Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 18 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Shawn Edwards, 34 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to wire fraud announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Edwards was sentenced to 18 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $189,850 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, between July 2020 and September 2021, Edwards was the leader and organizer of a fraud ring which stole checks that had been placed in the care of the United States Postal Service intended to be sent to local Indiana businesses. The payee on each stolen check was then altered so that the check could be cashed by Edwards or one of his associates. In total, Edwards and his associates were able to cash or deposit $189,850 in stolen funds over the time period of the scheme. Edwards’ co-defendant is scheduled to be sentenced later this year.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Office of Inspector General for the United States Postal Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath.
Nevada Man Sentenced to 150 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Joseph R. Quinones, 31 years old, of Reno, Nevada, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Quinones was sentenced to 150 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on November 14, 2023, the Fort Wayne Police Department was dispatched to a local fast-food restaurant regarding an individual with a firearm. Quinones, upset he could not order lunch items during the breakfast service, displayed a firearm and threatened employees. Law enforcement apprehended Quinones near the restaurant and located a loaded firearm on his person. Quinones has a prior felony conviction, as such, he is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
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 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.
Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 284 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Brandon James, 35 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
James was sentenced to 284 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in May 2019, James agreed with others to buy methamphetamine in California to bring back to the Midwest for distribution. James provided the cash to buy bulk methamphetamine at a low price. James then flew to California with several co-conspirators, obtained more than 15 kilograms of methamphetamine, and loaded it into a car. As the methamphetamine was being driven across the country, the car was stopped in Missouri, and the methamphetamine was discovered.
James’ co-defendants previously received the following sentences:
Benjamin Hicks was sentenced to 292 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release.
Terrence Reid was sentenced to 150 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release.
Kelvin Franklin was sentenced to 108 months of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with the assistance of the Mishawaka Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the former St. Joseph County Drug Investigation Unit, and the Missouri State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
Gary Man Convicted of Drug Conspiracy and Using a Firearm to Commit MurderRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Devonte Hodge, 32 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was found guilty of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (cocaine and 100 grams of heroin) and using a firearm to commit murder following a 6-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Hodge is scheduled for sentencing December 5, 2024. 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 FBI/GRIT Task Force and the ATF/HIDTA Task Force with the assistance of the Hobart Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, the Gary Police Department, the Kokomo Police Department, and the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Nozick and Joel Mathur.
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.
Marion Man Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE–Kenneth E. Smith, 46 years old, of Marion, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing a controlled substance with intent to distribute, carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Smith was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on March 12, 2020, Smith possessed crack cocaine intended for distribution. On this same date, Smith was carrying a firearm as a means of protecting his drug trafficking activity. Smith’s possession of the firearm was also prohibited because he was previously convicted of a felony offense.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Indiana State Police, and the Grant County Joint Effort Against Narcotics (JEAN), which is a task force composed of the Grant County Sheriff’s Department and the Marion Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.
Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to 235 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Guadalupe Reyes, Jr., 50 years old, a citizen of Mexico living in Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Reyes was sentenced to 235 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on three occasions between August and October 2022, Reyes oversaw the shipment of more than 3,000 fentanyl pills through the U.S. mail from the Northern District of Indiana to a buyer in Texas. Reyes participated in phone calls with the buyer to negotiate the amount and price of the pills, and then recruited and compensated co-defendant, Jerry Edwards, to mail the pills from various locations within the Northern District of Indiana. Reyes was arrested in November 2022, after arranging a person-to-person sale of 10,000 fentanyl pills. In total, Reyes distributed over 1,400 grams of fentanyl.
“This case demonstrates that drug traffickers will use every available means - including the U.S. mail – to distribute their illegal product throughout the country. My Office, in partnership with the DEA and other agencies, will investigative and prosecute all persons who engage in the illegal narcotics trade,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “These coordinated efforts are particularly important when fentanyl, a substance that is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, is being trafficked.”
“Fentanyl remains the deadliest drug threat facing our country. Often found in fake pills, illicit fentanyl was responsible for almost 70% of the nearly 111,000 fatal drug overdoses and poisonings in our country last year. One fake pill containing 2 milligrams of illicit fentanyl is enough to kill,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alfred A. Cooke III. “Together with its partners from the St. Joseph County Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, South Bend Police Department, Indiana State Police, Elkhart County ICE Unit, and other federal agencies, the DEA continues its pursuit of the cruel and wicked who are fueling northern Indiana with this poison we call fentanyl. Today’s federal sentencing in South Bend should be a sign that drug trafficking – and fentanyl - are not welcomed here. The collaborative spirit among law enforcement in northern Indiana is strong and we remain committed to the destruction of drug trafficking organizations in our region.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the St. Joseph County Police Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, the South Bend Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the Elkhart County ICE Unit and the DEA North and South-Central Laboratories. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katelan McKenzie Doyle and Joel Gabrielse.
Northern District of Indiana US Attorney’s Office to Participate in Community Events During National Night OutRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana will join community organizers, neighbors, and law enforcement partners to participate in National Night Out events on August 6, 2024. During this year’s National Night Out, United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson has directed staff to attend community events throughout the Northern District, which includes areas within Northwest Indiana, South Bend and Fort Wayne. Staff will be meeting residents, law enforcement and first responders during this yearly event.
“Community engagement events, such as the National Night Out, are essential building blocks for stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities we serve,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “I encourage everyone to participate in your community’s National Night Out events to foster the healthy, positive community and law enforcement partnership that is the bedrock of public safety.”
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country.
National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the United States Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.
Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.
For more information, visit https://natw.org/.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 188 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Deshon A. Jenkins, 37 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing a controlled substance and possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jenkins was sentenced to 188 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on September 7, 2023, Jenkins distributed over 200 grams of methamphetamine. On September 29, 2023, Jenkins was apprehended and found to be in possession of over 50 grams of methamphetamine which he intended to distribute. At the time of his apprehension, Jenkins led officers on a high-speed chase and threw a large bag of methamphetamine from his vehicle. After Jenkins crashed his vehicle, he was taken into custody and the controlled substance was recovered.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Allen County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin C. Sheridan.
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.
Merrillville Man Sentenced to 92 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Eric Crosslin, 37 years old, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Crosslin was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Crosslin sold cocaine on six separate occasions in September and October 2020. A search of Crosslin’s properties in Merrillville and Gary resulted in the recovery of firearms, cash, and cocaine. Crosslin’s criminal history revealed he has prior felony convictions for voluntary manslaughter, intimidation while drawing/using a deadly weapon, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Gary Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.
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.
Former Asset Manager Director of South Bend Housing Authority Sentenced to 135 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Albert Smith, 47 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud, six counts of bank fraud, two counts of wire fraud, and one count of federal program theft on November 1, 2023, following an eight-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Smith was sentenced to 135 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $3,030,940 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, the Housing Authority of South Bend (HASB) provides housing opportunities and services to the South Bend community, managing more than 800 public housing residential units. From approximately 2015 through 2019, Smith served as the Asset Manager Director of the HASB and reported directly to the Executive Director. He was found guilty of conspiring with those at the HASB and with outside contractors to defraud the HASB. The fraud scheme involved the issuance of HASB payment checks to four outside contractors for contracting work that had not actually occurred. These contractors would then deposit the HASB payment checks, withdraw a portion of each check in cash, and hand-deliver the cash back to co-conspirators at the HASB’s main office. Smith was involved in creating hundreds of fraudulent documents to conceal the fraud.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “Mr. Smith’s sentencing concludes the sentencing of those who schemed with Tonya Robinson, the former Executive Director of the South Bend Housing Authority, to steal federal housing funds to enrich themselves. Illegal schemes that purloin public money, defrauding taxpayers and jeopardizing tenants’ health and safety, will not be tolerated. My Office has a robust partnership with federal, state and local law enforcement and we will continue to work together to hold all such federal fraudsters accountable.”
“Federal funding for public housing should be used to help ensure all Americans have access to safe, affordable housing - not to enrich those who deprive these programs of their much-needed funding through fraud and theft,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “Today’s sentence shows that those who violate the public trust will be held accountable.”
“Albert Smith and his previously sentenced co-conspirators abused their positions of trust overseeing HUD money that was intended to provide housing assistance to some of the most vulnerable people in their community. Smith engaged in an egregious false billing and kickback scheme, lining his own pockets with scarce taxpayer dollars,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Machelle Jindra with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “The sentence handed down today serves as a warning to those willing to commit fraud involving HUD-funded programs that HUD OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to working with our Department of Justice, prosecutorial, law enforcement and oversight partners to aggressively pursue those who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of HUD programs.”
"Today's sentencing of Albert Smith underscores the grave consequences of public servants who abuse public office,” said Ramsey Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Public servants hold a sacred trust to serve the public with integrity. When they engage in criminal activities, they not only break the law but also erode public confidence in our institutions. This sentence reaffirms IRS CI and its fellow law enforcement partners’ commitment to holding such individuals accountable and restoring trust in our government.”
Smith’s co-defendants who were previously convicted received the following sentences:
Tonya Robinson was sentenced to a total term of 108 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $3,236,949.97 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Tyreisha Robinson was sentenced to time served, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $363,122.00 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Douglas Donley was sentenced to a total term of 27 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $303,920.00 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Archie Robinson III was sentenced to a total term of 6 months of imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $1,152,636.00 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Ronald Taylor, Jr. was sentenced to a total term of 44 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $1,714,956.87 in restitution to victims of the offense.
This case was investigated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander, Joel Gabrielse, and Jerome W. McKeever.
Colorado Man Sentenced to 240 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Kyle L. Miotke, 22 years old, of Englewood, Colorado, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Production of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Miotke was sentenced to 240 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on multiple occasions between October 18, 2021, and June 15, 2022, Miotke produced sexually explicit images of a minor by employing, using, and inducing the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indianapolis Field Office/Lafayette Resident Agency, with assistance from the Lafayette Police Department, the Tippecanoe County High Tech Crime Unit, and the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office. 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 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Frank Stork, 45 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Stork was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on January 3, 2021, law enforcement observed Stork driving a vehicle while committing multiple traffic violations. When they stopped him, he physically resisted the officers. A loaded .45 caliber firearm which had been reported stolen in 2019 was recovered from the vehicle. Stork’s criminal history revealed he had six prior felony convictions, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force with assistance from the Hobart Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.
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.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 78 MonthsRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Gustavo Adolfo Calderon Martinez, 28, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of heroin, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Calderon Martinez was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Calderon Martinez was distributing heroin, cocaine, and other drugs supplied directly from Mexico. On several occasions in April and May 2022, he sold cocaine and heroin to law enforcement, offering kilogram quantities for sale. He obtained drug loads from Mexico, and utilized another individual’s Fort Wayne residence as a stash house to store and package drugs for sale. A search resulted in the seizure of about 60 pounds of marijuana, over 670 grams of heroin, and almost 3.75 kilograms of cocaine at the stash house, and about three ounces of cocaine and $10,000 cash at his residence.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the FBI’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. 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.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 33 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Travis D. Napoleon, 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to two counts of providing false information during the purchase of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Napoleon was sentenced to 33 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between April 2021, and March 2023, Napoleon knowingly made false and fictitious statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of several firearms. Napoleon then transferred at least four of these firearms to individuals, who by law, were prohibited from possessing firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration 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 190 MonthsRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Late yesterday, Tywan Church, 43, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Church was sentenced to 190 months imprisonment, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on three separate occasions in September and October 2022, law enforcement purchased cocaine, cocaine base, and methamphetamine from Church at a Fort Wayne motel where he was living. A later search of his motel room yielded additional quantities of cocaine base, methamphetamine, fentanyl, a fentanyl analogue, and other drugs. Evidence of drug trafficking as well as a firearm was also found in his room.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration in coordination with 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.
South Bend Woman Sentenced to 12 Months in Prison and Ordered to Pay over Half a Million Dollars RestitutionRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Robin Hood, 59 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Hood was sentenced to 12 months in prison, 1 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $549,000 in restitution to the victim of the offense.
According to documents in the case, between 2016 and 2021, Hood embezzled at least $549,000.00 from her employer. Hood issued checks to herself and transferred money to herself from her employer’s accounts for funds to which she was not entitled.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced for Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Jeffrey Stevens, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to transmission of a threat in interstate commerce, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Stevens was sentenced to 15 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in November 2023, Stevens utilized a social media platform to transmit a message to the Fort Wayne Police Department. The message contained a threat to kill individuals of Jewish faith with the suggestion that there was nothing the local police could do about it.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 72 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Allory Smith, 42 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Smith was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in January 2023, Smith sold a rifle, a handgun, and ammunition to a buyer in the Michigan City area. Smith referred to the rifle as a “real license to kill” because he believed it had previously been reported stolen. Smith has several prior felony convictions, any one 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 the assistance of the LaPorte County VICE Unit (LCVICE). 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.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Zachary D. Barnes, 32 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Barnes was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between September 2020, and March 2022, Barnes conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
Wabash County Man Convicted of Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Roy Skeens, 40 years old, of Wabash County, 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 Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Skeens is scheduled for sentencing on October 17, 2024. 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 assistance from the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department, the Kosciusko County SWAT Team, the South Bend Police Department, and the Indiana Department of Correction. 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.
Merrillville Man Sentenced to 390 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Tyrone Johnson, 36 years old, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of crimes against children offenses, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Johnson was sentenced to 390 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, following a two-day trial in August 2023, a jury found Johnson guilty of two counts charged in the Second Superseding Indictment. Specifically, Johnson was convicted of sexual exploitation of a minor for the purpose of producing a visual depiction. He was also convicted of committing a felony offense involving a minor while being required by law to register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “Outcomes such as today’s sentencing are only possible when we have an alert and engaged public that willingly joins with law enforcement to prosecute those who would harm the most vulnerable members of our community. I want to thank our partners both within law enforcement and in the general public who helped bring this Defendant to justice and I encourage and implore anyone who suspects a child is being harmed to take action and report it to law enforcement.”
“Today, justice was served as the court handed down a fittingly significant sentence to Johnson for his involvement in the egregious crime of producing child pornography,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Sean Fitzgerald. “This decision underscores the profound gravity of such abhorrent acts and reaffirms HSI’s unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.”
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police (ICAC and Digital Forensics Lab), the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Special Victims Unit (Indiana), the Peru Police Department (Illinois), the LaSalle County Sheriff’s Office (Illinois), the City of LaSalle (Illinois) Police Department and the Illinois State Police Offender Registration Unit. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Morgan and Philip Benson, as well as former Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi, Molly Kelley and Jill Koster.
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 for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Yesterday, Jake Gregory Aarreberg, 50 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to theft of government funds, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Aarreberg was sentenced to 2 years of probation with 8 months home detention and was ordered to pay $226,389.56 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, from 2005 through 2023, Aarreberg falsely claimed to be a disabled military veteran and presented fraudulent military service records in order to obtain government benefits. As a result of his fraud, Aarreberg obtained VA medical benefits totaling over $96,000.00, and Social Security disability benefits totaling over $129,000.00.
This case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
Rhode Island Man Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Yesterday, Jesus Martinez-Salas, 44 years old, of Providence, Rhode Island, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Martinez-Salas was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in late 2022, Martinez-Salas shipped more than a pound of fentanyl from Rhode Island to a buyer in Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Andre L. Hutchins, 53 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Hutchins was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in November 2023, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant on a Fort Wayne, Indiana, residence associated with Hutchins. As a result of the search, agents and officers recovered over 3 kilograms of cocaine and evidence of controlled substance distribution. Hutchins has a previous federal conviction in 2012 for conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Teresa L Ashcraft.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 100 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Patrick N. Adams, 34 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Adams was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on two occasions in August 2023, Adams sold counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl. Additional counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl and a handgun were found during a subsequent search of his residence.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with 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.
Elkhart Woman Sentenced to 48 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Beatris Loredo, 44 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Loredo was sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Loredo conspired to receive through the United States mail two packages containing methamphetamine and heroin for distribution. In October 2022, law enforcement intercepted a package bound for Loredo that contained nearly 2 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. In January 2023, law enforcement intercepted a second package bound for Loredo which contained 77 grams of heroin. Both packages originated from Mexico, and Loredo admitted she intended to deliver the packages, but was unable to do so because they never arrived.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 168 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – DeVante Jiggetts, 30 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to two counts of robbery affecting commerce, one count of brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jiggetts was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
and was ordered to pay $300 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, in November and December 2022, Jiggetts, along with co-defendants Smith and Harris, robbed at gunpoint several cellular telephone stores and a convenience store. The stores were spread across LaPorte, Elkhart, and St. Joseph counties. On November 29, 2022, Jiggetts drove Smith to commit a robbery of a cell phone store in South Bend. After the robbery was over, officers tracked Jiggetts to an apartment complex and attempted to apprehend him. Jiggetts fled first in a vehicle and then on foot, all while carrying a 9mm handgun that was recovered by law enforcement. Jiggetts had a 2014 felony robbery conviction which prohibited him from possessing the firearm.
Co-defendant Treveon Smith was previously sentenced to 214 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $300.00 in restitution.
Co-defendant Taibian Harris was previously sentenced to 84 months of imprisonment followed by 2 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, the South Bend Police Department, the Elkhart Police Department, the Michigan City Police Department, and the LaPorte County Sheriff’s 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.
Detroit Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Vorheese D. Zanders, Jr., 32 years old, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Zanders was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Zanders and his fellow drug traffickers came from Detroit to Fort Wayne where they distributed fentanyl and other drugs throughout 2017 and 2018. Zanders supplied the fentanyl, and the group dealt drugs from several Fort Wayne hotels and residences, while commonly armed with firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Taylor Police Department in Michigan. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller and 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.
Texas Man Sentenced to 18 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Late Friday, Joshua Gregg, 48 years old, of Roanoke, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Gregg was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $175,643.92 in restitution to the victim of the offense.
According to documents in the case, from 2011 through 2020, Gregg committed a years-long fraud scheme against his former employer by claiming and receiving reimbursement for hundreds of thousands of dollars to which he was not entitled. Gregg traveled extensively as part of his job, and fraudulently submitted reimbursement requests exceeding the amount of the travel-related expenses for funds to which he was not entitled.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Robert Hollins Jr., 41 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 cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Hollins was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in November 2023, police recovered more than 350 grams of cocaine, 3 firearms, and more than $56,000 in Hollins’ home in South Bend. At a second location Hollins maintained in South Bend, police recovered more than 154 grams of fentanyl and 3 firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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 110 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – James Allen, 34 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Allen was sentenced to 110 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, at the time of his arrest on outstanding warrants in January 2023, Allen was found to have possessed three firearms; a loaded handgun, a loaded revolver and an AR-style pistol with an extended magazine, along with heroin and methamphetamine. Allen has two prior felony convictions, either 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 United States Marshals Service, the Indiana State Police including the ISP Laboratory, the St. Joseph County Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.
Lafayette Man Sentenced to Imprisonment term and ordered to pay $127,667 in RestitutionRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Yesterday, Tyrus Veals, 30, of Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Access Device Fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Veals was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $127,667 to the victims of the offense.
According to documents filed in the case, Veals used stolen debit card information to fraudulently obtain at least $127,667 from a bank account belonging to a retired Arizona couple. Veals connected the victims’ debit card to certain online gambling accounts he owned or controlled, enabling him to make regular withdrawals from the victims’ account over the course of approximately 6 months. Veals then moved the stolen funds out of his online gambling accounts in the form of cash withdrawals and deposits into a personal bank account. He ultimately spent the stolen funds on personal expenses including vacation travel and other big-ticket purchases. Veals’ conduct depleted the retirement savings of the victims, one of whom had retired after 40 years of public service.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Indiana Gaming Commission and the Purdue University Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary D. Heater.
Attica Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – James Venable, 63 years old, of Attica, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Possession of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Venable was sentenced to 120 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, on or about September 13, 2022, Venable possessed child pornography while having a previous conviction for possession of child pornography.
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 Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force. 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.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 92 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Charles Thompson, 49 years old, of Forest Park, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Thompson was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on three occasions between January 2021, and August 2021,
Thompson conspired with others to distribute cocaine. Thompson’s criminal history includes prior felony convictions for aggravated traffic and controlled substances offenses, including a prior 1995 delivery of cocaine conviction.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.
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.
South Bend Woman Sentenced to 168 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Danisha Lane, 46 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and two counts of attempted robbery affecting commerce, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Lane was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in May 2021, Lane robbed and attempted to rob multiple stores/businesses that are engaged in interstate commerce in the South Bend area. She also used and brandished a firearm during one of the robberies.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Jerome W. McKeever.
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
Goshen Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Koby Eldridge, 31 years old, of Goshen, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm after being adjudicated mentally defective, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Eldridge was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in May, 2023, Eldridge was found to be in possession of five loaded firearms that were recovered from his car. On that same date, another loaded firearm and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition that were recovered from his residence. Eldridge had previously been adjudicated to be incompetent to stand trial in Elkhart Superior Court in February 2021, and had been committed to a mental institution, such that he was precluded from possessing these firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Goshen Police Department, the Elkhart Police Department, and the Elkhart Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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 240 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Payne T. Randle, 40 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after being found guilty by a jury for possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Randle was sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on February 4, 2021, the Allen County Drug Task Force was notified by a commercial carrier of a suspicious package addressed to Randle’s residence. A search warrant for the package revealed it contained approximately 368 grams of methamphetamine and 444 grams of marijuana. A subsequent search warrant and stop resulted in the recovery of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana, a loaded firearm, a 50-round drum-style magazine, and numerous boxes of ammunition as well as additional methamphetamine and four more firearms. Randle has previous felony drug convictions and a felony robbery conviction, which prohibited him from possessing the firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allen County Drug Task Force, the Allen County Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey R. Speith and Justin C. Sheridan.
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 135 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Dejon Parks, 28 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, 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 400 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Parks was sentenced to 135 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in October 2022, Parks mailed two packages containing a large amount of fentanyl pills from Tempe, Arizona, to an address in Fort Wayne, Indiana. A United States Postal Inspector intercepted the packages and obtained a federal search warrant, discovering the packages contained a total of more than three kilograms of fentanyl pills.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Postal Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Indiana State Police, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Allen County Sheriff’s 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.
Chicago Man Convicted of Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Late yesterday, Hamidullah Tribble, 28 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Tribble’s sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. 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 Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly L. Schultz.
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 Announces Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen National Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department today announced an important new resource for prosecutors. The Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen Our National Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Involving Adult Victims, written by prosecutors for prosecutors, sets out five principles that, if implemented, will lead to better outcomes for victims, safer communities, and greater accountability for perpetrators of sexual assault and domestic violence.
“When investigating and prosecuting the heinous crimes of sexual assault and domestic violence, prosecutors must pursue justice in a manner that does not retraumatize victims and survivors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This framework for prosecutors reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to strengthening our collective response to sexual assault and domestic violence, and to setting the standard for how prosecutors should respond to victims and survivors.”
Declinations of meritorious allegations may result from misconceptions about how crimes involving sexual assault and domestic violence are committed and reported, how victims give their accounts, and the evidence required to prove their accounts beyond a reasonable doubt. This guide addresses that phenomenon by discussing: (1) relying on the evidentiary value of the victim’s account to frame the investigation; (2) the fundamental importance of prosecutors, investigators, and victim specialists working together and meeting with victims; (3) using the law and evidentiary rules effectively; (4) being thoughtful about what justice and accountability look like; and (5) sustaining a productive, healthy, and committed workforce by redefining success– all of which are rooted in a prosecutor’s primary obligation to seek the truth and uphold the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law.
“Achieving justice for victims and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence is one of the Department’s highest priorities,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “This guide provides a framework that we encourage prosecutors throughout the country to use when evaluating, investigating, and prosecuting these critically important cases.”
More than 120 state, Tribal, military, and federal prosecutors, as well as advocates, academics, and investigators from an array of jurisdictions were consulted in developing this guide. The principles set forth in this guide are designed to encourage and assist prosecutors of all levels of experience to handle cases involving sexual assault and domestic violence. This guide further serves as a complement to the Justice Department’s 2022 updated guidance on Improving Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence by Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias.
“The Justice Department is committed to strengthening the prosecution of sexual assault and domestic violence crimes and ensuring a trauma-informed approach to working with victims,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “This guide provides a practical, accessible framework that prosecutors can use when evaluating, investigating, and prosecuting these crimes. We thank everyone who contributed to this guide for sharing their expertise and experience and for their years of dedicated work to address and combat sexual assault and domestic violence.”
“The framework announced today reaffirms our commitment to expanding access to justice for all survivors, who deserve respect and the right to be heard,” said Director Rosie Hidalgo of the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). “Enhancing the prosecution response to sexual assault and domestic violence in a trauma-informed manner is a key piece in ending gender-based violence, as part of a broader coordinated community response that includes services and support for survivors, and can have a real, immediate impact on the safety of survivors and entire communities.”
In conjunction with this guide, OVW launched a new webpage with resources designed to assist prosecutors in implementing the guide and its principles.
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies, and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW funds national training and technical assistance and undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
Former Executive Director of South Bend Housing Authority Sentenced to 108 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Tonya Robinson, 61 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud, six counts of bank fraud, one count of wire fraud, and one count of federal program theft on November 1, 2023, following an eight-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Robinson was sentenced to 108 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $3,236,949.97 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, the Housing Authority of South Bend (HASB) provides housing opportunities and services to the South Bend community, managing more than 800 public housing residential units. From approximately 2015 through 2019, Robinson served first as Interim Executive Director and then Executive Director of the HASB. She was found guilty of conspiring with employees at the HASB and with outside contractors to defraud the HASB. The fraud scheme involved the issuance of HASB payment checks to four outside contractors for contracting work that had not actually occurred. These contractors would then deposit the HASB payment checks, withdraw a portion of each check in cash, and hand-deliver the cash back to co-conspirators at the HASB’s main office. Robinson was involved in creating hundreds of fraudulent documents to conceal the fraud.
“This Office continues to focus on prosecuting public corruption and fraud,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “Defrauding taxpayers in schemes that divert federal funds from their intended purpose will not be tolerated. Ms. Robinson’s criminal scheme injured both federal taxpayers and South Bend Housing Authority tenants because federal monies that were intended to keep those housing units safe and habitable were not available for that purpose. This case demonstrates how our law enforcement partners and my Office will work together to hold federal fraudsters accountable.”
“Robinson was supposed to be a public servant in her role at the South Bend Housing Authority, but she chose to use her position of trust to line her own pockets,” said Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Office. “The FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue to investigate all public officials who use their positions for personal gain.”
“Tonya Robinson and her co-conspirators engaged in an egregious false billing and kickback scheme resulting in the theft of critical taxpayer dollars,” said Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Manuel Colin with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “Moreover, they violated the trust of the communities who rely on HUD programs and risked damaging the programs’ integrity. HUD OIG will continue to work with its prosecutorial and law enforcement partners to vigorously pursue those who seek to profit by abusing HUD-funded programs.”
“Stealing from taxpayers is not just theft—it’s a betrayal of the public trust and an assault on our democracy,” said Jason Bushey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Trust in our institutions at every level of government is non-negotiable, and IRS Criminal Investigation and its fellow law enforcement partners will continue to hold individuals like Robinson accountable for betraying the trust taxpayers bestow upon public servants.”
Robinson’s co-defendants who were previously convicted, received the following sentences:
Tyreisha Robinson was sentenced to a total term of time served, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $363,122.00 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Douglas Donley was sentenced to a total term of 27 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $303,920.00 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Archie Robinson III was sentenced to a total term of 6 months of imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $1,152,636.00 in restitution to victims of the offense.
Ronald Taylor, Jr. was sentenced to term of imprisonment of 44 months, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $1,714,956.87 in restitution to victims of the offense.
This case was investigated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander, Joel Gabrielse, and Jerome W. McKeever.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 51 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Nathan Keosackdy, 24 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty following a two-day jury trial on November 14, 2023, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Keosackdy was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in September 2022, Keosackdy, a felon, who was prohibited from possessing or purchasing a firearm, took another individual to a federally licensed firearm dealer to complete the purchase of a firearm he had chosen. After the firearm purchase, Keosackdy carried the gun out of the store and paid the individual for the gun.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Lydia T. Lucius.
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.
Honoring National Police WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson salutes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. This year, National Police Week is observed Sunday, May 12 through Saturday, May 18, 2024.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Every year, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C. to participate in planned events which honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Based on preliminary data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), approximately 136 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty nationwide during 2023. This is a sizeable decrease of approximately 39% from the 224 officers killed in 2022. The decrease of line-of-duty deaths for 2023 has occurred in most major categories that are tracked, including another year of substantial reductions in Covid-19 related deaths. Of the 136 officers killed in the line of duty in 2023, 47 officers died as result of gun fire.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “I am grateful for the work law enforcement officials undertake every day to protect the citizens in their communities. Running toward danger to protect others is one of those selfless acts which deserves the utmost honor and respect. It is my solemn duty to honor all law enforcement officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting others.”
Tragically, seven (7) law enforcement officers from Indiana were killed in the line of duty in 2023. The names of these seven (7) officers, as well as the names of seven (7) other officers who died in Indiana in other years will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial as part of this year’s ceremony.
The names of the fallen officers have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial and will be read on Monday, May 13, 2024, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C. There are currently 24,067 names engraved on the Memorial.
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Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 150 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Brandon K. McBride, 38 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
McBride was sentenced to 150 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on August 1, 2023, just 13 days after being discharged from parole for a felony handgun conviction, McBride was found with a stolen handgun containing a 50 round drum style magazine. Then on September 22, 2023, McBride was found with three firearms, one of which was a machine gun, in his vehicle after taking officers on an hour-long pursuit through the streets of Fort Wayne and New Haven, in which he struck two police vehicles before being taken into custody. McBride has eight (8) prior felony convictions and twenty-one (21) misdemeanor convictions.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department and the New Haven 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.
Michigan Woman Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Erin Alldredge, 42 years old, of Sturgis, Michigan, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to three counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Alldredge was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on three separate occasions in September 2022, Alldredge sold 180 grams of pure methamphetamine in Howe, Indiana.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 92 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Martin Devalois, 40 years old, of Romeoville, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after being found guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a 2-day jury trial in December of 2023, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Devalois was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in March 2021, Devalois led police on a 30-minute car chase throughout LaPorte County, at one time reaching 90 miles per hour while driving through the city of LaPorte. The chase ended when Devalois crashed into a snowbank, and police recovered a loaded handgun from the center console. Devalois has multiple prior felony convictions, any one of which prohibit him from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Joel L. Mathur.
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.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 140 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Kenneth Thomas, 43 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Thomas was sentenced to 140 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in February and March 2023, Thomas sold methamphetamine multiple times in the South Bend area. During the approximate two week period, Thomas distributed a total of two pounds of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration including the North Central Laboratory with assistance from the Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit and the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Gary Woman Sentenced to 300 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Briana White, age 29, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to armed bank robbery and murder resulting from the discharge of a firearm during the bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
White was sentenced to 300 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, White’s convictions stem from a June 11, 2021, bank robbery in Gary, Indiana. White, along with, Hailey Gist-Holden, and two other co-defendants formulated a plan to rob the bank. White was involved in the planning stages and her role included facilitating a three-way call between herself, Gist-Holden and the getaway driver during the robbery and getaway. She also listened to a police scanner during the robbery to advise her co-defendants about police response. On his way to entering the bank, Gist-Holden, at point blank range, shot and killed the bank’s security guard who was outside the bank at the time. Approximately $9,000 was taken during the armed bank robbery.
Previously, co-defendant Gist-Holden was found guilty by a jury of armed bank robbery and murder resulting from the discharge of a firearm during the robbery. For his role in the offense, Gist-Holden was sentenced to imprisonment for two life sentences. White is the last of the defendants to be sentenced for this crime.
This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of the Lake County Sheriff’s Department; the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office; the Indiana State Police; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Gary Police Department. Additional investigative assistance was provided by the FBI Chicago, FBI Miami, and FBI Atlanta along with the Georgia State Police, the Atlanta Police Department, and the Lowndes County (GA) Sheriff’s Department. In addition, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Northern District of Georgia, Middle District of Georgia, and Middle District of Florida were involved in this cooperative effort. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Caitlin M. Padula and Michael J. Toth.
This case is 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.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Michael Querry, 52 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Querry was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in the spring and summer of 2023, Querry supplied methamphetamine to multiple individuals in the South Bend area, and within a three month period, supplied law enforcement with nearly a pound and a half of methamphetamine. During the same period, traffic stops on Querry resulted in the recovery of a total of five and one-half ounces of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, the Indiana State Police, the Mishawaka Police Department, the South Bend Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, the Porter County Metropolitan Enforcement Group and the DEA Regional Drug Laboratory. 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.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 96 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Oliver Coverson, 41 years old, of Calumet City, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and one count of Aggravated Identity Theft, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Coverson was sentenced to 96 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $1,013,543.86 in restitution to the victims of the offenses.
According to documents in the case, between May 2019 and December 2020, Coverson supervised and executed a scheme to fraudulently obtain over $3.3 million from the proceeds of 17 stolen business checks. Coverson and his co-conspirators registered fictitious corporations with the Indiana and Illinois Secretaries of State, opened fraudulent corporate bank accounts, and deposited the stolen checks into the fraudulent accounts. Coverson’s actions contributed to the loss of $1,013,543.86 to multiple banks and businesses.
This case was investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi and Zachary D. Heater.