District of Kansas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Indictment: 2019 Kidnapping Took Place in Wyandotte CountyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A grand jury in Kansas City, Kan., returned kidnapping charges Wednesday against six defendants, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
The superseding indictment builds on an indictment initially filed under seal late last year alleging the kidnapping took place in April 2019 in Wyandotte County. The indictment alleges a ransom was paid and that some of the defendants carried firearms during the crime. The indictment identifies the victim only as D.B. and provides no further details of the crime. The federal penalty for kidnapping is up to life in prison.
Charged in the case are the following:
David Carr, 34, Kansas City, Kan., one count of kidnapping (count one), one count of brandishing a firearm during the crime (count four).
Brandon West, 34, Kansas City, Kan., one count of kidnapping (count one), one count of receiving and possessing ransom money (count two), one count of brandishing a firearm during the crime (count four).
Randi Serna, 30, Wichita, Kan., one count of kidnapping (count one).
Brian Spaulding, 30, Mission, Kan., one count of kidnapping (count one), one count of discharging a shotgun during the crime (count three).
Michael Huggins, 39, one count of kidnapping (count one), one count of receiving and possessing ransom money (count two),
James Michael Poterbin, 44, one count of kidnapping (count one), one count of brandishing a firearm during the crime (count four).
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Kidnapping: Up to life in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Receiving ransom money: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Brandishing a firearm in a crime of violence (counts three and four): Not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000.
The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sheri Catania is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Recognizes 30th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – This week marks the 30thAnniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (the ADA), a critical civil rights law that aims to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas is proud to play a critical role in the Justice Department’s enforcement efforts under the ADA, which was signed into law on July 26, 1990, and is the nation’s preeminent civil rights law for providing access and equal opportunity for people with disabilities. \
“Our office is authorized to investigate complaints, conduct compliance reviews to ensure accessibility, initiate and intervene in litigation, and provide technical assistance to businesses, governments, and the general public,” McAllister said. “All of these actions are designed to promote voluntary compliance with the ADA.”
“The ADA has been watershed legislation that has improved the lives of millions of Americans by including them more fully in our society, recognizing and celebrating their talents and abilities, rather than allowing employers and institutions to act based on stereotypes regarding their challenges. One champion of the ADA, Senator Bob Dole, recently celebrated his 97th birthday, and I would like to say both ‘Thank You’ and ‘Happy Birthday!’ to the Senator from my home county of Russell.”
The promise of the ADA is its wide-ranging efforts to eliminate disability discrimination across the range of services, programs, and activities that most Americans take for granted, but were largely inaccessible to individuals with disabilities prior to the law’s enactment. Whether in employment, areas of civic life, or in the day-to-day activities and access to goods and services that we all enjoy – the ADA ensures that individuals with disabilities enjoy the same opportunities as all Americans to participate in everything this nation has to offer.
Over the past 30 years, the United States has undertaken the challenge of changing perceptions about disability, tearing down barriers to equality, and altering the systems that have historically excluded people with disabilities. This week, the Justice Department commemorates the many ways that the ADA has transformed society—by replacing exclusion with access, segregation with integration, and limitations with self-determination.
For more information about the 30th Anniversary of the ADA, please visit www.ada.gov. To file a complaint with the Department, please visit the Civil Rights Division’s portal at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/. For more information about the ADA, call the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TTY).
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Indictment: Kansas Man Threatened Victims After Stealing their ATM CardsRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Topeka man was indicted today on a federal robbery charge, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Raymond Paul Stilley, 31, who is in custody,was charged with one count of robbery. The indictment alleges that on July 12, 2020, Stilley threatened two victims in Lawrence, Kan., with violence to force them to provide PIN numbers to debit and credit cards he had taken from them. He was going to use the cards to withdraw cash at ATM machines in Topeka and Lawrence.
Topeka police reported arresting Stilley after a standoff in which he refused to get out of his car.
If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The FBI and the Topeka Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Antonio Lawrence, 31, Topeka, Kan., is charged with one count of producing child pornography, two counts of distributing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. The crimes are alleged to have occurred during 2019 in Topeka, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Production: Not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Distribution: Not less than five years and not more than 20 years and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
Possession: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
The FBI and the Topeka Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hunting is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Former Kansas Man Sentenced for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A former Kansas man was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for uploading child pornography to his Yahoo Messenger account, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Kenneth Herd, 55, formerly of Lyons, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of transporting child pornography. In his plea, he admitted that Yahoo reported him to Cyber Tip Report (https://report.cybertip.org/ ). Investigators used Herd’s IP address to track the account to him at an address in Lyons, Kan. Herd now lives in Chandler, Okla.
McAllister commended the KBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Topeka Man Pleads Guilty in RobberiesRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Topeka man pleaded guilty today to driving a getaway car in two robberies, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Ernesto Negrete Jr., 30, Topeka, Kan., pleaded to two counts of robbery. In his plea, he admitted being involved in a robbery at Panderia Monterrey Bakery, 3154 S.E. 6th Avenue in Topeka, and a robbery at Pablanos Grille, 3035 S.E. 6th Avenue in Topeka. Negrete said that in both cases he drove the car while co-defendants Javier Martinez and Victor Arellano entered the stores masked and brandishing handguns. Martinez and Arellano are awaiting trial.
Negrete’s sentencing is set for Oct. 27. He could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough for their work on the case.
Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced for Possessing Child PornRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A convicted sex offender was sentenced today to eight years in federal prison for possessing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
Bryan S. Duncan, 35, Manhattan, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. In his plea, he admitted that undercover investigators downloaded child pornography from his account via a peer-to-peer file-sharing program. When investigators served a search warrant at Duncan’s home in Manhattan they found electronic devices containing 450 video files.
Duncan had a previous child pornography conviction from 2005.
McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Kenney for their work on the case.
Million Dollar Drug Money Launderer Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Missouri man who admitted to conspiring to launder more than $1 million in drug proceeds was sentenced Thursday to 216 months in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Juan Duarte-Tello, 47, Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess and distribute methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. In his plea, Duarte-Tello admitted he personally handled more than a $1 million in drug trafficking proceeds for a drug trafficking organization that was distributing methamphetamine in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. During the conspiracy, investigators had Duarte-Tello under electronic surveillance. He arranged for cash derived from drug trafficking to be funneled into bank accounts in California.
McAllister commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, and the Jackson County Missouri Drug Task Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tris Hunt for their work on the case.
Wichita Man Pleads Guilty to Growing MushroomsRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita man who caught law enforcement’s attention when he was shot pleaded guilty today to growing hallucinogenic mushrooms, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Corey A. Logan, 35, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of manufacturing a controlled substance. In his plea, Logan admitted that in March 2018 police were dispatched to his home in the 1900 block of East Maywood. Logan reported being shot by an unknown assailant. Police found a mushroom growing operation in a bedroom of his home.
Sentencing is set for Oct. 2. He could face a penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison. McAllister commended the Wichita Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch for their work on the case.
Lawrence Contractor Sentenced to a Year and a Day in Oread Hotel Tax CaseRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas building contractor was sentenced Wednesday to a year and a day in prison and fined $25,000 for conspiring to deprive the city of Lawrence of sales tax revenues in connection with the development of a seven-story hotel adjacent to the University of Kansas campus. After completing his sentence, the defendant will serve three years on supervised release.
Thomas S. Fritzel, 54, Lawrence, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of criminal conspiracy. Fritzel, part owner and manager of Oread Inn LC, was a party to an agreement with the city to finance the more than $40 million hotel project, including $11 million worth of street repairs and a public parking garage.
Oread Inn LC was to pay all costs up front and to be repaid $11 million for public improvements. The money to repay Oread Inn LC was to come from an incremental increase in property tax, a sales tax and an additional 1 percent tax on sales within a portion of the redevelopment district.
In his plea, Fritzel admitted that he and others caused false monthly Kansas sales tax returns to be submitted to the state of Kansas. The reports classified certain sales as occurring within the redevelopment district when in fact they occurred outside the district. As a result, the city of Lawrence lost a portion of sales taxes it was due.
The city of Lawrence filed a civil lawsuit against Fritzel seeking the lost revenue and the parties settled that case in 2017.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard commended the FBI, the Lawrence Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rich Hathaway for their work on the case.
Kansas Priest Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas priest who pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said. The defendant also was ordered to pay $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
In his plea, Christopher Rossman, 47, who formerly served at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Baldwin City, Kan., admitted that investigators found child pornography on his Samsung Galaxy tablet. The crime occurred in September 2016 when monitoring software installed on Rossman’s computer devices reported he had visited adult pornography and child pornography websites. The archdiocese forwarded the report to law enforcement.
When investigators tried to find Rossman in Baldwin City, they learned that his sister had taken possession of the Galaxy tablet and tried to run over it a number of times. A forensics examination found files on the device depicting prepubescent females engaged in sexual activities.
McAllister commended FBI task force agent Angie Jones for her work on the case and the Archdiocese for it its cooperation. McAllister and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel prosecuted.
IRS Criminal Investigation and United States Attorney remind taxpayers of the tax filing deadline; urge and to remain vigilant of scamsRead the Press Release
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas remind taxpayers of the July 15 filing and payment deadline and warn against an increase in tax and COVID-19 scams.
Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2019 was postponed from April 15 to July 15. Taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns must file Form 4868 by July 15 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15.
“Although the extension provides additional time to file the tax return – it is not an extension to pay any taxes due”, said Adam Steiner, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation division in the St. Louis Field Office. “For people facing hardships who cannot pay in full, including those affected by COVID-19, the IRS has several options available to help. The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov as soon as possible to explore these options and avoid accruing interest and penalties after the July 15 deadline.”
As the filing deadline is today, taxpayers should beware of tax and COVID-19 related scams. “Criminals use the tax filing deadline as an opportunity to steal personal and financial information”, said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister for the District of Kansas. “Taxpayers should remain vigilant and know that the IRS will not initiate contact with them via phone, email or social media to request personal or financial information.”
In the last few months, the IRS Criminal Investigation division (CI) has continued to see a tremendous increase in a variety of Economic Impact Payment scams and other financial schemes. CI continues to work with its law enforcement partners to put a stop to these schemes and bring criminals to justice.
Taxpayers can report COVID-19 scams to the National Center for Disaster Fraud. Taxpayers can also report fraud or theft of their Economic Impact Payments to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Unsolicited (phishing) e-mails that appear to be from the IRS should be forwarded to [email protected].
For the most up-to-date information about the tax filing deadline and IRS impersonation scams, taxpayers can visit IRS.gov.
Kansas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Second Degree Murder on Cruise ShipRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. - A Topeka, Kan., man was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison for the second degree murder of a woman he was traveling with on a cruise ship vacation, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Eric Newman, 55, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to killing Tamara Tucker, who died Jan. 19, 2018, on board the Carnival Elation, a vessel registered in Panama. The Carnival Elation was on a voyage that took passengers from Jacksonville, Fla., to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and back.
“The man who killed Tamara Tucker was no stranger to her,” McAllister said. “He was her intimate partner for years, a person she loved and trusted. He was the one person she wanted to share this special voyage and to join her in celebrating her 50th birthday.”
In his plea, Newman said he and Tucker were traveling together and were assigned to cabin room G-29, located on the 14th deck of the cruise ship’s starboard side. The cabin had a balcony overlooking the ship’s 11th deck. During an argument in their room, Newman attacked Tucker.
“He had his hands around her neck when he pushed her over a balcony railing and she fell to her death on the 11th deck,” McAllister said.
McAllister was joined at a press conference today in Topeka by Ms. Tucker’s family, including her mother, Wanda Tucker-Schrantz, her sister, Dawn Tucker and her brother, Bo Tucker.
“As a professional social worker with a master’s degree, a teacher and an advocate, Ms. Tucker was no stranger to the complexities of human nature that can transform love into deadly violence,” McAllister said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention use the term “intimate partner violence,” which is defined as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse.
Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner, according to the CDC.
About 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. About 41 percent of female IPV survivors and 14 percent of male IPV survivors experienced some form of physical injury.
Survivors of IPV can experience health problems including depression and PTSD. In addition, they are at a higher risk for smoking, binge drinking and risky sexual behaviors. For more information, see the CDC’s web page at https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/fastfact.html .
McAllister commended the FBI field offices in Jacksonville and Topeka, Trial Attorney Rami S. Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecution Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Kenney of the District of Kansas for their work on the case.
Kansas Man Sentenced for Killing a Woman on a Cruise ShipRead the Press Release
A Kansas man was sentenced today to 12 years in prison for murdering his longtime girlfriend during a cruise from Florida to the Bahamas in January 2018.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Stephen R. McAllister of the District of Kansas and Special Agent in Charge Rachel L. Rojas of the FBI’s Jacksonville Field Office made the announcement.
Eric Duane Newman, 55, of Topeka, Kansas, pleaded guilty on Dec. 19, 2019, before Chief U.S. District Judge Julie A. Robinson of the District of Kansas to one count of murder in the second degree for killing Tamara Tucker with malice aforethought.
Chief Judge Robinson also sentenced Newman to five years of post-release supervision and ordered him to pay $8,496.00 restitution to Tucker’s family.
According to the admissions made in connection with the plea, Newman and Tucker boarded the Carnival Elation cruise ship on Jan. 18, 2018, in Jacksonville, Florida, to take a round-trip voyage to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Newman and Tucker were staying together in a cabin room on the 13th deck of the cruise ship.
Before midnight on Jan. 18, Newman became involved in a verbal argument with Tucker inside their cabin room. At approximately 12:15 a.m. on Jan. 19, Newman physically attacked Tucker, and strangled her by placing both of his hands around her neck. In the process of strangling her, Newman pushed Tucker over the cabin room balcony railing causing her to fall to her death onto the 11th deck. Tucker died from blunt force trauma as a result of the fall. At the time, the cruise ship was sailing on the high seas in international water, approximately 30 nautical miles from New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Jacksonville Field Office with the assistance of the FBI’s Topeka Field Office. Trial Attorney Rami S. Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine E. Kenney of the District of Kansas prosecuted the case. Assistance was also provided by the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas Office of the Attorney General.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
A Topeka City Employee Indicted on Federal Child Porn ChargesRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A man who works for the city of Topeka was indicted today on federal child pornography charges, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Travis Bronson, 39, Lawrence, Kan., was charged with one count of distributing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. Bronson works as a video producer for the city of Topeka.
The crimes are alleged to have occurred Nov. 15, 2017, and Feb. 1, 2018, in Douglas County, Kan.
In a separate case, another Kansas man was indicted today on child pornography charges.
Charles Shepherd, 76, Bonner Springs, Kan., was charged with one count of distributing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. The crimes are alleged to have occurred June 11, 2016, and Feb. 16, 2018, in Wyandotte County, Kan.
If convicted, both defendants could face a penalty of not less than five years and not more than 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the distribution counts and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the possession count.
The FBI investigated both cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Flannigan is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Kansas Man Indicted on Drug Charges After Fleeing Arrest in Great BendRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man who was arrested in Great Bend in September after fleeing from officers was indicted today on federal drug trafficking charges, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Roosevelt Tyree Henderson IV, 32, is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
The indictment alleges that on Sept. 30, 2019, Henderson was arrested with more than 3.8 pounds of pure methamphetamine and an Excam model GT 27 pistol in his possession. The Barton County Sheriff reported at the time that Henderson fled when the Sheriff attempted to stop his car. Henderson abandoned the car at a house in Great Bend. There was a short standoff before he surrendered.
If convicted, he could face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $4 million on the methamphetamine charge, not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other count. The Barton County Sheriff and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mona Furst is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Ashley M. George, 28, Kansas City, Mo., and Raul Camacho-Munoz, 38, Kansas City, Mo., are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (count one) and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking (count two). In addition, George is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon (count three). In addition, Camacho-Munoz is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a Mexican citizen who is in the United States unlawfully (count four), and one count of unlawfully reentering the United States after being deported (count five). The crimes are alleged to have occurred Oct. 25, 2019, in Wyandotte County, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Count one: Not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $20 million.
Count two: Not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000.
Counts three and four: up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Count five: Up to two years and a fine up to $250,000.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead is prosecuting.
Mario A. Brown, 31, who is in federal custody, is charged with one count of escaping from federal custody at the Grossman Community Corrections Center in Leavenworth, Kan. The crime is alleged to have occurred Dec. 4, 2019.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Marshals service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley is prosecuting.
Karina Valdez, 31, Holcomb, Kan., and Anaben Esquivel, 31, Garden City, Kan., are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The crime is alleged to have occurred July 30, 2019, in Finney County, Kan.
If convicted, they could face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $4 million. The Finney County Sheriff’s Office investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mona Furst is prosecuting.
Eugene C. Young Jr., 58, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The crime is alleged to have occurred Dec. 28, 2019, in Wyandotte County, Kan.
If convicted he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney Announces $1 Million Grant to KBI to Fight Meth in KansasRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation will receive a $1 million grant to fight methamphetamine trafficking, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
The money is part of nearly $42 million the Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services announced today will be distributed to state law enforcement agencies across the nation to combat the manufacturing and distribution of illegal drugs.
“Methamphetamine trafficking and addiction have been driving forces behind many violent crimes in Kansas, often involving firearms,” McAllister said. “And meth addiction has plagued too many Kansans, ruined lives, destroyed families, and required the expenditure of vast amounts of law enforcement and community resources. These Department of Justice funded efforts to reduce the manufacturing and distribution of meth are a positive event for Kansas.”
“The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis.”
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Indictment: Topeka Man Robbed Three StoresRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Topeka man was indicted today in federal court in Wichita on charges of committing robberies at three stores in Topeka, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Deshawn Lorenzo Pittman, 24, Topeka, Kan., is charged with three counts of commercial robbery. The indictment alleges Pittman committed the following robberies:
- Sept. 8, 2019, Dollar General, 4500 Southeast California Ave. Topeka, Kan.
- Nov. 15, 2019, Family Dollar, 501 Southeast 21st Street, Topeka, Kan.
- Dec. 23, 2019, Loan Max Title Loans, 3601 Southwest Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarred Maag is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Two defendants from California were indicted today on charges of smuggling more than two pounds of fentanyl to Kansas.
Jorge Eduardo Guerrero-Bustamante, 26, San Jose, Calif., and Ruby Quiroz, 25, Santa Ana, Calif., are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. They were arrested Jan. 2 during a car stop in Meade County, Kan.
If convicted, they could face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $4 million. The Kansas Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mona Furst is prosecuting.
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Gleneice Lashawn Phillips, 24, Dayton, Ohio, and Kamryne J. Wright, 19, Dayton, Ohio, are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of traveling across state lines in furtherance of drug trafficking. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Jan. 19, 2020, in Trego County, Kan.
The defendants initially were charged by criminal complaint March 10, 2020. The complaint alleged they were stopped with more than 35 pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 22 pounds of fentanyl.
If convicted, they could face not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million on each of the possession charges and up to five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other count. The Kansas Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Lind is prosecuting.
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Coty C. Mewes, 32, is charged with one count of escaping from custody at the Grossman Residential Reentry Center in Leavenworth, Kan. The crime is alleged to have occurred March 19, 2020.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Trent Krug is prosecuting.
Jamison Michael Stiles, 47, is charged with one count of escaping from custody at the Grossman Residential Reentry Center in Leavenworth, Kan. The crime is alleged to have occurred Jan. 26, 2020.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley is prosecuting.
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Ronnie Lee Martin, 24, is charged with one count of escaping from custody. The crime is alleged to have occurred May 4, 2020, in Leavenworth, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead is prosecuting.
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Dontreal D. Banks, 33, Wichita, Kan., is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The crimes are alleged to have occurred April 23, 2020, in Wichita, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the felon in possession charge, up to 20 years and a fine up to $1 million on the heroin charge and not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other count. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
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Andre J. Wallace, 44, who is in federal custody, is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The crimes are alleged to have occurred July 18, 2019, in Topeka, Kan.
If convicted, he could face a penalty of not less than five years and not more than 40 years on the methamphetamine charge, not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking count and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other count. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
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David W. Kellner, 31, who is in federal custody, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The crime is alleged to have occurred May 1, 2020, in Miami and Linn counties.
Kellner initially was charged by criminal complaint May 2. The complaint alleged Kellner led law enforcement on a chase at speeds up to 110 mph.
If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Miami County Sheriff’s Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Terra Morehead is prosecuting.
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Brandon Eugene Derr, 35, Topeka, Kan., is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The crime is alleged to have occurred Sept. 4, 2013, in Topeka, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough is prosecuting.
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Lamarques A. Channel, 36, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The crime is alleged to have occurred April 3, 2020, in Manhattan, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Observes World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - Today, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
“In Kansas, our Elder Justice Task Force is working to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud and scams that target seniors,” McAllister said. “Our office is coordinating with federal, state and local agencies to build our capacity to investigate and prosecute crimes against older adults, to provide training to law enforcement and to connect elders with the help they need.”
Attorney General Barr said COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, he said, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities
Major strides have already been made to that end:
National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-1. Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
U.S. Attorney, FBI Announce $100,000 Reward in Cold CaseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for the death of Alonzo Brooks. Brooks’ body was found in a creek in La Cygne, Kan., on May 1, 2004.
U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister and FBI Special Agent in Charge Timothy Langan announced the reward during a press conference here today. McAllister and the FBI reopened the investigation over a year ago. They have reviewed evidence going back 16 years, re-interviewed many witnesses who attended a party at a farmhouse where Brooks was last seen alive, interviewed new witnesses and collected all available physical and forensic evidence.
“We are investigating whether Alonzo was murdered,” McAllister said. “His death certainly was suspicious, and someone, likely multiple people, know(s) what happened that night in April 2004. It is past time for the truth to come out. The code of silence must be broken. Alonzo’s family deserves to know the truth, and it is time for justice to be served.”
“There are many unanswered questions that surround Alonzo’s death,” Langan said. “Someone knows something and we are hopeful that with the passage of time and this significant reward this renewed effort will produce results and provide closure for the Brooks family.”
The FBI is investigating Brooks’ death as a potential racially-motivated crime. Brooks, who was 23 years old at the time he died, was one of only three African-American men at the party he attended with approximately 100 people at a farmhouse on the outskirts of La Cygne. Brooks, who lived in Gardner, Kan., rode to the party with friends, but they left before him, and Brooks eventually had no ride home.
When Brooks failed to come home the next day, his family and friends contacted the Linn County Sheriff’s Department.
From the beginning, there were rumors that Brooks had been the victim of foul play. Some said Brooks may have flirted with a girl, some said drunken white men wanted to fight an African-American male, and some said racist whites simply resented Brooks’ presence.
After the party, two troubling facts were indisputable: Alonzo could not be found; and no one who attended the party would admit to knowing what happened to him.
According to reports at the time, the Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies searched areas around the farmhouse, including parts of nearby Middle Creek, but did not find Alonzo.
After Alonzo had been missing for almost a month, a group of his family and friends organized a search. They began on the road near the farmhouse and walked the two branches of Middle Creek. In just under an hour, they found Alonzo’s body, partially on top of a pile of brush and branches in the creek.
Because Alonzo died in 2004 and because of the lapse of time between his disappearance and discovery of his body, forensic analysis of the physical evidence at the time was limited. The official autopsy performed in 2004 did not determine a cause of death.
“I have stood under the trees on the bank of Middle Creek where Alonzo’s body was found,” McAllister said. “It is a quiet place of profound sadness to one who knows its history, but no answers are there. I am convinced, however, that there are people who know the answers, people who have been keeping terrible secrets all these years and bearing a horrible burden. We are asking one or more of them to come forward now and to lay down that burden at last, so that we can ease a family’s suffering, and serve the cause of justice.”
This reward is being offered for information that leads to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of the individual or individuals that may be responsible for Alonzo’s death. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the FBI at 816-512-8200 or 816-474-TIPS or submit a tip online at fbi.tips.gov
U.S. Attorney McAllister Announces Grants to Kansas Police Departments for Hiring OfficersRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced grants for law enforcement agencies in Kansas to hire officers.
The Kansas grants are part of nearly $400 million nationwide for law enforcement hiring announced today by the Department of Justice.
“The grants put the money where it is needed – on the streets,” McAllister said. “Kansans will be safer because of these grants.”
Departments receiving grants in Kansas include:
Arkansas City Police Department: $125,000
Atchison County Sheriff’s Department: $125,000
Bonner Springs Police Department: $125,000.
Bourbon County Sheriff’s Department: $118,792
Cheney Police Department: $250,000
Cherryvale Police Department: $125,000.
Gardner Police Department: $125,000.
Goodland Police Department: $125,000.
Hesston Police Department: $125,000
Hiawatha Police Department: $125,000.
Kansas City, Kan., Police Department: $1,322,150
Pratt Police Department: $125,000.
Wabaunsee County Sheriff’s Department: $224,965
Wellsville Police Department: $123,624
City of Wichita: $875,000
The funding comes through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP).
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support: The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
The complete list of awards can be found here https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/CHP/Award_List.pdf . To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Two Kansas Companies Fined $1 Million Each in Atchison Chlorine Gas CaseRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Harcros Chemicals, Inc., and MGP Ingredients, Inc., today were fined $1 million each for violating the federal Clean Air Act when a cloud of toxic chlorine gas was released over Atchison, Kan., in 2016, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said. Both companies have paid the fines.
U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Crabtree sentenced the companies during a hearing in federal court in Topeka today. Both companies pleaded guilty to negligently violating the Clean Air Act, which is a Class A misdemeanor.
In their pleas, they admitted that on Oct. 21, 2016, a greenish-yellow chlorine gas cloud formed at MGP Ingredients’ facility in Atchison when 4,000 gallons of sulfuric acid were mistakenly combined with 5,800 gallons of sodium hypochlorite. The Atchison County Department of Emergency Management ordered community members to shelter in place and to evacuate in some areas. Approximately 140 individuals including members of the public, first responders, employees of MGP Ingredients and Harcos Chemicals sought medical attention.
“The chemicals involved in this case posed serious public health and environmental dangers,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cate Holston of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas. “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for actions that put an entire community at risk.”
McAllister commended the Environmental Protection Agency and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rich Hathaway for their work on the case.
U.S. Attorney: Webinar Will Focus on National Elder Fraud HotlineRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A free public webinar June 17 will focus on the services available from the new U.S. Department of Justice National Elder Fraud Hotline, which will provide services to older adults who may be victims of financial fraud, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
“Fraud and romance scams aimed at older adults resulted in losses of more than $184 million in 2018,” McAllister said. “Many crimes go unreported because victims are scared, embarrassed, or don’t know who to call. That’s why DOJ created the hotline.”
At 3 p.m. June 17, 2020, the Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center will present an online Expert Q&A discussion with Lori A. McGee and Helen Supanich on "The U.S. Department of Justice National Elder Fraud Hotline to Assist Victims of Financial Fraud."
The public is invited to participate by registering in advance at https://www.ovcttac.gov/expert-qa/
The hotline is on the web at https://stopelderfraud.ovc.ojp.gov/
Three Deer Hunters Charged with Lacey Act Violations on Fort RileyRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Three men are charged in federal court on Fort Riley with illegally hunting whitetail deer in off-limit areas located on Fort Riley where explosives are discharged during training exercises, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
The misdemeanor charges allege the men violated the federal Lacey Act while hunting white-tail deer on the grounds of the Army base over the past few years. An investigator’s affidavit alleges the hunters disregarded the posted “off-limits” area, entering before daylight and leaving after dark.
Charged in the case are:
Gregory J. Frikken, 55, Wamego, Kan., one count of criminal trespass, two counts of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass, four counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of conspiracy to commit Lacey Act violations.
James C. Nunley, 32, Wamego, Kan., five counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of criminal trespass and one count of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass.
Michael J. Smith, 55, Watertown, N.Y., one count of criminal trespass, one count of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass, three counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act.
Investigators recovered evidence including deer mounts, antlers, phone data and equipment allegedly used to harvest eight whitetail deer, three of which are considered trophy class.
If convicted, the defendants could face up to one year in jail, maximum $10,000 fine and a mandatory $25 special assessment fee for each Lacey Act Violation which also could include, civil forfeiture and a loss of their federal hunting privileges.
Investigating agencies included the Directorate of Emergency Services, Fort Riley Conservation Law Enforcement Officers, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and the New York State Environmental Conservation Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin A. Graham is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney: Public Can Listen by Phone to Sentencing in Atchison Chlorine Gas CaseRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A phone line will be in operation for the public to listen to the federal sentencing scheduled for May 27 in the Atchison Clean Air Act case, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
During the hearing, a federal judge will sentence Harcros Chemicals, Inc., and MGP Ingredients Inc., both of which have pleaded guilty to violating the federal Clean Air Act when a cloud of toxic chlorine gas was released over Atchison, Kan., in 2016.
The hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. in room 401 of the Frank Carlson Federal Building at 444 S.E. Quincy St. in Topeka before U.S. District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree. Anyone affected by the gas release over Atchison, Kan., in 2016 who is planning to attend the sentencing in person should email [email protected] or call 913-551-6543 by 11:59 p.m., May 19, 2020.
To listen to the hearing by phone, call 1-888-363-4749 and enter access code 8354715#. The line will allow listening only and participants should mute their telephones. Rules of the court prohibit recording or rebroadcasting the proceedings.
More information about the case is available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ks/victim-witness .
U.S. Attorney McAllister Announces Kansas Covid-19 Fraud Task ForceRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced the formation of the Kansas Covid Fraud Task Force.
Task force members from federal and state agencies will work together to investigate and prosecute scammers attempting to prey on Kansans during the COVID-19 outbreak.
“This pandemic is already a health crisis of staggering proportions – we will not let it become a field day for swindlers who seek to capitalize on confusion and fear,” McAllister said. “This task force brings together a team with broad resources to help keep the public safe.”
Members of the Kansas Covid-19 Fraud Task Force include:
Defense Criminal Investigative Service
Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General
Department of Education – Office of Inspector General
Environmental Protection Agency
FBI
Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigation
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation - Office of Inspector General
Federal Emergency Management Agency
General Services Administration - Office of Inspector General
Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General
Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations
Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation
Johnson County District Attorney’s Office
Kansas Attorney General’s Office
Postal Inspection Service
Small Business Administration - Office of Inspector General
U.S. Secret Service
Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office
Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
Treasury – Office of Inspector General
U.S. Army - Criminal Investigation Division
Veteran’s Affairs - Office of Inspector General
Complaints can be submitted to the U.S. attorney’s office at [email protected], by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or filing a complaint online at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .
“I anticipate this task force will continue to exist as long as it is needed,” McAllister said.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Announces $318,000 Award to Wyandotte County for Public Safety during Covid-19Read the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced a grant of more than $318,000 to Wyandotte County to help respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant awarded to the county is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump.
“This grant of $318,256 can be used to support a broad range of activities to prevent, prepare for and respond to coronavirus,” said McAllister. “That includes overtime, supplies such as gloves, masks and sanitizer and addressing the medical needs of inmates in prisons, jails and detention centers.”
For more information about this grant, contact the Office of Justice Program's Office of Communications at (202) 307-0703.
KCK Police Department Receives $1.3 Million to Fight Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The Kansas City, Kan., Police Department will receive a $1.3 million federal grant for hiring police officers under the Justice Department’s Operation Relentless Pursuit initiative, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
The grant is part of more than $61 million the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the Office of Justice Programs’ Bureau of Justice Assistance have awarded to support the Relentless Pursuit initiative
“This award will fund five new positions on the police department in Kansas City, Kan.,” U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said. “That additional manpower is part of our plan to make metro Kansas City safer.”
Launched on Dec. 18, 2019, ORP aims to intensify federal law enforcement resources into seven American cities with violent crime levels several times the national average - Albuquerque, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Memphis, and Milwaukee.
“While violent crime is down across the country as a whole, some communities remain caught in the grips of violent actors,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “That’s why I launched Operation Relentless Pursuit last December – an initiative to combat violent crime in seven cities where it remains stubbornly high. Today’s grant awards are critical to our mission. We cannot succeed in eradicating crime without resources – the most vital of which are the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities each day. These funds will boost the forces that need them most.”
The COPS Office, through its COPS Hiring Program (CHP), awarded a total of $51 million to be used to hire 214 sworn law enforcement officers for state and local law enforcement task forces. The recipients of the funding will deploy existing veteran officers to task force duties and use the CHP funding to hire new recruits to backfill those positions, as practical. Officers deployed to Operation Relentless Pursuit task forces as a result of CHP funding must be sworn, career law enforcement officers of the awarded agency, and their work on the task force must benefit their jurisdiction. In addition, they are required to work with their respective U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) and relevant federal agencies to investigate and prosecute suspects involved in gangs, drug trafficking, and other violent crime– related issues.
“Successful strategies to target and reduce violent crime are extremely resource intensive,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “There is no greater resource than additional men and women on the front lines of relentless fight against gangs, drug traffickers and those that mean harm to our nation’s communities. The funding announced today is greatly needed for the Operation Relentless Pursuit jurisdictions and the COPS Office is honored to dedicate resources for this effort.”
For a breakdown of the awards, please see the attached spreadsheet. For more information on the COPS Hiring Program ORP grants, please visit: https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/chp/FY20_Relentless_Pursuit_Fact_Sheet.pdf
The Office of Justice Programs’ Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is making $10 million available to support Operation Relentless Pursuit. BJA funds will support efforts such as the hiring of additional prosecutors, overtime expenses for task force members, multi-agency investigations, mobile data terminals and modern technological platforms, and development of strategic plans to address gaps in combating violent crime.
“The responsibility for fighting crime and violence belongs to agencies at every level of government, and winning that fight turns on our ability to deploy our collective resources wisely and effectively,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are eager to make these funds available so that our federal, state and local partners can continue the vital and noble work of protecting America’s most dangerous communities.”
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Recognizes Police Week in KansasRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“Here in Kansas, we lost an officer in the line of duty already this year,” McAllister said. “We will not forget Mike Mosher or any of the other law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives to keep us safe.” Officer Mosher of the Overland Park Police Department was shot and killed May 3 while responding to a hit-and run-incident.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Already this year, one Kansas officer died in the line of duty. Overland Park Police Office Officer Mosher was shot and killed May 3 while responding to a possible hit and run.
Comprehensive data tables and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks last year are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Announces $1.2 Million Award to the City of Wichita for Public Safety during Covid-19Read the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced a $1.2 million grant to the City of Wichita to help respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant awarded to the Executive Office of the State Of Kansas is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump.
“This grant of $1,250,185 can be used to support a broad range of activities to prevent, prepare for and respond to coronavirus,” said McAllister. “That includes overtime, supplies such as gloves, masks and sanitizer and addressing the medical needs of inmates in prisons, jails and detention centers.”
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov .
For more information about this grant, contact the Office of Justice Program's Office of Communications at (202) 307-0703.
Shots Fired, 110 MPH Chase Lead to Federal ChargeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man who was arrested after a high-speed chase from Miami County to Linn County is facing a federal charge, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
David W. Kellner, 31, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Kan., alleges that about 3:30 a.m. May 1 a Miami County Sheriff Department deputy spotted Kellner driving without headlights or taillights on K68 Highway near the Louisburg Cider Mill. When the deputy activated his lights to make a stop, Kellner fled south on U.S. 69 Highway at speeds up to 110 mph. Kellner fired at the deputy, who could hear the shots and see sparks when the bullets hit the highway.
Deputies from the Linn County Sheriff’s Department joined the pursuit and followed Kellner’s vehicle until it ran into a fence at 403rd Street and Somerset Road. Kellner fled on foot, discarding a Century Arms Model RAS47 military-style rifle before deputies arrested him. They recovered the rifle, more than $5,500 in cash, and small amounts of marijuana and methamphetamine.
Kellner, who had a prior felony conviction in 2008, was prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.The Miami County Sheriff’s Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead is prosecuting. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Federal Charges Filed in KCK Gas Station Robbery, ShootingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Federal charges have been filed against a Kansas man accused of shooting a clerk during a gas station robbery in Kansas City, Kan., last month, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
Jakel J.M. Webster, 24, Kansas City, Kan., is charged with one count of robbery and one count of discharging a firearm during the robbery.A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Kan., alleges that on April 28, 2020, Webster robbed the Quick Shop at 2425 Metropolitan Avenue in Kansas City, Kan. An investigator’s affidavit says two suspects entered the store at about 3:30 a.m. The suspect carried a rifle and work a mask and gloves. The smaller suspect had a metal baseball bat and work a mask. The smaller suspect tried to break down the door to the clerk’s enclosed area, but failed. The larger suspect shot through the glass, striking the clerk in the face. The larger suspect then shot the clerk a second time as he lay bleeding on the floor. Both suspects fled before the police arrived.
Investigators learned that Webster was the larger suspect in the robbery. They arrested him on April 29.
If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the robbery charge, and at least 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the firearm charge. The Kansas City, Kan., Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney: Be Alert for Sexual Harassment in Housing During the COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister is asking anyone who has witnessed or experienced sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker or anyone with control over housing to report that conduct to the Department of Justice.
“COVID-19 Pandemic has impacted the ability of many people to pay rent on time and has increased housing insecurity,” McAllister said. “Nationally, there have been reports of housing providers trying to exploit the crisis to sexually harass tenants. Sexual harassment in housing is illegal, and we stand ready to investigate such allegations and pursue enforcement actions where appropriate.”
McAllister said his office will work closely with state and local partners to identify incidents of sexual harassment in housing.
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing led by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s offices across the country. The goal of the initiative is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing.
Launched in 2017, the initiative has filed lawsuits across the county alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing and recovered millions of dollars in damages for harassment victims. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years. Many individuals do not know that being sexually harassed by a housing provider can violate federal law or that the Department of Justice may be able to help.
The Department of Justice, through the Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s offices, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.
The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling (844) 380-6178 or emailing [email protected].
McAllister said complaint forms also are available on his office’s web site at /media/981871/dl?inline. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Taylor is the Civil Rights Coordinator for McAllister’s office (913-551-6730).
More information about civil rights enforcement in Kansas is available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ks/civil-rights
Individuals may also file a complaint alleging harassment or discrimination in housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through HUD’s website or by calling (800) 669-9777.
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May 1 Deadline for Victims to File Statements Before Sentencing in Atchison Clean Air Act CaseRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Victims in the Atchison Clean Air Act case have until May 1 to file statements. Anyone who would like to submit a written victim impact statement for the court’s consideration can email those statements to [email protected]
A federal judge has set a May 27, 2020, hearing for the sentencing of Harcros Chemicals, Inc., and MGP Ingredients Inc., for violating the federal Clean Air Act when a cloud of toxic chlorine gas formed over Atchison, Kan., in 2016, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
The hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. in room 403 of the Frank Carlson Federal Building at 444 S.E. Quincy St. in Topeka before U.S. District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree.
“Many people were affected by the release of the gas in Atchison,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. “We know that 140 individuals including members of the public, first responders, employees of MGP Ingredients and Harcros Chemicals sought medical attention at the time of the incident.”
“I want everyone to be aware that the sentencing hearing will be open to the public,” McAllister continued.
Both companies have pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Air Act and each has agreed to pay a $1 million fine.
McAllister said that he wants to assure that anyone impacted by the incident is afforded the right to be reasonably heard and not to be excluded from court. Due to time constraints, it may be impractical for each victim to speak at the sentencing hearing. However, anyone who would like to submit a written victim impact statement for the court’s consideration, please email those statements to [email protected] .
More information about the case is available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ks/victim-witness
U.S. Attorney McAllister and IRS-CI Warn of Fraud Schemes Related to COVID-19 Economic Impact PaymentsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), St. Louis Field Office, are warning Kansas taxpayers to be on the lookout for scam artists trying to use the COVID-19 economic impact payments as cover for schemes to steal personal information and money.
Stephen McAllister, U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas, and Karl A. Stiften, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), St. Louis Field Office, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent taxpayers from falling victim to criminals using the recently approved economic impact payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.
Automatic COVID-19 economic impact payments started being deposited into taxpayers’ accounts on April 11. For most Americans, this will be a direct deposit into your bank account. For the unbanked, retirees or other groups who have traditionally received tax refunds via paper check, they will receive their economic impact payment in this manner as well. Scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or use this as an opportunity to get you to “verify” your filing information in order to receive your money, and then use your personal information at a later date to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme. Because of this, everyone receiving a COVID-19 related economic impact payment from the government is at risk.
Karl A. Stiften, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI St. Louis Field Office warned “The existence of a deadly national pandemic will not stop criminals seeking to capitalize on the fears and difficulties faced by the public as they try to line their own pockets by stealing your money or your personal information.”
“Our office is on alert for Covid-19 crimes in Kansas,” U.S. Attorney McAllister said. “You can make a report by emailing us directly at [email protected] or by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721).”
Special Agent in Charge Stiften offers the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued.
• The IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
• The IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account or any other account information - even if someone claims it's necessary to get your check. It's a scam.
• If you receive a call, don't engage with scammers or thieves, even if you want to tell them that you know it's a scam, or you think that you can beat them. Just hang up.
• If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, delete them. Don't click on any links in those emails or texts.
• Reports are also swirling about bogus checks. If you receive a check that requires that you verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a fraud.
"IRS Criminal Investigation alongside the U.S. Department of Justice are prioritizing these types of investigations to help protect taxpayers and the tax system, especially those looking to prey on vulnerable taxpayers,” said Special Agent in Charge Stiften. “Remember, go directly and solely to IRS.gov for official information.”
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus. You can always report scams to the IRS on the website at https://www.irs.gov/privacy-disclosure/report-phishing
Help Your Children Keep Safe on the Internet While Schools are Closed for Covid-19Read the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister and FBI Special Agent in Charge Timothy Langan are urging educators and parents in Kansas to be alert as students who are out of school spend more time on the internet.
“Our young people today face more online threats than ever, and that was true before the Kansas schools closed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” McAllister said. “Now, children are likely spending even more time online each day, which gives predators more opportunities to exploit them. In this new environment, we want to remind parents, educators, caregivers, and children about the dangers of online sexual exploitation, urge the adults to watch for the signs of such exploitation and abuse, and to report to and engage federal and state law enforcement authorities when exploitation and abuse are suspected or discovered.”
McAllister said children sometimes can be too trusting online and befriend people they may not know. Predators take advantage of this and target children, often between the ages of 10 and 17, typically through social media. Children across all demographics and genders can be targeted and exploited. Sexual exploitation, even when there is never any physical contact, causes very real harm and has a lasting impact. Images and videos do not disappear from the Internet, and the long term effects can be devastating.
Online sexual exploitation can come in many forms. Sextortion occurs when a predator entices a victim into providing sexually explicit images or videos—usually by falsely pretending to be a teen, someone much younger and different than their real identity—and then threatens to share the images publicly if the victim fails to comply with the predator’s demands for increasingly explicit and degrading images and videos.
“In order for such victimization to stop, children typically need adult intervention and assistance,” McAllister said. “They have to come forward to someone they trust—a parent, teacher, friend, or caregiver—who can then cut off the communications and report the situation to us, which will permit law enforcement to go after the predator.”
McAllister and Langan urge parents to review the resources regarding child exploitation and other crimes related to COVID-19 at https://www.fbi.gov/coronavirus. If you suspect or become aware of possible sexual exploitation of a child, please contact the FBI, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, or your local law enforcement agency and report it. Such exploitation is a serious federal crime carrying severe federal penalties.
“Federal law enforcement has taken an aggressive approach toward the investigation and prosecution of COVID-19 related crimes such as fraud, price-gouging and hoarding of essential medical supplies,” McAllister said. “But we stand ready to act just as aggressively against those who might seek to take advantage of this situation to exploit our children.”
U.S. Attorney McAllister Marks National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister joins communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”
“The Crime Victims’ Rights Act has been of great interest in Congress recently, with many amendments to expand victims’ rights being proposed and seriously considered,” McAllister said. “So there is certainly some strong sentiment that prosecutors should be doing more, not less, to be sensitive to the concerns and needs of victims. In that regard, our staff members who work with victims are tireless advocates for victim rights.”
The Department of Justice has postponed this year’s National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony until a time when award recipients can be honored in person. During the ceremony, the Office for Victims of Crime will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs, which oversees OVC. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime, part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.
“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Announces $6 Million Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in KansasRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced that the state of Kansas received $6 Million in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant awarded to the Executive Office of the State Of Kansas is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. In addition, $3.2 million has been allocated for local jurisdictions in Kansas. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“This money can be used to support a broad range of activities to prevent, prepare for and respond to coronavirus,” said McAllister. “That includes overtime, supplies such as gloves, masks and sanitizer and addressing the medical needs of inmates in prisons, jails and detention centers.”
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
US Attorney and Kansas AG partner to combat COVID-19 fraudRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister and Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt today announced a state and federal partnership to investigate and prosecute scammers attempting to prey on Kansans during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The two offices agree coordinating information and manpower will allow the agencies to more quickly to verify allegations and prosecute those who are profiteering off the crisis.
“Nationally, we’ve seen everything from people offering for sale respiratory masks they were not going to deliver to people seeking donations for non-existent Covid-19 charities,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. “We are not going to stand by while that happens in Kansas.”
“This partnership will allow our two agencies to bring the maximum state and federal resources to bear to stop scams, frauds and price gouging during this state of emergency,” Schmidt said. “I appreciate Steve’s strong leadership in the U.S. attorney’s office and look forward to working closely with his team to protect Kansans in the face of this crisis.”
The attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division will work directly with two prosecutors in the U.S. attorney’s office designated for handling COVID-19-related matters.
Complaints can be submitted to the U.S. attorney’s office at [email protected] or by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721).
Anyone with information about COVID-19-related scams or price gouging can file a complaint with the attorney general’s office online on a form specifically designed for coronavirus issues, available along with other resources about the state’s response to the outbreak, at www.ag.ks.gov. Kansans may also call the attorney general’s consumer protection hotline at (800) 432-2310 to request a paper complaint form be sent by mail.
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19Read the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - The Department of Justice today announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“I urge public safety agencies in Kansas that are eligible to move quickly to apply for these much-needed funds,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. “The total available in Kansas is expected to exceed $3.2 million.”
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
A solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
U.S. Attorney Urges Public to Report Suspected COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister of the District of Kansas today urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected].
In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes.
“We’re open for business and our mission is to protect the public,” McAllister said. “We will prosecute anyone seeking to profit unlawfully from the public’s fear of COVID-19.”
Some examples of these schemes include:
- Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
- Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
- Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
- Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
In a memorandum to U.S. Attorneys issued March 19, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen also directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities. The District of Kansas Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator is Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask.
The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes. The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.
To find more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
U.S. Attorney: Nearly $60 Million Available to Support Prisoner ReentryRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister announced today that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address public safety by supporting successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.
“Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096
Total Available $3 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20
Total Available $13.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281
Total Available $4 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295
Total Available $6 million Deadline 5/5/2020
Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa
Total Available: Determined after selection Deadline 4/10/2020
Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110
Total Available $13.5 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680
Total Available $4 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf
Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/28/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
U.S. Attorney: More than $83 Million Available to Support School SafetyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister announced today that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities improve school security and protect students, teachers and faculty from threats of violence.
“School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats.
A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open, with another opening in the near future:
Research and Evaluation on School Safety
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available $5 million Deadline 4/13/2020
STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20)
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available $71.4 million Deadline 4/13/2020
Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926
Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/27/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
U.S. Attorney: More than $65 Million Available to Fight Human TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced that more than $65 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities combat human trafficking and serve adults and children who are victimized in trafficking operations.
“Our nation is facing difficult challenges, none more pressing than the scourge of human trafficking. Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Missing and Exploited Children Training and Technical Assistance Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351
Total Available $1.8 million Deadline 4/6/2020 (Extended)
Multidisciplinary Task Force Program to Combat Human Trafficking
Total Available $22 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Preventing Trafficking of Girls
Total Available $1.7 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324
Total Available $2.5 million Deadline 4/20/2020
Services for Victims of Human Trafficking
Total Available $16.5 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking
Total Available $2 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Program
Total Available $5 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking
Total Available $6 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking
Total Available $8 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
U.S. Attorney: More than $163 Million Available to Fight Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister today announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.
“Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098
Total Available $1.75 million Deadline 5/14/2020
Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20
Total Available $27 million Deadline 5/21/2020
Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf
Total Available: $19 million Deadline: 5/4/2020
Family Drug Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090
Total Available $18.2 million Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)
Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754
Total Available $28.1 Deadline 5/5/2020
Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)
Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930
Total Available $48 million Deadline 4/13/2020
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352
Total Available $9 million Deadline 4/20/2020
Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275
Total Available $1 million Deadline 4/20/2020
Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners
https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20
Total Available $4.5 million Deadline 4/6/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
Indictment: Arizona Veteran Committed Fraud to Obtain Government ContractsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Marine veteran was indicted Wednesday on charges she committed fraud to obtain government contracts for a business in Overland Park that sold commercial flooring and furniture, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Valerie Gonzalez, 51, Tucson, Ariz., is charged with seven counts of wire fraud and one count of making a false statement on a Veterans Administration vendor verification form. The indictment alleges Gonzalez falsely claimed to own more than 99 percent of The Primus Group, 6980 W.153rd, Suite B, Overland Park, Kan.
The indictment cites payments by the government totaling more than $2 million.
If convicted, she could face up 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each fraud count, and up to five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the false statement count. The Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG), the Government Services Administration – Office of Inspector General and the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Selvin De Jesus Morataya-Sagastume, 38, who is not a citizen of the United States, is charged with one count of unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. The indictment alleges the defendant was deported five times previously, in 2004, 2005, twice in 2006 and once in 2018.
If convicted, he could face up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon Patton is prosecuting.
Jaime Chico-Holguin, 47, who is not a citizen of the United States, is charged with illegally re-entering the United States after being deported. He was deported in May 2004. He was found Feb. 3, 2020, in Seward County, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
Jose Romas, 29, who is not a citizen of the United States, is charged with illegally re-entering the United States after being deported. He was deported in April 2010. He was found Feb. 19, 2020, in Dodge City, Kan.
If convicted, he could face up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
Anna Lakin, 34, Neodesha, Kan., and Donald Hamill, 31, Kansas City, Kan., are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The crime is alleged to have occurred Sept. 27, 2019, in Miami County, Kan.
If convicted, they could face not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle McFarlane is prosecuting.
Robert Hicks, 40, Leavenworth, Kan., is charged with one count of escaping from federal custody at Grossman Community Corrections Center in Leavenworth. The crime is alleged to have occurred Nov. 20, 2019.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Guilty Verdict in Heroin Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A jury convicted a Kansas City, Kan., man Wednesday on federal charges of heroin trafficking, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
During trial, jurors saw video from hidden cameras in the drug house where the defendant and others distributed heroin.
George Bush Jr., 29, Kansas City, Kan., was convicted on the following charges:
Count one: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.
Count two: Distributing heroin.
Count three: Conspiracy to maintain a residence in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Count four: Possession with intent to distribute heroin.
Count five: Possession with intent to distribute heroin.
Count seven: Possession with intent to distribute heroin.
Count eight: Possession with intent to distribute.
During trial, prosecutors presented evidence that Bush and co-defendants dealt heroin out of a house at 823 Parallel Avenue in Kansas City, Kan.
Five co-defendants pleaded guilty in the case: Albert Brown, 31, Kansas City, Kan. ; Isaiah Lewis, 23, Kansas City, Kan. ; Maurice Bluett, 26, Kansas City, Mo. ; Markelo Paden, 25, Olathe, Kan. ; and Benjamin Mims, 32, Lawrence, Kan.
Bush is scheduled for sentencing June 18. The counts carry the following potential penalties:
Count one: Not less than five years, not more than 40 years, and a fine up to $5 million.
Counts two, four, five, seven and eight: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $1 million.
Count three: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $500,000.McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel for their work on the case.
Third Defendant Sentenced to Prison for Counterfeiting $100 BillsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – John Sebestyen, 51, Mission Viejo, Calif., was sentenced today to 37 months in prison for “washing” $1 bills to produce counterfeit $100 bills, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said. In addition, the defendant was ordered to pay $19,900 in restitution.
Sebestyen was the third of three defendants sentenced in the case. Two co-defendants already were sentenced: Courtney Campbell, 38, Bouse, Ariz. (37 months, $18,100 restitution) and Steven Shane Escamilla, 31, Laguna Hills, Calif. (27 months, $19,900 restitution).
According to documents filed in court, an employee at a hotel in Overland Park contacted police to report that the defendants, who were staying at the hotel, were acting suspiciously. They deposited trash in containers away from their rooms that contained evidence of criminal activity.
The defendants washed the ink off $1 bills and reprinted them to look like $100 bills. They used the counterfeit bills to purchase items from retailers in the Kansas City metro area including Target and Ulta Beauty. In some cases, they returned items and received refunds in genuine currency.
McAllister commended the Overland Park Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon Patton for their work on the case.
Former Vice President Sentenced for Embezzling $100,000+ from BankRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. - A former vice president of the First National Bank of Harveyville, Kan., was sentenced today to four months home confinement, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today. In addition, she was ordered to pay restitution of approximately $107,175.
Debra Kay Converse, 60, Harveyville, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement. In her plea agreement, Converse admitted that in April 2019 the president of First National Bank reported to the Wabaunsee County Sheriff that he believed Converse had embezzled from the bank while she was vice president. The bank’s investigation focused on what Converse claimed were glitches in software. On March 29, 2019, Converse resigned from the bank and the bank initiated an audit. The bank also learned that Converse, while serving as City Treasurer for Harveyville wrote $5,700 in checks payable to First National Bank for processing residents’ utility payments. Rather than crediting the revenue to the bank, she cashed the checks.
McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Hathaway for their work on the case.
Wichita Man Sentenced for Robbing a BankRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - A Wichita man was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison for bank robbery, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Jeremy Vos, 21, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery. In his plea, he admitted that on July 23, 2019, he robbed Intrust Bank at 5500 E. Harry. He gave the teller a handwritten note saying, “This is a robbery. No (dye) bags. I have a gun.” Police arrested Vos the same day as the robbery.
Wichita police reported Vos had made a false report to 911 shortly before the robbery.
McAllister commended the Wichita Police Department, the FBI and Assistant U.S. Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Grand Jury Indicts Kansas Man Who Fled from TroopersRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A federal grand jury indicted an Olathe man Wednesday on charges of drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Dustin Schultz-Bergin, 40, Olathe, Kan., is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to documents filed in federal court, on Jan. 23, 2020, Kansas Highway Patrol troopers attempted to arrest Schultz-Bergin at Matfield Green service area on the Kansas Turnpike. He fled in a Nissan Altima and troopers stopped the car about 10 miles north of the service area. Schultz-Bergin was armed and troopers shot at him after he got out of the car and ran into a field. Troopers stopped him with the help of a police dog.
The Drug Enforcement Administration recovered more than 7 pounds of methamphetamine from the car and a .380-caliber handgun.
If convicted, he could face not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million on the methamphetamine charge and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the firearm charge. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Kansas Highway Patrol investigated. Special U.S. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle McFarlane is prosecuting
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Matthew Joseph Gammill, 41, Lawrence, Kan., is charged with one count of possession of child pornography. The crime is alleged to have occurred Feb. 24, 2020, in Lawrence.
If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hunting is prosecuting.
Carlos Alberto Pesina-Velasquez, who is not a U.S. citizen and who has been living in Greenleaf, Kan., is charged with one count of visa fraud and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Feb. 1, 2020, in Greenleaf.
If convicted, he could face a penalty of up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on each count. The Department of Homeland Security investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.