District of Kansas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Kansas City, Kan., Man Sold Six to Ten Kilos of Meth a WeekRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced Wednesday to 15 years in federal prison after admitting he distributed six to 10 kilos of methamphetamine a week, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Luis Enrique Martinez-Rosales, 25, Kansas City, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count possession with intent to distribute. In his plea, he admitted the Kansas Highway Patrol found two kilograms of methamphetamine and almost $50,000 in cash when they stopped his car on I-70 in Wyandotte County, Kan. He received methamphetamine in loads smuggled into the United States in tractor-trailers and wired payment to Mexico.
Beall commended the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tris Hunt for their work on the case.
Kansas City, Kan., Man Sentenced on Project Safe Neighborhoods Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced Tuesday to 92 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of a 9 mm handgun that was used in a robbery, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Joshua J. Flaugher, 32, Kansas City, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In his plea, Flaugher admitted that investigators seized a loaded 9 mm handgun with a 30-round extended magazine from his residence. Flaugher was arrested at his aunt’s home in the 2400 block of Everett Avenue. Because he had a prior felony conviction in Wyandotte County District Court on a charge of aggravated battery, he was prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
Beall commended the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sheri Catania and Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead for their work on the case.
This prosecution was brought under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Justice Department program aimed at prosecuting convicted felons who violate a federal ban on possession of firearms. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide to emphasize PSN prosecutions as part of a national strategy to reduce violent crime.
Wichita Men Plead Guilty to Federal Gambling, Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – Two Wichita men pleaded guilty Friday to federal gambling and income tax charges, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Danny Chapman, 67, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of operating an illegal gambling business and one count of tax evasion. Daven Flax, 46, Wichita, pleaded guilty to two counts of operating an illegal gambling business and one count of making a false statement on a tax return.
Chapman: Online sports betting
In his plea, Chapman admitted he worked as a sports bookmaker in the Wichita area and had at least five people working for him. Chapman and his subordinates took bets on sporting events from clients in their “book” of bettors and collected their losses. They arranged for clients to place bets through online gambling web sites that were created and hosted in Costa Rica. Chapman and subordinates kept a portion of the money they collected. His gross revenue from bookmaking exceeded $2,000 in a single day.
Chapman failed to pay almost $345,000 in federal income taxes on his earnings from illegal gambling. In order to evade taxes, he purchased vehicles in cash and registered them in the name of other persons, including a colleague and a nephew. He frequently purchased money orders and cashier’s checks using the names of family members.
Flax: Poker games in Wichita, sports betting
In his plea, Flax admitted he operated an illegal gambling business in Wichita. He conducted and managed illegal poker games at numerous locations in Wichita. His income came from taking a cut or “rake” from the amount of money wagered. He was responsible for paying employees including dealers, waitresses and caterers as well as paying for the use of commercial properties where poker games were held. The games were not open to the public. Only gamblers who were invited could play.
In addition, Flax worked as a sub-bookie for Chapman’s sports betting operation.
Flax failed to pay more than $65,000 in federal income taxes on his earnings from illegal gambling.
Chapman and Flax will be sentenced at a later time. Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Illegal gambling business: Up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Tax evasion: Up to five years and a fine up to $250,000.
Making a false statement on a tax return: Up to three years and a fine up to $100,000.
Beall commended the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service, the Wichita Police Department, Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mona Furst for their work on the case.
Topeka Man Pleads Guilty to McDonald’s Restaurant RobberyRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Topeka man pleaded guilty Wednesday to a robbery at a McDonald’s restaurant, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Brendon R. Thompson, 30, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and one count of aiding and abetting another robber who brandished a firearm during the robbery.
In his plea, Thompson admitted that on July 10, 2017, he and another man robbed the McDonald’s restaurant at 1100 South Kansas Avenue in Topeka. Thompson went behind the counter and took money from the registers while the other robber brandished a firearm. The robbers fled when police arrived. Thompson was arrested near the restaurant, while the other robber got away.
Anyone with information about the other robber is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. Call 785-234-0007 or visit www.topekacrimestoppers.org online.
Thompson’s sentencing will be scheduled for a later date. Both parties have agreed to recommend a controlling sentence of not less than 130 months and not more than 165 months in federal prison.
Beall commended the FBI, the Topeka Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag for their work on the case.
Topeka Man Pleads Guilty to Five Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Topeka man pleaded guilty Wednesday to five bank robberies in four states, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Dakota Shareef Walker, 21, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to the following robberies:
- U.S. Bank, 5730 Southwest 21st, Topeka, Nov. 28, 2016.
- U.S. Bank, 221 West Gregory Blvd, Kansas City Missouri, Nov. 23, 2016.
- U.S. Bank, 748 Main Street, Evanston, Wyo, Dec. 6, 2016.
- U.S. Bank, 25 East 50 South, Malad City, Idaho, Dec. 14, 2016.
- Wells Fargo Bank, 5 North State Street, Preston, Idaho, Jan. 9, 2017.
In each case, Walker gave tellers a note warning not them not to activate any alarms or to make any sudden moves.
Sentencing is set for April 16. All parties have agreed to recommend a sentence in a range from 57 and 96 months in federal prison. Beall commended the FBI, the Topeka Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag for their work on the case.
Indictment: Junction City Woman Produced Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Junction City woman was indicted Wednesday on charges of producing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Kayla Michelle Simpson, 22, Junction City, Kan., is charged with one count of using a child to produce child pornography and one count of violating the conditions imposed on a registered sex offender. The crime is alleged to have occurred in July 2016 in Junction City.
The indictment alleges that Simpson, who was registered sex offender, enticed a 16-year-old victim to engage in sexual activity for the purpose of producing child pornography.
If convicted, Simpson faces a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison on the production charge, and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the sex offender charge. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Kenney is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Mack W. Colvin, Jr., 31, Park City, Kan., is charged with one count of bank robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm.
The indictment alleges Colvin robbed the Fidelity Bank branch at 1306 N. Woodlawn in Wichita on Dec. 13, 2017, and the Wheat State Credit Union at 1400 S. Oliver in Wichita on Dec. 19, 2017. In both cases, he is charged with brandishing a firearm.
If convicted, he faces up to 25 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each robbery charge, and not less than seven years and a fine up to $250,000 on each firearm charge. The FBI and the Wichita Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
John Stephen Kissell, 31, who is in custody, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction. The crime is alleged to have occurred in September 2017 in Topeka, Kan.
If convicted, he faces 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 Duston Slinkard is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Mailman Sentenced for Delivering MarijuanaRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - A former postal worker in Johnson County was sentenced Tuesday to five years on federal probation for smuggling marijuana through the mail, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Terrell Dewayne Shears, 25, Overland Park, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. In his plea, he admitted he gave addresses on his route to marijuana traffickers in Arizona. The traffickers mailed parcels containing marijuana to addresses on his route and Shears intercepted the packages. Shears dropped the packages off at an apartment building where he had been instructed to leave them and texted a recipient he knew only as “John” to pick them up.
Investigators seized more than 40 pounds of marijuana from his postal vehicle.
Beall commended the U.S. Postal Service and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Ward for their work on the case.
Man Sentenced for Smuggling Liquid Methamphetamine to KansasRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. B A Mexican man was sentenced Thursday to 46 months in federal prison for his role in smuggling more than 1,000 pounds of liquid methamphetamine into Kansas City, Kan., U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Yoan Alejandro Castillo-Zamora, 31, a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He was arrested Jan. 13, 2017. Federal agents watched him and others at a business in Kansas City, Kan., unload liquid methamphetamine from a fuel tank on a semi-truck into five-gallon buckets. They loaded the buckets into a white Dodge Caravan.
Beall commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Kansas City DEA Special Response Team, the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough for their work the case.
Parsons Woman Pleads Guilty to $5 Million EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Parsons woman pleaded guilty Monday to embezzling $5 million from a credit union where she worked, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Nita Rae Nirschl, 66, Parsons, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement, one count of money laundering and one count of attempted tax evasion. In her plea, she admitted the crimes occurred while she was an officer and employee of Parsons Pittsburg Credit Union headquartered in Parsons, Kan. She withdrew money from the assets of the credit union and deposited the money into accounts she controlled. She used the stolen money to buy a car, a house and other items.
Sentencing is set for March 5, 2018. Both parties have agreed to recommend a sentence of five years in federal prison and an order of restitution.
Beall commended the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch for their work on the case.
Indictment: Scott Tucker Failed to Report Millions in IncomeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A professional racecar driver who lives in Leawood was indicted Wednesday on federal charges of failing to report millions in income from payday lending business he owned, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. The defendant’s accountant was indicted, too.
Scott Tucker, 55, Leawood, Kan., is charged with one count of filing a false tax return, and W. Brett Chapin, 46, Shawnee, Kan., is charged with aiding in the filing of a false tax return.
The indictment alleges that in 2008 Tucker orchestrated a sham sale of his company CLK Management to the Miami tribe for $120,000. In fact, Tucker continued to control CLK and a new entity, AMG Services, Inc.
After the sale, other people and entities were listed as owners of Tucker’s payday lending businesses. In fact, Tucker controlled the daily operations of those business. He was the source of funds being lent and he bore the risk of loans not being repaid.
Tucker’s payday lending businesses included Ameriloan, Cash Advance, One Click Cash, Preferred Cash Loans, United Cash Loans, US FastCash, 500 FastCash, Advantage Cash Services and Star Cash Processing.
Chapin was a CPA who prepared Tucker’s tax returns for 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. On Oct. 19, 2009, Tucker signed a 2008 tax return prepared by Chapin that failed to report more than $42.5 million in income from Tucker’s payday lending businesses. On Oct. 20, 2011, Tucker signed a 2010 tax return prepared by Chapin that failed to report more than $75 million in income from Tucker’s payday lending businesses.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Conspiracy: Up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Filing a false tax return: Up to three years and a fine up to $250,000.
Aiding and abetting the filing of a false tax return: Up to three years and a fine up to $250,000.
The Internal Revenue Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask are prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Richard Armenta, 57, Overland Park, Kan., is charged with one count of bank robbery.
The indictment that on Nov. 24, 2017, Armenta robbed Capitol Federal Savings Bank at 9001 E. Santa Fe in Overland Park, Kan.
If convicted he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
The Overland Park Police Department and the FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Flannigan is prosecuting.
Anois Coronado-Floriano, 31, Kansas City, Kan., Idania Daniela Ortiz, 37, Kansas City, Kan., and Carlos Coronado, 26, Kansas City, Kan., are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Dec. 6, 2017, in Wyandotte County, Kan.
If convicted, they face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley is prosecuting.
Esteban Muniz-Torres, 50, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. He was found Dec. 1, 2017, in Johnson County Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting.
Dennis Bowen, 46, Ottawa, Kan., is charged with escaping from federal custody. The crime is alleged to have occurred Nov. 6, 2017, in Leavenworth County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
##
Former Manhattan City Attorney Sentenced on Child Porn ChargesRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - A former city attorney of Manhattan, Kan., was sentenced Tuesday to 210 months in federal prison on child pornography charges, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Bill Raymond, 55, Andover, Kan., pleaded guilty to three counts of transporting child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. Raymond admitted that he emailed child pornography to himself using a cellular telephone and a computer on Nov. 9, 2014, Feb. 28, 2015 and May 17, 2015. He also admitted that on July 30, 2015, he possessed child pornography.
The crimes occurred in Butler and Riley counties. Raymond became the city attorney in Manhattan after serving as an assistant county counselor in Sedgwick County.
Beall commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Clay Center Man Sentenced for Loan FraudRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Clay Center man was sentenced Thursday to two years on supervised release for selling assets he had pledged as collateral on a federal loan, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said today. The defendant was ordered to pay approximately $84,594 in restitution.
Harold R. Mugler, 64, Clay Center, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of criminal conversion. In his plea, he admitted that in 2009 in received a $100,000 loan through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency. Over the following years, he sold off various pieces of farm machinery that he had pledged as collateral on the loan. He was behind on his loan payments in 2015 when the government learned of the sales.
Beall commended the USDA-OIG and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith for their work on the case.
Indictment: Two Topeka Men Robbed Health ClubRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Two Topeka men were indicted Wednesday on charges of robbing a health club where one of them used to work, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Lesley Jamar Terrell, Jr., 33, Topeka, Kan., and George Bernard Phelps, III, 31, Topeka, Kan., are charged with one count of robbery. The indictment alleges that on Nov. 24, 2017, the two defendants robbed the Genesis Health Club at 2909 Southwest 37th Street in Topeka.
A criminal complaint in the case alleges that a Genesis employee came upon the two defendants in the lobby of the business while they attempted to pry open a box used for money deposits by members of the club. One of the defendants told the employee the robbers did not want trouble and instructed him to wait in an adjacent room. The defendant stood in the doorway of the room with his hand in the waistband of his pants. The defendants removed cash and checks from the box and then fled.
When police arrived, the employee told them one of the robbers resembled a former employee of the business. Investigators identified Terrell as a prior employee of the business who worked as an overnight maintenance worker.
If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Topeka Police Department and the FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Xavier Leron Sims, 30, who is in custody, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction. The crime is alleged to have occurred Oct. 21, 2017
If convicted, he faces 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 Jared Maag is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Two Men in Kansas Indicted on Charges of Lying to Become Naturalized CitizensRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – Two men who been living in Kansas were indicted today in separate cases on charges of lying in order to become naturalized citizens, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Victor David Garcia Bebek, 45, a native of Peru who has been living in Wichita, was charged with one count of unlawfully obtaining naturalized U.S. citizenship. The indictment alleges Bebek failed to disclose on his application for naturalization that he committed crimes while in the United States, including voter fraud.
In April, Bebek pleaded guilty in Sedgwick County District Court to three counts of voting without being qualified. He voted in a 2012 special election, the 2012 general election, and the 2014 general election, according to Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach. Kobach said his office learned of the voting fraud after Bebek became a naturalized citizen in February 2017.
Terry Kang, 48, a native of India who has been living in Overland Park, is charged with one count of unlawfully obtaining naturalized U.S. citizenship. The indictment alleges he failed to disclose on his application for naturalization that the government previously had initiated proceedings to remove him from the United States. In addition, the indictment alleges he made false statements to the government.
If convicted Bebek and Kang face up to 10 years in federal prison, a fine up to $250,000 and revocation of their naturalized citizenship. The Fraud Detection & National Security section of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (DHS) investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Phyllis Lanning, 60, Coffeyville, Kan., is charged with one count of mail fraud. The crime is alleged to have occurred from 2003 to 2017 in Montgomery County, Kan.
The indictment alleges that while she worked for Condon National Bank in Coffeyville, Kan., she created and mailed falsified documents in order to conceal the fact she stole $150,000 from an account.
If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
Staci Jo Campbell, 37, Wichita, Kan., and Chet Andell Loudermilk, 46, Wichita, Kan., are charged with one count of possession of stolen mail. The crime is alleged to have occurred in June 2016, in Sedgwick County, Kan.
If convicted, they face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
Joshua D. Catlin, 23, Florence, Kan., is charged with one count of theft of mail. The indictment alleges that while driving as a contract mail delivery person, he stole cash and gift cards and destroyed mail. The crime is alleged to have occurred in March 2017.
If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Postal Service investigated. AUSA Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
Luis Antonio Mendez-Perez, 40, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, and one count of unlawfully re-entering the United States after being convicted of a felony and deported. He was found in 2017 in Sedgwick County.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on each count. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement Removal Operations investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
Ricardo Daniel Ruiz, 19, El Paso, Texas, is charged with one count of possession of more than 14 pounds of cocaine. The crime is alleged to have occurred Nov. 23, 2017, in Elkhart County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $4 million. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Indictment: Veteran Charged in $40 Million Government Contract Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. –Joseph David Dial, Jr., 52, Belton, Mo., is charged in a federal indictment unsealed today with four counts of major program fraud against the United States and four counts of wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. The indictment alleges during the period from in or about August 2008, to in or about September 2015, Dial unlawfully devised a scheme to defraud and to obtain money and property by means of material false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises, in order to obtain a $40 million Department of Defense contract.
The indictment alleges Dial unlawfully formed a pass-through business called United Medical Design Builders, LLC with another person. The company received a contract through the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business program that was awarded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the design and construction of healthcare facilities at Langley AFB, Andrews AFB, Hanscom AFB, and McGuire AFB. The indictment alleges United Medical Design Builders, LLC was not a legitimate Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business and should not have obtained the contract.
If convicted, Dial faces up to 10 years in federal prison on each count of defrauding the government and up to 20 years on each count of wire fraud, as well as fines and forfeiture judgment representing the amount of proceeds obtained by committing the offenses set out in the indictment. Investigative agencies include the Small Business Administration - Officer of Inspector General, General Services Administration - Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Army CID Major Procurement Fraud Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tris Hunt is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Former Bank Executive Charged for Role in $15 Million Bank Loan SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A former Kansas bank executive was charged in an indictment filed today for his participation in a bank fraud scheme to obtain a $15 million construction loan from 26 Kansas banks based on allegedly false information contained in the loan documents.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge David Anderson of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General’s (FDIC-OIG) Kansas City Regional Office, Special Agent in Charge Karl A. Stiften of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) St. Louis Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Darrin E. Jones of the FBI’s Kansas City Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Catherine Huber of the Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General’s (FHFA-OIG) Central Region Office made the announcement.
Troy A. Gregory, 50, of Lawrence, Kansas, was charged in an indictment filed in the District of Kansas with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, four counts of bank fraud, and two counts of false statements.
According to the indictment, Gregory was a bank executive and loan officer who had made millions of dollars in loans to a group of borrowers who were struggling to make payments on the loans. The indictment alleges that beginning in approximately late 2007, Gregory began the process of making a $15.2 million construction loan to build an apartment complex to that same group of borrowers. The indictment further alleges that Gregory’s bank shared this loan with 25 other Kansas banks. Gregory allegedly made or caused others to make false statements to the banks about the strength of the borrowers, the debt status of the apartment property and the existence of approximately $1.7 million in certificates of deposit for collateral on the loan, all to get the loan approved. Instead of using the loan funds promised for building the apartments, Gregory allegedly immediately diverted over $1 million of the loan to pay for part of the certificates of deposit pledged as collateral, pay off debt on the apartment property and make payments on unrelated loans. Other Kansas banks that shared in this loan allegedly would not have participated in the loan without the false representations and promises.
The indictment alleges that the banks ultimately wrote off millions of dollars on the $15.2 million construction loan.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FDIC-OIG, IRS-CI, FBI and FHFA-OIG are investigating this matter. Trial Attorney Andrew R. Tyler and Senior Litigation Counsel David A. Bybee of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section plays a pivotal role in the Department of Justice’s fight against white collar crime around the country, focusing on cases of national significance and international scope. Fraud Section prosecutors have vast experience in investigating and prosecuting securities and financial fraud, health care fraud and foreign corruption. The Section is routinely the national leader in large, sophisticated white collar investigations and prosecutions, frequently in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and in coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies.
Sedgwick County Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Sedgwick County man pleaded guilty Thursday to a federal charge of producing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Ian Nathaniel Smith, 21, Viola, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of producing child pornography. In his plea, he admitted he communicated over the internet with a 14-year-old victim in Indiana. On Skype, Smith urged the victim to live stream sex acts. Smith transported the minor to Ohio for the purpose of performing sexual activity. When Smith was arrested, investigators found pornographic images of the victim on Smith’s smartphone.
Sentencing is set for Feb. 16. He faces a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Beall commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Kansas Man Indicted in Robbery, Attempted RobberyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Prairie Village man was indicted Wednesday on charges he robbed a shoe store, and attempted to rob a credit union, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
John P. Gail, 49, Prairie Village, Kan., was charged with one count of commercial robbery, and one count of attempted robbery of a Credit Union. The indictment alleges that on Sept. 10, 2017, he robbed Payless Shoe Source at 4824 S. 4th Street in Leavenworth, Kan.
In addition, the indictment alleges that on Sept. 11, 2017, Gail attempted to rob the Community America Credit Union at 13590 S. Blackbob in Olathe, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count. The FBI, the Leavenworth Police Department and the Olathe Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tris Hunt is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Ronald James McNeil, 25, Charlotte, N.C., and Rock Sarousse Lamartiniere, 24, are charged with one count of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. The indictment alleges they used false identities to purchase cell phones at discounted prices from AT&T. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Aug. 31, 2017, in Johnson County, Kan.
If convicted, they face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the wire fraud count and two years (consecutive) and a fine up to $250,000 on the identity theft count. The Overland Park Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Former Kansas CPA Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A former Kansas CPA pleaded guilty Tuesday to filing a false tax return, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Robert M. Purinton, 69, formerly of Overland Park, Kan., now of Rancho Mirage, Calif., pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement on his 2009 tax return by under-reporting his income by about $202,000. He agreed to make restitution of $71,543 for the additional taxes due and owing for that year. He also agreed to make restitution of $34,512 for 2010, although he did not plead guilty to any criminal activity for that year. During those years, he was a CPA with an accounting firm in Overland Park.
The sentencing date will be set after his presentence report is completed. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison, a fine up to $250,000, and total restitution of $106,055. Beall commended the Internal Revenue Service and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon Patton for their work on the case.
Justice Department Grant Will Help Olathe Hire PoliceRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A $500,000 grant from the justice Department will pay for four police officer positions in Olathe, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said today.
The money comes from the COPS Hiring Program Awards announced Monday by the Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. The propose of the program is provide funds to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to support hiring additional career law enforcement officers to address specific crime problems through community policing strategies.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions Monday announced a total of $98.4 million in COPS grants nationwide.
“Cities and states that cooperate with federal law enforcement make all of us safer by helping remove dangerous criminals from our communities,” Sessions said.
The complete list of award recipients can be found at https://www.cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2017AwardDocs/chp/Award_List.pdf
The COPS Office awards grants to hire community policing officers, develop and test innovative policing strategies, and provide training and technical assistance to community members, local government leaders, and all levels of law enforcement. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to help advance community policing.
Getaway Driver Pleads Guilty in Village West RobberyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – An Illinois man pleaded guilty Monday to being the getaway driver in a $53,000 hold up at a Verizon store in Village West, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. The robbers held store employees at gunpoint and bound them with zip ties.
Terry Curtis, 34, Rockford, Il., pleaded guilty to one count of commercial robbery. In his plea, he admitted that on Sept. 14, 2016, he was involved when four men robbed the Verizon Wireless store at 10621 Village West Parkway. Two of the robbers entered the store, followed two minutes later by the other two. The robbers locked the door and ordered the employees and a customer into a break room. The robbers ordered them to lay face down on the floor and tied their hands behind their backs. The robbers forced an employee to open a safe before they fled the store with phones and cash worth $53,000. Eventually, an employee managed to get loose and call police.
Investigators used surveillance photos from the robbery to tie the Kansas City robbery to a similar robbery weeks earlier at an AT&T Store in Rochester, Minn. They also received an anonymous call that led them to one of the co-defendants who was on parole in Illinois.
During the investigations, agents learned that some of the defendants in the Verizon robbery were part of a group involved in dozens of similar robberies in several states.
Curtis’ sentencing will be set for a later date. Both parties have agreed to recommend 72 months in federal prison.
Co-defendants who are awaiting trial include:
Mario Lambert, 33, Rockford, Il.
Sir T. Love, 32, Rockford, Il.
Domonique V. Walker, 26, Rockford, Il.
Sharod Pitts, 35, Chicago, Il.
Beall commended the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead for their work on the case.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Former Wichita Restaurant Owner Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A former Wichita restaurant owner was sentenced Monday to 108 months in federal prison for drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Gerald Beasley, 62, Wichita, Kan., the former owner of Tiara’s Place, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
In his plea, Gerald Beasley admitted he stored cocaine and other narcotics in a residence in the 2400 block of North Piatt Street in Wichita. He met with buyers both at the residence and the restaurant at 1339 N. Hillside. He carried a High Standard derringer handgun to protect himself during drug transactions.
In his plea agreement, Gerald Beasley agreed to forfeit his home in Andover, his restaurant, a number of real estate properties, more than $75,000 in cash and bank accounts with a value of more than $75,000, as well as other assets.
In exchange for his guilty plea, the United States dismissed 20 additional counts against Mr. Beasley, including drug offenses, bank fraud, program fraud, money laundering, and firearm offenses.
Co-defendants include:
Antoine Beasley, 38, Wichita, who was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison.
Gerald Wilson, 46, Wichita, Kan., was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison.
Larry Reed, 59, who was sentenced to two years in federal prison.
Carlos Beasley, 43, Wichita, Kan., who was sentenced to two years on supervised probation.
Helen Beasley, 59, Wichita, who was sentenced to two years on supervised probation.
Terry Beasley, 64, Wichita, Kan., who is set for sentencing Jan. 10.
Herbert Jones, 55, Wichita, Kan., who is set for sentencing Jan. 8.
Stephen Smallwood, 69, Wichita, Kan., who is set for sentencing Dec. 6.
Brandon Smith, 46, Wichita, Kan., who is set for sentencing Dec. 6.
Beall commended the Wichita Police Department, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal revenue Service, the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Barnett and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Jacobs for their work on the case.
Cheyenne County Man Sentenced for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Cheyenne County man was sentenced Monday to 25 years in federal prison for producing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Brett Nolan Cico, 32, St. Francis, Kan., pleaded guilty as charged to three counts of producing child pornography and three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor while registered as a sex offender. Two of the victims were 14 years old and the other victim was 15 years old.
Beall commended the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Coffeyville Man Sentenced for Trying to Buy Bomb OnlineRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Coffeyville man who tried to buy an explosive on the internet was sentenced Friday to two years in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Carlos Francisco Martin, 19, Coffeyville, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to obtain an explosive with intent to destroy property. In his plea, he admitted he ordered an explosive from an internet site where users seek to remain anonymous and purchases are paid for in bitcoins.
Investigators tracked Martin’s purchases on the internet site, which included more than $4,000 worth of illegal drugs such as MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. In his plea, Martin admitted he tried to buy the explosive for the purpose of intimidating a rival drug dealer.
Beal commended the FBI, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Mattivi and Trial Attorney Rebecca Magnone of the Justice Department’s Counterterrorism Section for their work on the case.
Georgia Man Sentenced for Cyber Crime That Cost Sedgwick County $566,000+Read the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - A Georgia man was sentenced Wednesday to 27 months in federal prison for his part in an e-mail spoofing scheme that cost Sedgwick County more than $566,000, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
George S. James, 49, Brookhaven, Ga., pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
In his plea, James admitted that on Oct. 7, 2016, Sedgwick County sent approximately $566,088 to his bank account at a Wells Fargo bank in Georgia. James transferred part of the money he received from Sedgwick County to a bank account in Shanghai, China, and part of the money to an account at Deutsche Bank in Bremen, Germany. James also spent some of the money.
In his plea, James denied that the fraud scheme was his idea. He said that on Sept. 23, 2016, he was contacted by a person identified in court records as A.H., who asked to deposit some money into James’ account at Wells Fargo. James said he knew A.H. was engaged in fraud, but James denied knowing that Sedgwick County was the victim.
In his plea, James said it was A.H. – or someone working with A.H. – who sent an email to Sedgwick County on Sept. 23, 2016, purporting to be from Cornejo and Sons, LLC, and requesting the county send future payments to a new account number at Wells Fargo. On Oct. 7, 2016, the county sent $566,088 to James’ account at Wells Fargo. The county learned later that Cornejo did not request the change of account and did not receive the payment.
Beall commended the FBI, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the Wichita Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.
Wichita Woman Sentenced for Three Commercial RobberiesRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita woman was sentenced Wednesday to seven years in federal prison for robbing three local businesses, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Christina A. Messerschmidt, 26, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to committing the following robberies:
- June 14, 2017: Kwik Shop at 2809 E. Douglas in Wichita. She threatened store employees with a knife and took money from the register.
- June 13, 2017: Patricia’s, 6143 W. Kellogg in Wichita. She threatened to strangle an employee and took money from the register.
- Dec. 16, 2016: Intrust Bank at 1544 S. Webb. She gave a teller a note saying, “Give me $1,000 or I will shoot you.” She was arrested after a standoff with police at an apartment near the bank.
Beall commended the FBI, the Wichita Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.
Former Hospital Worker Sentenced in Attack at Fort LeavenworthRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A former civilian hospital employee was sentenced today to the statutory maximum of 20 years in federal prison plus 3 years of supervised release for attacking a woman whom he set on fire, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. In addition the Defendant was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,464,965.80 to the victim, Lieutenant Katie Ann Blanchard.
In August, a jury found Clifford Currie, 55, Leavenworth, Kan., guilty of one count of assault with intent to commit murder.
During trial, prosecutors presented evidence that on Sept. 7, 2016, Currie threw gasoline or some other inflammable liquid on his supervisor, Katie Ann Blanchard, lit her on fire and assaulted her with a straight edge razor and scissors. A co-worker came to Blanchard’s aid when she heard screams and saw Blanchard on fire from the chest up. Currie was subdued by hospital employees and then arrested
Beall commended the FBI, the U.S. Army Military Police, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Flannigan and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Ward for their work on the case.
Indictment: Wellington Woman Worked While Collecting Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wellington woman was indicted Wednesday on federal charges of collecting more than $92,000 in Social Security disability benefits while she was working, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. In addition, she was charged with misusing a credit card belonging to her church to obtain cash and buy merchandise for herself.
Amy D. McLain, 49, Wellington, Kan., was charged with one count of Social Security fraud, one count of theft of government funds, two counts of making false statements and one count of wire fraud.
Her husband, Jeffrey L. McLain, 48, Wellington, Kan., was charged with one count of Social Security fraud and one count of theft of government funds. Her employer, Scott Kreifels, 57, Wellington, Kan., was charged with one count of Social Security fraud and one count of theft of government funds.
The indictment alleged that Amy McClain was working for Kreifels Communications and Rural 2.4 Ghz, Inc., both owned by Kreifels, while receiving disability benefits. The three defendants agreed that Amy McLain’s paychecks would be issued in her husband’s name. While receiving benefits, Amy McLain filed federal paperwork stating that she did not have a job.
In addition, the indictment alleges Amy McLain used a credit card belonging to the First Baptist Church in Wellington to obtain cash and to buy merchandise including makeup, perfume, purses and meals.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Social Security fraud, theft of government funds, making a false statement: Up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
Wire fraud: Up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
The Social Security Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Jerry D. Burns, 55, Wichita, Kan., was charged with drug trafficking in a 15-count indictment.
Charges included possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, unlawful possession of firearms following a felony conviction, unlawful possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. The crimes were alleged to have occurred in 2017 in Sedgwick County, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine: Not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million.
Unlawful possession of a firearm: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking: Not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000.
Possession with intent to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine: Not less than five years and not more than 40 years and a fine up to $5 million.
Possession with intent to distribute marijuana: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $1 million.
The Wichita Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
Julian Lopez, Jr., 39, Wichita, Kan., was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Oct. 19, 2017, in Sedgwick County, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Possession with intent to distribute cocaine: Up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $1 million.
Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
The Wichita Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
Matthew Lee Fleming, 27, Wichita, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction. The crime is alleged to have occurred July 10, 2017, in Wichita, Kan.
If convicted, he faces 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 Matt Treaster is prosecuting.
Joseph Shane Allen, 42, Pierceville, Kan., is charged with drug trafficking in a six-count indictment.
Charges include possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, unlawful possession of ammunition following a felony conviction, possession of materials and equipment used to manufacture methamphetamine and possession of chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Sept. 28, 2017 in Pawnee County, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine: Not less than five years and not more than 40 years and a fine up to $5 million.
Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking: Not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000.
Unlawful possession of ammunition following a felony conviction: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Possession of materials or equipment to produce methamphetamine: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Possession of chemicals used to produce methamphetamine: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.
The Finney County Sheriff’s Office and the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office investigated. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Rodebaugh is prosecuting.
Juan Jose Soto-Urena, 35, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. He was found Oct. 13, 2017, in Sedgwick County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforce Removal Operations investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Defendant had Court-Appointed Attorney While Buying a $76,000 CarRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - A federal judge Tuesday ordered a Wichita man to pay the government back for his court-appointed attorney, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Antoine Beasley was sentenced earlier this month to 63 months in federal prison on gun and drug charges. After his indictment in April 2014, Beasley declared himself indigent and he was assigned a court-appointed attorney.
After sentencing, the court learned that while the case was pending Beasley purchased a $76,715 2015 Audi A7 3.0T Quattro. On his credit application, he said he had a monthly income of $10,000, not counting his wife’s income. Beasley made payments by going to Dillions with cash and buying money orders made out to his lender.
On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge J. Thomas Marten ordered Beasley to pay $34,640 to the federal treasury – the amount Beasley paid on the Audi.
Beall commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Jacobs for their work on the case.
Child Porn Investigation Led from Germany to KansasRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - A Kansas man was sentenced to federal prison Tuesday as a result of a child pornography investigation that began in Germany, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Noah T. Martin, 31, Lawrence, Kan., was sentenced to 97 months in federal prison. He pleaded guilty to two counts of possession and distribution of child pornography.
The investigation began when Baden-Wurttemberg Police compiled a list that included 155 users in the United States who used a peer-to-peer network to download a video of a 5- to 7-year-old girl being sexually abused. Homeland Security Investigations used the information to track follow a trail to Martin’s residence in Lawrence. Investigators found 1,560 images and 202 videos containing child pornography on Martin’s computer.
Beall commended the German police, Homeland Security Investigations and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Flannigan for their work on the case.
Wichita Man Sentenced for Trafficking of 17-Year-Old for SexRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita man was sentenced Monday to 187 months in federal prison for trafficking a 17-year-old girl for sex, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
John H. Dickerson, 35, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty in August to one count of the sex trafficking of a minor and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction.
A criminal complaint filed last year in U.S. District Court in Wichita said the case grew out of a human-trafficking enforcement operation conducted by the FBI and the Wichita Police Department. A Wichita police detective answered an advertisement on an adult services Web site. He arranged to meet a sex worker at a hotel in Wichita and to pay $200 for an hour of sex.
Dickerson dropped off a 17-year-old girl at the detective’s room. The girl and Dickerson were taken into custody. Investigators learned that that Dickerson had been paid several times to take the girl to meet customers.
Beall commended the Wichita Police Department, the FBI, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Kansas Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Filing Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A former resident of Overland Park, Kansas, pleaded guilty today to aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false income tax returns, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Beall for the District of Kansas.
According to documents filed with the court, Alfred Reece, 58, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Kansas City. From approximately 2013 through 2015, Reece prepared federal tax returns for individuals, claiming false business income and losses, medical and dental expense deductions, job-related expenses, charitable donations and other fraudulent items. Reece also concealed himself as the preparer on these fraudulent returns by falsely claiming that they were self-prepared. Reece admitted to causing a tax loss of between $550,000 and $1.5 million.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 17, 2018 before U.S. District Court Judge Julie A. Robinson. Reece faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison on each count, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and U.S. Attorney Beall commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney John T. Mulcahy of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott C. Rask of the District of Kansas, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
Kansas Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Filing Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A former resident of Overland Park, Kansas, pleaded guilty today to aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false income tax returns, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Beall for the District of Kansas.
According to documents filed with the court, Alfred Reece, 58, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Kansas City. From approximately 2013 through 2015, Reece prepared federal tax returns for individuals, claiming false business income and losses, medical and dental expense deductions, job-related expenses, charitable donations and other fraudulent items. Reece also concealed himself as the preparer on these fraudulent returns by falsely claiming that they were self-prepared. Reece admitted to causing a tax loss of between $550,000 and $1.5 million.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 17, 2018 before U.S. District Court Judge Julie A. Robinson. Reece faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison on each count, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and U.S. Attorney Beall commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney John T. Mulcahy of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott C. Rask of the District of Kansas, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
Indictment: Kansas City Man Robbed Overland Park BankRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas City man was indicted Wednesday on federal charges of robbing a bank in Overland Park, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Ryan Michael Cothern, 41, Kansas City, Mo., is charged with an Oct. 3, 2107, robbery at US Bank at 9900 West 87th Street in Overland Park. It is alleged Cothern handed a clerk his cell phone on which he had written a memo saying, “Put the 50s and the 100s in the bag. Do not put the dye pack in the bag. You follow these instructions and no one gets hurt and we can all go home.” Cothern was arrested shortly after the robbery when an Overland Park police officer stopped him in the 8300 block of Melrose Street.
If convicted, Cothern faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Overland Park Police Department and 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.
Owner of Kansas City Area Businesses Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - A Leavenworth woman who owned businesses in the Kansas City area pleaded guilty Tuesday to bank fraud, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Brenda Wood, 49, Leavenworth, Kan., pleaded guilty to two counts of bank fraud. In her plea, she admitted she made false statements to Farmers Bank in Great Bend. She told the bank that her company, Professional Cleaning and Innovative Building Services (PCI), had received a contract to provide cleaning services at an Internal Revenue Service building in Kansas City, Mo. In fact, the company did not receive the contract and did not even make the final round of bids. As a result, the bank extended a $350,000 line of credit. Wood submitted draw requests to the bank, falsely stating that the funds were needed to fulfill the contract.
In another incident, Wood created a check kiting scheme to artificially inflate her bank account balances. She exchanged and cross-deposited more than 473 insufficient fund checks between her accounts at Capital Federal Savings, Intrust Bank and the Credit Union of Leavenworth County.
Sentencing is set for Jan. 17. Both parties have agreed to recommend a sentence of 78 months in federal prison and restitution of at least $4.6 million.
Beall commended the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, the Special Investigator General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, the Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration, the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble for their work on the case.
Man Who Was Arrested with Murder Weapon Sentenced in Federal Firearms CaseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas City, Kan., man who was arrested with a rifle used in a homicide was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in prison on a federal firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Rudolph George, 35, Kansas City, Kan., was found guilty in a jury trial on one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction. During a trial in May 2017, prosecutors presented evidence that George had outstanding warrants for his arrest when investigators tracked him to a room at the Overland Park Place Hotel at 7000 W. 107th in Overland Park, Kan. Working with hotel staff, investigators arranged for nearby rooms to be evacuated. George was asked to leave his room so a pest control service could examine it. He was arrested in a hallway outside his room.
George was found to be in possession of an American Tactical 5.56 mm rifle and a knife. The rifle later was tested and confirmed to be the weapon used in a homicide on Sept. 22, 2015, in Kansas City, Mo.
Beall commended the FBI, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead for their work on the case.
Indictment: Mother Took Children and Fled to RussiaRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Russian-born woman was indicted here today on charges of international parental kidnapping, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Bogdana Alexandrovna Mobley, 37, is charged with one count of international parental kidnapping. Mobley was arrested Sept. 29 in Wichita after spending more than three years in Russia. Investigators believe her children are still in Russia.
According to court records, Mobley emigrated from Russia to the United States in 2003 and later became a naturalized U.S. citizen. In March 2014, her second husband filed for divorce in Sedgwick County District Court. While the case was pending and Mobley was pregnant with her third child, she fled to Russia with her two children – one born in 2004 when she was married for the first time and the other born in 2013 while she was married to her second husband. Her third child was born about two months after she returned to Russia.
In December 2014, a Sedgwick County judge granted full custody of the two younger children to Mobley’s ex-husband and ordered her to return them to him.
While she was in Russia with the children, she allowed her ex-husband to communicate with his children only by cell phone or Skype. In January 2015, he flew to meet her on the border of Poland and Russia but she did not allow him to see the children and she told him to give her money if he wanted to talk to them.
If convicted, she faces up to three years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the kidnapping charge. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Jose Hernandez-Alejos, 39, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being convicted of an aggravated felony and deported. He was found Sept. 27, 2017, in McPherson County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement Removal Operations investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
Roberto Garcia-Zaragosa, 58, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with lawfully re-entering the United States after being convicted of an aggravated felony and deported. He was found Sept. 20, 2017, in Seward County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement Removal Operations investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Junction City Man Sentenced in Kidnapping of Woman Who Was KilledRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Junction City man who took part in a woman’s kidnapping that led to her murder was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Christopher Pugh, 33, Junction, City, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping. In his plea, he admitted participating in the kidnapping of Amanda Clemons, a 24-year-old woman whose body was found in February 2014 in Geary County, Kan.
In his plea, Pugh admitted that on Feb. 7, 2014, he was one of the defendants who met the victim, who was a prostitute, at a hotel in Junction City and kidnapped her. The defendants beat the victim in retribution for comments she had made on social media. During the beating, the defendants demanded the victim pay $300. They took the victim to another hotel room in an unsuccessful attempt to get the money, after which they transported her to a residence on Fort Riley where two of the defendants lived.
While at the residence, the defendants allowed the victim to call her young son and her mother. The victim’s mother realized the victim was in danger and called Junction City Police. When police called the victim’s number to check on her, the defendants listened to the call on speakerphone. At that time, Pugh left the house alone and did not take part in the murder.
Fearing that police were coming to arrest them, defendants Drexel Woody, Larry L. Anderson and Marryssa Middleton took the victim to a bridge in a remote part of Geary County. Once there, Anderson and Middleton resumed the beating and attacked the victim with a knife. The victim broke free and jumped off the bridge, falling 15 feet and breaking her ankle. Anderson and Middleton found the victim in the snow beneath the bridge and resumed the assault during which they cut her throat and killed her.
Co-defendants include:
Larry L. Anderson of Manhattan, Kan., who was sentenced to 28 years.
Marryssa M. Middleton of Fort Riley, Kan., who was sentenced to 28 years.
Drexel A. Woody, 27, of Fort Riley, who was sentenced to 16 years.
Shantrell D. Woody of Fort Riley, Kan., who is set for sentencing Nov. 20.
Beall commended the Junction City Police Department, the Grandview Plaza Police Department, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, the Riley County Police Department, the Fort Riley Criminal Investigation Division, the FBI, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Mattivi, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag and Geary County Attorney Steven Opat for their work on the case.
Addiction Treatment Centers Settle ADA ComplaintRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - A Kansas-based operator of addiction treatment centers has agreed to pay $25,000 to settle allegations it violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said today.
Valley Hope Association of Norton, Kan., which operates sixteen addiction treatment centers in seven states, signed the agreement with the Justice Department. The agreement resolves allegations that Valley Hope offered its residential treatment services on a less than equal basis to individuals with HIV/AIDS.
After an investigation, it was alleged that Valley Hope had a policy or practice that individuals with HIV/AIDS were required to stay in separate rooms during residential treatment unless they revealed their HIV/AIDS status to their potential roommate. Furthermore, Valley Hope had a policy or practice that prevented individuals with HIV/AIDS from engaging in certain work activities around the residential facility.
Under the agreement, Valley Hope is required to adopt measures to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully and equally enjoy the various goods, services, facilities, and accommodations provided at Valley Hope treatment centers. Valley Hope will adopt and implement a formal non-discrimination policy that will be posted in each facility and on its website and provide mandatory annual training on title III of the ADA to Valley Hope’s employees and contractors. Under the settlement, Valley Hope will also pay $20,000.00 to the complainant and a $5,000 civil penalty.
For more information on the ADA and HIV, visit http://www.ada.gov/aids . Those interested in finding out more about these settlements or the obligations of public accommodations under the ADA may call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TDD), or access its ADA website at www.ada.gov . ADA complaints may be filed by email to [email protected]
20-Pound Meth Seizure Leads to Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Federal charges have been filed against three people after investigators seized 20 pounds of methamphetamine from a house in Kansas City, Kan., U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
The following defendants were charged in federal court Thursday with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine:
Sheila M. Best, 53, Basehor, Kan.
Karen Ortega, 40, Kansas City, Kan.
Marlon Gutierrez, 38, Kansas City, Kan.
A search warrant served at a house in the 3000 block of North 34th Street in Kansas City, Kan., turned up 20 pounds of methamphetamine, more than a pound of heroin and more than $23,000 in cash.
If convicted, they face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million. 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.
Wichita Woman Pleads Guilty in Identity Theft CaseRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita woman pleaded guilty Thursday to federal identity theft charges, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Chanel K. Wiseman, 29, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to two counts of identity theft. In her plea, she admitted she was arrested in September 2016 in a stolen car in a parking lot at a Walmart store in Goodard, Kan. In the car, investigators found stolen mail, authentic and fraudulent driver’s licenses, student identification cards, Social Security cards, credit and debit cards and checks.
According to court records, when investigators searched Wiseman’s hotel room they found a laminated menu listing identity theft services including fake IDs, fraudulent vehicle paperwork and forged checks. Beside each item was a detailed “non-negotiable” price ranging from $20 to $1,500. They also found computers, printers and counterfeit documents.
Sentencing is set for Dec. 21. She faces a penalty of not less than two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count. Beall commended the Wichita Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch for their work on the case.
Rapper from Kansas City, Kan.Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas City, Kan., man who styled himself on the internet as rapper C-Los El Gran was sentenced Tuesday to 168 months in federal prison for his role in a $4 million drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Carlos Sierra, 30, Kansas City, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. In his plea, he admitted he was a member of a drug trafficking operation headed by his half-brother and co-defendant, Edwin Pacheco. They distributed methamphetamine in the Kansas City metro area.
Investigators used confidential informants and electronic surveillance to identify Sierra and to monitor his conversations with Pacheco, during which they talked about problems they faced processing drugs for distribution and their plans to increase their profit margins. Sierra was carrying a Ruger .380 handgun when he was arrested in Kansas City, Kan.
Co-defendant Pacheco is awaiting sentencing.
Beall commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Assistant U.S. Attorney Trent Krug for their work on the case.
Miami County Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - A Miami County man was sentenced Monday to six months in federal prison for robbing a bank in Overland Park, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. In addition he will serve two years on supervised release to include six months home confinement.
Paul A Sundquist, 30, Louisburg, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery. In his plea, he admitted that on Sept. 19, 2016, he robbed the Stanley Bank, 7835 W.151st in Overland Park, Kan. Sundquist showed a clerk a note demanding money before receiving the cash and fleeing the bank. A bystander got a partial tag number on Sundquist’s pickup truck. Sundquist was monitoring police radio traffic on his cell phone. When he heard police had his tag number he called 911 and surrendered.
Beall commended the FBI, the Overland Park Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Terra Morehead for their work on the case.
Lawrence Man Sentenced for Trafficking Drugs, GunsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Lawrence man was sentenced Monday to 15 years for trafficking drugs and guns, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Petsamai Phommaseng, 36, Lawrence, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. In his plea, he admitted he worked with co-defendant Damon Douglas Griffin and others to distribute methamphetamine in Douglas, Franklin and Anderson counties. Griffin, who was known by the street name Guido, provided methamphetamine to Phommaseng and other street dealers.
Phommaseng obtained methamphetamine from Griffin on credit and paid Griffin back after he sold the drugs. Phommaseng paid for the drugs in cash or gave Griffin firearms in payment.
Griffin was sentenced to 105 months in federal prison.
Beall commended the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Franklin County Drug Enforcement Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sheri Catania for their work on the case.
Geary County Man Sentenced in Kidnapping, Death of Junction City WomanRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Geary County man was sentenced Monday to 16 years in federal prison for taking part in the kidnapping of a Junction City woman who was killed during the abduction, Acting U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Drexel A. Woody, 27, who lived on Fort Riley at the time of the crime, pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death. The body of Amanda Clemons, 24, of Junction City, was found in February 2014 in Geary County, Kan.
In Woody’s plea, he admitted that on Feb. 7, 2014, he and some of the co-defendants met the victim, who was a prostitute, at a hotel in Junction City and kidnapped her. The defendants beat the victim in retribution for comments she had made on social media. During the beating, the defendants demanded the victim pay $300. They took the victim to another hotel room in an unsuccessful attempt to get the money, after which they transported her to the Woody residence on Fort Riley.
While at the Woody residence, the defendants allowed the victim to call her young son and her mother. The victim’s mother realized the victim was in danger and called Junction City Police. When police called the victim’s number to check on her, and the defendants listened to the call on speakerphone. Fearing arrest, the defendant along with Anderson and Middleton took victim to a bridge in a remote part of Geary County, where Anderson and Middleton resumed the beating and attacked her with a knife. The victim broke free and jumped off the bridge, falling 15 feet and breaking her ankle. Anderson and Middleton found the victim in the snow and resumed the assault during which they cut her throat and killed her.
Co-defendants include:
Larry L. Anderson of Manhattan, Kan., who was sentenced to 336 months.
Marryssa M. Middleton of Fort Riley, Kan., who was sentenced to 336 months.
Shantrell D. Woody of Fort Riley, Kan., who is set for sentencing Nov. 20.
Christopher Pugh of Junction City, Kan., who is set for sentencing Oct. 10.
Beall commended the Junction City Police Department, the Grandview Plaza Police Department, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, the Riley County Police Department, the Fort Riley Criminal Investigation Division, the FBI, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Mattivi, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag and Geary County Attorney Steven Opat for their work on the case.
Topeka Man Sentenced in RobberyRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - A Topeka man who took part in a robbery while wearing a monitoring device was sentenced Monday to 36 months in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Christopher Allen Bush, 26, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting a commercial robbery. In his plea, Bush admitted he picked up co-defendant Marsoleno Devon Ryland after Ryland robbed Casey’s General Store at 600 S.E. Rice Road.
At the time of the robbery, Bush was wearing a monitoring device because he was on post-release supervision in a criminal case in state district court. Data from the GPS device verified that Bush picked up Ryland just south of Casey’s General Store and drove him to the 2300 block S.E. Bellview, where police located the two men shortly after the robbery.
Co-defendant Ryland is set for sentencing Oct. 23.
Beall commended the FBI, the Topeka Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag for their work on the case.
Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Robbery in Osage CityRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Missouri man pleaded guilty Monday to robbing a bank in Osage City, Kan., U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Hunter Lee Prewitt, 28, Mountain Grove, Mo., pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery. He admitted he robbed the Landmark National Bank at 106 South 6th Street in Osage City. Prewitt gave a teller a note saying: “This a robbery. Give me all one hundreds, fifties and twenties.” He left the bank with cash and drove away in a white pickup truck.
Starting with a description of the truck, investigators obtained video surveillance photos and followed Prewitt’s movements including a stop at a gas station in Osage City before the robbery and a pawn shop in Lyndon, Kan. The Missouri Highway Patrol used that information to identify a 2003 Ford F-150 pickup registered to Prewitt. A crime intelligence analyst with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation conducted a search of law enforcement tag readers and he found more information on Prewitt and the truck. Prewitt was arrested outside Springfield, Mo.
Sentencing is set for Dec. 18. Bank robbery carries a penalty of up to 20 years in a federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Beall commended the FBI, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Heart of America Computer Forensics Laboratory and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag for their work on the case.
Wichita Woman Pleads Guilty to Three Commercial RobberiesRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita woman pleaded guilty Friday to robbing three local businesses, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Christina A. Messerschmidt, 26, Wichita, Kan., appeared in federal court in Wichita to enter her plea. She admitted to the following robberies:
- June 14, 2017: Kwik Shop at 2809 E. Douglas in Wichita. She threatened store employees with a knife and took money from the register.
- June 13, 2017: Patricia’s, 6143 W. Kellogg in Wichita. She threatened to strangle an employee and took money from the register.
- Dec. 16, 2016: Intrust Bank at 1544 S. Webb. She gave a teller a note saying, “Give me $1,000 or I will shoot you.” She was arrested after a standoff with police at an apartment near the bank.
Sentencing is set for Nov. 13. Both parties have agreed to recommend a sentence of seven years in federal prison.
Beall commended the FBI, the Wichita Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.
Kansas to Receive Federal Funds to Fight Opioid EpidemicRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Kansas will receive more than $500,000 in federal grants to help fight the opioid crisis, the U.S. Justice Department announced Friday.
The city of Wichita will receive $398,972 from the Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Courts grant program. The grant is aimed at supporting drug courts that hold offenders accountable and reduce victimization by intervening early in the process to prevent crimes. It also supports programs to assist offenders who are veterans.
The Kansas State Board of Pharmacy will receive $178,680 to support the state’s prescription drug monitoring program. The pharmacy board oversees K-TRACS, a system for monitoring prescriptions for controlled substances.
The grants are part of nearly $59 million the Justice Department announced Friday it will spend to strengthen drug court programs and address the opioid epidemic nationwide.
In 2016, nearly 60,000 Americans lost their lives to drug overdoses, an increase from the 52,000 overdose deaths the year before. The majority of these deaths can be attributed to opioids, including illicit fentanyl and its analogues.
“Today, we are facing the deadliest drug crisis in American history,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “These trends are shocking and the numbers tell us a lot– but they aren’t just numbers. They represent moms and dads, brothers and sisters, neighbors and friends.”
Indictment: Colorado Man Robbed Bank in Manhattan, Kan.Read the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Colorado man already serving time for a bank robbery in Arkansas was indicted here Wednesday on charges he robbed a bank in Manhattan, Kan., U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
Kenneth Wayne Fisher, Jr., 41, formerly of Colorado Springs, Colo., is charged with one count of bank robbery. The indictment alleges that on Aug. 26, 2015, Fisher robbed Sunflower State Bank at 2710 Anderson Ave. in Manhattan.
A few months after the Manhattan robbery, Fisher was arrested in California. He was extradited to Arkansas to face charges of robbing a bank in Bentonville, Ark., on Aug. 28, 2015. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced earlier this month to more than eight years in federal prison for the Arkansas robbery.
The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Ryan Andrew Rivera, 21, Lawrence, Kan., is charged in a superseding indictment with three counts of using a child to produce child pornography, one count of distributing child pornography, and one count of committing the crimes while required to register as a sex offender. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in January 2016 in Lawrence, Kan.
If convicted, he faces not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years on each of the first three counts, and not less than five years and not more than 20 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the distribution count, and not less than five years on the charge of committing a crime against a minor while being required to register as a sex offender. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Kenney is prosecuting.
Raphael J. Richmond, 26, Topeka, Kan., was charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction, and one count of unlawful possession of a stolen firearm. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in June and August 2017 in Shawnee County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison on each count and a fine up to $250,000. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.