Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 128 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – James Dockins, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Dockins was sentenced to 128 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in February 2024, Dockins received a package that contained over 400 grams of fentanyl pills. He stored the fentanyl pills in his home in a cabinet alongside other fentanyl pills that were packaged and ready for distribution. When Dockins left his home, law enforcement attempted to stop him, but he fled in his car through a residential neighborhood and surrendered after he had crashed his car into a fire hydrant.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service including the USPIS Forensic Laboratory, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, the Mishawaka Police Department, the St. Joseph County Police Department, and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.
Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Jorge Luis Jaramillo, 20 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to one count of distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Jaramillo was sentenced to 60 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in May 2023, Jaramillo knowingly distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. At the time of the drug delivery, Jaramillo was 18 years old, and he transported almost two kilograms of methamphetamine from Indianapolis for distribution in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Indiana State Police; the Fort Wayne Police Department; the Allen County Sheriff’s Department; and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Cedar Lake Man Sentenced to 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Jonathon M. Koskela, 21 years old, of Cedar Lake, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Koskela was sentenced to 144 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $83,500 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, from September 10, 2023, through January 21, 2024, Koskela knowingly distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (Chicago and Charlotte), with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Cedar Lake Police Department, and the Boone Police Department, Boone, North Carolina. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Earl Mines, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Mines was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in July 2024, Mines sold nearly 100 grams of a substance containing fentanyl. This occurred while Mines was on federal supervised release following his conviction for possessing with intent to distribute heroin, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and for possessing a stolen firearm.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Former Calumet Township Trustee Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Kimberly Robinson, age 57, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to a single count of wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Robinson was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay $11,200 in restitution. Robinson had previously resigned her position as Calumet Township Trustee.
According to documents in the case, Robinson served as the elected Calumet Township Trustee from 2015 to 2024. The Calumet Township Trustee’s Office is a local governmental entity whose primary mission is to provide public assistance to individuals and families in need. In her position as Trustee, Robinson illegally used approximately $11,200 of Township assistance funds, to pay rent for her own personal residence from funds that were meant to be disbursed to aid people in need.
Robinson pled guilty pursuant to a plea agreement to resolve the criminal charges. By resigning and entering into a plea agreement before being indicted, Robinson demonstrated that she accepted responsibility for her criminal conduct
The public is reminded it may contact the United States Attorney’s Office at ([email protected]) or the FBI in Merrillville, Indiana at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) if they have information to report related to public corruption within the Northern District of Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Philip C. Benson.
Gary Man Sentenced to 71 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Kyran Jujuan Hawthorne, 31 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Hawthorne was sentenced to 71 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on May 26, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Hawthorne’s residence in Gary. Officers recovered two firearms with high-capacity magazines attached to them. Hawthorn’s criminal history revealed he has prior felony convictions for resisting law enforcement, attempted robbery, forgery, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- The United States Attorney’s Office in Northern Indiana will commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 6–12, 2025, in part, by participating in the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week online Candlelight Vigil to honor crime victims.
This year’s NCVRW theme—Connecting Healing—recognizes that shared humanity drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins.
This annual observance challenges us to build a world where every connection built through KINSHIP — between survivors, advocates, and communities — holds the potential to heal. It asks us to ensure that resources are available to all survivors and that we show up for one another with empathy and intention.
Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay said, “Ensuring victims’ connection to services and awareness of their rights is paramount in the healing process. Last year, our victim advocates made over 2,400 victim contacts by several methods, including in person, email, text, and phone calls. In addition, they issued over 50,000 victim notifications in federal cases, diligently keeping the victims’ informed of their rights throughout the Court process.”
The United States Attorney’s Office in Northern Indiana will commemorate NCVRW 2025 with the following events:
On April 9, 2025, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will host the 2025 NCVRW Candlelight Vigil to pay tribute to victims of crime and the many dedicated professionals and volunteers who advocate on their behalf.
- Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. eastern time
Location: ovc.ojp.gov/live or justice.gov/live
NCVRW began in 1981 to honor victims and survivors of crime, raise awareness of victims’ rights and services and recognize the dedication of those who work with crime victims.
For more ideas on supporting crime victims, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.
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- Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Ohio Man Sentenced to 198 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Kortney Moore, 27 years old, of West Akron, Ohio, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Moore was sentenced to 198 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, in February 2024, Moore, who was on federal supervised release, used the Indiana Toll Road to traffic methamphetamine and fentanyl. Moore had been traveling from Ohio to North Dakota when law enforcement stopped him in Indiana and recovered over 700 grams of pure methamphetamine and over 40 grams of fentanyl from his vehicle. Moore has prior felony convictions for attempted possession with intent to deliver crack cocaine, possession with intent to deliver marijuana, and possession of a loaded illegal machinegun as a convicted felon.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office, and the St. Joseph County Cyber Crimes Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 125 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Ezequiel Rosa-Hernandez, 47 years old, of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Rosa-Hernandez was sentenced to 125 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in April 2022, Rosa-Hernandez drove from his home in Pennsylvania to Chicago to obtain a kilogram of cocaine intended for distribution in Pennsylvania. On his way back home, he was stopped in Indiana by law enforcement and the kilogram of cocaine was discovered.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Portage Woman sentenced to 21 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Kathelia Hopkins, 48 years old, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to wire fraud announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Hopkins was sentenced to 21 months in prison and was ordered to pay $424,250 in restitution for her role in submitting dozens of fraudulent applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to the Small Business Administration (SBA) on behalf of herself and others.
According to documents in the case, between June and August 2020, Hopkins submitted applications to the SBA claiming that the Covid-19 epidemic was creating an economic hardship on her business and other businesses owned by her family, friends, and others. The investigation revealed that these applications were falsified and the businesses that Hopkins claimed were entitled to funds either did not exist or did not qualify for EIDL loan funds. In total, Hopkins sought to extract over $1,250,000 from the disaster loan program and the SBA disbursed over $420,000 relying on her false claims. Hopkins’ personal profit from the fraud scheme was estimated to be $185,040.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath.
Crown Point Man Sentenced to 135 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Adam Lee Taylor, 45 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to distributing child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Taylor was sentenced to 135 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $6,000 in monetary assessments that support services for victims of human trafficking and child sexual abuse.
According to documents in the case, in November 2022, Taylor distributed a series of videos containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to members of a group chat on an encrypted messaging platform. Federal agents subsequently executed a search warrant at Taylor’s residence and discovered additional CSAM in Taylor’s possession.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary D. Heater.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Portage Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – David Allen Swisher, 29 years old, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to possessing child pornography with a prior conviction, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Swisher was sentenced to 120 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on or about June 23, 2023, Swisher knowingly possessed multiple videos and several images of child sexual abuse material after having being convicted of possession of child pornography in the State of Indiana.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Porter County Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, and the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nadia D. Wardrip and Steven J. Lupa.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Leontis Cornelius, 44 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty of two counts of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial in 2023, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Cornelius was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Cornelius possessed firearm on two occasions. In May 2020, he was engaged in a shootout outside his house when he fired seven .45 caliber rounds at a moving vehicle. Later, in June 2021, he carried a loaded rifle with a large capacity magazine while in another person’s yard in the middle of the night. Cornelius has multiple prior felony convictions, including discharging a firearm toward a building, assault with a dangerous weapon, delivery/manufacturing of cocaine, and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, any of which prohibit him from possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, the St. Joseph County Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Texas Man Sentenced to 200 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Elijah Shores, 30 years old, of Irving, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl, possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Shores was sentenced to 200 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Chicago Man Sentenced to Consecutive Time in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Nurldon Green, III, 32 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to Failure to Surrender for Service of Sentence, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Green was sentenced to 14 months in prison, consecutive to his sentence of 27 months in the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and two years of supervised release in federal case number 2:22-CR-116.
According to documents in the case, on February 22, 2024, Green was sentenced in his previous federal case for Theft of Mail to a term of 27 months in the BOP, followed by two years of supervised release, and was ordered to appear to serve his sentence on April 4, 2024, either at the BOP institution to which he was assigned or to the United States Marshals Service in Hammond, Indiana. On April 4, 2024, Green willfully failed to report or surrender at either location. Green was subsequently located and arrested on August 31, 2024, and has remained in custody since that date.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 121 Months in Prison for Violent CrimesRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Trashawn Heard, 29 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund on his plea of guilty to robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Heard was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on July 25, 2022, Heard entered a gas station in Hammond, Indiana, and pointed a handgun with an extended magazine at the employees. After demanding and receiving money, Heard attempted to leave but was shot in the shoulder. He dropped the money and the firearm, fled the scene, crashed his car and was taken to a hospital where he was arrested. At the time he committed the robbery, Heard was on parole for three robbery convictions from 2017.
This case was investigated by the FBI/GRIT Task Force with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 75 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Makai Boyce, 19 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing a machinegun, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Boyce was sentenced to 75 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in December 2023, Boyce possessed a stolen handgun with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device, or “switch,” capable of firing multiple bullets automatically. Boyce fired the machinegun and struck an occupied residence. Two days later, he led police on a lengthy foot chase during which he discarded the machinegun in a backyard doghouse surrounded by children’s toys.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the South Bend Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph P. Falvey and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jalen Pearson, 31 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing 5 or more grams of methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Pearson was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in June 2023, Pearson distributed approximately 3 pounds of a high purity of methamphetamine for nearly $7,000.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Former Indiana Resident Sentenced to 27 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Michelle L. Bernskoetter, 37 years old, of Wheeling, Missouri, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to five counts of wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Bernskoetter was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $402,513.96 in restitution to the victim of the offense.
According to documents in the case, between June 12, 2020, and July 5, 2022, while employed as a financial manager, Bernskoetter devised a scheme to defraud and obtain money from her employer. She abused her position of trust by embezzling funds from her employer to pay her own personal credit card debt, resulting in a loss of over $400,000.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
Lake Station Man Sentenced to 360 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Matthew A. Bugielski, 26 years old, of Lake Station, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Sexual Exploitation of Children, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Bugielski was sentenced to 360 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to the victim of the offense.
According to documents in the case, on or about June 19, 2023, Bugielski produced a sexually explicit image of a minor by employing, using, and inducing the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. Further, Bugielski distributed that sexually explicit image to others over the internet. On occasions separate from June 19, 2023, Bugielski distributed other images and videos of child sexual abuse materials over the internet to others.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Roanoke Police Department, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, the Lake Station Police Department, and the New Chicago Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Minnesota Woman Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Kirsten M. Blackwell, 63 years old, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud and money laundering, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Blackwell was sentenced to 84 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $3,628,192.67 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, Blackwell conspired with others to defraud victims of millions of dollars and then laundered the fraud proceeds through various bank accounts she had created between 2019 and 2022. Through a variety of schemes, victim businesses and individuals were deceived into sending money to accounts under Blackwell’s control. After laundering the money through her accounts, Blackwell sent fraud proceeds to an overseas conspirator. In total, the conspirators attempted to steal over $5 million dollars, and Blackwell laundered well over $3 million dollars in fraud proceeds that had been obtained through business email compromise schemes, romance and military scams, as well as fraud against a government program.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
Mexican Citizen sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Luis Alberto Sanchez-Espinoza, 39 years old, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to distributing cocaine and illegal re-entry, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Sanchez-Espinoza was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on June 5, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on I-94 and recovered cocaine from Sanchez-Espinoza’s vehicle. Sanchez-Espinoza had previously been removed from the United States on multiple occasions. His most recent removal occurred on March 23, 2022, after the completion of his prison sentence for a distribution of methamphetamine conviction out of the Western District of Virginia.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Indiana State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 220 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – John Gierek, 35 years old, of Streamwood, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to two counts of Using an Interstate Commerce Facility in the Commission of a Murder-for-Hire, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Gierek was sentenced to 220 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between October 2023 and March 2024, Gierek, through a series of telephone calls, solicited an acquaintance to murder multiple individuals in exchange for a quantity of drugs and the partial forgiveness of a drug debt. Gierek also gave the acquaintance tape, pepper spray, and a taser to help carry out the murders.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Allen County Police Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Streamwood, Illinois Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Fort Wayne Woman Sentenced to 36 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Lorraina M. Rakes, 24 years old, of Fort Wayne Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to providing firearms to a person she knew was a convicted felon, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Rakes was sentenced to 36 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between April 9 and 26, 2024, Rakes sold or disposed of three firearms to an individual she knew was a convicted felon; a person who could not legally purchase or possess a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Hamed A. Martin, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Martin was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in July 2022, Martin distributed methamphetamine on several occasions. A search warrant executed at his residence in August 2022, resulted in the recovery of a firearm along with evidence of drug distribution.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Also assisting in the investigation were the Drug Enforcement Administration and the DEA’s North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Jonathon Buck Eason, 37 years old, of Fort Wayne Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Eason was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on October 22, 2022, Fort Wayne police officers responded to a 911 call for assistance. Upon arrival, they spoke to an individual who reported being battered and threatened with a firearm by Easton. When Officers located Easton at his residence, they recovered a firearm from his pocket. Based on a prior felony conviction, Easton was prohibited from possessing the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 292 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Dontae L. Salter, 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Salter was sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Salter distributed several pounds of methamphetamine from June through October of 2023.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives also assisting with the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Northern District of Indiana USAO Collects over $5,219,650 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2024Read the Press Release
Hammond, Indiana - Acting U.S. Attorney Tina L. Nommay announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana collected $5,219,650 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $2,667,519 was collected in criminal actions and $2,552,131 was collected in civil actions.
The Northern District of Indiana also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $1,925,938 from cases pursued jointly. Of this amount, $2,200 was collected in criminal actions and $1,923,738 was collected in civil actions. For example, one of the civil cases handled in conjunction with the Environmental Enforcement Section of the Department of Justice, resulted in the recovery of $1,018,433 as part of a settlement agreement reached in the matter of United States v. Cleveland-Cliffs Burns Harbor, LLC.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victims, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the Northern District of Indiana, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $855,895 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2024. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
Fort Wayne Man Convicted at Trial of Firearm and Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Late Yesterday, Detric L. Cummings, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found guilty of firearm and drug trafficking offenses following a four-day jury trial, presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Cummings was charged in an indictment with a total of eight counts, and prior to the start of the trial, he entered a plea of guilty to five counts of distributing controlled substances, including methamphetamine and fentanyl. Cummings went to trial on the remaining counts, and a jury found him guilty of those remaining counts, which included possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. The jury also found Cummings to have previously committed three violent felonies on occasions different from one another, making him an armed career criminal under federal law.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled on a later date on all counts. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Auburn Police Department The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lesley J. Miller Lowery and Justin C. Sheridan.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
LaPorte Brothers Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Raymond Calvin Smith, 27 years old, and Bruce Milik Smith, 25 years old, brothers from LaPorte, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to federal felony charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Raymond Smith was sentenced to 70 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Bruce Smith was sentenced to 39 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. The two brothers were ordered to pay $723,832.64 in restitution to the victims of their offense. Raymond Smith was also ordered to pay $162,928.62 in restitution to the IRS.
According to documents in the case, from about January 2021 to December 2021, the Smith brothers operated an elaborate fraud scheme using Indiana mobile sports wagering applications. Using personal information of victims, such as bank account numbers and passwords, they set up dozens of accounts in victims’ names on at least 8 different sports wagering applications. Using sports wagering applications, they funneled money from victims’ bank accounts to themselves. With the personal information of approximately 60 victims, the Smith brothers stole a total of $723,832.64, and unsuccessfully attempted to steal an additional $930,782.00. Both Smith brothers pled guilty to the mail fraud scheme while Raymond Smith also pled guilty to evading taxes on the proceeds he received in 2021.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Indiana Gaming Commission. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 228 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Adam Motheral, 50 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Motheral was sentenced to 228 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between October 2023 and February 2024, Motheral sold four firearms and over 400 grams of high purity methamphetamine to buyers in Elkhart. A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of approximately 150 grams of methamphetamine and nine additional firearms. Motheral has an extensive criminal history which includes 4 prior felony and 12 prior misdemeanor convictions.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory, and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement Unit, the Elkhart Police Department, the South Bend Police Department, and the LaGrange, Illinois Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 58 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Andre Anderson-Dawson, 41 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Anderson-Dawson was sentenced to 58 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to case documents, in December 2019, Anderson-Dawson violated a protective order while armed with a stolen firearm. Police recovered the 9-millimeter firearm. Anderson-Dawson, previously convicted of a felony, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case. He pled guilty to the federal charge in October 2023, but while on releasee pending sentencing, was allegedly involved in conduct resulting in 3 state court felony domestic battery charges.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Michigan City Police Department and the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Justice Department Secures Agreement Preventing Indiana Exhibitor and Dog Breeder from Violating the Animal Welfare ActRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — In a consent decree entered today by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana, Indiana exhibitor and dog breeder, Vernon D. Miller, agreed to not apply for or engage in any activity that requires a Department of Agriculture (USDA) license for two years. If Miller is relicensed in the future, he must comply with Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations and standards necessary to provide humane and lawful care to the animals he exhibits and sells.
A complaint filed in October alleged that Miller — individually and doing business as the Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park in Shipshewana, Indiana — had violated the AWA by failing to provide adequate veterinary care, safe and hospitable enclosures, appropriate enrichment and sanitary housing, food and water to his animals. The complaint also alleged that Miller had failed to maintain legally required records.
At the time of the filing of the complaint, Miller had been cited for 90 AWA violations in just over a year, the highest number of citations for any USDA-licensed facility during that time period (2023-2024). Miller’s violations impacted over 300 animals that he exhibited to the public — including deer, zebra, exotic birds and primates — and dozens of dogs and puppies that he bred for sale as pets.
The citations for multiple violations included unsanitary conditions (including stalls piled high with feces and food dishes coated in grime or mold), and failing to provide animals with sufficient shelter, failing to properly vaccinate puppies and failing to provide veterinary care for animals with illnesses or open wounds. The complaint alleged that such conditions had likely led to numerous animal deaths, with at least seven animals dying in the few months prior to the filing of the case.
USDA suspended Miller’s license for 21 days starting on Oct. 9. The court entered a temporary restraining order against Miller on Oct. 28, requiring him to comply with multiple AWA regulations and standards, provide records and documentation to help monitor compliance and refrain from buying, selling, euthanizing or exhibiting animals without the consent of the United States or the court. The temporary restraining order expired on Dec. 2.
“The maltreatment of animals entrusted to Mr. Miller’s care is a despicable act that deserves just intervention,” said Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. “We will continue to work with our federal partners to identify and hold accountable those exhibitors and dog breeders who provide inhumane care to animals in violation of the Animal Welfare Act.”
“USDA is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of animals protected under the Animal Welfare Act,” said Deputy Administrator Sarah Helming for USDA’s Animal Care program. “The partnership between USDA and DOJ helps to ensure enforcement of the AWA regulations for those who put regulated animals at risk.”
In addition to not applying for or engaging in activity requiring a USDA license for at least two years, the consent decree, in effect for five years, outlines that Miller will allow USDA inspectors limited access to the facility, if it is open to the public, and will produce certain records for compliance monitoring during any time he is not licensed. If Miller applies for and receives a USDA license in the future, he agrees to comply with AWA regulations and standards that he had previously violated and to maintain veterinary and other accurate and complete records.
USDA investigated the case and filed a parallel administrative enforcement action.
Senior Trial Attorney Devon Flanagan and Trial Attorneys Kamela Caschette, Angela Mo and Chris Carrara of the Justice Department’s Wildlife and Marine Resources Section prosecuted the case, with support from Assistant U.S. Attorney Dirk DeLor for the Northern District of Indiana and USDA’s Office of General Counsel and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Sentence for Illegal Re-entryRead the Press Release
HAMMOND –Eulises Yobani Rafael-Garcia, age 28, a citizen of Mexico and resident of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon following his plea of guilty to the felony charge of illegal re-entry.
Rafael-Garcia, who has been in custody since his arrest on April 5, 2024, was sentenced to time served and ordered transferred to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to documents in the case, Rafael-Garcia was previously removed from the United States three times and has a prior conviction for misdemeanor illegal entry. Additionally, during the investigation, Rafael-Garcia admitted to having previous ties to drug-trafficking organizations.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with support from the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers and assistance from the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the United States Marshals Service, Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis Sohn.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 10 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Oscar Valdivia-Salas, age 35, a citizen of Mexico and resident of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to a felony charge of Illegal Reentry, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Valdivia-Salas was sentenced to 10 months in prison, 1 year of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to documents in the case, Valdivia-Salas has a previous felony conviction for Illegal Reentry out of the Western District of Missouri and was removed from the United States in 2018.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.
Goshen Man Found Guilty After 3-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Late yesterday, Orlando Rodriguez-Roman, 42 years old, of Goshen, Indiana, was convicted of three felony counts after a three-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Rodriguez-Roman was found guilty of attempted possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and unlawful possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 29, 2025.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service including the USPS Forensic Laboratory Services, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement Unit and the Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lydia T. Lucius and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Fort Wayne Man Convicted at Trial of Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Neon L. Frazier, 50 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled by separate order. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey R. Speith and Dawn Ransom.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
New Jersey Man Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Juan Aquino, 53 years old, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Aquino was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in December 2023 Aquino obtained four kilograms of cocaine from Colorado and was transporting it back to New Jersey in hidden vehicle compartments when he was stopped by law enforcement on the Indiana Toll Road. At the time of the offense, Aquino was on court release awaiting the start of a 63-month term of federal imprisonment for distributing fentanyl and conspiring to distribute fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office and the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph P. Falvey and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Former Gary Mayor Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Jerome Prince, age 60, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon following his plea of guilty to an Information charging wire fraud announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
According to documents in the case, Prince, who served from 2020 to 2023 as Mayor of Gary, Indiana, illegally used approximately $26,750 of his campaign committee funds for a non-campaign purpose of financing the purchase of his personal residence.
“By entering into a plea agreement to the criminal Information, former Mayor Prince demonstrated that he accepted responsibility for his criminal conduct,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “It is in the best interests of our society, the citizens of the Northern District of Indiana, and criminal defendants themselves, when individuals swiftly and completely accept responsibility for their crimes, as Mr. Prince did here. I want to thank the FBI for the thorough investigation which supported this prosecution.”
“Serving the public as mayor is a privilege, not an opportunity to exploit the position for personal gain. This sentence should send a clear message that public officials who betray the trust of their communities will be held accountable for their actions,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI is committed to investigating and uncovering corruption at all levels of government and will continue to work diligently to ensure those who engage in illegal conduct face responsibility for their decisions.”
The United States Attorney continues to urge the public to come forward and contact the United States Attorney’s Office ([email protected]) or the FBI in Merrillville, Indiana 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) if they have information related to public corruption within the Northern District of Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Philip C. Benson.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 108 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Clinton Williams, 48 years old, of Chicago, Illinois was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Williams was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between August 2021 and June 2022, Williams was involved in a conspiracy to distribute heroin laced with fentanyl. As part of that conspiracy, Williams was personally involved in five controlled buys of the substance.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth and Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay.
Arizona Man Sentenced to 240 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Alexander J. Short, 26 years old, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Short was sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from 2020 through 2023, Short engaged in a conspiracy to supply fentanyl pills to a distribution group in the Northern District of Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department, the Glendale (Arizona) Police Department, and the Allen County (Indiana) Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson Announces DepartureRead the Press Release
HAMMOND –United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson publicly announces today, effective at 11:59 p.m. on January 17, 2025, he will be stepping down as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. U.S. Attorney Johnson, on December 16, 2024, tendered resignation letters to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and United States Attorney General Merrick Garland.
United States Attorney Johnson said, “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. I wish to thank President Biden, Attorney General Garland and Senator Young and former Senator Braun for the opportunity to serve the citizens of the United States as this District’s U.S. Attorney. Serving as the Northern District’s U.S. Attorney is the capstone of my career in public service.”
U.S. Attorney Johnson was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. on July 26, 2021 and unanimously confirmed by the Senate on September 30, 2021 for the Northern District of Indiana United States Attorney position. He previously was an Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Indiana from 1986 to August 2020. During his tenure with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Indiana, Mr. Johnson held numerous supervisory/management positions, including Chief of the Civil Division from 1997 to 2010 and twice serving as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney from (June 2010 to March 2017 and October 2017 to August 2020). Mr. Johnson, pursuant to the Vacancy Reform Act, served as the District’s Acting U.S. Attorney from March 2017 to October 2017. Before joining the United States Attorney’s Office in January 1986, Mr. Johnson was a Trial Attorney in the Employment Litigation Section of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C. from August 1980 to December 1985.
Mr. Johnson, a Gary, Indiana native, received his J.D. from Valparaiso University Law School in 1980 and his B.A. from Valparaiso University in 1976.
Under the Vacancy Reform Act, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Tina L. Nommay, who has been with the Department of Justice for over 30 years, will assume the role of Acting U.S. Attorney following U.S. Attorney Johnson’s departure.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Zavian I. Kizer, 23 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after he pled guilty to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Kizer was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from 2020 through 2022, Kizer obtained fentanyl pills in Arizona for transportation and distribution in the Northern District of Indiana. He had recruited various individuals to transport the pills to Indiana and thereafter ship the money back to Arizona.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department, the Glendale (Arizona) Police Department, and the Allen County (Indiana) Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 360 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Kendrick D. Bates, 40 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after a jury found him guilty of distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and maintaining a drug-involved premises, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Bates was sentenced to 360 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Bates distributed methamphetamine in late 2021 and also maintained a drug distribution house from September 2021 through March 2022. When his residence was searched in March 2022, several firearms were recovered. Since Bates had a previous felony conviction for dealing in cocaine, narcotic drug, or methamphetamine, he was prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Fort Wayne Police Laboratory, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Teresa L Ashcraft.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Carmel Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Gregory L. Thorpe, Jr., 28 years old, of Carmel, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to making a materially false and fictitious statement during the acquisition of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Thorpe was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in the summer of 2021, Thorpe purchased a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer and also attempted to make other firearm purchases while providing false information regarding his address of residency during the purchases. Thereafter during a traffic stop in Hendricks County in May 2022, one of the firearms Thorpe purchased was recovered from the trunk of his vehicle along with 2.9 kilograms of fentanyl pills.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Hendricks County Sheriff Department and the Plainfield Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Two Men Sentenced for Firearms Illegally PossessedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Denzel Givens, 31 years old, and Christopher Rucker, 34 years old, both of South Bend, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty this week after each previously pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Givens was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Rucker was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in January 2024, Givens drove to an apartment complex parking lot in South Bend and backed the car into a parking spot facing a lane. Rucker was in the car with Givens. When a specific car drove down the lane, Givens started shooting two firearms at the car, and that car’s occupant returned fire. Givens fired nearly 20 rounds, with some entering the occupied car and some entering the occupied apartment buildings behind the car. After the shooting was over, Rucker took both guns fired by Givens and hid them in a nearby apartment. Both Givens and Rucker had previously been convicted of felony offenses, and as such, both were prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, and Indiana State Police Laboratory Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katelan McKenzie Doyle and Joseph P. Falvey.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Auburn Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Joshua J. Hardy, 35 years old, of Auburn, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to two counts of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of possessing a machinegun, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Hardy was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on multiple occasions between April 2023 and May 2024, law enforcement found Hardy in possession of machineguns and illegally possessed firearms. Due to a prior felony conviction, Hardy was prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.
This investigation culminated in Hardy’s arrest on April 25, 2024. Law enforcement attempted to pull Hardy over for having an active warrant, and Hardy fled in a motor vehicle. Hardy ultimately crashed the vehicle into a building and was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. Inside the vehicle Hardy was driving, officers located eight machinegun conversion devices. A machinegun conversion device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm and qualifies as a machinegun under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the help of the Auburn Police Department, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Garrett Police Department, the Hamilton Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Teresa L. Ashcraft.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – David L. Reynolds, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Reynolds was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Reynolds distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and less than 40 grams of fentanyl in August 2023.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 12 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Joseph Traver, 35 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to bank fraud and possession of stolen mail, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Traver was sentenced to 12 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between September 2023 and January 2024, Traver stole mail out of official collection boxes that were located outside the United States Post Office in Osceola, Indiana. He intercepted checks that had been mailed at that location from at least three identified victims and interrupted postal delivery of the mail. He also altered one check from the stolen mail matter and fraudulently deposited the check at a financial institution.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T. Jones.
LaPorte Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Matthew Frazier, 51 years old, of LaPorte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after being found guilty of possession of child pornography following a one-day trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Frazier was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 7 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in September 2022, Frazier was on probation for prior state court convictions of child exploitation and possession of child pornography. A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of an electronic device which contained 18 photos and 18 videos of child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Jerome W. McKeever.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov