Northern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Ryan Steele, 26 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to Attempted Transportation of a Minor, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Steele was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in March 2023, Steele traveled from his home in Indiana to Texas to meet up with a minor female with whom he had been talking online for five years. Steele was located traveling to Texas and once there, law enforcement discovered he was attempting to locate the minor. After his arrest, Steele admitted to traveling to Texas to bring the minor back to Indiana to live with him and engage in sexual activity. Steele also admitted to talking online with the minor since she was approximately 11 years old and to knowing she was a minor.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Noble County Sheriff’s Office, the Kendallville Police Department, the Lagrange Police Department, and the LaPorte, Texas Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 62 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Damiane Harris, 49 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody upon his plea of guilty to interstate transportation of stolen property and to a supervised release violation in a prior case, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Harris was sentenced to 41 months in prison in the new case followed by 2 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $35,503.58 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, Harris broke into a truck sales business in South Bend, Indiana, and stole a semi-tractor. He drove the semi-tractor to a crane rental business in Griffith, Indiana, and used it to steal three semi-trailers loaded with more than 68 tons of crane counterweights and other equipment. He then hauled the counterweights to a scrapyard in Chicago Heights, Illinois, where he sold them for profit. The total intended loss was $310,059.
Harris committed this new offense while on federal supervised release for a similar offense. He received a 21-month sentence for his supervised release violation, which will run consecutive to his sentence for the new offense, for a total sentence of 62 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Bend Police Department, the Griffith Police Department, and the Chicago Heights Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa.
Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana joins the nation in commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, observed this year from April 21-27, 2024. This annual observance, led by the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), honors victims of crime, recognizes victim advocates, and promotes the rights and services available to victims. President Ronald Reagan established National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to raise awareness of these crucial issues.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “My Office prioritizes collaboration with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners. We emphasize the importance of providing support to victims at the earliest stages of investigations and litigation. This year, we have increased our efforts by implementing more efficient policies and procedures to align with Attorney General Garland’s revised Victim Rights Guidelines issued on March 31, 2023. Timely and sustained interactions with victims prevents re-victimization and promotes healing as cases move through the criminal justice system.”
In 2022, there were nearly 20 million crime victimizations in the United States. More than 6.6 million were the result of violent crimes, including rape or sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault, and simple assault. Of that 6.6 million, only about 42% were reported to police. This year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week theme is “How would you help? Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.” We must create an environment in which victims and survivors feel safe talking about what happened to them. The theme aims to ensure that everyone in a community knows where and how crime victims and survivors can find help — including friends, family members, colleagues, neighbors, service providers, or other trusted members of the community. We must all be prepared to offer support.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. On the evening of Wednesday, April 24th, a candlelight vigil will be held on the National Mall near the U.S. Capitol from 7:00pm-8:00pm EST. In recognition of this year’s theme, the vigil is an opportunity to engage and empower community members to offer support to all types of victims and survivors. For additional information on the candlelight vigil as well as other events, please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/events. Locally, please check city/county websites for any events planned in your area. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 66 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Cornelius Nelson, 34 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Nelson was sentenced to 66 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from June through mid-August 2021, Nelson conspired with others to distribute fentanyl in the Michigan City area. Nelson delivered controlled substances and was present and helped facilitate other transactions when co-defendants sold pills purporting to be oxycodone that were actually fentanyl. Nelson admitted to selling fentanyl to customers, handling money, and aiding in resupplying controlled substances. Nelson is the final member of this group to be sentenced in this case. Others previously sentenced were:
- Rico Marion - 444 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release;
- Brandon Harris - 151 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release;
- Meliki Marion - 130 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release; and
- Carissa McCoy - 63 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (including the Chicago Field Division, the Merrillville District Office, the Amarillo Texas Resident Office and the Albuquerque New Mexico District Office) with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, an Indiana HIDTA Initiative, and the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly L. Schultz and 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.
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.
U. S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson Announces a $450,000 Justice Department Grant Award to Elkhart County for Continuums of Care in Support of Youth SuccessRead the Press Release
HAMMOND ― United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced a Department of Justice Grant Award of $450,000 to Elkhart County. This funding will help build continuums of care to support youth success in the Northern District of Indiana. The grant was awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s (OJJDP) “Building Local Continuums of Care to Support Youth Success” initiative and is part of more than $17 million going to communities nationwide.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “I am delighted to announce this award since bolstering both prevention and intervention resources is a cornerstone strategy for my District. This grant award is aimed at reducing youth involvement in violence and decreasing recidivism rates which aligns with my commitment to increase public safety of District residents.”
The Continuum of Care framework supports a network of services and opportunities to foster positive youth development and prioritizes community safety and effective program outcomes. This new OJJDP investment leverages decades of evidence-based learning to prevent youth from entering or deepening their involvement in the juvenile justice system and steer them on a path to success. At its core, the continuum of care approach is community-driven, leverages local insights, and addresses youth needs through mentoring, after-school programs, and other prosocial activities.
More information about these and other OJP awards can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
About the Office of Justice Programs
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime; advance equity and fairness in the administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
About the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention provides national leadership, coordination, and resources to prevent and respond to youth delinquency and victimization. The Office helps states, localities, and Tribes develop effective and equitable juvenile justice systems that create safer communities and empower youth to lead productive lives.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Marcus Harris, 40 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.
Harris was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in April 2023, Harris distributed methamphetamine on several occasions between December 2022 and May 2023. On one occasion, Harris and co-defendant Stephen Johnson sold approximately one pound of methamphetamine. At the time of their arrest in May 2023, Harris and Johnson brought more than three kilograms of methamphetamine and 250 grams of heroin to a deal planning to trade for ten kilograms of cocaine.
Co-defendant Stephen Johnson was sentenced in February 2024 to 288 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA 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 Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Herman Lamont Banks, 49 years old was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Banks was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on September 29, 2019, law enforcement was dispatched to a welfare check outside a bar located in Gary, Indiana. Law enforcement discovered Banks asleep or unconscious behind the wheel of a running car with its headlights on. As Banks eventually woke up and got out of the car, officers saw and recovered a firearm with a loaded drum magazine attached to it from under the driver’s seat. Bank’s criminal history revealed he had two prior federal felony narcotic convictions, and as such was prohibited from possessing the firearm or ammunition in this case.
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 Attorneys Joel L. Mathur and Kevin F. Wolff.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Georgia Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Xavier M. Scott, 57 years old, of Douglasville, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Scott was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on August 3, 2021, Scott was pulled over for speeding on Interstate 469. Scott, a drug courier who transported and delivered controlled substances across the United States, was found in possession of cocaine and cocaine base along with 12.4 grams of 98% pure methamphetamine, an amount consistent with distribution, along with multiple cell phones, zip lock baggies and a digital scale. Scott was also in possession of a loaded firearm used for protection in furtherance of his drug trafficking offense.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.
Michigan City Woman Sentenced to 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Angelica Ortiz, 37 years old, of Michigan City, 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.
Ortiz was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in the fall of 2022 Ortiz and co-defendant, Kyle Kirkland, distributed methamphetamine to multiple individuals in Michigan City.
Co-defendant Kirkland was sentenced in October 2023 to 137 months of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the LaPorte County Drug Task Force. 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.
Fort Wayne Man Convicted at Trial of Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Kendrick D. Bates, 39 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found guilty of three drug trafficking offenses and one firearm offense late last night following a four-day jury trial, presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for July 11, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Fort Wayne Police Laboratory, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Teresa L Ashcraft.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Valparaiso Woman Sentenced to 10 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Randi Scannell, 66 years old, of Valparaiso, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to wire fraud.
Scannell was sentenced to 10 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $460,182.69 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, Scannell was the owner of Custom Drying Solutions, a company that built and refurbished drum dryers. In 2015, Custom Drying Solutions started managing Company A’s production facility in exchange for a fixed amount of money each week. Company A also agreed to reimburse Custom Drying Solutions for labor and payroll. Between September 2015 and August 2020, Scannell sent scores of fraudulent invoices to Company A for reimbursement of payroll expenses incurred by Custom Drying Solutions. These invoices concealed weekly paychecks that Scannell directed a third-party payroll service to issue to herself and her family members. By paying the invoices, Company A unwittingly funded unearned paychecks totaling $460,182.69 for Scannell and her family members.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Charlie Easton, 29 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Easton was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in April 2023, South Bend law enforcement responded to a notification of shots being fired from an automatic weapon. Officers encountered Easton who led them on a high-speed car chase as he fled from the scene. When Easton reached a dead end on the road, he took off on foot Officers recovered a firearm that Easton dropped as he ran. The firearm contained an extended magazine and an auto sear, which device turned the firearm into a fully automatic machinegun. Easton has a prior felony conviction, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The 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.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 24 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Andrew Majors, 46 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to two counts of making a threat through interstate communications, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Majors was sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in June 2022 Majors called the Juvenile Justice Center in South Bend and reported that bombs were around the building. Several hours later, he called again to say that he was going to kill a person at the facility. Ultimately, no bombs were discovered and no one was injured.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 190 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Yesterday, Ronday L. Tinker, 35 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 controlled substances and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Tinker was sentenced to 190 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on April 26, 2023, Tinker possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and cocaine. Tinker was also in possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Drug Enforcement Administration North Central Laboratory, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. 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 100 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Jalen Drake, 27 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, 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.
Drake was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Drake possessed a firearm in March of 2023 after previously being convicted of a felony offense. In 2018, Drake was convicted in Allen County of dealing in marijuana, and as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which consists of the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Police 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 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.
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.
Sinaloa Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Jose Jesus Lopez-Verduzco, 54 years old, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Lopez-Verduzco was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Lopez-Verduzco was a leader in a drug organization receiving large drug shipments from the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico for distribution in Northeast Indiana. During the service of a search warrant at a house in Columbia City in August of 2018, agents seized approximately 14 kilograms of cocaine, about 200 pounds of marijuana, and 9 firearms.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which consists of the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Stacey R. Speith.
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.
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 – Ronald Holley, 41years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Holley was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on August 4, 2022, Holley distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 72 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Jade Sims, 43 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Sims was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in June and July 2022, Sims distributed methamphetamine. A short time later, a search warrant was executed on his residence, wherein Officers located marijuana, cocaine, digital scales, a grinder, a pill press along with ammunition, a magazine and a handgun box. Two days prior to the execution of the search warrant, a traffic stop of Sim’s vehicle resulted in the recovery of a handgun.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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.
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.
Defendant Sentenced for Fraud at South Bend Housing AuthorityRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND –Douglas Donley, 42 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 and one count of bank fraud on November 1, 2023, following an eight-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Donley was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $303,920 in restitution to the victim 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, a number of employees at the HASB conspired with each other 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. Donley was one of the four outside contractors who participated in the scheme. From October 2017 to March 2019, a total of 29 fraudulent HASB payment checks were issued to the payee “Doug Donley.” None of the checks corresponded to legitimate contracting work. The total value of checks issued to “Doug Donley” was $310,920, which was the amount of the lost benefit intended to maintain and fix the housing units in which HASB tenants lived.
Donley is the first to be sentenced of the three individuals who were found guilty at trial.
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.
West Lafayette Man Convicted of Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Markith Dushawn Williams, 38 years old, of West Lafayette, Indiana, was found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Williams is scheduled for sentencing 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 High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Hammond Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay and Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski.
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 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – De’Quan Briggs, 28 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.
Briggs was sentenced to 70 months in prison.
According to documents in the case, in June 2021, Briggs, who had an outstanding arrest warrant for violating his federal supervised release, was found in a car with a loaded handgun. The firearm contained a high-capacity magazine and had been reported stolen two weeks previously from a gun shop burglary. Briggs had previously been convicted of at least one felony offense and, as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander and former AUSA Frank E. Schaffer.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 18 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jonnathan Tyler Lee, 25 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to making a false statement to a licensed firearms dealer during the purchase of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Lee was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from June 2020 to July 2021, Lee purchased at least 19 guns from gun stores throughout the Northern District of Indiana. When making the firearm purchases, Lee provided false information on the ATF form 4473. Several firearms recovered from crime scenes in Chicago were found to have been purchased by Lee. Some of the firearms Lee purchased were also recovered from felons, and at least one was used to shoot at a moving car.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana is pursuing this prosecution as a part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Chicago Gun Trafficking Strike Force. On July 22, 2021, the Department of Justice launched five cross-jurisdictional strike forces to help reduce gun violence by disrupting illegal firearms trafficking in key regions across the country. These gun trafficking strike forces are designed to ensure coordination across jurisdictions and help stem the supply of illegally trafficked firearms from source cities, through other communities, and into five key market regions: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area/Sacramento Region and Washington, D.C
Highland Man Sentenced to 27 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Nurldon Green, III, 30 years old, of Highland, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to theft of mail, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Green was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, from February 2022, through June 5, 2022, Green, while impersonating a United States Postal carrier, stole mail from various receptacles, which included checks made out to victims within the Northern District of Indiana. At the time of his apprehension, Green was dressed as a United States Postal Employee and was in possession of approximately 60 pieces of stolen United States mail.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance of the DeMotte Police Department, and the Rensselaer Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Chang and Emily Morgan.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Seth Bireley, 35 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to theft of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Bireley was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on or about February 24, 2023, and March 2, 2023, Bireley, who had multiple felony convictions, entered a residence and removed firearms and ammunition from the property of a deceased person without authority to do so.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Angola Man Sentenced to 92 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Nolan Thomas, 36 years old, of Angola, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Thomas was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in December 2022, law enforcement received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding child sexual abuse material being uploaded to an online storage site. After investigation, law enforcement determined the origin of the upload to be an account associated with Thomas. After obtaining a search warrant in January 2023 for Thomas’ Angola home, law enforcement recovered evidence of Thomas’ possession of child sexual abuse material. During a post-Miranda interview, Thomas admitted to viewing child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Angola Police Department and the Lagrange Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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 132 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Lincoln Glass, 30 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.
Glass was sentenced to 132 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in 2021, Glass sold different types of controlled substances on three separate occasions: September one pound of methamphetamine; November and December fentanyl pills. Thereafter, in March 2022, law enforcement recovered a loaded handgun stored with dealer amounts of marijuana from Glass’ residence.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory, the Indiana State Police, and the Mishawaka Police Department. 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.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 87 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Tyshawn Kellogg, 29 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Kellogg was sentenced to 87 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in January of 2023 Kellogg led police officers on a high-speed chase that ended when Kellogg crashed his car into a fence. Kellogg ran from the car, leaving behind a handgun, heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and other controlled substances. Kellogg had previously been convicted of felony offenses and, as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, Indiana State Police, and St. Joseph County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Michigan Man Convicted of Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Shauntay Wade, 43 years old, of Niles, Michigan, was found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon following a three-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Wade is scheduled for sentencing on June 13, 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 the assistance of the Mishawaka Police Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Fort Wayne Man Convicted of Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Payne T. Randle, 40 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found guilty of drug trafficking and firearms offenses following a three-day jury trial, presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A Brady, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled for Randle by a separate court order. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, 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.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 100 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jessie Warren, 44 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Warren was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in December 2022, Warren possessed over 220 grams of methamphetamine. When police found him, he was alone in a car with the controlled substance, a firearm and a digital scale located in the trunk. Warren also had approximately $2,000 cash in his possession.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome McKeever and 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.
Gary Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Guadalupe Guerra, 70 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to Possession of Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Guerra was sentenced to 120 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $33,000 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, on or about January 31, 2023, Guerra possessed material involving the sexual exploitation of minors while having a previous conviction for aggravated criminal sexual assault.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, 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.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 151 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Calvin Jones, 42 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 a Controlled Substance, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jones was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in 2017 and 2018, Jones devised a scheme to distribute synthetic marijuana within various correctional institutions. Jones executed the scheme by soaking documents in a synthetic marijuana. Once soaked, Jones put these drug-soaked pages into envelopes addressed to inmates which purportedly were coming from various attorneys or from a state agency. The intent was that the pages be torn into smaller pieces or “doses” and sold to other inmates The inmates would then get high by ingesting the drug-soaked pieces of paper. Jones was held responsible for a total of 105 pages of drug-soaked pages.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshal’s Service, the Indiana Department of Corrections, the United States Postal Inspection Service Laboratory in VA, and the Drug Enforcement Administration North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Eugene Dawson, 42 years old, of Michigan City, 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.
Dawson was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between January and February 2023, Dawson brokered the sale of a 9mm firearm to an individual in exchange for $650 dollars. He also provided cocaine to that individual during the firearm transaction. On two other dates, additional drug transactions took place. A search warrant was later executed on Dawson’s home where additional cocaine and marijuana was found in an area accessible to children, under 18, who were in the home. Dawson was previously convicted of selling cocaine in LaPorte County Superior Court, a felony, and as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department, and the LaPorte City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan M. 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.
Gang Member Sentenced for Gang Related Activity Resulting in the Murders of 16-Year Old and 33 Year-OldRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Eduardo Luciano, 35, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by the United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, after a jury found him guilty of conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine and marijuana, and two counts of using a firearm to commit murder, announced U.S. Attorney Clifford. D. Johnson.
Luciano was sentenced to two Life sentences in prison for using a firearm to commit each murder. He was also sentenced to Life in prison for conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity along with 240 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine and marijuana. All sentences are to run concurrently.
According to documents in this case, on June 29, 2015, Luciano, who was a leader of the Hammond faction of the Latin Counts, a criminal street gang, and other Latin Count members formulated a plan to shoot and kill members of the Latin Kings, a rival criminal street gang. The Latin Kings were attending a vigil for a slain member on the 5500 block of Beall Avenue in Hammond, Indiana. After planning the shooting, gang members drove to the vicinity of the vigil and fired multiple shots into the crowd. Christopher White (33), who was visiting family on Beall Avenue, was shot in front of the family member’s home, and later died. Lauren Calvillo (16) was shot and killed while on the front porch of her family’s Beall Avenue home.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives/High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Hammond, Indiana Police Department with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation/Gang Response Investigative Team, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshal’s Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the Indiana State Police, the Gary Police Department, the East Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Police Department, and the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys David J. Nozick, Caitlin M. Padula, and Kimberly L. Schultz.
This case is also 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.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 160 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Sean Posey, 40 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Posey was sentenced to 160 months in prison, 15 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $22,500 in restitution to victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, between August and September 2021, Posey possessed over 900 photos and 7 videos on his cell phone consisting of child sexual abuse material, including images of minors under the age of 12. Posey had previously been convicted of sexual misconduct with a minor which required him to register as a sex offender.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John M. Maciejczyk and Hannah T Jones.
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.
Pair Sentenced to 300 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Abigail Dawes, 30 years old, of East Chicago, Indiana, and Alfonso Rodriguez, 30 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to Producing Visual Depictions of A Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Dawes, sentenced February 1, 2024, and Rodriquez, sentenced today, were both sentenced to 300 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on or about June 2022, Dawes and Rodriquez produced child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Philip C. Benson and 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.
Miami County Man Sentenced to 72 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Cody Shanks, 29 years old, of Bunker Hill, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Shanks was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, between November 2022, and March 2023, Shanks, an elementary school teacher, received child sexual abuse material files via the internet.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Miami County Sheriff’s Department, and the Howard County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John M. Maciejczyk and Hannah T. Jones.
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.
Kentucky Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Keondre Bradley, 28 years old, of Lexington, Kentucky, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Bradley was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on or about March 7, 2022, Bradley possessed 400 grams or more of Fentanyl with the intent to distribute.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Allen County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
LaPorte Man Sentenced to 144 MonthsRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Pedro Gomez Jr., 31 years old, of LaPorte, 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.
Gomez was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, during the fall of 2022, Gomez and his co-defendant, Monica Harrington, distributed methamphetamine in the Michigan City area. In October 2022, co-defendant Amanda West supplied Gomez and Harrington with an ounce of methamphetamine. In total, Gomez distributed almost 200 grams of methamphetamine.
Harrington was previously sentenced to 75 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. West was previously sentenced to 57 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory and the LaPorte County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.
Fort Wayne Man SentencedRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – On January 25, 2024, Donald E. James, age 65, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to bankruptcy fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
James was sentenced to 24 months of probation.
According to documents in the case, on or about October 9, 2018, James lied in relation to his bankruptcy case filed in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Indiana. James falsely stated on the Voluntary Petition of Individuals Filing for Bankruptcy, that he had not filed for bankruptcy within the last 8 years and falsely stated that he had received a briefing from an approved credit counseling agency within 180 days before the filing of the petition, both which were not true.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the Northern Indiana Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by Region 10 U.S. Trustee Nancy J. Gargula. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey Speith.
The United States Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. Region 10 is headquartered in Indianapolis with additional office in South Bend, IN and Peoria, IL.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects $5,214,677 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2023Read the Press Release
HAMMOND- U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced today that the Northern District of Indiana collected $5,214,677.59 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $2,898,640.06 was collected in criminal actions and $2,316,037.53 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, Northern District of Indiana worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $43,741,638.66 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. As part of this figure, the Northern District of Indiana recovered $31,251,810.00 from its’ settlement with BP Products North America, Inc.
“When most people think about the work of a United States Attorney’s office, they mainly think about the number of criminals prosecuted and the sentences imposed. While prosecuting criminal conduct is important, that action alone does not completely advance public safety,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office promotes public safety by vigorously collecting monetary awards imposed by U.S. federal District Courts in civil and criminal judgments to compensate persons injured by criminals and civil violators. I am so very proud of my Office’s continued collection efforts.”
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in Northern District of Indiana working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $2,171,602.00 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2023. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
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South Bend Man Sentenced to 240 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Quintin Ferguson, 34 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to arson, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Ferguson was sentenced to 240 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in January of 2021, Ferguson intentionally set fire to an apartment unit in Granger, Indiana. The fire spread from that unit to the rest of the building, affecting over a dozen apartments. Due to the rescue efforts of citizens and police and fire personnel, apartment residents escaped uninjured. Ferguson was not only captured on video starting the fire, but the coordinates from the GPS monitor he was wearing at the time placed him at the scene of the fire.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Fire and Explosives with assistance from the Mishawaka Fire Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly L. Schultz and Jerome W. McKeever.
Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – William McClean, 52 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
McClean was sentenced to 78 months in prison, 7 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3000.
According to documents in the case, in 2022, McClean received a visual depiction of child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the St. Joseph County Cyber Crimes Unit and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.
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.
Monticello Man Sentenced to 51 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jeffrey Sredl, 45 years old, of Monticello, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing unregistered firearms, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Sredl was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Sredl manufactured multiple destructive devices that functioned as firearms, one of which accidentally discharged and injured a person. During the execution of a search warrant at Sredl’s home, law enforcement recovered a pipe bomb and five other firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Cass County Sheriff’s Department and the White County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.
Human Trafficking Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Every year since 2010, the President of the United States has proclaimed January “National Human Trafficking Prevention Month” and reaffirmed the United States Government’s commitment to combatting human trafficking in all its forms.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana joins in this commitment and will continue to prioritize combatting forced labor, domestic servitude, and sex trafficking of children and adults throughout the District.
“A crucial and necessary step in combatting Human Trafficking is recognizing potential trafficking situations and taking the further step of reporting these activities to law enforcement,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “My office is committed to working with its state and local partners both in law enforcement and through non-governmental organizations, advocacy groups, trauma-informed service providers and community leaders to support victims, prevent trafficking where possible, and prosecute those who are engaging in human trafficking. We are most effective in addressing these situations when the community joins with us to recognize and report ‘red flags’ that may indicate a trafficking situation. We encourage the public to join us in rooting out these crimes, not only during this month of recognition, but each and every day.”
Below are a few questions that can help identify whether a potential sex trafficking or labor trafficking situation is occurring.
- Has the victim been forced or coerced into performing commercial sex acts?
- Is the victim under the age of 18 and engaged in commercial sex?
- Is the victim free to contact friends or family without being coached or monitored?
- Is someone severely limiting the victim’s freedom of movement?
- Has the victim or their family been threatened with harm if they attempt to leave?
- Has the victim been harmed, deprived of food, water, sleep, medical care, or other life necessities?
- Is the victim in possession of their own travel/identification documents?
- Are the victim’s wages being unlawfully garnished to pay off a debt or fee?
- Is the victim allowed to socialize or attend religious services?
- Has the victim been threatened with deportation or criminal charges?
If a situation arises where the answer to one or more of the above questions is “Yes”, the U.S. Attorney’s Office asks that you to join in the effort to combat human trafficking and report the information.
If you are a victim of human trafficking, suspect you know one, or have seen a situation you think may involve trafficking please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733), or your local law enforcement. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe a child is involved in a trafficking situation, submit a tip through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Call Center at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
Information on the Department of Justice’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Tharren Caldwell, 32 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Caldwell was sentenced to 120 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $2800 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, in late 2020, Caldwell sold methamphetamine on two occasions and then attempted to sell eight ounces of methamphetamine to an undercover officer.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Allen County Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE –Kevieun D. Lewis, 35 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 deliver fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Lewis was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on March 29, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Lewis’s residence after controlled buys of fentanyl were conducted. During the search, officers found numerous baggies containing fentanyl, cocaine, MDMA, and marijuana. Officers also located digital scales, a firearm, ammunition, and a substantial amount of U.S. currency. Lewis has six prior adult felony convictions.
This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from Fort Wayne Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration Laboratory, and the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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.
Crown Point Woman Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison and Ordered to Repay RestitutionRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Lorraine Duchscher, 50 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to three counts of wire fraud.
Duchscher was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $490,958.35 in restitution to the victim of the offense.
According to documents in the case, between March 2017 and December 2019, Duchscher worked as an office manager for a company in Crown Point. In this capacity, she had unsupervised access to the company’s bank account, financial records and payroll information. For almost three years, Duchscher made regular adjustments to her paychecks and gave herself additional pay to which she was not entitled. She also wrote over 100 unauthorized business checks to herself and another employee, which were cashed at local banks and currency exchanges. Over the course of the scheme, Duchscher defrauded the company out of $490,958.35; money she used to fund her lavish lifestyle which included the purchase of airline tickets, rental cars, vacation home rentals, entertainment, and cosmetic procedures, among other things.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Chang and Steven J. Lupa.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 292 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Opediah Barnett, 31 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to two counts of production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Barnett was sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release as well as $6000 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, in July of 2021 and January of 2022, Barnett persuaded two separate minors he met online to send him images of child sexual abuse material. Barnett also traveled out of state in an attempt to meet with one of the minors.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Department of Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Indiana State Police; the Spokane County, Washington Sheriff’s Department; and the Raleigh County, West Virginia, Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Maciejczyk.
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 Convicted of Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Martin Devalois, 40 years old, of Romeoville, Illinois, was found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Devalois is scheduled for sentencing on March 29, 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 the assistance of the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. 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.