 2006, Scott did not file his tax return until 2011, after he had been contacted by criminal investigators. For 2007, Scott filed a separate return and under-reported his income. This case was a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
Turrell Anderson, 41, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 42 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Anderson has a prior conviction for possession of a firearm by a felon. 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.
Willie Harris, 24, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 156 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $299,298.67 in restitution after being found guilty at trial to the felony offenses of conspiracy to commit fraud with identification documents, fraud with identification documents, trafficking in counterfeit devices and aggravated identity theft.According to documents filed in this case, Harris obtained the account and personal information of individuals in over 21 states and fraudulently added their names to the victims’ accounts in an account takeover scheme.Harris and his co-conspirators either utilized their own names or utilized aliases with the accounts which had been taken over.They would purchase gift cards, Postal money orders, and make numerous retail purchases with the fraudulently obtained credit cards throughout Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Georgia.They also made cash withdrawals on the accounts and utilized the convenience checks associated with the accounts at various financial institutions located in Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Georgia.Throughout the course of this criminal conduct, they would also mail gift cards, Postal money orders, and U.S. currency from Indiana and Wisconsin to Georgia. This case was a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Parahams Sentenced, Time IncludesRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
Jonathan Parahams, Jr., 28, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 92 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 United States Department of the Treasury.According to documents filed in this case, Parahams was arrested at a local hotel by SBPD on drug and gun charges. During this arrest, officers found a laptop computer in his hotel room.After his arrest, a local bank contacted the DEA with information about unusual activity on bank accounts associated with Parahams, including the withdrawing $450,000.00.A search warrant was procured for Parahams’ laptop and the search uncovered information relating to the tax scheme.
Since at least the beginning of 2009, Parahams and others associated with him, participated in a scheme to defraud by submitting fraudulent U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, using false or inflated Forms W-2.This scheme resulted in the submission of 226 false tax returns for tax year 2008, 652 false returns for tax year 2009, and 311 false returns for tax year 2010.As a result of these false returns, Parahams and others obtained refunds Internal Revenue Service, via direct deposit, into multiple bank accounts owned by the conspirators or into bank accounts owned by other account holders but controlled by Parahams. Some of these account holders knowingly assisted in disbursing refunds at the direction of Parahams and his fellow conspirators.
Parahams obtained the information to submit false returns in several ways:some clients either sold their information for a fee, others sought out members of the conspiracy to have a tax return prepared, while others were recruited by Parahams. Clients who provided their information for a fee, gave personal identifiers such as their name and social security number in exchange for cash or a prepaid debit card that later came in the mail. Those clients that sought out the conspirators to have legitimate tax return preparation after being told larger refunds could be obtained using the services ofParahams’ associates.These larger refunds wereobtained by using false Form W-2information. Other persons were recruited to file a tax return with Parahams or another conspirator in order to obtain a tax refund even though the client had no intentions or duty to file otherwise.Parahams and his coconspirators recruited clients personally and/or paid others a referral fee for referring clients.
Parahams was incarcerated in St. Joseph County Jail in August of 2010. While incarcerated, Parahams made numerous phone calls to his co-conspirators which were openly recorded by the jail as a normal course of business. These recordings showed that Parahams was still actively involved with the scheme while incarcerated.
Parahams and others started the scheme in 2009 with the submission of false 2008 tax returns. The scheme continued with the submission of 2009 tax returns and then 2010 tax returns. The last tax return identified with the scheme was filed with the Internal Revenue Service in July 2011.
This case was handled by the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana.Frank Schaffer, Assistant U.S. Attorney.This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Department.
Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictment on March 26, 2014:
Kelvin B. Walker, 49, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a six count Indictment with making a false claim on IRS tax returns on or about April 18, 2011, February 16, 2011, January
19, 2012, March 30, 2011, January 7, 2012 and April 17, 2012. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris King.
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 – HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
DISPOSITION (before Judge Joseph S. Van Bokkelen)
Joseph Smith, 23, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months term of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release on his guilty plea to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute heroin.According to documents filed in this case, local law enforcement officers were notified of Smith’s involvement in the distribution of heroin.After investigations were conducted, it was determined that Smith drove another individual to various locations to deliver narcotics.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Kolar.
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 (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann)
Jose Noe Perea Casteneda, 41, of Goshen, Indiana was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess a controlled substance. Supervised release was not ordered as defendant may be subject to deportation.According to documents filed in this case, Castenda was a supplier of cocaine to several individuals distributing narcotics in Fort Wayne, Indiana. 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.
Deangelo Copeland, 36, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release for armed bank robbery and was also sentenced to 60 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release for carrying and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.The firearms sentence is to be served consecutively to the armed bank robbery sentence.Copeland was also sentenced to pay $16,405.39 in restitution.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2013, a local credit union was robbed by two assailants.Local law enforcement investigations determined that Copeland assisted in the robbery’s planning and execution.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Sergio Alvarez-Arellano, 26, of Warsaw, Indiana was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment with 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, namely 500 grams or more of cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, Alvarez-Arellano was a supplier of cocaine to several individuals distributing narcotics in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
South Bend, Indiana — The United States Attorney’s Office Announced the Following Activity in Federal Court:Read the Press Release
PLEAS (before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein):
David Diederich, 58, of La Porte, 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 6/26/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Brittany Coburn, 23, of La Porte, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of obstructing the mail. 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 Office of the Inspector General.Sentencing has been set for 6/11/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
DISPOSITIONS( before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr..)
Evan Vanator, 23, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment with 1 year supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm while being an illegal user of controlled substances.According to documents filed in this case, Vanator possessed a Keltec semi-automatic handgun in his residence in St. Joseph County, Indiana. Vanator was also an illegal user of marijuana during his possession of this firearm. 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.
Robert Lyons, 32, of Michigan City, Indiana was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment with 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of manufacturing marijuana.According to documents filed in this case, in May 2013, law enforcement officers discovered marijuana growth system in Lyons’ residence. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictment on March 26, 2014:
Beau A. Eldridge, 28, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a single count Indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm on or about February 22, 2014. 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. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris King.
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 – 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:)
Brian Baker, 23, of South Bend, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of possessing heroin with intent to distribute and 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 6/26/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Robert D. Carrico, 29, of South Bend, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute and possession of firearms in furtherance of federal drug trafficking crimes. 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 6/25/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
DISPOSITION( before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr.)
Abraham DeLuna-Esparza, 39, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment to be served concurrently with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of illegally re-entering the United States after being deported subsequent to a conviction for an aggravated felony andto possessing cocaine/marijuana with intent to distribute.According to documents filed in this case, DeLuna was arrested in March 2010 for the possession of approximately 15 pounds of marijuana.He was convicted sentenced to 3 months incarceration.DeLuna was then turned over to the Department of Homeland Security for removal from the United States because he was a citizen of Mexico.DeLuna was formally removed to Mexico in June 2010 through Laredo, Texas.At no time thereafter was Deluna given any permission to lawfully re-enter the United States.In December 2013, Deluna was found at his residence in South Bend, Indiana.Agents and police searched the home and recovered a loaded Ruger 9 mm handgun, 47 pounds marijuana, and 493.3 grams of cocaine (powder).This case was the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the South Bend Police Department.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:
Linda Rosenberg, 59, pled guilty before to the felony offenses of conspiracy to receive kickbacks for the referral of Medicaid and Medicare patients to other service providers, dispensing a controlled substance outside of the scope of professional practice and misbranding.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.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.
DISPOSITION:
Kenneth Robinson, 36, of Illinois, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon tomonths imprisonment and years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of health care fraud by submitting false claims to Indiana Medicaid for Medicaid recipients’ physician office visits in July 2011.According to documents filed in this case, Robinson caused over $5,000 in medical claims to be submitted to not only Indiana Medicaid but also to other medical insurance providers including the Medicare program. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the US Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Labor.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
Week in Review – Fort WayneRead the Press Release
PLEAS (before District Judge Roger B. Cosbey:)
Bryant Davis, 39, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, 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 not been scheduled.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Matthew Vanschoick, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of 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.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
DISPOSITIONS (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Brandon Betz, 33, of Bluffton, Indiana was sentenced to 46 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of retaliating against a witness, victim, or an informant.According to documents filed in this case, Betz along with several others assaulted a fellow inmate in Wells County jail.The motive for the attack was retaliation against an inmate who was perceived as a “snitch” and a cooperator with law enforcement. Betz, along with several others, threatened the assaulted inmate with further attacks should that perceived cooperation continue.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.
United States Attorney ChargesRead the Press Release
Hammond South Bend Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana - The United States Attorney's Office announced that it filed an
Information on February 13, 2014:
Scott Robb, 44, of West Chester, Ohio, is charged in a two count Information with theft of property of the Veterans Administration Medical Center on or about August 19, 2010, and introduction into interstate commerce of stolen medical devices that were misbranded from between on or about August 19, 2010, and November 22, 2011. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Office of Inspector General of the Veterans Administration and the Office of Criminal Investigation U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. 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.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 (before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr.):
Lawrence Tinsman, 67, of Plymouth, Indiana was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment with 5 years of supervised release and to pay $500 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of material involving a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2013, Tinsman possessed a computer onto which he had downloaded, using a peer-to-peer file sharing program, numerous images and videos that depicted minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Using this same file sharing system, Tinsman made the files available to be downloaded by other individuals seeking child pornography. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Nora Guardiola, 36, of Sheldon, Illinois was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment with 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and intentionally distributing cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, Guardiola was involved in delivering seven ounces of cocaine to the Kentland, Indiana area. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
William Speybroeck, 35, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 33 months imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, a $3,000 fine and to pay $9,250 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly possessing and/or disposing of stolen merchandise across state lines.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2013, Speybroeck shipped a piece of drilling equipment from South Bend, Indiana to Nebraska.Speybroek was aware the equipment was stolen.He was paid $9000 via wire transfer. This case was the result of an investigation by the Indiana State Police.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Gary Franklin, 50, of Elkhart, Indiana was sentenced to 96 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release and to pay $42,500 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and intentionally receiving, possessing, concealing, selling, or disposing of stolen vehicles that had crossed state lines after being stolen.According to documents filed in this case, in September 2012, law enforcement discovered an excavator on property Franklin was renting in Niles, Michigan. The excavator had been stolen from an Indiana job site and moved across state lines. Franklin was in possession of the stolen excavator and had reason to believe the excavator had crossed state lines after being stolen. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.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:
DISPOSITIONS:
Ronald Holmes, 47, of Griffith, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 4 years of probation, a $30,000 fine and 100 hours of community service after pleading guilty to a felony Information charging him with causing the discharge of pollutants into the Hammond Sanitary District’s publicly owned treatment works when he had not been issued a permit by the Hammond Sanitary District to do so.In a separate Information, NH Environmental pleaded guilty to negligently violating a national pretreatment standard under the Clean Water Act, in that the company negligently discharged, trucked or hauled pollutants, including industrial, sanitary, and food industry-related wastes, into a publicly owned treatment works at a location that had not been designated, approved, or otherwise permitted. NH Environmental was sentenced to 4 years of probation, a $75,000 in restitution to the City of Hammond, $25,000 in restitution to the Hammond Sanitary District and a $70,000 fine.According to documents filed in this case, Holmes and East Chicago based NH Environmental Group, Inc. (“Tierra”), a company owned by Holmes, both pleaded guilty to Clean Water Act violations. Holmes told Tierra managers to direct the company’s drivers to dispose of liquid wastes by regularly discharging tanker truckloads down a drain inside a building that was owned and/or controlled by Holmes and located in Hammond, Indiana. This case was a result of an investigation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston, Department of Justice Environmental Crimes Section Senior Counsel James A. Morgulec and Special Assistant United States Attorney David Mucha.
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 March 12, 2014:
Andre Allen Forbes, 31, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a seven-count Indictment with one-count of distributing cocaine, four-counts of distributing crack cocaine, one-count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one-count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the South Bend Police Department – Metro Special Operations Section and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Brian M. Kandefer, 36, of San Diego, California, and K2 Capital Management Inc. located in LaJolla, California were both charged in a fifty-one-count Indictment.Kandefer was charged with twenty-counts of wire fraud, twenty-counts of mail fraud, one-count of conspiracy to commit fraud, and ten-counts of money laundering.K2 Capital Management Inc. was charged with twenty-counts of wire fraud, twenty-counts of mail fraud, and one-count of conspiracy to commit fraud.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Erskine A. Jones, 22, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a one-count Indictment with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the South Bend Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Demarcus Moran, 23, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a one-count Indictment with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the South Bend Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Wanda C. Shorter, 43, of Elkhart, Indiana and Empowerment Non-Emergency Medical Transportation, Inc. located in Elkhart, Indiana, were both charged in a four-count Indictment with one-count of healthcare fraud and three-counts of aggravated identity theft.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Indiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Otis A. Tate, 25, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a two-count Indictment with one-count being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and one-count possessing a stolen firearm.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the South Bend Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Aaron Mendoza, 34, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a one count Indictment with illegal alien in possession of a firearm.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service and 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.
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:
PLEA (before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr.)
Quintin T. Ferguson, 24, of Mishawaka, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of possessing heroin with intent to distribute. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 6/25/2014.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
(before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr.)
Quintien Walker, 22, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 22 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm.According to documents filed in this case, in July 213, Walker provided a false written statement in obtaining a firearm. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
(before District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio)
Alicia Green, 28, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release and ordered to pay $99,501.94 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of defrauding the United States government.According to documents filed in this case, Walker 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. This scheme resulted in the submission of approximately 1,189 false tax refunds for tax years 2008, 2009, and 2010. Beginning in 2009, Walker opened and controlled bank accounts that received tax refunds from some of these false tax returns and she shared in the proceeds generated by these false tax returns. This case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Department.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:
PLEAS:
Darian Brown, 36, of Merrillville, Indiana, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of mail fraud.Sentencing has been set for 5/21/14. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Roy Dunn, 60, of Winamac, Indiana, a defendant in the case US v Hoosier EMS Inc. et al., pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of conspiracy to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare in connection with ambulance transportation for Medicare recipients in Northwest Indiana.Sentencing has been set for 5/20/14. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the US Department of Health and Human Services.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Diane Berkowitz and Thomas McGrath.
Jeanetta Brown, 32, of Calumet City, Illinois, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Paul Cherry to the felony offense of making 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.Magistrate Cherry is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 10 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.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
James Gerodemos, 50, of Schererville, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of engaging in the business of dealing in explosive material without a license.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.
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:)
Keana Davis, 33, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 151 months imprisonment with 8 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly distributing 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, in June 2013, Davis’s residence was searched by law enforcement officers.Approximately 175.9 grams of a white powdered substance along with $3,820 in cash were discovered. Over 28 grams of the white powdered substance tested positive as crack.Among the currency found in the residence were two $100 bills used as part of a controlled buy.Additional items used in the production and distribution of drugs were found at the residence.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
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 February 13, 2014:
Patrick J. Condon, Jr., 41, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a one-count Indictment with theft of government money; the unlawful receipt of federal unemployment insurance benefits. Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and the United States Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Z. Brook.
Tiffany J. Miller, 28, of Cromwell, Indiana, was charged in a one-count Indictment with theft of government money; the unlawful receipt of federal unemployment insurance benefits.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and the United States Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Z. Brook.
John O. Williams, 43, of Osceola, Indiana, was charged in a one-count Indictment with theft of government money; the unlawful receipt of federal unemployment insurance benefits.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and the United States Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Z. Brook.
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:
PLEA (before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein)
Javier Gomez-Sanchez, 31, of South Bend, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of knowingly or intentionally distributing a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. 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 6/5/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
DISPOSITIONS( before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr.)
Carmen Leon, 44, of Edinburg, Texas was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment with 5 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of conspiracy to distribute narcotics and conspiracy to commit money laundering.According to documents filed in this case, beginning in approximately 2000 and continuing into early 2010, Leon knowingly agreed with others to possess and distribute various illegal drugs throughout the country including Indiana, Texas, Wisconsin, Michigan and North Carolina. The illegal drugs distributed included cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamine.Leon distributed these drugs using several other persons who would drive the drugs to specific locations and at times pick up proceeds from the sale of drugs and return them to Leon in Texas. From about 2003 to 2006, Leon supplied cocaine in Milwaukee on a regular basis for distribution.In February of 2009, the Border Patrol at Falfurrias, Texas seized approximately 26 kilograms of cocaine Leon had intended to distribute.During the same time period Leon utilized the buying and selling of nationwide auctioned automobiles to conceal her drug profits.Leon started a business known as CL Auto Sales that operated primarily in Texas for the purpose of concealment of her drug profits. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Grimmer.
Maria San Juana Fernandez, 41, of Edinburg, Texas was sentenced to 9 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements and penalty.According to documents filed in this case, in May 2007, Fernandez opened CL Auto Sales which was in actuality a business used for money laundering from illegal narcotics activities.Fernandez structured bank deposits in small enough volumes to avoid banking and federal scrutiny.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Grimmer.
Cesar Leon, 23, of Edinburg, Texas was sentenced to a total of 70 months imprisonment for with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of conspiracy to distribute marijuana and structuring money transactions to evade reporting requirements.According to documents filed in this case, during the fall of2008, Leon conspired with several persons to distribute marijuana in various states (including Texas, North Carolina, Illinois, Michigan and Indiana) throughout the United States. Marijuana brought into Texas would be shipped by various means, including by vehicles, to these locations where the drugs were unloaded and distributed to others.Proceeds from these transactions were used at times to purchase vehicles. Leon was provided the funds those purchases and made cash payments under $10,000 in order to avoid the car dealers’ responsibility to report cash transactions over $10,000.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Grimmer.
Abdul Amin Shabazz, 39, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of felon in possession of a firearm.According to documents filed in this case, Shabazz possessed a .32 caliber pistol which he attempted to discard along with a bag of marijuana while he ran from police officers.Shabazz has prior convictions including robbery, carrying a handgun without a license, possession of cocaine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.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 Ken Hays.
Jose Patlan, 38, of Longansport, Indiana was sentenced to 151 months imprisonment with 4 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and intentionally conspiring to deliver a mixture or substance that contained over five hundred (500) grams of cocaine and/or over 100 kilograms of marijuana.According to documents filed in this case, b etween May 2012, and July 2012, Patlan was involved with distributing marijuana in the Logansport, Indiana area.Law enforcement raided Patlan’s residence on July 16, 2012, and discovered marijuana and $1,500 from drug transactions. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
DISPOSTIONS (before District Judge Jon E. De Guilio)
Darius Witherspoon, 21, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 154 months, 3 years supervised release and to pay $66,965 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of bank robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.According to documents filed in this case, on July 10, 2013, Witherspoon with accomplices stole approximately $13,165 from a bank in Edwardsburg, Michigan. On August 7, 2013, Witherspoon with accomplices also stole approximately $53,800 belonging from a bank in Bristol, Indiana.Witherspoon brandished a firearm in both robberies. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Horacio Hernandez, 51, of Goshen, Indiana was sentenced to 46 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of reentry as a deported alien.According to documents filed in this case, in May 2011, Hernandez was deported as an aggravated felon through the Laredo, Texas port of entry. After his deportation, Hernandez illegally re-entered the country and was later arrested.This case was the result of an investigation by the United States Marshals 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:
PLEAS:
Anthony Bitterling, 40, of Winimac, Indiana, a defendant in the case US v Hoosier EMS Inc. et al., pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of conspiring with other individuals to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare in connection with ambulance transportation.Sentencing has been set for 5/8/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Medicare Fraud Control Unit, and the US Department of Health and Human Services.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Diane Berkowitz and Thomas McGrath.
Karen Stone, 57, of Hammond, Indiana, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of embezzlement of Union Funds.Sentencing has been set for 5/14/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Department of Labor-Office of Management Standards.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:
Jose Reyes-Zuniga, 32, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 6 months imprisonment and, if not deported, 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of fraudulent use of a Social Security number.According to documents filed in this case, Reyes-Zuniga used a social security number that did not belong to him for purposes of gaining employment. He admitted to purchasing identification and a social security number from a person in Chicago.Reyes-Zuniga entered the United States illegally from Mexico. This case was a result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the East Chicago Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Gary Bell and Philip Benson.
Christian Austin, 27, of Cincinnati, Ohio, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 51 months imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute heroin.According to documents filed in this case, Austin was transporting heroin to Chicago on behalf of an acquaintance when he was pulled over for a traffic violation. Approximately 2.1 kilograms of heroin was found in the vehicle. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jacqueline Jacobs.
Virlissa Crenshaw, 43, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 30 months imprisonment, $176,763.07 in restitution to the town of Merrillville and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of theft from a local government entity receiving federal funds and making false statements on a tax return.According to documents filed in this case, during Ms. Crenshaw’s tenure of collecting bond money for the Merrillville Town Court, in excess of 400 criminal cases were not docketed in the court system because the bond money was stolen and no criminal case was ever docketed. Ms. Crenshaw essentially engaged in a Ponzi scheme by shuffling bond money from one case to another in attempts to conceal her theft, allowing her to steal even more money. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service and the Indiana State Police.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip Benson.
Terrance Winton, 49, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 37 months imprisonment, a $10,000.00 fine and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, pursuant to information from a confidential source, a federal search warrant was executed at Winton’s residence in March 2013. Agents seized approximately one ounce of crack cocaine (13 grams were uncut and the rest was packaged for sale) from the kitchen. In Winton’s bedroom, agents seized four pistols. Additionally, there were seven long guns in a gun cabinet including a stolen AK-47 and a stolen Springfield rifle. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Mark Alan Smith, 44, of Valparaiso, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 108 months imprisonment and 15 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of receipt of child pornography.According to documents filed in this case, over the course of at least 1 ½ years, Smith received over 400,000 images and over 1,500 videos depicting minor children being sexually exploited and abused. This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Booker Rogers, 47, of West Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 105 months imprisonment and 20 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of failure to register as a sex offender.According to documents filed in this case, Rogers was convicted of sexual abuse of a 14 year old female in 1999, a four year old child in 2007, and failure to register as a sex offender in 2010 and 2011.This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the United States Marshal’s Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Adam Buckler, 29, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 225 months imprisonment and 20 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of child pornography.According to documents filed in this case, Buckler was found to possess over 24,000 images and 600 videos depicting minor children as young as toddlers being forced 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 Kokomo Police Department and the Indiana State Police.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Octavio Casas-Garcia, 45, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 5 months imprisonment and, if not deported, 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of illegal re-entry after having been convicted of a felony.Casas-Garcia has a prior conviction for possession of marijuana in Texas.This case was a result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip Benson.
Antoine McClain, 31, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 21 months 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, McClain has prior felony convictions for possession of cocaine and attempted larceny in a building, as well as 11 other misdemeanors. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force and the East Chicago Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Padilla.
Tyrone Benson, 38, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 27 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Benson has a prior felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance in San Diego, California. 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 David Nozick.
Javante Toran, 21, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge James Moody to 6 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Toran has a prior felony conviction for theft in Lake County,Indiana.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.
Kenneth Sandidge, 54, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 92 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Sandidge has a prior felony conviction for pointing a firearm in Lake County, Indiana. 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 Nicholas Padilla.
Carl Powers, 54, of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 33 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.According to documents filed in this case, Powers defrauded two lenders by inducing them to provide mortgage loans to the buyers through the use of materially false representations, and in so doing, to fraudulently obtain a portion of those funds.Powers also defrauded the buyers by inducing them to purchase properties and seek mortgage loans through the use of materially false representations, and in doing so, to fraudulently obtain a portion of those funds. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Jerome Robinson, 24, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 36 months of probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of heroin.This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Chester Washington, 43, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to3 years of probation with 8 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, Washington has prior felony convictions for possession of cocaine and battery in 1995. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force and the Lake County Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
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 (before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey)
Pedro Salud Rubio-Garcia, 43, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offenses of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine, aiding and abetting, distribution of methamphetamine, and selling a firearm to 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
DISPOSITIONS (before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Derek Davenport, 28, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to a total of 90 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking offense and being a felon in possession of a firearm.His thirty (30) month concurrent sentence on his drugs convictions will be followed by a consecutive sixty (60) month term of imprisonment a firearm conviction. According to documents filed in this case, in 2010 and 2011, Davenport on several occasions possessed drugs (marijuana) with the intent to distribute them.Davenport carried a firearm during the transactions and while a felon possessed additional firearms. 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.
Rickey James, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 46 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, James owned a sniper suit, .22 caliber ammunition and hand grenades. James was previously convicted for possession of a handgun without a license.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 Lesley Miller-Lowery.
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 February 13, 2014:
Frederick Dotson, 39, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was charged in a three count Indictment with one count of distribution of 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 firearms.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.
Luis Trevino, 34, of South Bend, Indiana, and Javier Trevino, 32, of South Bend, Indiana, were charged in a three count Indictment with one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, one count of felon in possession of firearm(s), and one count of possession with intent to distribute Marijuana.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.
Eshar Burks, 26, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a two count Indictment with one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.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.
Timothy B. Heckaman, 51, of Bremen, Indiana, was charged in a one-count Indictment with theft of government money; the unlawful receipt of federal unemployment insurance benefits.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and the United States Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Z. Brook.
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.
Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
Hammond South Bend Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana - The United States Attorney's Office announced that a Grand Jury sitting in Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictments on February 26, 2014:
Bruce T. King, 35, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a single count Indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm on or about January 24, 2014. The Indictment also alleges forfeiture of a firearm, magazine and ammunition. 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. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Guadalupe Quintanilla, 69, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a single count Indictment with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine on or about February 1, 2014. The Indictment also alleges forfeiture of property derived from the proceeds. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Indiana State Police. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Ronnie Lee Rutherford, Jr., 37, and Laura A. Plumb, 35, both of Fort Wayne, Indiana, are charged in a four count Indictment (respectively) with maintaining a drug involved premises from on or about December 4, 2013, to on or about February 17, 2014 (both defendants), possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about February 17, 2014 (Rutherford), with being a felon in possession of a firearm on or about December 30, 2013, and February 17, 2014 (Rutherford). The Indictment also alleges forfeiture of property derived from the proceeds and firearms and ammunition. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Floyd D. Thomas, Jr., 35, Dwaine Bartlett, 41, Prentice A. Bland, 38, Richard A. Council, 42, Richard E. Murray, 40, and Derrick L. Thomas, 39, all of Indianapolis, Indiana are
charged in a six count Indictment (respectively) with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine from on or about November 13, 2013, through on or about February 12, 2014 (all defendants), possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about February 12, 2014 (all defendants), distribution of heroin on or about November 16, 2013, November 20, 2013, December 19, 2013 and January 17, 2013 (Floyd Thomas only). The Indictment also alleges forfeiture of property derived from the proceeds and firearms and ammunition. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Warsaw Police Department, Fort Wayne Police Department, and the IMAGE Drug Task Force. 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.Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictment on January 22, 2014:
Travon D. Russell, 22, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a two count Indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm on or about December 23, 2013, and maintaining a drug involved premise on or about December 12, 2013. The Indictment also alleges forfeiture of firearms, ammunition and a digital scale. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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 – 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)
Michael Hillebrand III, 30, of Mishawaka, 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 5/22/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Joseph Golden, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of attempting to enter a bank to commit larceny. 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 5/22/2014.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 (before District Judge Robert L Miller, Jr.)
Rick Franklin, 55, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 71 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release and to pay $40,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and intentionally possessing a vehicle which had altered or removed VIN numbers with the intent to dispose of the vehicle.According to documents filed in this case, in February 2013, law enforcement stopped a trailer hauling a Bobcat Skid Steer loader on US 31. The Bobcart Skid Steer loader had been “re-vinned” (the proper VIN number removed and a different one substituted) and Franklin was involved with the re-vinning. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Christopher Wilhite, 33, of Monon, Indiana was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment with 5 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of child pornography plus forfeiture allegation.According to documents filed in this case, from October 2011 to May, 2012, Wilhite possessed a laptop computer onto which he had downloaded numerous images and videos that depicted minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Wilhite subsequently transferred those computer files to an external hard drive. In October 2012, the laptop and external hard drive were seized at Wilhite’s residence by law enforcement. This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the Department of Homeland Security, state and local task force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Michael Spurgeon, 47, of Elkhart, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly manufacturing marijuana.According to documents filed in this case, in February 2013, DEA entered a garage in Elkhart, Indiana. Law enforcement discovered marijuana plants, grow materials, and grow lights in the building. The marijuana growing equipment and items were the property of Spurgeon. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Raymond Belsan, 33, of Syracuse, Indiana was to 120 months imprisonment with 7 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of child pornography.According to documents filed in this case, in September 2012, Belsan possessed a custom built desktop computer onto which he had downloaded numerous images and videos that depicted minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Belsan also utilized file sharing programs which he used to download these images from others via the internet. Belsan also enabled file sharing for others to access some of the child pornography on his machine.This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
(before District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio.)
Dontrell Smith, 24, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 40 months with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.According to documents filed in this case, in August 2013, Smith possessed a PT111 Pro Millennium, Caliber: 9mm handgun loaded with ammunition.Previously, Smith had been convicted of possession of cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.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:
Mario Stokes, 41, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Sentencing has been set for 5/23/14.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.
Jose Arriaga, 44, of Merrillville, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Paul Cherry to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. Magistrate Cherry is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 10 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.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Joiey Jones, 36, of East Chicago, Indiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon 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 and the East Chicago Police Department.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:
Tonja Muldrow, 33, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 24 months of probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.According to documents filed in this case, Muldrow illegally possessed one firearm and traded it in to a firearms store in exchange for another firearm. Muldrow has a prior conviction for the felony offense of financial identity theft. This case was a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Michigan City Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Kevin Wilkerson, 39, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 108 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of the bank robbery of Peoples Bank in Gary.This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Gary Police Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Berkowitz.
Mark Bozovich, 32, of Lake Village, Indiana, a defendant in the case US v Humphrey et al., was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 235 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after being found guilty at trial of the felony offense of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute heroin.According to documents filed in this case, Bozovich, along with others, would drive to Illinois to get heroin from Cortez Humphrey and would then redistribute it upon returning to Indiana.This case was a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jacqueline Jacobs and Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Lamar Johnson, 26, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 132 months imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of transporting a minor in interstate commerce with the intent that she engage in prostitution.This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Brealon Miller, Jr., 25, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 280 months of imprisonment with 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of the December 2012 armed bank robbery of BMO Harris Bank in Hammond, and discharging and carrying a firearm in furtherance of an aggravated bank robbery. According to documents filed in this case, Miller shot a Hammond police officer three times in his leg as he was leaving the bank after the robbery. David Lee Hardin, his co-defendant, was sentenced to 355 months imprisonment in September 2013. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force and the Hammond Police Department. 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:
PLEA (before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey:)
Michael Bure, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of 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 a joint task force of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, state and local law enforcement.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 District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:)
Jerome Burney, 40, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release and to pay $461,254.72 restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of wire fraud.According to documents filed in this case, Burney faxed fraudulent military deployment orders to companies that were employing him at the time. The fraudulent military paperwork was used to take advantage of the military pay differential policy.The policy provides employees who are members of any branch of the United States military, or who are called up to active duty in the uniformed services as a result of an active military conflict or mission to be paid the difference between their military pay and their base rate of pay at that particular company.Because these fraudulent payments to Burney were electronically deposited into his personal bank account or made by check was sent via United States mail, his actions violated federal law.This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Defense-Office of the Inspector General.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Curtis Wittwer, 66, of Spencerville, Indiana was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment (with the remainder as of the day of sentencing’s date to be served in a residential re-entry facility), with 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of maintaining a drug-involved premises.According to documents filed in this case, a confidential informant notified law enforcement of Curtis Wittwer’s selling and growing of marijuana at his residence.After additional investigations, Wittwer’s residence was searched.During the search, sixteen guns, marijuana smoking devices, rolling papers, marijuana residue, and a bag with marijuana seeds were discovered.In addition, $88,600 in cash was obtained during the search.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.
Jamison Gudorf, 41, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 27 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, in 2011 and 2012, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force was investigating marijuana trafficking activity and became interested in Jamison Gudorf’s activities which involved illegal drug sales.In December 2012, officers served a federal search warrant of Gudorf’s residence.During the search, officers found a large number of firearms, including several weapons that were suspected of being fully automatic.Marijuana was also discovered during the search.In 1996, Gudorf was convicted of criminal confinement and residential entry.He was also convicted in 2007 for OWI and intimidation.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 Anthony Geller.
Nicole Andrews, 36, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to two years probation, and to pay restitution in the amount of $16,405.39, joint and several with co-defendants, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being an accessory after the fact to a bank robbery.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2013, a local credit union was robbed by two assailants.Local law enforcement investigations determined that Andrews was involved in the robbery’s planning and execution.Andrews also attempted to misdirect law enforcement during questioning.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Lizbeth Correa, 35 of Wawaka, Indiana was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly making a drug-involved premise available for use.According to documents filed in this case, in March 2013, Correa worked with others to conceal methamphetamine by hiding it inside a fake cake.Correa was employed at a restaurant that she helped use to facilitate illegal drug sales. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
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- The United States Attorney’s Office announced that the following Indictments were returned on February 19, 2014:
Montrell Jolly, 24, of Gary, Indiana, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Gary Police Department.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
Piljo Piljagic, 30, of Chicago, Illinois, was charged with being an illegal alien and aiding
non-citizens of the United States to fraudulently marry United States citizens for the purpose of evading provisions of the immigration laws which prohibit procuring naturalization of non-citizens through fraud. These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Michael Nash, 39, of Lake Station, Indiana, was charged in a superseding indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the government by submitting false claims for income tax refunds, four counts of submitting false claims for income tax refunds and three counts of aggravated identity theft.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Kolar.
Michael Radovick, 29, of Gary, Indiana, was charged in a superseding indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm, being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm, two counts of distribution of cocaine and committing these crimes while on pretrial release.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hammond Police Department.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
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):
Felix Gonzalez-Cedillo, 47, of Granger, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 been set for 5/16/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Brian Cruz, 37, of Elkhart, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of failure to register as required under the sex offender registration and notification act. Magistrate Christopher A. Nuechterlein 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 United States Marshal Service.Sentencing has been set for 5/16/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
(pled before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr.)
Robert Alexander Loft, 45, of Mishawaka, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of distributing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 5/20/2014.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:
Richard Maxson, 50, of Elkhart, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. to 21 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release and to pay $30,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly and intentionally possessing a vehicle which had an altered or removed VIN number with the intent to dispose of the vehicle.According to documents filed in this case, in February 2013, law enforcement stopped a truck Maxson was driving while hauling a Case skid-steer loader. Maxson had rented the skid-steer loader the day before and was aware the VIN number had been altered or removed. Maxson admitted to being in possession of the skid-steer loader and his intent to dispose of it.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Jacalyn Selman, 54, of Kouts, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 2 years supervised probation and to pay $502.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of embezzling mail.According to documents filed in this case, in December 2012 through July 2013, Selman, a Postal Service employee, embezzled mail which came into her possession. This case was the result of an investigation by the 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:
Andrew Bolden, 30,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 5/13/14.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 David Nozick.
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:
Robert Sanders, 25, of Gary, Indiana, a defendant in the case US v Harris et al., was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 15 months imprisonment, $6,636.00 in restitution to be paid joint and several with Willie Harris, and 2 years of supervised release after being found guilty at trial of the felony offense of conspiracy and attempt to commit fraud with identification documents.According to documents filed in this case, the defendants obtained the account and personal information of individuals in over 21 states and fraudulently added their names to the victims’ accounts in an account takeover scheme. The defendants either utilized their own names or utilized aliases with the accounts which had been taken over. They purchased gift cards, Postal money orders, and made numerous retail purchases with the fraudulently obtained credit cards throughout Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Georgia. They also made cash withdrawals on the accounts and utilized the convenience checks associated with the accounts at various financial institutions located in Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Georgia. Throughout the criminal conduct, the defendants would also mail gift cards, Postal money orders, and U.S. currency from Indiana and Wisconsin to Georgia. This case was a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Joshua Mijares, 34, of Griffith, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 7 months and 18 days imprisonment, time considered served, and 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of re-entry of a deported alien.According to documents filed in this case, law enforcement, responding to information from a tip line that Mijares was an illegal alien, received fingerprint records and other material confirming that Mijares had indeed been deported in 2005.According to criminal history records, Mijares, also known as Jose Lucas, was convicted of aggravated child abuse in Florida in 2002. This case was a result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
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:
Nathan Arnold, 30, of Berne, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey to the felony offense of theft or receipt of stolen mail matter. Magistrate Cosbey 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 United States Postal Service. 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:
Booker Sewell, 33, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced to 360 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and 240 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release for maintaining a place for the purpose of distribution and using cocaine and marijuana, both to be served concurrently. According to documents filed in this case, Sewell was involved in controlled buys of cocaine and crack. Upon his arrest, Sewell’s house contained a revolver, multiple containers and bags with marijuana, approximately $21,917 in cash and evidence of cocaine and chemicals used to multiply (or “cut”) the amount of cocaine. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Damarcus Johnson, 34, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was re-sentenced after having been found guilty of possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to the drug trafficking offense. Johnson will serve 168 months imprisonment for possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine to run consecutively to 60 months for carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime all to run concurrently to 120 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to documents filed in this case, after an encounter with law enforcement in the parking lot of a local late night establishment, Johnson was found in possession of the handgun, marijuana, cocaine, 286 grams of crack cocaine and over two thousand dollars. This case was the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Nommay.
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 February 13, 2014:
Robert D. Carrico, 28, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a six-count Indictment with two-counts of distributing ecstasy, one-count of distributing marijuana, one-count of possessing marijuana with intent to distribute, one-count of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one-count of being a drug user in possession of firearms.Charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Elkhart County Immigration and Customs Enforcement Drug Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald J. Schmid.
Keon Lovelady, 25, of South Bend, Indiana, was charged in a two-count Indictment with one-count of providing false statements during the attempted acquisition of a firearm and one-count of lying to federal agents.Charges were filed as a 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 Donald J. Schmid.
Gerardo Martinez-Quinonez, age 21, of Michigan City, Indiana, was charged in a one count Indictment with false representation of a Social Security Number not assigned to him by the Commissioner of Social Security.These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse M. Barrett.
Leroy James Clark, age 22, 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 Jesse M. 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.
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.
Of St. joseph River Watershed SettlementsRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - United States Attorney David Capp and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced that the City of Mishawaka, Indiana has agreed to make an estimated $132.1 million worth of improvements to its combined sewer system to completely eliminate overflows of raw sewage to the St. Joseph River during a typical year of rainfall.
The improvements that Mishawaka will implement to its sewer system under the consent decree announced today will provide major public health and environmental benefits.Currently, Mishawaka annually discharges into the St. Joseph River an estimated 111 million gallons of raw sewage.After implementing the improvements required under the settlement, Mishawaka will completely eliminate all raw sewage discharge events during a typical year of rainfall.The State of Indiana is a co-plaintiff and a signatory to the proposed consent decree.
The settlement with Mishawaka completes a trio of settlements; first with the City of Elkhart approved by the Court on November 30, 2011; then with South Bend approved by the Court on May 2, 2012; and finally with Mishawaka, lodged with the Court today for public comment pursuant to the Clean Water Act.The three settlements require sewer system improvements at an estimated cost of $800 million.The sewer system improvements are expected to reduce annual raw sewage discharges by over 1.1 billion gallons.The reduced discharges will result in preventing over 700,000 pounds of pollutants from entering the St. Joseph River each year.
All three communities have combined sewer systems that collect and convey stormwater, sanitary sewage, and other pollutants to wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). During wet weather events, and during some dry weather time periods, a portion of the sewage that flows through combined sewer systems is not conveyed all the way to the WWTPs; instead the raw sewage is discharged into the St. Joseph River through outfalls activated when the waste water flow exceeds the capacity of the collection, conveyance, and treatment capabilities of the combined sewer system.
“The trio of Clean Water Act settlements concluded today will result in historic and permanent water quality improvements to the St. Joseph River and Lake Michigan that will benefit this region for decades to come,” said United States Attorney David Capp.“Mishawaka’s commendable commitment to completely eliminate raw sewage discharges during a typical year of rainfall, combined with the commitments of South Bend and Elkhart, will pay off in better protection of public health and a cleaner river and Great Lake for all to enjoy.”
“When the Cities of Mishawaka, South Bend, and Elkhart complete the work they have agreed to in these three settlements, the water in the St. Joseph River and Lake Michigan will be cleaner and healthier,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator / Great Lakes National Program Manager Susan Hedman.
“Mishawaka has made great progress in eliminating pollution from its CSOs and improving the quality of the St. Joseph River,” said Thomas Easterly, IDEM Commissioner.“The City’s continued commitment to further reductions will mean healthier neighborhoods for all downstream communities who use the St. Joseph River for fishing, recreation, and as a drinking water source.”
“Protecting our rivers and streams is an important shared responsibility.The settlement is fair to all sides and the City of Mishawaka has agreed to uphold its environmental obligations.Ultimately the public -- those who live and work near the river – will benefit from these planned improvements,” said Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller, whose office serves as legal counsel to State government.
Today’s settlement is the latest in a series of Clean Water Act settlements that will reduce raw sewage discharges into the United States’ rivers, streams, and lakes.The settlement requires Mishawaka to pay a civil penalty of $28,000 for those Clean Water Act violations, which will be divided equally between the United States and the State of Indiana. Keeping raw sewage and contaminated storm water out of the waters of the United States is one of EPA’s National Enforcement Initiatives for 2011 to 2014.The initiative focuses on reducing discharges from sewer overflows by obtaining cities’ commitments to implement timely affordable solutions to these problems, including the increased use of green infrastructure and other innovative approaches.
This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Wayne Ault and EPA Senior Counsel Thomas Kenney. Elizabeth Admire, an attorney for IDEM, served as counsel for co‑plaintiff State of Indiana.
The consent decree was lodged in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.The consent decree will be subject to a 30‑day public comment period and subsequent judicial approval, and will be available on the Justice Department website at http://www.usdoj.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html
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:
William Edward Cooper, II, 51, of Mishawaka, Indiana pled guilty before District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. to the felony offense of possessing a firearm as an unlawful drug user. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.Sentencing has been set for 5/29/2014.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:
Jose Gonzalez, 61, of Milford, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. to 66 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.According to documents filed in this case, in August 2013, law enforcement officers served a search warrant on Gonzalez’s residence. Officers discovered a white powdery substance hidden in different parts of the property. The powder was found in the dryer vent, roof of the doghouse and in a column on the porch. The substance was tested and determined to be cocaine. Additional drug related paraphernalia was discovered including scales, baggies and other items used to facilitate illegal drug sales.This case was the result of an investigation by Drug Enforcement Administration.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Emilio Santana-Esquivel, 27, of Macy, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 10 months imprisonment followed by no term of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of use of a false social security number.According to documents filed in this case, in January 2011, Santana-Esquivel lied and utilized a false social security account number. Santana-Esquivel used this false SSN as well as another individual’s social security card and photo ID in his application for employment with an Indiana based company.This case was the result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Barrett.
Tad Vandermark, 53, of Syracuse, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 360 months imprisonment with 15 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of production of child pornography.According to documents filed in this case, between 2003 and March 2005, Vandermark lived with a family and videotaped himself and a minor child of that family having sexual contact. Vandermark was aware that images of that sexual contact were being transmitted via a web camera over the Internet to another individual.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Shawn Fox, 49, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. to 120 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release and to pay $3,409 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of bank robbery with the use of a firearm .According to documents filed in this case, in January 2011, Fox entered a South Bend bank with the intent to rob the facility. Fox was armed with a firearm which he used to threaten a teller and to obtain money. This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.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:
PLEAS:
Ronier Scott, 42, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge John E. Martin to the felony offense of willful failure to file a federal tax return.Magistrate Martin is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 10 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. Sentencing has been set for 4/1/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
Jermel Washington, 37, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to the felony offense of possession of a non- registered firearm.Sentencing has been set for 4/30/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Gary Police Department.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath.
Paul Robinson, 23, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Paul Cherry to the felony offense of distribution of heroin.Magistrate Cherry is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 10 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 GRIT Task Force.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Alejandro Murillo, 26, of Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration HIDTA Task Force.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:
David Johnson, 58, of Munster, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 1 year and 1 day of imprisonment, 1 year of supervised release and a fine of $6000.00 after pleading guilty to the felony offense of payment of a bribe to an agent of a local government receiving federal funds.According to documents filed in this case, Johnson, owner of Dave’s Tree Service, made a series of payments to Hammond City Councilman Alfonso Salinas in order to secure future business from the city.Hammond’s records confirmed that the city had paid Dave’s Tree Service more than $300,000 during a roughly two year period, and that Salinas had authorized most of the work. During an interview with IRS agents, Johnson admitted bribing Salinas. This case was a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
Sonyinee Davis-Pope, 39, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 3 years of probation after pleading guilty to the felony offense of making false statements to the United States Postal Service.According to documents filed in this case, Pope admitted that she submitted on-line employment applications to the United States Postal Service. In each application, she made a false statement or representation by either using a false name, false date of birth, false social security number, or by failing to disclose that she had prior felony convictions. She submitted the false applications in order to pass the pre-employment background check. In all, she submitted over 50 on-line employment applications to the United States Postal Service between July 2010 and February 2011 for employment in Northwest Indiana, Illinois, and Alabama. This case was a result of an investigation by United States Postal Service-Office of the Inspector General.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Stacy Davis, 46, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 51 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of the bank robbery of Chase Bank in Merrillville, Indiana.This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jacqueline Jacobs and Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Eugene Wilson, 57, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 42 months imprisonment, $1,696,919.45 in restitution and 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of wire fraud.According to documents filed in this case, Wilson participated in a scheme to defraud and obtain money from three groups of investors by making false statements. In 2006, in separate transactions, Wilson convinced investors to give him money, collectively more than 1.5 million dollars. As inducements, he promised to pay a high rate of return and return the money in a short time period.He also told the investors that their money, or most of it, would remain in a bank account. After receiving the money from the investors, Wilson sent almost all of it to individuals who were in Europe, and spent the remaining money. Wilson acknowledged that on October 25, 2006, he visited a Bank of America branch in Chicago and directed the bank to wire transfer $470,000 in one transaction, and $30,000 in another, to a bank account located in the country of Liechtenstein. When an investor provided him with $600,000, Wilson told him that his money was safe and most of it would remain in a bank account for ten days. He did not return any money to this investor. This case was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Bell.
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 (all before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey)
Leobardo Gaona, 40, of Huntertown, Indiana pled 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. Magistrate Cosbey 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 yet been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Raul Resendiz, 35, of Fort Wayne, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Magistrate Cosbey 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 yet 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:
Evangelos Doublas, 34, of Tucson, Arizona was sentenced by District Judge Theresa L. Springmann to 33 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana.According to documents filed in this case, in December 2010, Doublas received a large quantity of marijuana from a confidential informant.Upon searching Doublas’ property, law enforcement officers recovered 117 pounds of marijuana. This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the DEA – Missouri, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
Week in Review – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following:
PLEA:
Ronald Simmons, 46, of Goshen, Indiana pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein to the felony offense of taking, killing, or possessing migratory birds. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 United States Fish and Wildlife Service.Sentencing has been set for 4/8/2014.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: (before United States District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio)
Javier Montoya, 33, of Howe, Indiana was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment with 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, from the fall of 2012 through spring of 2013, Montoya participated in a multi-person arrangement to distribute cocaine. Montoya both personally delivered the drugs and also had others deliver for him. This case was the result of an investigation by Drug Enforcement Administration.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Grimmer.
Tenneil Selner, 34, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment with 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of pseudoephedrine.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2011, Selner purchased pseudoephedrine four (4) times at drug stores in the Northern District of Indiana. Selner then turned over this pseudoephedrine to individuals with histories of illegal drug manufacturing. This case was the result of an investigation by Drug Enforcement Administration.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:
PLEAS:
Azzam Al-Hindi, 56, of Whiting, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of mail fraud.Sentencing has been set for 4/25/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Valon Tyson, 37, of Hammond, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Andrew Rodovich to the felony offense of making false statements to a United States Postal Inspector.Magistrate Rodovich is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 10 days in which to object to the magistrate judge’s recommendation. Sentencing has been set for 3/7/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Education-Office of the Inspector General.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toi Houston.
Christopher Bour, 40, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offenses of purchase of a child for production of child pornography, production of child pornography and possession of child pornography featuring a child under the age of twelve.Sentencing has been set for 5/15/14.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 is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
John Michael Johnson, 44, of Michigan City, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano 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 David Nozick.
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:
Jose de Jesus Mariscal-Rivas, 42, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 42 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Padilla.
Heriberto Hernandez-Fraye, 35, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 46 months imprisonment and 1year of supervised release after pleading guilty to illegal reentry after having been convicted of an aggravated felony.This case was the result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip Benson.
Kevin Brewster, 41, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 35 years of imprisonment and 20 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography.According to documents filed in this case, Brewster admitted that on four separate occasions he caused a six to nine year old child to engage in sexual acts which he recorded on videotape.He also admitted to downloading child pornography from the internet and possessing that material for his own use. This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Portage 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:
Pleas (each before Magistrate Judge Roger B. Cosbey)
Juan Pena, 21, of Sturgis, Michigan, pled guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled 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.Sentencing has not been set.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller-Lowery.
JD Richey, 65, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of embezzlement of labor organization funds. 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 not been set. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris-King.
DISPOSITIONS:
William Sallee, 21, of Ossian, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Theresa L. Springmannto 46 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release and payment of $703.19 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of retaliating against a witness, victim, or an informant.According to documents filed in this case, Sallee along with several others, including Tyson Allen (a co-defendant in United States v. Sallee, et al.), assaulted a fellow inmate in Wells County jail.The motive for the attack was retaliation against an inmate who was perceived as a “snitch” and a cooperator with law enforcement. Sallee, along with several others, threatened the assaulted inmate with further attacks should that perceived cooperation continue.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.
United States Attorney ChargesRead the Press Release
Hammond South Bend Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana - The United States Attorney's Office announced that it filed an
Information on January 15, 2014:
Crissy Till, a/k/a Crissy Cardone, a/k/a Crissy Young, 37, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a two count Information with theft or embezzlement of money of the Social Security Administration between on or about March 2012 and continuing to on or about June 2012 and false representation in connection with military health care benefits on or about June 20, 2012. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration and the United States Department of Health and Human Services. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. 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.Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictment on January 22, 2014:
Courtney Crusoe, 24, Marcel Banks, 26, and Deandre Banks, 23, all of Fort Wayne, Indiana, are charged in a five count Indictment (respectively) with bank fraud from on or about July 2013 to on or about August 2013 (Crusoe, M. Banks and D. Banks), bank embezzlement on or about July 12, 2013 (Crusoe), conspiracy to launder money on or about July 2013 (Crusoe, M. Banks, and D. Banks), money laundering on or about July 15, 2013 (Crusoe and D. Banks), and July 17, 2013 (D. Banks and M. Banks). The Indictment also alleges forfeiture United States currency and property. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lovita Morris King.
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.Of Murder and Violent Crime OffensesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Richard Reyes, a member of the Almighty Imperial Gangsters, has been convicted at trial for his role in violent acts as a member of a criminal street gang that operated in Northwest Indiana and is accused of engaging in drug trafficking and acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder and robbery.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Mythili Raman of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney David Capp of the Northern District of Indiana made the announcement.
Reyes, 41, of Hammond, Ind., was convicted by a federal jury on Jan. 24, 2014, for his role in the murder of rival Latin King gang member Rene Alonzo on Sept. 16, 2007. According to evidence at trial, Reyes fatally shot Alonzo outside of the U.S. Bar in East Chicago. Reyes was convicted of conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity, conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana, and murder in aid of racketeering activity, which each carry a maximum penalty of life in prison; and murder resulting from the use and carrying of a firearm during a crime of violence, which carries a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years in prison consecutive to any other sentence and a maximum of life in prison.
Reyes was among 24 individuals charged in this investigation, and 22 have pleaded guilty, including six men who pleaded guilty in January 2014. Those charged are accused of having participated collectively in 14 murders and eight attempted murders from 2002 to 2012 as part of their criminal enterprise. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at trial.
On Jan. 13, 2014, Salvador Chavez, 34, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Chief Judge Philip P. Simon in the Northern District of Indiana to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity.
On Jan. 10, 2014, Jason Medina, aka Burns, 30; Edward Raye Serna, 34; and Armando Jose Velasquez, aka Money, age 26, all of East Chicago, Ind., pleaded guilty before Chief Judge Simon. Medina pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity; murder resulting from the use and carrying of a firearm during a crime of violence; and attempted murder in aid of racketeering activity, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Medina admitted that he used a firearm to murder Guadalupe Trevino on July 24, 2005, and attempted to murder a victim on June 6, 2011. Sentencing for Medina is scheduled for June 19, 2014. Edward Serna pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity and attempted murder in aid of racketeering activity and admitted to his participation in the same attempted murder on June 6, 2011. Sentencing for Edward Serna is also set for June 19, 2014. Velasquez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity, murder resulting from the use and carrying of a firearm during a crime of violence, and attempted murder in aid of racketeering activity. Velasquez admitted he used a firearm on Dec. 3, 2011, when he attempted to murder a victim in aid of racketeering activity. Sentencing for Velasquez is scheduled for June 6, 2014.
On Jan. 3, 2014, Julian Guillermo Serna, aka Big Ju, 24, and Vincent Garza, aka Chente, 22, pleaded guilty before Chief Judge Simon. Julian Serna pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity and to murder resulting from the use and carrying of a firearm during a crime of violence. Julian Serna admitted that he used a firearm to murder Mario Soriano on March 25, 2008. Sentencing for Julian Serna is scheduled for July 25, 2014. Garza pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity and two counts of homicide in aid of racketeering activity, which each carry a maximum penalty of life in prison. Garza admitted that he participated in the murder of Michael Sessum and Miguel Mejias on June 3, 2008. Sentencing for Garza is scheduled for July 24, 2104.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the East Chicago Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Gary Police Department, the Hammond Police Department and the Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David J. Nozick of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana and Trial Attorney Bruce Hegyi of the Criminal Division’s Capital Case Section.
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 (all before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein):
Kenny Lee, 29, of South Bend, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of unlawful transport of firearms. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 Drug Enforcement Administration.Sentencing has been set for 4/24/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Dan Warren, 44, of Leesburg, Indiana, pled guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 Drug Enforcement Administration.Sentencing has been set for 4/25/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
Adam J. Shetler, 33, of Goshen, Indiana pled guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 4/24/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Barbara Brook.
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:
Rebecca Turner, 26, of Mishawaka, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 37 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly distributing a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.According to documents filed in this case, on March 27, 2013, Turner sold a package that she believed contained a controlled substance. The sale was in Elkhart County, Indiana and was conducted with an individual working with law enforcement.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Scott Weaver, 29, of Mishawaka, Indiana, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 97 months imprisonment with 3 years supervised release, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of knowingly distributing a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.According to documents filed in this case, on March 27, 2013, Weaver sold a package that he believed contained a controlled substance. Weaver’s wife Rebecca Turner delivered the package for her husband.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 – HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS:
Natisha Hillard, 25, of Gary, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offenses 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.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 is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Keyosha Toney, 26, of East Chicago, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge John E. Martin to the felony offense of making false statements in connection with the purchase of a firearm.Magistrate Martin is recommending that the district court accept the tendered guilty plea.Parties have 10 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.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.
Octavio Casas-Garcia, 45, of Hammond, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge John Martin to the felony offense of illegal reentry after having been convicted of a felony.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip Benson.
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:
Ronald Parks, 61, address unknown/homeless, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 262 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to kidnapping. According to documents filed in this case, in March 2012 the victim stopped for change for a $20 bill at a Marathon gas station located in Hammond, Indiana. She was getting back into her car when Parks forced her into her car through the driver’s door.Parks eventually stopped the car, took her cell phone and fled on foot.In a separate matter, Parks was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment, to run concurrently with the kidnapping sentence, after pleading guilty to bank robbery.According to documents filed in this case, in April, 2012 Parks robbed the Citizen’s Bank in Hammond, Indiana using a note that indicated he had a gun.The teller indicated that Parks had flashed a black gun that was in his waistband.This teller later identified Parks in a photo lineup. These cases were the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hammond Police Department.These cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
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:
Kameron Kutzli, 23, of Dunkirk, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Theresa L. Springmann to 57 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of retaliating against a witness, victim, or an informant.According to documents filed in this case, Kutzli along with several others, including Tyson Allen (a co-defendant in United States v. Sallee, et al.), assaulted a fellow inmate in Wells County jail.The motive for the attack was retaliation against an inmate who was perceived as a “snitch” and a cooperator with law enforcement. Kutzli, along with several others, threatened the assaulted inmate with further attacks should that perceived cooperation continue.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.
Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
Hammond South Bend Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana - The United States Attorney's Office announced that a Grand Jury sitting in Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictments on January 22, 2014:
Shawn C. Norman, 54, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a three count Indictment with distribution of heroin on or about October 4, 2013, and November 20, 2013, and possession with intent to distribute heroin on or about December 20, 2013. The Indictment also alleges forfeiture of United States currency. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Sheila Robinson, 49, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a twenty count Superseding
Indictment with wire fraud and making a false claim on or about January 18, 2012, January 26,
2012, January 31, 2012, February 13, 2012, February 15, 2012, February 29, 2012, April 23,
2012, and August 6, 2012; mail fraud on or about March 2, 2012, and aggravated identity theft on or about February 13, 2012, February 15, 2012, and August 6, 2012. These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service and United States Postal Inspection Service. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lovita Morris King and Deborah M. Leonard.
Deantre L. Rogers, 35, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a three count Indictment with distribution of cocaine on or about October 1, 2013, distribution of cocaine base, “crack” on or about November 22, 2013, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine on or about December 20, 2013. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Christopher R. Smith, 30, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a single count
Indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm on or about December 30, 2013. The
Indictment also alleges forfeiture of a firearm, ammunition and a magazine. These charges were filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
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 – South BendRead the Press Release
South Bend, Indiana —The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
PLEAS:
LaShaun Murry, 33, of Michigan City, Indiana, pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein to the felony offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 Drug Enforcement Administration.Sentencing has been set for 4/17/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Schaffer.
Silvino Alonso-Pineda, 37, of South Bend, Indiana pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein to the felony offense of illegally re-entering the United States after being deported and having a prior aggravated felony as well as possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.Sentencing has been set for 4/23/2014.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Donald Schmid.
Vernado Malone, 37, of Indianapolis, Indiana pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Christopher A. Nuechterlein to the felony offense of mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. Magistrate Nuechterlein 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 4/17/2014.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:
Taja Anderson, 25, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 21 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release and to pay $13,131 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of being an accessory after the fact to bank robbery.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2013, Anderson, fully aware of a bank robbery, aided bank robbers, including Kendra Winston, and attempted to prevent an arrest.Anderson drove with the other involved persons to a parking lot near the bank in downtown South Bend. After the robbery, Anderson went with the robbers to a casino to “clean” the money that was stolen from the bank. She also allowed the involved individuals to stay at her residence after the theft.Anderson accepted money as payment for her part in attempting to conceal the crime.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.
Kendra Winston, 25, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by District Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 21 months imprisonment with 2 years supervised release and to pay $13,131.00 in restitution, after pleading guilty to the felony offense of with armed bank robbery.According to documents filed in this case, in April 2013, Winston aided in the robbery of a bank in South Bend, Indiana.Specifically, Winston drove with the robber and Taja Anderson to the bank in downtown South Bend on April 11, 2013. After the bank was robbed, Winston and the others involved drove away from the bank and Winston was to dispose of the vehicle. 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.
Week in Review – HammondRead the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - The United States Attorney’s Office announced the following activity in Federal Court:
INDICTMENTS:
Robert Barker, 28, of Calumet City, Illinois, was charged with six counts of making false statements during the purchase of firearms and six counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.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 Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Gerardo Mendez, 26, address unknown in Illinois, was charged with passing counterfeit obligations.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Rita Law, 55, of Chicago, Illinois, was charged with two counts of human trafficking and servitude and one count of transporting for the purpose of prostitution. These charges were filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Susan Collins.
Edward Olszewski, of Hobart, Indiana, a defendant in the case US v Law et al., was charged with one count of transporting for the purpose of prostitution.This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.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.
PLEAS:
Salvador Chavez, 34, of Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty before Chief Judge Philip Simon to the felony offense of conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity. Sentencing has been set for 6/20/14. This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the East Chicago Police Department and the Hammond Police Department.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Nozick.
Cedric Payton, 39, of Indianapolis, Indiana, pled guilty before Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Sentencing has been set for 4/10/14.This charge was filed as a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Padilla.
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:
Demetrius Moore, 48, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 3 years of probation and $16,283.00 in restitution after pleading guilty to the felony offense of theft of government property.According to documents filed in this case, from January of 2009 through February of 2011, Moore periodically filed for unemployment benefits with the State of Indiana at a time he knew he was not legally eligible for benefits because he was employed. This case was the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Stewart.
Jose Ortiz, 32, of Chicago, Illinois, a defendant in the case US v Yepez et al., was sentenced by Chief Judge Philip Simon to 15 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine.This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration HIDTA Task Force.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang-Adiga.
Scott Filbey, 48, of Walton, Kentucky, was sentenced by District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to two concurrent terms of 342 months imprisonment and 20 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of the felony offense of production of child pornography.This case resulted from an investigation by members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Indiana State Police.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jill Koster.
Simmuel Mobley, 46, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 30 months imprisonment and 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Mobley has a prior felony conviction for dealing in marijuana in 2003. 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 Thomas McGrath.
Antonio Wilson, 31, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by Senior District Judge Rudy Lozano to 15 months imprisonment and 6 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of distribution of crack cocaine within 1000 feet of a school.This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Gary 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 felony sentencings that occurred this week before District Judge Theresa L. Springmann:
Juan Sandoval, 46, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 168 months imprisonment with 6 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and 120 months of imprisonment with 2 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, both sentences to run concurrently.According to documents filed in this case, in March 2013, Sandoval’s residence was searched by law enforcement.Officers discovered two hidden shotguns, a handgun and ammunition.When arrested, Sandoval had approximately $8,000 cash in his possession and admitted to possession of the guns and dealing in methamphetamine.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.
Ronald Bodley, 42, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 46 months of imprisonment and 2 years supervised release after pleading guilty to the felony offense of possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine.According to documents filed in this case, Bodley was stopped for a traffic violation and claimed he was ill during the stop.During a medical examination, a law enforcement officer observed a bag containing white powder sticking out of Bodley’s coat pocket.The bag was seized and field tested positive for cocaine with an approximate weight of 124.8 grams.Bodley was arrested and his residence searched.During the search, law enforcement discovered large amounts of drugs and money, including more than a kilogram of cocaine and more than $30,000 in cash.This case was the result of an investigation by Drug Enforcement Administration.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.