Southern District of Indiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Texas Woman Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Defrauding Indiana Pharmaceutical Company Out of over $640,000Read the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Courtney Anguiano, 37, of Texas, has been sentenced to 2 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.
According to court documents, Business 1, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, developed prescription medicines and then created savings card programs for the medicines. The savings card programs were designed to lower the out-of-pocket costs incurred by patients purchasing the medicines. After obtaining a savings card, patients were able to use it at the time of purchase or after the fact, by seeking reimbursements.
Between September 1, 2017, and July 26, 2020, Anguiano led seven other individuals in a conspiracy to defraud Business 1 by submitting fraudulent reimbursement requests under three savings card programs. The conspirators claimed that they had incurred significant costs when they purchased the drugs at issue, but none of them were actually prescribed the drugs during the relevant period.
Members of the conspiracy submitted 189 false reimbursement requests. Anguiano herself personally submitted 65 false claims. Acting through a contractor, Business 1 approved the fraudulent requests and paid the members of the conspiracy $648,528.22. Anguiano and her co-conspirators stole over 90% of the savings card program funds for one of the medications.
In an effort to avoid detection, Anguiano submitted some of her reimbursement requests under an alias or an altered version of her true name.
“This heinous fraud scheme stole nearly $650,000 from savings programs were created to help patients struggling to afford specialty medications,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “For years, these scammers targeted the program intended for financially vulnerable patients with utter disregard for the harm they caused. The serious federal prison sentence imposed here demonstrates that our office will continue to work with closely with the FBI to investigate healthcare fraud schemes and hold the perpetrators accountable.”
“Investigating fraud and identifying those who perpetrate is one of our top priorities and this sentence should put others on notice that this illegal activity will not be tolerated,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “We will continue to work with our partners to ensure those to who take advantage of the system for their own greed are held accountable.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Anguiano be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 2 years following her release from federal prison and pay $648,528.22 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew B. Miller, Meredith Wood, and Kyle Sawa, who prosecuted this case.
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Georgia Man Sentenced to 4.5 Years in Federal Prison for Using Stolen Credit Card Numbers to Obtain over Half a Million Dollars in Gift CardsRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Yapo Jean Franck Ngbichi, 41, of Georgia, has been sentenced to 54 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to use of unauthorized access devices.
According to court documents, between December 2017 and September 2019, Ngbichi used 318 different stolen credit card numbers to purchase gift cards at Lowe’s Home Improvement stores in 28 states, including Indiana. Ngbichi conducted over 1,363 fraudulent transactions using the stolen credit card numbers, thereby causing a loss of $587,626.
On two separate occasions, Ngbichi used stolen credit card numbers to purchase four Visa gift cards valued at $200 each from Lowe’s stores located in Evansville, Indiana.
After obtaining a search warrant for Ngbichi’ s laptop, law enforcement discovered documents titled, “Everything You Wanted to Know About Instore Carding,” “Basic Mistakes That Lead to People Getting Arrested from Darknet—Free,” as well as numerous chat threads related to credit card numbers, several email fragments containing credit card numbers, and even Internet search history that included searches for “which embosser is best,” “federal charges stolen gift cards,” “federal criminal possession of forged instrument,” “possession of counterfeit credit card,” and “how long after a crime can you be charged.”
At the time of arrest, Ngbichi had a previous similar conviction in state court. In May 2018, Ngbichi was convicted in Scott County, Kentucky for attempted false making/embossing of a credit card/debit card and attempted criminal possession of a forged instrument.
“Every year, American lose billions of dollars to identity theft and fraud. This defendant alone stole nearly half a million dollars and is responsible for more than 1,300 fraudulent transactions,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Frauds such as these have lasting impacts on victim individuals and businesses. The serious federal prison sentence imposed here is a warning to others considering these schemes—the FBI, Secret Service, and U.S. Attorney’s Office are committed to unraveling financial crimes and holding fraudsters accountable.”
“The defendant wreaked havoc on the lives of those he perpetrated this financial fraud against, leaving them to pick up the pieces,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “This case highlights the strong relationships we have with our law enforcement partners in diligently pursuing those who take advantage of others through their criminal behavior.”
The FBI and United States Secret Service investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Ngbichi be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison and pay $587,623.91 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.
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Fifteen Kokomo Methamphetamine Traffickers Dealers Sentenced to a Total of over 175 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Fifteen individuals have been convicted and sentenced for their roles in a large drug trafficking operation based in Kokomo, Indiana.
According to court documents, in 2020, the Kokomo Police Department Drug Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration and other law enforcement partners began an investigation into multiple individuals trafficking illegal drugs in Kokomo, Indiana. Over the course of two years, fifteen people were charged in the Southern District of Indiana on various drug trafficking-related charges.
As a result of the years’ long investigation, law enforcement officers seized approximately 18.3 pounds of methamphetamine, 171 grams of fentanyl, 48 grams of heroin, $95,664 in U.S. Currency, and 11 firearms. The following individuals were charged and have sentenced to federal prison:
Name, Age, Residence
Offense
Prison Sentence
Demario Barker, 34, Kokomo
Distribution of methamphetamine
25 years
Shawn Brent, 45, Kokomo
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
17.5 years
Deriq Watters, 33, Kokomo
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
21 years, 10 months
Janie Maxieson, 56, Fishers
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
15 years
Eddie Maxieson, 52, Fishers
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
15 years
Carl Chandler, 44, Kokomo
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
15 years
Zachary Burkhead, 38, Kokomo
Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine
14 years, 2 months
Cody Long, 27, Kokomo
Distribution of methamphetamine
11 years
Jerry Glenn, 36, Kokomo
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
11 years
Cassandra Shepard, 42, Kokomo
Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine
10 years
Shaquille Cannon, 32, Kokomo
Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine
7 years, 8 months
Cynthia Ponder, 37, Kokomo
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
5 years
Amy Lowe, 33, Kokomo
Distribution of methamphetamine
5 years
Sirtorry Carr, 33, Kokomo
Felon in possession of a firearm
3 years, 1 month served
Matthew Vance, 32, Kokomo
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
3 years, 10 months
“Methamphetamine and other deadly controlled substances have devastating impacts on users, their loved ones, and our communities,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Drug traffickers like these fifteen defendants, responsible for pushing this poison into our neighborhoods, must be held accountable for the suffering they cause in search of quick profits. This large-scale, multi-year operation is an outstanding example of the impact we can have with the help of our state and local law enforcement partners. I commend the efforts of the DEA and Kokomo Police Department to make our communities safer by getting meth and armed meth dealers off our streets.”
“This investigation serves as another example that drug trafficking in Kokomo will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent for the safety of our community,” said Kokomo Police Chief, Douglas Stout. “The Kokomo Police Department is very thankful to be able to work with partners at the Drug Enforcement Administration and the US Attorney’s Office, and we commend them for all their assistance in the prosecution of offenders in our community.”
The Kokomo Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judges, Sarah Evans Barker, James P. Hanlon, Jane Magnus-Stinson, James R. Sweeney, and Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Each of the defendants will be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for between three and ten years following their release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Brady, who prosecuted these cases.
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.
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Former Marion County Correctional Officer Sentenced to Twenty Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Children he met and Groomed over Discord and SnapchatRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Cory Terry, 26, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, between April 9 and 26, 2022, the defendant met an 11-year-old girl online and communicated with her using Discord, a communications platform popular with adults and children interested in gaming. During their online communications, Terry told the child that he “didn’t mind” that she was only eleven. He engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the child and directed her to send him videos of herself engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Terry also purchased items for the girl and sent her explicit anime images of older men engaging in sex acts with young girls. Individuals with a sexual interest in children engage in these behaviors, often referred to as “grooming,” to build trusting relationships with potential victims and lower their defenses to sexual exploitation by adults. The victim repeatedly told Terry she did not want to send him sexually explicit material, but Terry, threatened and coerced her into complying with his demands, on one occasion, telling the eleven-year-old “you don’t get to say no.” Terry continued these demands despite the child telling him that her parents were nearby, and she wanted to go to sleep.
Investigators also identified a second victim, a fifteen-year-old girl online and communicated with her using Snapchat, a social media application. Between March 19, 2022, and July 29, 2022, Terry engaged in sexually explicit conversations with this second child. During those conversations, Terry referred to the child as “little one” and requested that she produce sexually explicit images and videos of herself for him. Terry told this child “From now on you will show me all of your little body whenever I need it…” Terry used threats, coercion, and enticement to obtain numerous images and videos depicting the child engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
During a search of Terry’s Indianapolis residence, FBI agents recovered multiple cell phones containing at least five sexually explicit videos of one of the victims and over 600 images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as three years of age, including children being subjected to sadomasochistic conduct. At the time of his arrest, Terry was employed as a Corrections Officer in Marion County, Indiana.
“Pedophiles know that the applications and devices our children use every day give them access to groom and sexually exploit victims anywhere in the world,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. Zachary A. Myers. “The criminals who seek to exploit our children are at fault and must be held accountable, especially when they hold positions of public trust-but there are steps parents and other caring adults can take to help keep kids safe online. The serious sentence imposed here demonstrates the commitment of our office and the FBI make our children safer from exploitation and abuse.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman. Judge Brookman also ordered that Terry be supervised for life following his release from federal prison and register as a sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school. Terry was also ordered to pay $20,0000 in restitution to the victims.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Armed Carjacker who Shot at Victim Sentenced to Eleven Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Anthony Porter, 36, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to carjacking, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on April 17, 2023, around 8:30pm, Porter had been loitering by the entrance of a local convenience store located at 9852 East 21st Street in Indianapolis, Indiana, when he followed a male customer to his car. Porter approached the victim’s car alone, brandished a firearm, and forced him to leave the car. As the victim was getting out of the car, Porter discharged his firearm at the victim as he fled to safety with his hands in the air. Porter fled the scene in the stolen vehicle.
After a brief search for the victim’s vehicle, Porter was later located, arrested, and interviewed. During a subsequent search of the victim’s vehicle, officers found a 9mm handgun inside of Porter’s fanny pack.
At the time of his arrest, Porter had been previously convicted of two residential entry felonies. The felony convictions prohibit Porter from ever legally possessing a firearm.
“This violent criminal illegally armed himself, carjacked an innocent victim, and fired his weapon at the victim with utter disregard for human life,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Reducing gun violence in our communities is a top federal law enforcement priority, and I commend the FBI and IMPD for their work to hold this repeat offender accountable.”
“The sentence the defendant received demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to investigate violent crimes, and highlights the teamwork between agencies to protect the public and ensure this predator is behind bars and no longer able to terrorize our community,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton.
The FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered that Porter be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.
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.
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Evansville Felon Charged with Possession of a Ghost Gun and Dozens of “Glock Switches” Made Using a 3D PrinterRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Marquel D. Payne, 39, of Evansville, with one count of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and one count of possession of a machinegun.
According to the criminal complaint, on January 31, 2024, Evansville Police Department officers observed Payne in possession of a 3D printer while conducting surveillance near his residence. Investigators had received information that Payne was manufacturing machine gun parts using a 3D printer before the surveillance began.
Investigators obtained search warrants for Payne’s residence and other locations he controlled. During the searches, investigators found approximately 60 plastic machine gun conversion devices, a 9mm personally made handgun, also known as a “ghost gun” due to its lack of any traceable serial numbering, an AR-15 rifle, a 3D printer, plastic printing filament, a 3D printed firearm silencer, and 9mm caliber ammunition.
Machinegun conversion devices sometimes called “Glock switches” or “auto-sears” are devices that convert ordinary semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic machineguns. Machinegun conversion devices are themselves considered machineguns under federal law, even when not installed, and are illegal for individuals to produce, possess, or sell. The hand grip of the 9mm ghost gun was allegedly produced by Payne using a 3D printer. Other parts of the ghost gun were produced in Pennsylvania.
At the time of his arrest, Payne had been previously convicted of numerous felonies, including escape, carrying a handgun without a license, and criminal recklessness while armed with a deadly weapon. These prior felony convictions prohibit Payne from ever again legally possessing a firearm.
“Getting illegal machinegun conversion devices off our streets is a critical public safety priority. Fully automatic weapons and untraceable ‘ghost guns’ pose a serious danger to our communities, especially when they are in the hands of people who have no lawful business possessing any firearm,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This prosecution is the result of quick and impactful investigative work by our outstanding partners at the Evansville-Vanderburgh Crime Gun Intelligence Center. Together we are committed to saving lives and reducing gun violence by combining intelligence and resources to investigate and prosecute dangerous offenders.”
“Unfortunately, these deadly conversion devices continue to show up in our communities,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “U.S. law has long recognized that automatic weapons pose a special risk to public safety, both through the sheer volume of bullets fired and the likelihood that innocent bystanders will be injured or killed. Combine that with an untraceable firearm and an unregistered silencer in the hands of a convicted felon, and it is clear that this individual is solely interested in feeding violence in southern Indiana. ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who use and distribute machine gun conversion devices.”
“My office applied for and was awarded a $700,000 federal grant to form the crime gun intelligence center where our mission is clear: to work with our state and federal partners to combat the rising crime in Vanderburgh County. We are now seeing the fruits of our labor,” said Prosecutor Diana Moers. “My office and our state and federal partners will stop at nothing to identify and prosecute any who seek to commit violent crimes in our community - this case is a result of teamwork and, with our agencies working together, we expect more cases like this: we are ahead of criminal activity and not simply reacting. Anyone planning to break the law in Vanderburgh County should swiftly reconsider.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Evansville Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC), the Evansville Police Department, and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. If convicted, Payne faces up to 15 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who is prosecuting this case.
In October 2023, the Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, and Evansville Police Department secured a nearly $700,000 federal grant to establish a Crime Gun Intelligence Center. The goal of the Evansville-Vanderburgh Crime Gun Intelligence Center is to quickly identify and reduce the amount of gun crime in the Evansville-Vanderburgh County area by providing intelligence, analysis, and resources between agencies for the swift identification and apprehension of suspected armed criminals.
The Department of Justice’s National Ghost Gun Initiative was launched in February 2022 in response to the proliferation of ghost guns in our communities, and the growing number of criminals who unlawfully use or possess these untraceable weapons. The Attorney General directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to train a national cadre of prosecutors as experts to lead investigations and prosecutions of crimes involving ghost guns. These ghost gun coordinators will also share investigation and prosecution tools with other prosecutors and law enforcement officers. As part of the initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana will focus its investigation and prosecution resources on combatting the illegal possession and use of ghost guns.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Indianapolis Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for Two Armed CarjackingsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Deandre Govan, 21, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison after pleading guilty to carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to court documents, on October 10, 2021, Victim 1 arrived to work at a restaurant on the West side of Indianapolis. As he walked to the door of the restaurant, he was approached by Deandre Govan. Govan brandished a black semiautomatic handgun and took the victim’s wallet and cell phone and ordered him to unlock it. Govan forced the victim to give him the keys to his car and fled the scene in the stolen car. The following day, IMPD officers found the victim’s car on University of Indianapolis (UIndy) campus.
On October 12, 2021, Victim 2 was parked on UIndy’s campus in her 2010 white Ford Focus with the window down, when Govan approached her vehicle and brandished a black semiautomatic firearm. Govan instructed her to hang-up her phone and unlock the device. Govan took her phone, money, and forced her out of the vehicle. Govan fled the scene in the stolen car.
Around the same time, IMPD received multiple reports of robberies at an apartment complex located at the intersection of South Keystone and East Hannah Avenues. On October 13, 2021, maintenance men at the apartment complex were standing outside of one of the residential buildings when Govan rode by on a bicycle. The men did not recognize him to be a resident within the complex, so they asked him what he was doing there. Govan became hostile and brandished a black semiautomatic pistol and pointed it at the face of one of the workers.
Shortly after, IMPD investigators located Govan at the intersection of South Keystone and East Hanna Avenues. Govan initially resisted arrest but was quickly detained. Investigators located a Glock 45 9mm semiautomatic pistol on Govan’s person and was able to identify him as the carjacker by his tattoos and clothes.
“Armed criminals like this defendant who terrorize our communities must be held accountable,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The serious federal prison sentence imposed here demonstrates that there is no place in society for these violent crimes and that armed, violent criminals are a priority for federal prosecution. We are deeply committed to working closely with our partners at the FBI and IMPD to reduce gun violence in Indianapolis.”
“Carjacking is a violent crime that endangers the public and I hope this sentence will bring comfort to his victims knowing he is behind bars and not free to terrorize others,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “It also demonstrates the teamwork between the FBI and our partners at the IMPD and should send a clear message that violent criminals preying on our community will not be tolerated.”
The FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered that Govan be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Corbin D. Houston, who prosecuted this case.
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.
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Anderson Man Sentenced to over Fifteen Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery of Anderson BankRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Raymond Johnson, 35, of Anderson, Indiana, has been sentenced to 184 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to bank robbery and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to court documents, on September 23, 2021, around 4:20pm, Johnson entered a First Merchants Bank in Anderson, Indiana, armed with a handgun. Johnson immediately brandished his firearm, jumped onto the teller counter, ordered employees to the ground, and demanded money. Johnson also fired one shot into the teller cabinet.
In total, Johnson left with $13,585 in cash. Johnson was arrested by Anderson Police Department Officers in the early morning of September 24th.
“This violent criminal didn’t just rob a bank of customer deposits, he robbed everyone inside the bank of their sense security and peace,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Gun crimes have a negative impact on our entire community, and the sentence imposed today demonstrates that this conduct simply not be tolerated. The people of Anderson are safer with this defendant off of our streets, thanks to the hard work of the FBI, the Anderson Police Department, and our federal prosecutors.”
FBI and the Anderson Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman, Judge Brookman also ordered Johnson to be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison and pay back the $13,585 in full.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Jayson W. McGrath and Pam S. Domash, who prosecuted this case.
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Armed Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison After Violent Domestic AssaultRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Cody Steele, 41, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 18 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distributing of methamphetamine and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, on May 27, 2021, IMPD officers responded to reports of shots fired on the southeast side of Indianapolis. Witnesses stated that the driver of a red Hummer shot at another vehicle and drove off. Officers quickly located the red Hummer and Cody Steele, who was the driver.
On the driver’s seat, officers found a plastic bag containing approximately 404 grams of pure methamphetamine. A .38 caliber revolver with five spent casings was found on the passenger seat floorboard. On the ground outside the Hummer, officers located a loaded 7.62mm assault rifle that had been stolen. A search of Steele’s person also revealed $1,853 in cash. The defendant admitted to possessing the methamphetamine with the intent to sell it and carrying the guns in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
During the course of this investigation, officers learned that the defendant was involved in an alleged domestic assault earlier on the day he was arrested. The victim reported that shortly after midnight on that day the defendant was arrested, she attempted to leave him. The struck her and told her that she could not leave, and if she tried, he would kill her dogs. Later that morning, she tried to leave again, and the defendant threw a dog chain at her, hitting her in the face. He damaged her vehicle, and she was unable to use it leave. When she started to walk away, the defendant followed her in his vehicle. He had control over her dog and told her to get in his car or he would kill her dog, scaring her into entering the car.
The victim told law enforcement that the defendant drove her around for several hours. Steele would not allow her out of the vehicle. She tried to open the door several times but defendant sped up the vehicle so she couldn’t exit. One time when she tried to leave, Steele bit her on the arm. Eventually they stopped at a parking lot and the victim called for help. Bystanders assisted her in retrieving one of her dogs from Steele during a physical struggle.
Employees of nearby businesses aided the victim. The victim did not call the police because she feared losing her dogs. She began to return to the residence to get her vehicle. Her vehicle had been damaged by Steele, so she had to drive slowly. As she drove, the defendant yelled at her, and she heard a gunshot. Steele pulled in behind her and rammed her vehicle, forcing her car into oncoming traffic. When she was able to pull it back into her lane Steele rammed her vehicle from behind. Steele fled the area, and a witness began to follow Steele and called 911.
Officers responded to the hospital and observed the victim to have visible bruising and swelling to her eye, a laceration and blood on her face, bruising on her arms, blood on her clothing, and seemed to have broken blood vessels in her right eye.
Steele has a lengthy criminal history, including felony convictions for domestic battery, child molestation of a ten-year-old victim, and escape. Each of these prior felony convictions prohibit Steele from ever legally possessing a firearm. The defendant was also convicted of a misdemeanor invasion of privacy for violating a no-contact order with his wife.
“This violent, repeat criminal is simply a menace to those close to him and to the community at large. His outrageous, violent conduct and armed trafficking of deadly drugs demonstrate the serious danger he poses to the public,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Guns in the hands of domestic abusers dramatically escalate the risk that they will murder those in their lives, law enforcement, or the public at large. Our community and this most-recent victim are safer today because of the excellent work of IMPD, the ATF, and our federal prosecutor to ensure this criminal is behind bars where he belongs.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman. Judge Brookman also ordered that Steele be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 4 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Pamela Domash, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.
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.
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Carmel Man Sentenced to More than Eight Years in Federal Prison for $2 Million International Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Tuong Quoc Ho, a/k/a Robert Parker, 36, a resident of Carmel, Indiana, has been sentenced to 102 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to twenty counts of wire fraud, two counts of aggravated identity theft, one count of possession of multiple unauthorized access devices, one count of unlawful possession of identification, and two counts of money laundering.
According to court documents, beginning in 2013 and lasting through February of 2020, Ho devised and led a complex, international scheme to defraud multiple victims throughout the United States and abroad of approximately $2 million.
To carry out the scheme, Ho and his co-conspirators unlawfully obtained personally identifiable information (“PII”) including names, addresses, dates of birth, phone numbers, social security numbers, and credit card numbers of hundreds of victims throughout the United States and worldwide. They used that PII to create fraudulent PayPal and eBay accounts in the victims’ names. Ho then placed expensive items, such as Vera Bradley handbags, American Girl dolls, PlayStations, and blood pressure monitoring devices for sale on eBay. Ho did not have the majority, if any, of the items on hand at the time of the sale, but instead purchased the items after they were sold through online retailers using stolen credit card information that he unlawfully obtained, and had those items directly shipped from the retailer to the buyer. Ho and his co-conspirators sold many of the items at prices lower than market value, but still profited off those items because they were purchased with stolen credit cards.
Ho linked his personal bank information to the fake PayPal and eBay accounts and collected the money. Ho’s personal bank accounts were linked to over 500 hundred fraudulent PayPal accounts. When PayPal suspected suspicious activity on the account, it restricted the accounts and required additional documentation to re-establish access. Ho modified and used PII of identity theft victims to create fraudulent driver’s licenses, passports, utility bills, and bank statements to make them appear to belong to the account holder.
In total, Ho stole over $2 million and wired $1.2 million to family and other individuals in Vietnam. Ho also laundered the money, using over $300,000 to purchase his home in Carmel, Indiana.
On October 24, 2018, Carmel Police Department officers executed search warrants at Ho’s residence and other buildings owned by Ho and arrested him on state charges. CPD recovered over 400 packages of merchandise addressed to Ho’s alias, “Robert Parker.” At least $78,000 worth of that merchandise was purchased with stolen credit cards. Ho continued to operate his scheme after his home was searched by law enforcement until his arrest by federal authorities in 2020.
“Over seven years, the Defendant stole hundreds of identities and millions of dollars, exploiting eCommerce and financial platforms in a complex international scheme,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Making the public safer from these pernicious identity theft schemes is a critical priority for our office, in partnership with outstanding investigators like the FBI and Carmel Police Department. The serious federal prison sentence imposed today should serve as a warning to fraudsters that we are dedicated to finding you and holding you accountable for the harm you cause.”
“This case shows the significant value of partnership in the law enforcement community,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The Carmel Police Department, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the FBI combined our efforts in a complicated and intricate case to put a long-time criminal behind bars for many years to come.”
The FBI and Carmel Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney. Judge Sweeney also ordered that Ho be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison and pay $217,147.87 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys MaryAnn T. Mindrum and James M. Warden, who prosecuted this case.
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Six Members of Evansville Fentanyl and Meth Trafficking Ring IndictedRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging six individuals for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine in Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky:
Defendant
Charge(s)
Lovechild McGuire, 30, of Evansville
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Christopher Flax, 47, of Evansville
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
Amiee Ranes, 43, of Evansville
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
Trent Marion, 38, of Evansville
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
Unique Carter, 26, of Evansville
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Camri Outlaw, 28, of Evansville
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
According to the indictment, on numerous occasions between June 1, 2023, through December 5, 2023, the alleged traffickers were responsible for possessing and distributing more than 50 pounds of methamphetamine, 14,000 fentanyl pills, and 1 kilogram of cocaine.
Lovechild McGuire allegedly served as the leader and supervisor of the drug trafficking operation. McGuire obtained the methamphetamine from an unknown source of supply and stored it in homes belonging to Carter and Outlaw. Carter also rented a storage unit in her name to store the controlled substances for McGuire. McGuire’s distributors, Flax, Ranes, Marion, and Carter, sold the drugs throughout Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Evansville Vanderburgh Country Drug Task Force investigated this case. This case is part of the Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. If convicted, each defendant faces up to life in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Lauren M. Wheatley, who is prosecuting this case.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brownsburg Armed Career Criminal Convicted After Illegally Possessing Firearms and Selling them to an Indianapolis Pawn ShopRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal jury has found Jason Compliment, 42, of Brownsburg, Indiana, guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a two-day trial.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on July 16, 2022, the defendant sold three firearms to a north Indianapolis pawnshop for $725. Video surveillance footage captured him selling the firearms and receiving the pawn ticket in his own name.
The jury also found that the defendant was an Armed Career Criminal because of his numerous prior felony convictions in Hendricks and Marion Counties—including eight burglaries, resisting law enforcement, and possession of methamphetamine. In one prior case, the defendant burglarized a church and stole funds meant for the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Each one of these previous felony convictions prohibit the defendant from ever legally possessing a firearm again.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. U.S District Court Judge James P. Hanlon presided over the trial and will impose sentence at a later date. The defendant faces fifteen years up to life in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers, of the Southern District of Indiana, thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy C. Fugate and Bradley A. Blackington, who prosecuted this case.
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.
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Duo Indicted for Spree of Eleven Armed Robberies in Two Weeks Across Indianapolis and SpeedwayRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Donta Allen, 26, and Lance McGee, 32, of Indianapolis, each with one count of conspiracy to commit robbery, 11 counts of interference with commerce by robbery, 11 counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count each of possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
According to the indictment, from March 25, 2022, through April 8, 2022, Allen and McGee worked together to rob at least eleven different stores in Indianapolis and Speedway, Indiana. Allegedly, Allen disguised his appearance with a ski mask and attempted to cover his tattoos with make-up, entered the store, pointed a firearm at the cashier and demanded cash. In each alleged robbery, McGee served as the getaway driver in a Chevy Malibu and received a portion of the proceeds.
The series of robberies took place on the following dates and locations:
Date
Victim Business
March 25, 2022
Disc Replay; 8210 Rockville Road, Indianapolis
March 25, 2022
GameStop; 5816 Crawfordsville Road, Speedway
March 27, 2022
GameStop; 3269 West 86th Street, Indianapolis
March 27, 2022
AutoZone; 4606 East County Line Road, Indianapolis
April 2, 2022
GameStop; 4525 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis
April 2, 2022
AutoZone; 7455 Michigan Road, Indianapolis
April 3, 2022
Disc Replay; 9739 East Washington Street, Indianapolis
April 5, 2022
Disc Replay; 7317 US 31 South, Indianapolis
April 5, 2022
AutoZone; 8525 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis
April 5, 2022
AutoZone; 6055 East 82nd Street, Indianapolis
April 8, 2022
GameStop; 6905 South Emerson Avenue, Indianapolis
At the time of the alleged offenses, both defendants allegedly had previous felony convictions, prohibiting them from ever legally possessing a firearm.
The FBI, IMPD, and Speedway Police Department investigated this case. If convicted, each defendant could face up to life in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who is prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Brownsburg Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for Sharing Thousands of Child Sexual Abuse Videos and ImagesRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Mario Parker, 22, of Brownsburg, Indiana, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, in June of 2021, investigators discovered that an individual living in California had been sharing sexually explicit images and videos via the social media application Kik with someone later identified as Mario Parker. In chats over Kik, Parker learned that the individual from California worked in a daycare and had a sexual interest in children. Knowing that, Parker asked the daycare employee to distribute sexually explicit images and videos of the children in the daycare to Parker knowing that it would result in their sexual exploitation. In one of the Kik conversations, Parker admitted that he would like to adopt a daughter with the intention of raping her.
On June 30, 2022, officers executed a federal search warrant at Parker’s residence in Brownsburg and found a Samsung Galaxy cell phone. During a search of the phone, investigators located several graphic sexual abuse videos of children as young as three years old being forcefully tied down and raped by adult men, as well as videos depicting bestiality. In total, officers recovered thousands of images and approximately 889 videos of child sexual abuse from Parker’s cell phone and accounts.
In an interview with investigators, Parker admitted to using social media applications such as Kik, Snapchat, and Telegram to communicate about and share child sexual abuse material with users who shared his sexual interest in children.
“This pedophile revictimized hundreds of children across the world, many of whom we will never know. Even more disturbing, communicated with other like-minded criminals, sharing these horrific videos and their sick desires to perpetrate these abuses on even more children,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Sexual abuse of children is more widespread than decent people understand, especially the proliferation of abuse images online. Our federal prosecutors will continue to partner with the FBI to identify these criminals, and work to put them where they cannot harm any more of our children.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge, Jane Magnus-Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered that Parker be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for ten years following his release from federal prison and pay $24,000 in restitution to victims.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.
If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Montgomery County Man Sentenced to 90 Years in Federal Prison After Secretly Recording Children in Bathrooms and Sexually Abusing Children he Drugged with MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Stan Eugene Hayes Jr., 40, of Montgomery County, has been sentenced to 90 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to ten counts of sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation of a child.
According to court documents and evidence introduced during the sentencing hearing, on October 13, 2022, Stan Hayes was on probation for a prior felony offense when Montgomery County Probation Officers, assisted by members of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, conducted a probation search of his home. Officers found methamphetamine and printed sexual images of children in plain sight. Investigators later discovered that the defendant hid cameras in bathrooms and bedrooms in two different residences belonging to his friends.
Investigators searching his electronic devices recovered hundreds of explicit images and videos of six identified children using the toilet and bathing, created with hidden cameras. Law enforcement officers also recovered over 1,600 files created by the defendant depicting two other children being caused to engage in sexually explicit conduct, including with the defendant. The sexual abuse of these children took place in Tennessee in the early 2000’s. Investigators learned that the defendant gave these two victims methamphetamine.
Investigators also found captions that the defendant added to many of the abuse images describing in detail the sexual abuse that he inflicted on the children, where he also stated that he gave the children methamphetamine to cause them to “submit” to him and “break their will to put up any more fight.” As a result, one of the children ultimately became addicted to methamphetamine. Investigators recovered electronic evidence that the defendant had been keeping tabs on his Tennessee victims via Facebook, over a decade after he sexually abused them.
Investigators located approximately 350,000 images and videos of other child sexual abuse material that Hayes downloaded and traded online. Law enforcement officers also located a variety of other items relating to child sexual abuse, including: a collection of his victims’ underwear, a digital picture frame displaying child sexual abuse material, and a child-sized sex doll.
“No child should ever suffer the nightmares this man inflicted on so many,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “No prison sentence can undo the trauma these victims suffered, but I hope that the victims can take another step towards healing and closure knowing that the monster who hurt them so deeply will never hurt another child ever again.”
“There are no words that will help erase the memory of the horrific abuse these children suffered at the hands of this predator, but I hope this sentence gives them some solace in knowing the FBI and our law enforcement partners worked tirelessly to hold him accountable and ensure he will never again be free to inflict these horrible crimes on any other child,” said Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office.
The FBI investigated this case, with assistance from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Hayes be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life following any release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys MaryAnn T. Mindrum and Kyle M. Sawa as well as former Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina M. Korobov, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood
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Two Men Sentenced to a Combined Eleven Years in Federal Prison for $1 Million “Free Bankruptcy” Car Lien-Stripping SchemeRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Brian Fenner, 45, of Camby, Indiana, has been sentenced to a total of 77 months in federal prison. Dennis Birkley, 64, of Wisconsin, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison.
In January 2023, a federal jury found both men guilty on one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, seven counts of wire fraud, six counts of mail fraud, and three counts of money laundering.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, between 2013 and 2016, Fenner promoted the “Sperro free bankruptcy program” to individuals who were planning to file for bankruptcy. Through this purported “free bankruptcy program,” Fenner promised to pay the debtors’ bankruptcy attorneys’ fees if they turned over their vehicles to him, instead of surrendering them to the banks that financed the purchase of the vehicles. Numerous people from across the country participated in the program and surrendered their vehicles to Fenner, including from as far away as California and Arizona. Fenner arranged for the debtors’ cars to be towed to his lots in Indianapolis for outlandish fees, which formed the basis of a bogus mechanic’s lien on the vehicle.
Fenner then pretended to “sell” the cars to Birkley at “auctions” to cover the exorbitant mechanic’s lien. In reality, no auctions occurred, no money changed hands, and there was no sale by Fenner to Birkley. Instead, the sham auctions were part of a series of lies and fraudulent documents submitted to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, so that Birkley could get clean titles to the vehicles from the BMV.
Once Birkley had clean title to the vehicles, he sold the vehicles for their true value – often earning thousands of dollars in profit – which Birkley split with Fenner. Over the course of the conspiracy, Birkley and Fenner illegally obtained over $1 million.
Fenner was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment on June 8, 2023, and was instructed to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons in Terre Haute by July 18, 2023. Fenner did not report to prison, and was re-arrested in Morgan County, Indiana, on August 25, 2023. Fenner was sentenced to an additional seven months in prison after pleading guilty to failing to surrender. This sentence will be served consecutively to Fenner’s 70-month sentence for the fraud conviction, for a total prison sentence of 77 months.
“For years, these greedy men preyed on people in financial crisis by offering a purported financial lifeline too good to be true—and was in fact just a series of lies,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana “Unraveling complex schemes and holding fraudsters accountable is a top priority for our office. I commend the talented and dedicated team, including our partners at the FBI, Indiana State Police, and our federal prosecutors, for their unrelenting determination to see that these crooks pay for their crimes.”
“These two men shamelessly exploited the financial difficulties of their victims to enrich themselves, disguising their scheme as a potential lifeline to people who were in extreme financial difficulty,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to aggressively identify and investigate those who engage in in such fraudulent behavior and ensure they are held accountable.”
“The prosecution, conviction, and sentences imposed on Mr. Fenner and Mr. Birkley, who took advantage of consumers in financial distress who signed up for the bogus ‘Sperro free bankruptcy program’ demonstrates that those who abuse the bankruptcy system for their own personal gain will be brought to justice,” said Nancy J. Gargula, United States Trustee for Indiana and Central and Southern Illinois (Region 10). “We are grateful to US Attorney Myers for his commitment in helping to protect and preserve the integrity of the bankruptcy system, not just here in the Southern District of Indiana but across the country, and to Assistant U.S. Attorneys Olivier and Shepard.”
“The Indiana State Police and its law enforcement partners work towards a common goal each and every day, with every criminal investigation...to identify those who violate our various criminal laws and to hold them responsible for those unlawful actions,” said Captain Ron Galaviz.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Indiana State Police, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s U.S. Trustee Program, in collaboration with the Southern Indiana Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by the U.S. Trustee for Region 10. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judges Richard L. Young and James R. Sweeney II. Both men were ordered to pay $49,045.84 each in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Olivier and Bradley P. Shepard, who prosecuted this case.
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Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to Fifteen Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Kenneth Walden, 43, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers received a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that a suspect had stored child sex abuse material in a Google Photos account connected to his Google and iCloud accounts. Further investigation revealed that the account belonged to Kenneth Walden, who was a registered sex offender.
Investigators discovered that between January 2021, and March 5, 2021, Walden uploaded child sex abuse material to his Google account. Most of the files depicted prepubescent males, some as young as 10- to 12-years old, engaging in sexually explicit conduct, including sexual intercourse. The abuse images collected by the defendant included images and videos depicting sadistic or masochistic conduct, or other depictions of violence against children.
Law enforcement agents searched Walden’s Google account and residence and found more than 600 images of child sexual abuse material in his iPhone and on a SIM card.
At the time of his arrest, Walden was a registered sex offender and had a lengthy criminal history involving sexual misconduct against a child and registration offenses:
- On October 20, 2000, he was convicted in St. Joseph County, Michigan, for Criminal Sexual Conduct 2nd degree, victim under 13, and sentenced to a year in prison.
- On October 2, 2007, he was convicted of being a Child Sex Offender at a public park in Richland County, Illinois, and was sentenced to two and a half years in prison.
- On August 23, 2011, he was convicted of Failing to Report as Sex Offender in Jasper County, Illinois and sentenced to two years in prison.
“This defendant’s choice to seek and collect images of the horrific sexual abuse of children is shocking, but not surprising. For years, this sex offender demonstrated his sexual interest in children and willingness to flout the laws designed to make our communities safer from predators like him,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Trafficking in these images online furthers the abuse inflicted on innocent children and fuels the desires of criminals with sexual interests in children. The serious federal prison sentence imposed here demonstrates that our office is committed to working with all law enforcement agencies to protect our children from those who desire to exploit their trauma for their own sick gratification.”
U.S. Secret Service in partnership with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Walden be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.
This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a multiagency task force led by the Indiana State Police that investigates and prosecutes persons who use the internet to sexually exploit or entice children. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. Visit https://www.in.gov/isp/icactf/ to learn more about their efforts.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Felon Sentenced to an Additional 16 Months in Federal Prison for Escape from Residential Reentry FacilityRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Jaylen Brancheau, 23, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to an additional 16 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to escape from federal custody. This sentence will be served consecutively to Brancheau’s remaining state sentence.
According to court documents, on October 22, 2020, Brancheau was sentenced to 60 months and 1 day imprisonment after being convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
On October 4, 2022, Brancheau was transferred to the Volunteers of America (“VOA”) in Indianapolis, Indiana, to complete his sentence. The Bureau of Prisons contracts with residential reentry centers, also known as halfway houses, to aid inmates who are nearing release as they transition back into the community. Inmates serving a portion of their sentence at a residential reentry center are only authorized to leave through sign-out procedures for approved activities.
Brancheau was to remain in, and abide by the rules of, the facility for six months until his projected release date in April 2023.
U.S. Marshals received notice from the Bureau of Prisons that Brancheau was granted a church pass and did not return. USMS attempted to contact Brancheau multiple times with no success. In July of 2023, Brancheau was located and arrested in Blackford County on a state warrant for Resisting Law Enforcement and Reckless Driving.
U.S. Marshals Service investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II. Judge Sweeney also ordered that Brancheau be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Barry D. Glickman, who prosecuted this case.
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Duo Responsible for Three Armed Robberies in Central Indiana Sentenced to a Combined Ten ½ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Corey Rice, 19, and Antonio Williams, 19, both of Indianapolis, have been sentenced to 60 and 66 months respectively in federal prison after pleading guilty to three counts of interference with commerce by robbery.
According to court documents, on April 23, 2023, Corey Rice and Antonio Williams robbed a Subway restaurant located in Beech Grove. Both men approached the employees and threatened them with weapons that appeared to be firearms, demanded cash, and obtained about $400.
On April 30, 2023, at approximately 5:15pm, Rice and Williams robbed Indy Smoke Time in Greenwood. They again brandished apparent firearms at the employees, demanded cash, and walked out with $570. On the same day, just 45 minutes later, Rice and Williams robbed a Family Dollar store on West Washington Street in Indianapolis, also brandishing apparent firearms. The duo left with an unidentified sum of money.
Approximately ten minutes after the Family Dollar robbery, IMPD officers observed Rice and Williams arrive at an apartment complex on the Central Canal in downtown Indianapolis. Prior to making arrests, officers observed both defendants dispose of grey trash bags. Williams was subsequently interviewed and admitted that he threw the cash from the robberies into the canal after seeing police approach.
“Armed robbery is a serious offense that puts innocent lives at risk for nothing more than a quick buck. These young men falsely believed they could terrorize and threaten law-abiding citizens and businesses without any repercussion,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “We are grateful for the quick actions taken by IMPD and FBI to halt these criminals in their track and reduce the possibility of even more gun violence.”
“These two men used guns to intimidate workers, putting innocent people in fear for their lives so they could steal a few hundred dollars from the cash registers. The sentences imposed send a clear message that these are serious crimes and the people who utilize these violent acts will be held accountable,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “Through continued collaboration with our partners, the FBI will work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our communities.”
FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker. Judge Barker also ordered that Rice and Williams each be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following their release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.
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.
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Violent Kokomo Felon Sentenced to over Five Years in Federal Prison After Posting Instagram Pictures of Himself Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Bradley Morgan, 24, of Kokomo, Indiana, has been sentenced to 68 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, in March of 2021, investigators with the Kokomo Police Department Violent Crimes Task Force began an investigation into Bradley Morgan after becoming aware of Instagram posts by Morgan, showing him pointing firearms at the camera. Morgan was known to be a convicted felon, on probation, and had an active warrant at the time of the discovery.
On April 14, 2021, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant at Morgan’s East Taylor Street residence in Kokomo. During the search, investigators found Morgan hiding in the bedroom closet. In the same bedroom, investigators located a quantity of controlled substances, a .40 caliber Glock with a 23-round capacity extended magazine, and a 9mm Smith & Wesson.
Morgan is prohibited under federal law from ever possessing a firearm due to his previous felony convictions for criminal recklessness and criminal recklessness with a dangerous weapon in Howard County.
“Multiple convictions for violent crimes were not enough to convince this offender to stop carrying a deadly weapon,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “The serious federal prison sentence imposed here should send a message to citizens returning to the community from custody: if you choose to possess a gun you will go right back to prison. Our office will continue to partner with the ATF and local task forces in Kokomo and all across our district to ensure that the most dangerous armed offenders are taken off our streets.”
“This is another successful collective investigative effort between federal and local law enforcement agencies to reduce violent crime in our community. The dedicated men and women of the Kokomo Police Department, Howard County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, and our federal partners will continuously work together to do whatever is necessary to prosecute violent crime offenders and make our communities safer for all law-abiding citizens,” said Chief of Kokomo Police, Doug Stout.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Kokomo Police Department Violent Crimes Task Force investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Corbin Houston, who prosecuted this case.
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.
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Federal Jury Convicts Heavily Armed Methamphetamine DealerRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal jury has found Manuel L. Brown, 49, of Indianapolis, guilty of trafficking methamphetamine, carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on September 3, 2020, Fishers Police Department officers were on active patrol when they observed a Dodge Caravan commit multiple traffic violations. Officers conducted a routine traffic stop and identified Manuel Brown as the driver. A K9 officer was called to the scene and dedicated the presence of drugs inside the vehicle.
Officers searched the van and located a glass smoking pipe with methamphetamine residue in the center console, a loaded .22 caliber revolver, an additional .22 caliber revolver, a loaded Smith and Wesson revolver, a zippered case containing a loaded.45 caliber pistol, multiple plastic bags containing a total of 214 grams of methamphetamine, 20 grams of heroin and fentanyl, and two digital scales, plastic bags for packaging drugs, a night vision rifle scope, multiple boxes of ammunition, and $1,750 in cash. An examination of the data on his mobile phone located numerous messages relating to drug trafficking as well as images of drugs on scales and of one of the seized firearms.
At the time of his arrest, Brown had a prior felony conviction for criminal confinement, and was prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.
“Illegal guns and deadly drugs are a scourge on our neighborhoods, and armed drug traffickers like this defendant will continue to be a priority for federal prosecution,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The trial conviction here is a testament to the talent and dedication of the officers, agents, and prosecutors who disrupted the defendant’s crimes and ensured that he will be held accountable. Hamilton County is safer today because of them.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Fishers Police Department investigated this case. U.S District Court Judge James R. Sweeney presided over the trial and will sentence Brown at a later date. Brown faces up to life in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Pamela S. Domash and Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.
Evansville Man Sentenced to over Eleven Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE, Adam Gerhardt, 34, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 140 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in 2022, Gerhardt had an active felony warrant out of Kentucky for Burglary. On February 11, 2022, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force located Gerhardt at an apartment complex in Evansville and took him into custody.
During a sweep of the home, agents found a set of digital scales, a glass smoking pipe for methamphetamine, four plastic bags containing 387 grams of pure methamphetamine, three plastic bags containing 793 grams of blue fentanyl pills pressed to look like oxycodone pills, two plastic bags containing cocaine, and two plastic bags containing heroin.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
A search of text messages sent by Gerhardt showed him selling an eighth of an ounce of crystal methamphetamine for $100, the blue counterfeit pills for $15 each, and a gram of another drug for $225.
At the time agents located the drugs in the apartment, Gerhardt’s infant child was living in the residence under his care.
“Drug dealers like this defendant peddle deadly substances with utter disregard for human life, seeing only dollar signs and not the faces of the many loved ones have been lost to overdoses caused by the fentanyl hidden in these counterfeit pills,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “It is our responsibility as federal law enforcement officials to attack the drug overdose epidemic head-on by identifying and prosecuting those who are funneling this poison into our communities. This prosecution and sentence demonstrate that our office will continue to work alongside DEA, USMS, and local Drug Task Forces to do just that.”
The DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, and Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force investigated this case. The Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program provided valuable assistance and resources to support this operation. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Gerhardt be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Lauren M. Wheatley, who prosecuted this case.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
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Four Individuals Charged in $44.6 Million Scheme to Defraud Indiana Department of EducationRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging three individuals for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to defraud the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) through their operation of two online charter schools, Indiana Virtual School (IVS) and Indiana Virtual Pathways Academy (IVPA):
Defendant
Charges
Tom Stoughton Sr.,
74, of Carmel, Indiana- 1 count, conspiracy to commit wire fraud
- 16 counts, wire fraud
- 57 counts, money laundering
Phillip Holden,
62, of Middletown, Indiana- 1 count, conspiracy to commit wire fraud
- 16 counts, wire fraud
Percy Clark,
81, of Carmel, Indiana- 1 count, conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- 16 counts, wire fraud
- 11 counts, money laundering
In addition, Christopher King, 61, of Green Fork, Indiana, has entered a plea of guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.According to the indictment, between the at least the summer of 2016 and 2018, the defendants allegedly submitted false numbers to IDOE representing the enrollment of over 4,500 students that they knew were not attending IVS or IVPA.
Like other public and charter schools, IVS and IVPA received funding from the State of Indiana based upon the number of students a school claimed to be enrolled and attending the school. In general, the more students enrolled, the more funding IVS and IVPA received from the State of Indiana. The indictment alleges the defendants manipulated this process to inflate enrollment numbers and ultimately receive more funding.
As a result of these false submissions, IDOE paid in excess of $44,000,000 to IVS/IVPA.
The defendants allegedly caused students to be enrolled or remain enrolled in IVS/IVPA who should not have been, by directing employees to stop verifying student interest before they were enrolled or reenrolled, and by making incomplete student applications available so that the student information could be used to enroll students for the 2017 and September 2018 Count Days. Most of these “students” never actually attended either school.
Shortly before the September 2018 Count Day, the defendants allegedly directed their information technology contractor to compile a list of students who were not listed in the Indiana Department of Education database as attending another school and who had previously been unenrolled from IVS or IVPA due to inactivity. Upon receiving a list of approximately 600 such students, the defendants directed employees to reenroll many of these students and be counted on the September 2018 Count Day.
After IVPA was created in 2017, the defendants allegedly transferred hundreds of students who had not been attending any classes from IVS to IVPA to continue to “count” and receive money for these students but also “protect” IVS from being held accountable by the IDOE for the students’ non-performance.
In the spring of 2017, Holden and Clark allegedly fired an employee who sent an email to IDOE attempting to inform the department of fraud that was occurring at IVS.
IVS and IVPA allegedly paid money received from the State of Indiana to fraudulent for-profit companies, many of which were controlled or operated by Stoughton. After the money was funneled through these for-profit companies, millions of dollars were paid out to Stoughton and members of his family, Clark, King, and others.
The Indiana State Board of Accounts performed an audit on IVS and IVPA in 2019. The SBOA referred the audit findings to the FBI, U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General, Indiana State Police, and Indiana Office of Inspector General, who investigated this case. A trial for the three defendants who have not pleaded guilty will be scheduled later. If convicted, each defendant faces between 10 and 20 years in federal prison per count.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley P. Shepard and Samantha Spiro, who are prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Years of Stalking and Threatening Indiana CoupleRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Patrick Kearney, 41, of Glenview, Illinois, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of stalking, one count of transmitting threats via interstate commerce, and two counts of making harassing telephone calls.
According to court documents, beginning in September of 2019, and continuing through October 4, 2022, Patrick Kearney engaged in a targeted campaign of stalking, intimidation, and harassment directed towards Victims 1 and 2.
Kearney met Victim 1 in the early 2000s, when they both attended the same university. Kearney pursued a relationship with Victim 1 by trying to walk with her after class, meeting her at her dorm, calling the dorm phone, and leaving mail at her dorm mailbox. Victim 1 did not reciprocate interest in a relationship with Kearney. Victim 1 graduated from college, married her husband, Victim 2, and had not seen Kearney since.
In September of 2019, Kearney began sending Victim 1 anonymous handwritten letters to her home in Indiana, mostly stating that Victim 1 should have died in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The letters typically included pictures or drawings of the World Trade Center burning. Kearney sent approximately 23 handwritten letters to Victim 1 between September of 2019 and September of 2022, all including similar abusive language and most referencing September 11, 2001.
In addition to sending letters, Kearney also began repeatedly calling Victim 1’s cell phone at all hours, leaving threatening voicemails and using different phone numbers to avoid being blocked.
On February 22, 2022, Kearney mailed a package from Arizona to Victim 1’s home. The package contained Raid roach bait and a handwritten note stating, “Here is some poison for you and give the rest to your idiot boyfriend!”
On May 16, 2022, Kearney mailed Victims 1 and 2 a package from Arizona that contained Combat cockroach poison. The package included a note stating that the couple should eat the poison.
On July 11, 2022, at approximately 5:04 am, Kearney called Victim 2 and left a voicemail threatening that “you and her (Victim 1) should be shot in the f****** head.”
As the victims were planning their wedding in 2022, they created a website that included wedding registry information. Kearney began leaving voicemails for Victims 1 and 2 impersonating customer service representatives from Crate & Barrel and Target and threatened to show up at the wedding and ruin it.
Between October of 2019 and September of 2022, Kearney placed approximately 357 phone calls to Victim 1’s cell phone and left over 120 voicemails. Between May of 2022 and August of 2022, Kearney placed approximately 47 phone calls to Victim 2’s cell phone and left at least 35 voicemails.
“This serious federal prison sentence is an appropriate consequence for the defendant’s years’ long campaign of cruel threats and harassment. He chose to terrorize an innocent couple and rob them of safety and peace—driven by his toxic mix of entitlement and resentment,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “As we near the end of Stalking Awareness Month, we must raise awareness that stalking crimes can manifest in many forms as our digital world evolves. Even without physical violence, the threat of escalation and fear of the unknown can be deeply traumatizing for victims. These actions are simply unacceptable, and federal law enforcement agencies will work together to identify the perpetrators and hold them accountable.”
“United States Postal Inspectors work diligently to keep U.S. Postal Service customers, and all Americans, safe from criminals who use the U.S. Mail system to further their illegal actions,” said Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge for the Detroit Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “I commend the collective efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Indiana and Postal Inspectors in Illinois, Arizona, and Indiana in bringing this individual to justice. His victims can rest assured that the constant threat of harassment and stalking has come to an end.”
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Kearney be supervised for three years following his release from federal prison and pay a $500 fine.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who prosecuted this case.
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Violent Muncie Felon Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Trafficking of Counterfeit Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- William Henry Cook, 27, of Muncie, Indiana, has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, in February of 2023, law enforcement officials became aware of William Henry Cook selling fentanyl out of his residence in Muncie, Indiana.
On March 2, 2023, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Cook’s residence. Cook was present at the time the search warrant was executed. The search resulted in the discovery of 2,999 counterfeit pills, later analyzed and found to contain a total of 341.01 grams of fentanyl. In addition to the fentanyl, officers also found approximately $13,614 in U.S. currency and five firearms, including a loaded Sig Sauer 9 mm semiautomatic handgun that was previously stolen from an Indiana State Police trooper.
In an interview with law enforcement, Cook admitted that he sold counterfeit M-30 fentanyl pills to as many as ten people per day.
At the time of the search, Cook was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his 2018 felony conviction of Robbery Resulting in Bodily Injury in Delaware County.
“Fentanyl dealers value their profits far more than the lives of our families and neighbors,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We must fight to save lives by investigating and prosecuting the armed drug traffickers who exploit the epidemic of substance use disorder. Our office, the DEA, and Indiana State Police are committed to holding fentanyl traffickers accountable for pushing deadly poison on our streets.”
“The DEA would like to thank the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana for their diligent work in prosecuting this important case. DEA will continue to partner with local, state, and federal agencies to hold accountable drug dealers who recklessly distribute deadly poisons, like fentanyl,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Gannon.
“The Indiana State Police will continue to engage with, and provide the necessary resources to its federal, county, and local law enforcement partners in an effort to not only keep these dangerous and potentially deadly drugs out of our communities, but to also hold those responsible for transporting and trafficking them into those communities,” said Indiana State Police Captain Ron Galaviz.
The DEA and Indiana State Police investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Cook be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Barry D. Glickman, who prosecuted this case.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
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Illegally Armed, Nine-Time Felon Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Zachary Hutchinson, 39, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
According to court documents, on September 22, 2020, parole agents with the Indiana Department of Corrections and officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department conducted an unannounced home visit at Hutchinson’s residence. At the time of the visit, Hutchinson was on active parole for a felony battery conviction in 2010.
When agents identified themselves and knocked, Hutchinson opened the front door. Almost immediately, agents saw a handgun lying in plain view on top of the couch located directly behind Hutchinson in arm’s reach.
Recognizing the danger, agents instructed Hutchinson to place his hands behind his back. Rather than comply, Hutchinson took several quick steps backward toward the sofa, began reaching toward the handgun and stated, “Kill me now.”
Agents safely detained Hutchinson. During a search of Hutchinson’s person, they located a cigarette box in his front left pants pocket that contained approximately two grams of methamphetamine. In Hutchinson’s bedroom, investigators also located a 12-gague shotgun in a case.
At the time of his arrest, Hutchinson had nine felony convictions in the state of Indiana, including for strangulation, battery, residential entry, robbery, and resisting law enforcement.
“This defendant’s many felony convictions and years served in jail have not deterred him from continuing to illegally arm himself,” said Zachary A. Myers U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Illegally armed felons are a preventable source of the gun violence that threatens our neighborhoods and takes far too many lives. A successful return to the community from prison requires compliance with the law, including never again possessing a gun. I commend the ATF, IMPD, and the Indiana Department of Corrections for keeping the community safe by ensuring parolees comply with the law.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered that Hutchinson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison and be subject to a $900 fine.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kyle M. Sawa, who prosecuted this case.
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Former Employee and Co-Conspirator Sentenced for Embezzling over $270,000 from WFYI Public MediaRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Alicia Wilson, 37, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to three years’ probation, with the first 15 months on home detention, and ordered to pay $270,876 in restitution after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
In April of 2023, Mindi B. Madison, 53, of Indianapolis plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and was sentenced to three years’ probation and also ordered to pay $270,876 in restitution.
According to court documents, Wilson and Madison conspired together to embezzle funds from WFYI (“WFYI”) Public Media into their personal checking accounts.
Madison began working as an Accounting Specialist for WFYI in January 2018. WFYI was owned and operated by Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Media, Inc., and provided television and radio programming throughout Central Indiana. Madison’s co-conspirator, Wilson, was neither an employee nor a vendor of WFYI.
As an Accounting Specialist, Madison had access to WFYI’s accounting software, and was trusted to present legitimate expenses, claims, invoices, and supporting documentation along with the unsigned WFYI checks to employees at WFYI who had signature authority for their approval and signature. Instead of presenting legitimate claims that arose out of WFYI’s legitimate business expenses for signature and payment, Madison abused her position of trust, and presented at least 156 fake claims and invoices for payment. In effort to conceal the theft from WFYI and their banking institutions, Madison and Wilson agreed that Madison would falsify invoices using versions of Wilson’s name and businesses connected to her.
Madison tendered WFYI checks to Wilson, and they agreed that Wilson would then deposit the checks into her bank accounts. Wilson then withdrew Madison’s portion in cash, and they split the illegal proceeds. Both Madison and Wilson used WFYI’s stolen funds for their own personal expenditures including but not limited to, rent, restaurants, groceries, fuel, and utilities.
In total, the pair embezzled approximately $270,876 from WFYI before the theft was discovered. Wilson’s participation in the scheme made it virtually impossible for WFYI to detect the theft.
“Complex economic crimes such as these devastate the finances and security of businesses and individuals. The defendants’ theft deprived WFYI of hundreds of thousands of dollars intended for public service and educating the community,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office will continue to work with the FBI to identify and prosecute individuals who scheme and steal to satisfy their own greed.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.
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Vigo County Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
TERRE HAUTE- Russell Silvers, 59, of Terre Haute, Indiana, has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, on September 15, 2020, Vigo County Sheriff’s Office Deputies observed Silvers sell 15.5 grams of methamphetamine to an individual for $550. On November 17, 2021, Silvers was again observed selling 205.2 grams of pure methamphetamine in return for $3,260.
On January 6, 2022, officers with the Vigo County Drug Task Force arrested Silvers while walking from a local restaurant to his parked Mustang. At the time, Silvers was on bond for two state cases, possession of methamphetamine and criminal recklessness, and had two other pending state cases involving dealing cocaine and methamphetamine.
Investigators located two plastic bags containing 896 grams of methamphetamine mixture inside the trunk of the Mustang. During an interview with investigators, Silvers admitted that he was getting methamphetamine from his source in South Bend once every few weeks and would not travel for less than three pounds at a time.
Over the course of the six months leading up to his arrest, Silvers obtained and distributed approximately 8.164 kilograms of methamphetamine to people in Vigo County.
“The people of Vigo County are safer today because of this prosecution. The defendant is responsible for dealing kilogram quantities of methamphetamine into our communities, impacting countless lives and fueling the epidemic of substance abuse,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This sentence demonstrates that major methamphetamine traffickers will face serious consequences in federal court. Our office is committed to partnering with outstanding federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in the Wabash Valley to take dangerous drugs and dangerous criminals off our streets.”
"When local and federal law enforcement work together, serious criminals are taken off the streets. Russell Silvers was given more than one opportunity to change the direction of his life, but he continued to prey upon our community with his weapon of choice, methamphetamine," said Vigo County Prosecutor Terry Modesitt. "We applaud the efforts of the Vigo County Drug Task Force and Sheriff's Office in putting together such a strong case against Mr. Silvers. And we appreciate the D.E.A. agents, U.S. Attorney Myers, and his team for their efforts in removing another drug dealer from our streets."
The DEA, Wabash Valley Drug Task Force, and Vigo County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. The Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program provided valuable assistance and resources to support this operation. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Silvers be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Lindsay Karwoski who prosecuted this case.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder and Attempted Murder of Fellow Inmates at the Terre Haute Federal PenitentiaryRead the Press Release
TERRE HAUTE- Rodney Curtis Hamrick, 58, a federal inmate formerly housed at the United States Penitentiary, in the Terre Haute Federal Correctional Complex, has been sentenced to life in federal prison after pleading guilty to first degree murder and assault with intent to commit murder.
According to court documents, Rodney Hamrick, Richard Warren, and Robert Neal were all inmates housed within the Communications Management Unit of the U.S. Penitentiary at the Terre Haute, Indiana, Federal Correctional Complex. On November 10, 2018, Warren notified a prison officer that he had been stabbed and assaulted in his cell by Hamrick. Officers secured Hamrick and confiscated a homemade weapon resembling an icepick used to stab Warren.
Inside Hamrick’s cell, Officers also found inmate Robert Neal covered in a sheet with a pillowcase tied over his face and neck, his hands bound behind his back, and multiple puncture wounds in his chest. Neal had no pulse and was later confirmed by medical staff to be dead. The official autopsy noted eleven stab wounds to Neal’s chest, but the ultimate cause of death was strangulation.
In an interview with FBI agents, Hamrick admitted to planning to attack Neal and Warren in advance. Hamrick lured Neal into his cell to help with legal paperwork, then binding him and strangling him with a cord. When the cord broke, Hamrick strangled Neal to death with his bare hands. Hamrick then stabbed Neal multiple times to ensure he was dead. Neal was 68-years-old when Hamrick murdered him.
Hamrick then entered Warren’s cell and immediately attacked him, grabbing Warren from behind and stabbing him in the neck. Warren was able to escape Hamrick’s grasp and protect himself from further stabs until another inmate arrived and Hamrick left Warren’s cell.
At the time he committed these crimes, Hamrick was serving a life sentence imposed in 2007 by the Eastern District of Virginia for using a destructive device in an attempted crime of violence. This sentence was imposed following seven prior federal convictions for offenses including violent threats against public officials and federal buildings, attempted escape, and multiple offenses involving manufacturing and mailing destructive devices—some of which detonated and injured others. After Hamrick murdered Neal and attempted to murder Warren, the Bureau of Prisons transferred Hamrick from Terre Haute to the ADMAX administrative security U.S. Penitentiary in Florence, Colorado.
“It is clear from Rodney Hamrick’s lifelong pattern of violent crime, culminating the horrific attacks he perpetrated in the Terre Haute prison, that he should never live another day outside of federal prison,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the diligent work of the FBI and our federal prosecutors to hold this defendant accountable. I sincerely hope that the completion of this prosecution brings some measure of closure and peace to Mr. Neal’s family and the surviving victim.”
FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Jayson W. McGrath and William L. McCoskey, who prosecuted this case.
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Woman Sentenced for Threatening to Murder U.S. Probation OfficerRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Tammy Morgan, 56, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to time served in federal custody after pleading guilty to Transmitting a Threatening Interstate Communication. At the time of her sentencing, Morgan had been held in federal custody for approximately 14 months.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions spanning from October 2018 through August 2022, Ms. Morgan sent repeated voicemails, texts messages, and physical notes threatening Victim 1, a federal probation officer. In the course of her official duties, Victim 1 supervised the release of the defendant’s husband, who was placed under federal supervision following his release from federal prison following a conviction in the Southern District of Indiana.
Specifically, on March 16, 2021, Morgan called Victim 1 at her office and left a voicemail stating, “I have a driving while suspended on my record, and I’m going to have a murder charge on my record…” Three days later, Morgan left another voicemail stating, “I’m going to hurt somebody…And I’m going to blow your f*****g head off.”
On June 22, 2022, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt issued an Order prohibiting Morgan from entering the U.S. Courthouse in Indianapolis. In the Order, Chief Judge Pratt referenced a January 13, 2022, incident wherein Morgan warned an employee, “You look scared, and you should be.” The Order also referenced a June 1, 2022, incident wherein Morgan informed another court employee that “somebody’s going to get hurt.”
According to the same Order, on four occasions, Morgan attempted to enter the U.S. Courthouse with a pocketknife. On July 14, 2022, Morgan approached a U.S. Probation Officer as she walked to her parked vehicle and asked if Victim 1 was at the office. One month later, Morgan left a note on the same Officer’s vehicle that read “I lost my everything because of [Victim 1.] She lied and stole my children and our money, I want justice.”
“Federal probation officers play a critical role in protecting the public by helping offenders successfully reenter society and ensuring they comply with the law following their return from prison—an inherently difficult and sometimes dangerous job,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “No public servant should have to suffer death threats just for doing their job. Our office takes threats to all federal employees very seriously and is committed to supporting and protecting our counterparts in the court system.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Morgan be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects over $25 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2023Read the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers, announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office collected $25,434,282 in asset forfeiture and financial litigation debt in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $15,244,637 was collected through asset forfeiture actions and $10,189,645 was collected through civil and criminal debt collection actions.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to protecting the public and recovering funds for the victims of federal crime,” said U.S. Attorney Myers. “We are proud to have partnered with so many local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to compensate victims and hold criminals financially accountable.”
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants 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.
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.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Civil Division Chief Shelese Woods and Asset Recovery Unit Chief Kelly Rota, as well as the Office’s outstanding attorneys and support professionals for their diligent efforts to uphold the law, hold wrongdoers accountable, and recover funds for victims of crime.
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Franklin Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for 3-D Printing and Trafficking Firearms and Glock SwitchesRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Alexander Clark, 28, of Franklin, Indiana, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to making a firearm in violation of the National Firearms Act, possession of an unregistered firearm, and possession of a machinegun.
According to court documents, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives began to investigate Alexander Clark based on occasions in which he sold privately made firearms. Over a one-month period, Clark was observed selling five Glock style pistols that were made with use of a 3-D printer for the frames, a 3-D printed AR-15 rifle lower receiver, and two machinegun conversion devices.
Machinegun conversion devices, sometimes called “Glock switches” or “auto-sears” are devices that convert ordinary semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic machineguns. Machinegun conversion devices are themselves considered machineguns under federal law, even when not installed, and are illegal to possess or sell in almost all cases.
On August 22., 2022, ATF agents searched Clark’s home and located multiple firearms, machineguns, silencers, firearm accessories, and a 3-D printer with other electronic devices in aid of 3-D printing.
In total, Clark possessed seven machineguns, 27 machinegun conversion devices and seven silencers, none of which were legally registered.
“Machinegun conversion devices are an urgent public safety challenge—an ordinary pistol equipped with a conversion device and an extended magazine can fire 31 rounds in just two seconds,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Criminals like this defendant exploit modern technology to illegally manufacture deadly weapons and illegally arm others, including felons and juveniles. The serious federal prison sentence imposed here demonstrates that our office is committed to making our communities safer by getting these devices off our streets and holding illegal gun traffickers accountable.”
“Machine gun conversion devices, which convert semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons, are one of the most serious challenges facing ATF and our law enforcement partners at the moment,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “These conversion devices increase the lethality of a firearm, while also reducing the ability of the person firing the weapon to control where they shoot. This combination is deadly and random and represents a clear threat to our community. We will work with our partners to remove these devices, and those who are manufacturing and selling them, from our streets.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Chief Judge Pratt also ordered that Clark be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jayson W. McGrath, who prosecuted this case.
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Illegally Armed Serial Bank Robber Sentenced to 22 ½ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Gary Sistrunk, 42, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 22.5 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to armed bank robbery, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on November 6, 2019, Gary Sistrunk and an unknown male entered the German American Bank in Columbus, Indiana. After waiting for customers to clear out of the bank, Sistrunk began walking around the bank’s lobby acting as a lookout, while his accomplice approached the register. The men demanded money from the teller and were given $10,293 in cash. The robbers forced the bank tellers and a lone customer into a back room, threatening them not to move for 15 minutes or else they would be killed.
On January 28, 2020, Sistrunk entered a Regions Bank in Fishers, Indiana, acting alone. Sistrunk approached the teller counter and brandished a black and silver handgun, leaned into the teller’s window space, and said, “Hurry and don’t make any noise. Give me the money!” The teller complied and gave Sistrunk $10,327.00 in cash. Sistrunk took the money and fled the bank.
The following day, Fishers Police Department released a photo and surveillance footage of the robbery to local media outlets. The Department received two tips identifying Sistrunk as the robber. At the time of the robbery, Sistrunk also had an outstanding Marion County warrant for armed robbery and confinement.
On January 29, 2020, Sistrunk was arrested on the outstanding Marion County warrant. During the court-authorized search of the hotel room he was living in, investigators located his black and silver Springfield Arms handgun, the clothing Sistrunk wore when he committed the robbery on January 28, 2020, and approximately $4,000 cash. Sistrunk is prohibited from ever possessing a firearm under federal law because he is a convicted felon. Sistrunk was convicted in Marion and Shelby counties of charges including armed robbery, attempted armed robbery, and criminal confinement for his role in four separate robberies in 2012 and 2014.
“This criminal has engaged in a pattern of violence throughout his life,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Several years in prison for prior armed robberies did not convince him to change his behavior. The sentence imposed here should serve as a warning to repeat, violent offenders—reducing violence is a top priority for this office, and repeat offenders face lengthy terms in federal prison. I commend the FBI and Fishers Police Department, and our federal prosecutor, for their work to quickly arrest the defendant and hold him accountable.”
The FBI and Fishers Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Sistrunk be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Corbin D. Houston, who prosecuted this case.
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Indy Man Sentenced to Thirty Years in Federal Prison for Raping a Toddler and Recording it on his PhoneRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Devon Shane Mitchell, 37, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to sexually exploiting a child.
According to court documents, in February of 2023, law enforcement officers began investigating Mitchell for criminal activity unrelated to child sexual abuse. During the course of that investigation, officers discovered multiple images and videos of child sexual abuse on Mitchell’s cell phone. The videos showed Mitchell raping a child under four years old, who is crying during the attack. At times, the child was in his care, custody, or control.
In April of 2023, Mitchell was arrested at his home. During a thorough search of his electronic devices, FBI agents found over 800 images and videos of other child sexual abuse material Mitchell collected online, in addition to the videos he created using the toddler victim.
“Our hearts break for the violence and trauma the defendant inflicted on such a young and vulnerable child. We are deeply committed to finding the offenders who sexually exploit our children and ensuring that they are taken out of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “Thanks to the dedicated investigators at the FBI, IMPD, and our federal prosecutor, this victim and every other child will be protected from the defendant’s crimes for decades to come.”
FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Mitchell be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 20 years following his release from federal prison and pay $10,000 in restitution to the victim.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Fraudster Sentenced to More than Four Years in Federal Prison After Stealing over $800,000 in COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment BenefitsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Temitope S. Adeboye, 32, of Indianapolis has been sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to Wire Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and other false identity documents offenses.
In 2020, Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). The CARES Act provided for the funding of unemployment benefits that were to be paid out by the states. A prospective claimant could apply for benefits and request their unemployment benefits be placed onto a prepaid debit card.
According to court documents, beginning on a date unknown and continuing until at least August 6, 2020, Adeboye obtained and used unemployment debit cards from the State of Nevada in the names of identity theft victims. These individuals had not applied for unemployment benefits. In some instances, when the identity theft victim applied for benefits themselves, they learned that someone has already applied using their identity information.
Adeboye used these fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits debit cards to purchase money orders and other items of value. When asked to verify his identity by cashiers, Adeboye used fake IDs in the names of the identity theft victims. He later used money orders that were purchased with stolen unemployment benefits to buy a Lexus.
On August 6, 2023, Adeboye was arrested by IMPD officers for driving with a suspended driver’s license. During a search of the vehicle, officers found the following items: 96 unemployment debit cards issued by the State of Nevada, each under a different name, a Kroger receipt for $1,501.76, multiple money orders issued by Western Union, U.S. Postal Service, and MoneyGram, and U.S. currency totaling $76,680.
At the time of his arrest, Adeboye possessed approximately 32 fake driver’s licenses from Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, including some that were under the same stolen identities as the unemployment debit cards. The 96 unemployment debit cards recovered from Adeboye were used in over 5,000 transactions at various retailers and financial institutions.
“As the pandemic raged across the country in 2020, fraudsters embraced the motto, ‘Never let a good crisis go to waste.’ While countless individuals experienced tremendous grief as loved ones passed away and the strain of isolation grew, this defendant saw an opportunity to steal money and identities,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The Department of Justice and our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement are committed to identifying and prosecuting the criminals who took advantage of the global crisis to scheme and steal. This prison sentence demonstrates that these thieves will have a price to pay in federal court.”
The FBI, Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Adeboye be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison and pay $804,460.54 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kyle M. Sawa, who prosecuted this case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID‑19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID‑19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form
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Indiana Health Network Agrees to Pay $345 Million to Settle Alleged False Claims Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Community Health Network Inc. (Community), a health care network headquartered in Indianapolis, has agreed to pay the United States $345 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting claims to Medicare for services that were referred in violation of the Stark Law.
The Stark Law seeks to safeguard the integrity of the Medicare program by prohibiting a hospital from billing for certain services referred by physicians with whom the hospital has a financial relationship, unless that relationship satisfies one of the law’s statutory or regulatory exceptions. Under the Stark Law, when a hospital employs a physician, the hospital may not submit claims for certain services referred by that physician unless the physician’s compensation is consistent with fair market value and not based on the value or volume of their referrals to the hospital. In this lawsuit, the United States alleged that the compensation Community paid to its cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, vascular surgeons, neurosurgeons and breast surgeons was well above fair market value, that Community awarded bonuses to physicians that were tied to the number of their referrals, and that Community submitted claims to Medicare for services that resulted from these unlawful referrals.
The United States’ complaint alleged that beginning in 2008 and 2009, senior management at Community embarked on an illegal scheme to recruit physicians for employment for the purpose of capturing their lucrative “downstream referrals.” Community successfully recruited hundreds of local physicians, including cardiovascular specialists, neurosurgeons and breast surgeons, by paying them salaries that were significantly higher — sometimes as much as double — what they were receiving in their own private practices. Community was well aware of the Stark Law requirements that the compensation of employed physicians had to be fair market value and could not take into account the volume of referrals. Community hired a valuation firm to analyze the compensation it proposed paying to its recruited specialists. The complaint alleged that Community knowingly provided the firm with false compensation figures so that the firm would render a favorable opinion. The complaint further alleged that Community ignored repeated warnings from the valuation firm regarding the legal perils of overcompensating its physicians. In addition to paying specialists excessive compensation, the complaint alleged that Community awarded incentive compensation to physicians, in the form of certain financial performance bonuses that were based on the physicians reaching a target of referrals to Community’s network, again in violation of the Stark Law.
“The Stark Law was enacted to ensure that the clinical judgment of physicians is not corrupted by improper financial incentives,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s recovery demonstrates the department’s resolve to protect the integrity of federal health care programs and to safeguard the taxpayer dollars used to support these important programs.”
“Hoosier Medicare patients deserve to know that their care is based on their medical needs, not their doctor’s financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana. “When doctors refer patients for CT scans, mammograms or any other medical service, those patients should know the doctor is putting their medical interests first and not their profit margins. Community Health Network overpaid its doctors. It also paid doctors bonuses based on the amount of extra money the hospital was able to bill Medicare through doctor referrals. Such compensation arrangements erode patient trust and incentivize unnecessary medical services that waste taxpayer dollars. The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Division, working alongside the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the DOJ’s Fraud Section are committed to holding companies accountable when they knowingly seek to profit off of Medicare patients through greedy compensation schemes.”
“HHS-OIG remains steadfast in our efforts to protect our health care programs and the people they serve, including holding those accountable who violate the Stark Law,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of HHS-OIG. “Our work will not cease here. Following the settlement, HHS-OIG will enter into a five-year corporate integrity agreement with the defendant, further demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protecting federal health care programs.”
Under the settlement, in addition to paying the United States $345 million, Community will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with HHS-OIG.
The settlement announced today stems from a whistleblower complaint filed in 2014 by CHN’s former Chief Financial and Chief Operating Officer Thomas Fischer pursuant to the False Claims Act’s qui tam provisions, which permit private persons to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The Act also permits the government to intervene and take over the lawsuit, as it did in this case as to certain of Fischer’s allegations. Fischer’s share has not yet been determined in this matter.
The United States’ intervention and settlement in this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 800‑HHS‑TIPS (800-447-8477).
The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case.
The matter was handled by Trial Attorneys Arthur Di Dio, Kelly McAuliffe, Claire Horrell and David Finkelstein of the Civil Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Olson and Shelese Woods for the Southern District of Indiana.
The case is captioned United States and the State of Indiana ex rel. Thomas Fischer v. Community Health Network, Inc., et al., No. 1:14-cv-1215 (S.D. Ind.).
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Settlement ComplaintSalvadoran Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Two Handguns and Threatening to Kill Domestic Abuse VictimRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Ramon Alvarez-Hernandez, 40, of El Salvador has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien.
According to court documents, on February 22, 2023, IMPD officers were dispatched to investigate a domestic violence incident. Upon arrival, officers learned Alvarez-Hernandez punched, choked, and pulled a firearm on the victim, threatening to kill her. Officers observed bruises on the victim’s face and red marks on her neck. Alvarez-Hernandez was not present at this time.
The next day, officers learned that Alvarez-Hernandez threatened to shoot the victim if she cooperated with the police. Alvarez-Hernandez also threated the victim’s neighbor and attempted to question the neighbor about his relationship with the victim.
On April 12, 2023, Alvarez-Hernandez was arrested on an outstanding warrant during a traffic stop. Officers searched his person and located a two handguns and 19.3 grams of cocaine. Alvaerz-Hernandez is a citizen of El Salvador, and not lawfully present in the United States. Under federal law, individuals who have not obtained citizenship in the United States and are present without lawful status are prohibited from possessing firearms.
“Research shows that armed domestic abusers pose a profound risk to the safety of those closest to them and to the public at large. Our office, together with IMPD and HSI, will continue to prioritize the LEATH initiative to save the lives of those impacted by domestic violence,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers.
Homeland Security Investigations and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II. Judge Sweeney also ordered that Alvarez-Hernandez be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.
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.
This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.
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Muncie Drug Dealer Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Trafficking of Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Jesse Daniel Ross, II, 23, of Muncie, Indiana, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions in early 2023, Drug Enforcement Administration agents observed Ross sell a total of 1,000 fentanyl pills for $3,000.
On June 12, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Ross’ Muncie home. Officers located over 3,000 more pills containing a total of 779 grams of fentanyl, over $12,000 in cash, and two handguns. Both of the guns were loaded and within arm’s reach of Ross’ fentanyl stash and drug proceeds.
In an interview with investigators, Ross admitted to selling “M30” labeled fentanyl pills to as many as four people per day.
At the time of his arrest, Ross was on probation in Delaware County following a prior conviction for dealing narcotics in the presence of a minor. Ross is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm due to his previous felony conviction.
“The ongoing fentanyl crisis continues to ravage our families and communities—drug poisonings are now the leading cause of death for Americans 18 to 45 years old. The defendant had a direct hand in pushing thousands of these poisonous pills into Muncie’s neighborhoods,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Armed fentanyl traffickers are a top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. With our federal, state, and local partners, we are committed to dismantling these operations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.”
The DEA, Muncie- Delaware County Drug Task Force and the Muncie Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Ross be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Barry D. Glickman, who prosecuted this case.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
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Community Health Network Agrees to Pay $345 Million to Settle Alleged False Claims Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – Community Health Network, Inc. (Community), a healthcare network headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, has agreed to pay the United States $345 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting claims to Medicare for services that were referred in violation of the Stark Law.
The Stark Law seeks to safeguard the integrity of the Medicare program by prohibiting a hospital from billing for certain services referred by physicians with whom the hospital has a financial relationship unless that relationship satisfies one of the law’s statutory or regulatory exceptions. Under the Stark Law, when a hospital employs a physician, the hospital may not submit claims for certain services referred by that physician unless the physician’s compensation is consistent with fair market value and not based on the value or volume of their referrals to the hospital. In this lawsuit, the United States alleged that the compensation Community paid to its cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, vascular surgeons, neurosurgeons, and breast surgeons was well above fair market value, that Community awarded bonuses to physicians that were tied to the number of their referrals, and that Community submitted claims to Medicare for services that resulted from these unlawful referrals.
The United States’ complaint alleged that beginning in 2008 and 2009, senior management at Community embarked on an illegal scheme to recruit physicians for employment for the purpose of capturing their lucrative “downstream referrals.” Community successfully recruited hundreds of local physicians, including cardiovascular specialists, neurosurgeons, and breast surgeons, by paying them salaries that were significantly higher – sometimes as much as double – what they were receiving in their own private practices. Community was well aware of the Stark Law requirements that the compensation of employed physicians had to be fair market value and could not take into account the volume of referrals. Community hired a valuation firm to analyze the compensation it proposed paying to its recruited specialists. The Complaint alleged that Community knowingly provided the firm with false compensation figures so that the firm would render a favorable opinion. The Complaint further alleged that Community ignored repeated warnings from the valuation firm regarding the legal perils of overcompensating its physicians. In addition to paying specialists excessive compensation, the Complaint alleged that Community awarded incentive compensation to physicians, in the form of certain financial performance bonuses that were based on the physicians reaching a target of referrals to Community’s network, again in violation of the Stark Law.
“The Stark Law was enacted to ensure that the clinical judgment of physicians is not corrupted by improper financial incentives,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s recovery demonstrates the Department’s resolve to protect the integrity of federal health care programs and to safeguard the taxpayer dollars used to support these important programs.”
“Hoosier Medicare patients deserve to know that their care is based on their medical needs, not their doctor’s financial gain. When doctors refer patients for CT scans, mammograms, or any other medical service, those patients should know the doctor is putting their medical interests first and not their profit margins,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The United States alleged that Community Health Network overpaid its doctors, and that it paid doctors bonuses based on the amount of extra money the hospital was able to bill Medicare through doctor referrals. Such compensation arrangements erode patient trust and incentivize unnecessary medical services that waste taxpayer dollars. The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Division, working alongside the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Justice Department’s Fraud Section are committed to holding companies accountable when they knowingly seek to profit off of Medicare patients through greedy compensation schemes.”
“HHS-OIG remains steadfast in our efforts to protect our health care programs and the people they serve, including holding those accountable who violate the Stark Law,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Our work will not cease here. Following the settlement, HHS-OIG will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the defendant, further demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protecting federal health care programs.”
Under the settlement, in addition to paying the United States $345 million, Community will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services.
The settlement announced today stems from a whistleblower complaint filed in 2014 by CHN’s former Chief Financial and Chief Operating Officer, Thomas Fischer, pursuant to the False Claims Act’s qui tam provisions, which permit private persons to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The Act also permits the Government to intervene and take over the lawsuit, as it did in this case as to certain of Fischer’s allegations. Mr. Fischer’s share has not yet been determined in this matter.
The United States’ intervention and settlement in this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was handled by Trial Attorneys Arthur Di Dio, Kelly McAuliffe, Claire Horrell, and David Finkelstein of the Civil Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Olson and Shelese Woods, from the Southern District of Indiana. The litigation team received investigative support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General.
The case is captioned United States and the State of Indiana ex rel. Thomas Fischer v. Community Health Network, Inc., et al., No. 1:14-cv-1215 (S.D. Ind.). The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.Violent Domestic Abuser Sentenced to over Three Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearms While Fleeing from PoliceRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Zachariah Brownie, 33, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, in November of 2022, Brownie was on probation for two separate felony convictions, including a domestic violence crime committed on August 21, 2021. Warrants were issued for his arrest after he violated the terms of his supervision.
On the morning of November 21, 2022, officers located Brownie driving a Chevy Trax and activated emergency lights in an attempt to pull him over. Instead of stopping, Brownie fled in the car. Officers pursued Brownie and attempted a pursuit intervention technique (PIT) maneuver. The PIT maneuver caused Brownie’s vehicle to spin around, but Brownie continued to drive away from police. As the pursuit continued, officers observed Brownie throw a handgun out the window of his car. The gun landed in the middle of the street and was later recovered by law enforcement officers.
After a second PIT maneuver, Brownie’s car came to a stop and he was arrested. Investigators searched the car and recovered eight grams of crack cocaine, a working digital scale, a loaded Glock 9 mm magazine, two boxes of 9 mm ammunition, and a box of .223 rifle ammunition. According to a civilian eyewitness, Brownie also threw a second gun out the window during the chase. That firearm was later recovered by investigators near a residential driveway, along the path of Brownie’s flight.
Brownie is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm due to his multiple felony convictions, including criminal confinement, residential entry, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, resisting law enforcement, domestic battery committed in the presence of a child less than 16 years old, and possession of cocaine. Most of Brownie’s prior convictions involve domestic violence.
“Abusers with guns use them to exert power and control over their victims. This defendant’s lengthy and troubling history of extremely violent domestic abuse makes him an extreme danger to his partners, family, and the entire community,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “Domestic disturbance calls can be incredibly dangerous for law enforcement as well as victims, especially when abusers are armed. That is why our office is committed to working alongside FBI and IMPD to hold these high-risk offenders accountable in federal court and ensure they are unable to cause more trauma to our families, friends, and neighbors.”
The FBI and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman. Judge Brookman also ordered that Brownie be supervised by the U.S Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.
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Evansville Child Predator Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Sharing Child Sexual Abuse Material via Social MediaRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Seth Harms, 31, of Mount Vernon, Indiana, has been sentenced to six years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of distribution of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, between November 22, and December 8 of 2021, Harms used the screen name “monstere98” to send multiple videos and images of child sexual abuse material to other users using an online communications platform. One video contained a prepubescent female undressing and engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
On December 8, 2021, Harms was interviewed at his home by local law enforcement officers and admitted to viewing sexually explicit material involving minors on his cell phone as recently as a couple of hours before the investigators arrived. Additionally, Harms admitted to using the platform to communicate with other individuals who would send him internet file links for child sexual abuse material.
“Predators like this defendant use online platforms to exploit children and seek affirmation from others who share their sexual interest in minors. Survivors of child sexual abuse are retraumatized every single time the evidence of their abuse is shared,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “My office and our law enforcement partners at the FBI are dedicated to protecting children from those interested in their exploitation by identifying and sending them to federal prison.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Harms be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from federal prison and register as a sex offender wherever he lives, works, and goes to school.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Fishers Brothers Sentenced to More Than 35 Years Combined for Manufacturing and Distributing Machine guns Intended for ISISRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Moyad Dannon, 25, of Fishers, Indiana, has been sentenced to 200 months in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to Attempting to Provide Material Support or Resources, namely, firearms, to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. His brother, Mahde Dannon was sentenced to twenty years in federal prison in October 2021, after pleading guilty to the same charges.
According to court documents, in June of 2018, the Dannon brothers devised a scheme to deliver stolen firearms to a convicted felon who was cooperating with the FBI.
Between July 2018 and December 2018, the Dannon brothers sold a number of illegally obtained firearms to the cooperating individual. Around the same time period, the Dannon brothers also began to manufacture untraceable “ghost guns” by purchasing firearms parts online and assembling those parts into fully-functioning, .223 caliber semi-automatic rifles, which they sold to the FBI undercover agent.
In late 2018, the Dannon brothers began manufacturing untraceable, fully automatic, .223 caliber rifles, using much the same process they used to manufacture the semi-automatic rifles, and selling those to the undercover agent and confidential informant (CI).
Shortly thereafter, Moyad Dannon accompanied the undercover agent to a location near the U.S. southwest border in an effort to market that rifle, and additional fully-automatic rifles, to a potential buyer who was also cooperating with the FBI. During that trip, Moyad Dannon learned that the potential buyer sought to ship the weapons to a location in the Middle East, where they would be used by ISIS. ISIS is a designated foreign terrorist organization pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Despite learning of the ultimate destination of the weapons, the Dannon brothers agreed to manufacture and sell at least 55 additional fully automatic “ghost guns” to the buyer from the American southwest border, believing those weapons would be shipped to the Middle East, to ISIS and its members.
On May 15, 2019, the Dannon brothers manufactured five untraceable, fully automatic, .223 caliber rifles from parts they had purchased online. At that time, the Dannon brothers were fully aware that the plan was to send the five automatic rifles overseas to ISIS. After building the fully automatic rifles, the Dannon brothers sold all five weapons to undercover FBI agents posing as employees of the buyer from near the southwest border. The Dannon brothers were arrested immediately thereafter by the FBI.
Between February and May of 2019, Moyad Dannon had numerous and extensive conversations with an undercover agent who he believed was a member of ISIS then fighting in Syria. During those conversations, Moyad expressed his desire to travel from Indiana to ISIS-controlled areas of Syria, where he sought to utilize his knowledge of firearms and other skills to provide direct military assistance to ISIS in its’ fight against the United States and Syrian government.
In a search following his arrest, FBI agents located a flash drive on Moyad’s keychain containing approximately 16 gigabytes of ISIS propaganda, including graphically violent videos depicting ISIS fighters beheading civilians and hostages, and ISIS snipers killing U.S. military personnel. Identical ISIS propaganda videos were discovered on a laptop computer.
“Violent extremists inspired by events abroad continue to pose a threat to our local communities and to our national security. Indiana is not immune from the poison of radicalization, fueled by terrorist propaganda available online,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “For nearly a year, these defendants worked persistently to arm murderous terrorists with deadly, illegal weapons. Cases like this demonstrate the need for law enforcement agencies to use all available lawful means to identify, disrupt, and prosecute national security threats here at home. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Fishers Police Department, these dangerous men have been held accountable for their actions and our communities will be safe from them for many years.”
“The defendants in this case fused together two grave threats to Americans’ security by attempting to support a brutal terrorist organization through the illicit manufacture of ghost guns,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Just as we’ve done in the fight against terrorism, the Justice Department is committed to prevention—stopping gun violence before it happens by cracking down on the illegal production and trafficking of ghost guns.”
The FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Fishers, Indiana, Police Department investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Southern District of Indiana Matthew Rinka, Kate Olivier, Kelly Rota, and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Paul Casey, of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, who prosecuted this case.
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Federal Jury Finds Muncie Man Guilty of Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal jury has found Joseph Haskins, 38 of Muncie, guilty of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on August 16, 2021, as part of a narcotics investigation into Haskins, detectives with the Muncie-Delaware County Drug Task Force served a search warrant at Haskins’ home, where he resided with his mother and two children.
During a search of Haskins’ bedroom, agents recovered a gallon Ziploc bag containing nearly a pound of methamphetamine, three additional bags of methamphetamine, two digital scales, and over $12,000 cash, a majority of which was found stuffed inside a teddy bear. In addition, prosecutors presented evidence from Haskins’ cell phone, including text messages between Haskins and buyers discussing drug deals, as well as recorded calls from jail in which Haskins admitted to his crimes.
Haskins has prior felony convictions for dealing cocaine or narcotic drug, possession of cocaine, battery, intimidation, and criminal recklessness and was on home detention for three pending state cases at the time of his arrest.
The FBI and the Muncie-Delaware County Drug Task Force investigated this case. Judge James P. Hanlon presided over the trial and will sentence Haskins at a later date. Haskins faces 10 years to life in federal prison as well as a criminal fine up to $10 million.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Lindsay Karwoski and Barry D. Glickman, who prosecuted this case.
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Evansville Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution Resulting in the Overdose of a 28-Year-Old Kentucky WomanRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Johntavis Matlock, 31, of Evansville, Indiana, has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison. In September of 2023, a federal jury found Matlock guilty of distribution of heroin and fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury.
According to court documents and evidence introduced during trial, on December 11, 2020, Kentucky law enforcement officers responded to the overdose of 28-year-old, Lindsey Wiley in her Kentucky residence. Knowing about this near-death overdose, Matlock continued to invite Lindsey to buy heroin laced with fentanyl.
On February 28, 2021, EMS and local law enforcement responded to another overdose at the same residence. This time, they found Wiley deceased. The cause of death was determined to be an overdose caused by fentanyl intoxication.
An examination of Wiley’s cell phone revealed that Wiley frequently purchased controlled substances from Matlock. From June of 2020 through February of 2021, Matlock coordinated with Wiley to sell her both heroin and fentanyl out of his home in Evansville, Indiana.
During the sentencing hearing, evidence was admitted showing that children lived in the residence from which Matlock sold heroin and fentanyl mixtures to Lindsey Wiley.
“The tragic death of Ms. Wiley highlights the tremendous danger posed by trafficking of fentanyl and other opioids,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “Substance use disorder is a devastating disease that international drug cartels and local dealers greedily exploit. Thanks to the hard work of our prosecutors, the DEA, EPD, ISP, and our partners in Kentucky law enforcement, no more families will lose a loved one because of this defendant while he is in federal prison.”
“The DEA would like to continue to extend their deepest condolences to the Wiley family for the tragic passing of Ms. Lindsey Wiley. Additionally, the DEA would like to thank the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana for their diligent work in prosecuting this important case. The collaborative work of all agencies in this case has led to some solace for the Wiley family and the community that loved Lindsey so dearly. Individuals like Mr. Matlock who recklessly distribute deadly poisons, like fentanyl, in our communities must be held accountable and the sentence imposed today was righteous and justified,” said Special Agent in Charge, Mike Gannon.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Indiana State Police, Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, Evansville Police Department, Henderson County (Kentucky) Sheriff’s Office, and the Pennyrile (Kentucky) Narcotics Task Force investigated this case.
The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman. Judge Brookman also ordered that Matlock be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Kristian Mukoski and Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage. One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. Seven out of 10 illegal fentanyl tablets seized by the DEA now contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
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Brothers Sentenced to More Than 35 Years Combined for Manufacturing and Distributing Machineguns Intended for ISISRead the Press Release
Moyad Dannon, 26, of Fishers, Indiana, was sentenced today to 200 months, equivalent to 16 years and eight months, in federal prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to attempting to provide material support or resources, namely, firearms, to a designated foreign terrorist organization. His brother, Mahde Dannon, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in October 2021, after pleading guilty to the same charges.
“The defendants in this case fused together two grave threats to Americans’ security by attempting to support a brutal terrorist organization through the illicit manufacture of ghost guns,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Just as we’ve done in the fight against terrorism, the Justice Department is committed to prevention — stopping gun violence before it happens by cracking down on the illegal production and trafficking of ghost guns.”
“The defendant showed an absolute disregard for the rule of law and is being held accountable for his actions,” said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate. “Working with his brother, the defendant produced large caches of privately made firearms and attempted to place them in the hands of ISIS members overseas to be used against U.S. service members and allies. The FBI and our partners worked tirelessly to prevent the weapons from reaching their intended destination, and ensured these defendants faced justice for their attempts to support a foreign terrorist organization. We will continue to aggressively investigate anyone who tries to help terrorists and endangers the lives of others.”
“Violent extremists inspired by events abroad continue to pose a threat to our local communities and to our national security. Indiana is not immune from the poison of radicalization, fueled by terrorist propaganda available online,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana. “For nearly a year, these defendants worked persistently to arm murderous terrorists with deadly, illegal weapons. Cases like this demonstrate the need for law enforcement agencies to use all available lawful means to identify, disrupt, and prosecute national security threats here at home. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Fishers Police Department, these dangerous men have been held accountable for their actions and our communities will be safe from them for many years.”
According to court documents, in June 2018, the Dannon brothers devised a scheme to deliver stolen firearms to a convicted felon who was cooperating with the FBI.
Between July 2018 and December 2018, the Dannon brothers sold a number of illegally obtained firearms to the cooperating individual. Around the same time period, the Dannon brothers also began to manufacture untraceable “ghost guns” by purchasing firearms parts online and assembling those parts into fully-functioning, .223 caliber semi-automatic rifles, which they sold to an FBI undercover agent.
In late 2018, the Dannon brothers began manufacturing untraceable, fully automatic, .223 caliber rifles, using much the same process they used to manufacture the semi-automatic rifles, and selling those to the undercover agent and confidential informant (CI).
Shortly thereafter, Moyad Dannon accompanied the undercover agent to a location near the U.S. southwest border in an effort to market that rifle, and additional fully-automatic rifles, to a potential buyer who was also cooperating with the FBI. During that trip, Moyad Dannon learned that the potential buyer sought to ship the weapons to a location in the Middle East, where they would be used by ISIS. ISIS is a designated foreign terrorist organization pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Despite learning of the ultimate destination of the weapons, the Dannon brothers agreed to manufacture and sell at least 55 additional fully automatic “ghost guns” to the buyer from the American southwest border, believing those weapons would be shipped to the Middle East, to ISIS and its members.
On May 15, 2019, the Dannon brothers manufactured five untraceable, fully automatic, .223 caliber rifles from parts they had purchased online. At that time, the Dannon brothers were fully aware that the plan was to send the five automatic rifles overseas to ISIS. After building the fully automatic rifles, the Dannon brothers sold all five weapons to undercover FBI agents posing as employees of the buyer from near the southwest border. The Dannon brothers were arrested immediately thereafter by the FBI.
Between February and May of 2019, Moyad Dannon had numerous and extensive conversations with an undercover agent who he believed was a member of ISIS then fighting in Syria. During those conversations, Moyad expressed his desire to travel from Indiana to ISIS-controlled areas of Syria, where he sought to utilize his knowledge of firearms and other skills to provide direct military assistance to ISIS in its fight against the United States and Syrian government.
In a search following his arrest, FBI agents located a flash drive on Moyad’s keychain containing approximately 16 gigabytes of ISIS propaganda, including graphically violent videos depicting ISIS fighters beheading civilians and hostages, and ISIS snipers killing U.S. military personnel. Identical ISIS propaganda videos were discovered on a laptop computer.
The FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Fishers, Indiana, Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Rinka, Kate Olivier, and Kelly Rota for the Southern District of Indiana and Deputy Chief Paul Casey and Trial Attorney Kevin Nunnally of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted this case.
Seven More Defendants Charged in Prosecution of Central Indiana Dog Fighting and Drug Trafficking ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- In September of this year, 21 individuals were charged in a federal indictment alleging trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine; money laundering; illegally possessing firearms; and dog fighting.
On December 6th, 2023, execution of additional search warrants in Indianapolis and Anderson resulted in seven additional arrests related to the September indictment. Federal agents also seized 12 firearms; significant quantities of controlled substances; over $42,075 in cash; dog fighting paraphernalia; and approximately 75 dogs. The following Indianapolis/Anderson men were each charged with Conspiracy to engage in an Animal Fighting Venture:
- Ryan Hicks, 37
- Willie Lee, 47
- Marven Carswell, 71
- Ernest Young, 49
- Brent Hutchinson, 43
- Robert Hamer, 41
- Daymond Mason, 49
If convicted, each defendant charged with conspiracy to engage in an animal fighting venture faces up to 5 years in federal prison. The following investigative agencies collaborated to make this investigation and the recent warrant executions possible:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation- Indianapolis
- U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- Internal Revenue Service- Criminal Investigation
- Indiana Gaming Commission
- Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle P. Brady and Adam J. Eakman, who are prosecuting this case.
An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Parents Sentenced to a Combined 90 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing and Exploiting their 18-Month-Old BabyRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Tristan Mullins, 27, and Desley McLemore, 27, of Indianapolis have been sentenced to decades in federal prison for their roles in sexually exploiting and assaulting their approximately 18-month-old child.
According to court documents, McLemore and Mullins were the parents of an infant. From at least 2019 through January 2022, Mullins and McLemore were in an on-again, off-again dating relationship. In June of 2020, McLemore gave birth to a child. The baby primarily lived with McLemore; however, Mullins had periodic visits with the baby, both at his residence and at McLemore’s.
Beginning in December 2021, during times when each defendant had physical custody of the baby, McLemore and Mullins sexually abused the baby and produced more than 98 videos and images depicting sexually explicit conduct.
On January 18, 2022, IMPD officers received a tip from Google alerting them to McLemore and Mullins’ uploads of files depicting their sexual abuse and exploitation of their child. Both parents were immediately located and arrested by law enforcement officers.
Mullins and McLemore admitted their conduct, and Mullins admitted to sharing the child sexual abuse material with others via Kik, Facebook, Snapchat and on adult pornography websites. Mullins wrote extremely graphic and crude captions and commentary for the videos he sent to others.
Both Mullins and McLemore pleaded guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Sexual Exploitation of a Child, by a Parent or Guardian, and Transportation of Child Sexual Abuse Material.
Tristan Mullins was sentenced to 60 years’ imprisonment followed by 15 years of supervised release. Desley McLemore was sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment followed by supervised release for life.
“Babies are precious and vulnerable, and most parents have an instinctual desire to protect them from harm. Tristan Mullins and Desley McLemore’s instead chose to exploit their baby in the most cruel and unimageable ways before she was even old enough to walk or speak,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The people responsible for these monstrous crimes will now spend decades in federal prison where they cannot exploit another child. Our community is safer thanks to the dedication and talents of our ICAC task force, law enforcement partners, and federal prosecutors, who responded immediately to stop the abuse and save this child.”
“The pursuit of those who choose to victimize children is some of the most important work we are doing as an agency,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey R. Adams, of the U. S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “The Secret Service is a proud member of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and want to thank the FBI and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department for their partnership in this investigation.”
“The Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force remains vigilant and dedicated to protecting society’s most vulnerable victims, our children. Parents and caretakers who violate the sanctity of trust by failing to protect their children and sexually exploiting them for their benefit will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted,” said Christopher Cecil, Commander of the Indiana ICAC.
The FBI, U.S. Secret Service, IMPD, and the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered Mullins to pay $30,500 to the victim and others, and McLemore to pay $20,000 in restitution to the child.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston and former Assistant United States Attorney Kristina M. Korobov who prosecuted this case.
This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a multiagency task force led by the Indiana State Police that investigates and prosecutes persons who use the internet to sexually exploit or entice children. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. Visit https://www.in.gov/isp/icactf/ to learn more about their efforts.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Repeat, Violent Felon Sentenced to Four and a Half Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a HandgunRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Michael Spencer, 31 of Indianapolis has been sentenced to 54 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
According to court documents, on December 8, 2022, IMPD officers arrested Michael Spencer at a gas station on an outstanding warrant for intimidation of a domestic partner and a probation violation associated with a previous armed robbery conviction.
During a search of Spencer’s person, officers found a .40 caliber Glock 24 pistol with an extended magazine containing 20 live rounds in his waist band.
Spencer was convicted of armed robbery in 2010 and 2015. These felony convictions prohibit Spencer from ever legally possessing a firearm.
“Abusers with guns pose an extreme danger to those closest to them. That’s why it’s so important to prosecute illegally armed criminals and disrupt the domestic violence cycle,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This defendant continued to illegally carry a gun even after multiple armed robbery convictions and an outstanding warrant for domestic violence. The serious prison sentence imposed will protect the public from the defendant for several years and sends a message to him and others like him about the consequences of continuing to illegally carry guns.”
The FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered that Spencer be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison and pay a $900 fine.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.
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Violent Aryan Brotherhood Member Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Barry Willis, 49, of Anderson has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Willis was released from the Indiana Department of Corrections to parole on January 17, 2022. He failed to contact his parole agent, and a warrant for his arrest was issued on February 17, 2022. On April 6, 2022, law enforcement officers obtained information that Willis was dealing narcotics, was in possession of a firearm, and had pointed a firearm at a juvenile.
ATF agents went to Willis’ home in Anderson to execute search and arrest warrants. Willis saw investigators arrive and barricaded himself inside the attic. Willis refused to comply with commands to surrender and A SWAT team was called in to assist and deployed chemical agents and a K9 to force Willis outside. Willis continued to resist arrest, leading to a four-hour standoff before he was finally taken into custody.
Once inside the home, agents located a loaded, green 9mm pistol under the bed. Forensic examination located Willis’ DNA on the gun’s trigger guard, magazine, and a bullet. Willis is prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law following each of his six previous felony convictions in Anderson and Muncie between 1994 and 2017, including for dealing methamphetamine, burglary, theft, resisting law enforcement, and intimidation. Willis has an Aryan Brotherhood tattoo and has been previously established as a member of the violent, white supremacist gang.
“For decades, this defendant has been a menace to the people of East-Central Indiana. Prior convictions and prison sentences have not seemed to alter his utter disrespect for the law and public safety,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The sentence imposed here demonstrates the serious consequences awaiting repeat, violent felons who continue to illegally possess firearms. I commend the ATF, Indiana State Police, and our federal prosecutor for ensuring this career criminal spends years in federal prison and off our streets.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Indiana State Police investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney. Judge Sweeney also ordered that Willis be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.
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Four Members of Armed Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and Cocaine Trafficking Conspiracy Convicted Following Federal Jury TrialRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal jury has found four men guilty for their roles in a multi-state drug trafficking ring that dealt large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine in Indianapolis. Seventeen other members of the conspiracy entered guilty pleas prior to trial.
Keith Jones, aka “Keybo” 57, of Indianapolis, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute drugs and engage in money laundering, leading a continuing criminal enterprise, and illegally possessing multiple handguns and an assault rifle, among other charges. Jones’s convictions carry a mandatory sentence of life in prison.
Kevin Backstrom, 57, of Los Angeles, California, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute drugs and engage in money laundering. Backstrom’s convictions carry a potential sentence of no less than 10 years up to life in prison.
Anthony Moore, 37, of Indianapolis, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute drugs, among other charges. Moore’s convictions carry a potential sentence of no less than 10 years up to life in prison.
Herman Wesley Tavorn, 42, of Indianapolis, was found guilty of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. Tavorn’s conviction carries a potential sentence of no less than 10 years up to life in prison.
The jury acquitted a fifth defendant, Charles Davis, 38, of Indianapolis, who was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
These individuals were charged along with seventeen others in a series of federal indictments beginning in July of 2022, for their roles in this drug trafficking ring.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, Jones orchestrated other co-defendants, including Moore and Tavorn, to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine throughout Indianapolis. Jones obtained the drugs from Backstrom in California, which were sent to Jones in parcels using fictitious names. The evidence showed that Jones received the parcels, repackaged them, and distributed them to others for them to redistribute to others. At one point, Jones enlisted his twelve-year-old daughter to assist him in the distribution of the controlled substances. The evidence also showed that Jones and his co-defendants disguised the money they received from drug trafficking as Jones sent a portion of it to Backstrom in California.
During the execution of search warrants in this case, law enforcement seized approximately forty-three firearms, $300,000 in U.S. currency, four ounces of methamphetamine, one kilogram of cocaine, and two kilograms of fentanyl.
The seventeen other defendants have plead guilty and will be sentenced at a later date.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS Criminal Investigations, Indianapolis Metropolitan Drug Task Force, Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt presided over the trial and will sentence the defendants at a later date.
Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office, Chief Randal Taylor, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Major Charles Harting, Hamilton-Boone County Drug Task Force, Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division, and Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigations made the announcement.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Brad Blackington and Kelsey Massa, who are prosecuting this case.
This prosecution is 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.
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