Eastern District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Detroit Man Sentenced to 240 Months for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in OverdoseRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.— Martinus Shamar Watts, 32, of Detroit, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Karen K. Caldwell, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury.
According to Watts’ plea agreement, he admitted that he personally distributed fentanyl, that he supplied his co-defendants with the drug for distribution, and that he directed his co-defendants in their distribution of fentanyl. Watts further admitted that he distributed fentanyl on March 20, 2019 to an individual who overdosed and nearly died from use of the substance. In June 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Watts’ local address in Lexington. Officers located drugs, two firearms, and more than $67,000 in U.S. currency that Watts admitted was proceeds of his drug trafficking activities.
Watts pleaded guilty in August 2020.
Under federal law, Watts must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, Watts will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisville Field Division; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of the Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Bradbury.
– END –
Laurel County Woman Indicted for COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Corbin, Ky., woman has been indicted for a scheme to commit COVID relief fraud and identity theft.
A federal grand jury in London returned an indictment charging 35-year-old Karenda Vaughn with fraudulently obtaining funds from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which are guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
The indictment alleges that, beginning on April 30, 2020 and through March 23, 2021, Vaughn created a fake business entity, Vaughn Outdoor, and submitted numerous fraudulent applications for EIDL proceeds, making numerous false statements about the business. The indictment also alleges that Vaughn used a stolen identity and personal identifying information to create another fake business entity, Josh’s Nature Cure, and then sought and obtained fraudulent EIDL proceeds.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Kelly K. Moening, Special Agent in Charge, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Great Lakes Field Division, jointly announced the indictment.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Smith.
On the fraud charges, Vaughn faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of no more than $250,000. On the identity theft charge, she faces a mandatory, consecutive two-year sentence. However, any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
Any indictment is an accusation only. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
— END —
Man Indicted on Federal Murder ChargeRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. — A federal grand jury sitting in London, has indicted Patrick Baker, 42, a resident of Frankfort, Ky., on a federal charge of murder, committed during a robbery and kidnapping related to drug trafficking.
The indictment alleges that Baker committed a robbery and kidnapping, during which the death of Donald Mills occurred by use of a firearm and a quantity of pills containing oxycodone were taken. The indictment alleges the offense occurred in May of 2014, in Knox County, Kentucky.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives Louisville Field Office; and Colonel Phillip Burnett, Jr., Commissioner, Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the indictment.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives and the Kentucky State Police. The indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
Baker is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court, at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 1 in London.
Any indictment is an accusation only. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
— END —
Lawrence County Man Convicted of Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. – A Lawrence County, Ky. man was convicted Thursday, by a federal jury sitting in Ashland, of 11 counts of child pornography charges. The counts included five counts of production, four counts of receipt, one count of distribution, and one count of possession of a matter containing visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The jury convicted Dale Allen Fraley, 49, after two hours of deliberations, following a three-day trial.
According to the evidence at trial, Fraley used various online “personas” to induce, persuade, or coerce minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct, for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that conduct. Fraley, acting through the online “personas,” would threaten minor females to engage in various sexual acts and to record that activity, or send the images to him “live” via Skype or other applications. He also persuaded the minors to come to his home, sometimes at the behest of the online “personas,” to get “sexual experience” with Dale Fraley as the teacher. Fraley would sometimes record the sexual activity between himself and the minors at his home, or record the minors masturbating or engaging in the lewd and lascivious exhibition of their genitalia.
Fraley was indicted in October of 2019, with a Superseding Indictment being returned in September of 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV., Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, James R. Brown, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Louisville Division; and Chief Brian Mullins, Eastern Kentucky University Police, jointly announced the jury’s verdict.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, including a Task Force Officer employed by the Eastern Kentucky University Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Marye and Mary Melton.
Fraley will appear for sentencing before U.S. District Judge David Bunning, on October 18, 2021. He faces a maximum of 30 years in prison for each count of production, 20 years for each count of receipt and distribution of child pornography, and ten years for possession of child pornography. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing the sentence.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Ft. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. — Kevin R. Welsch, 48, of Ft. Thomas, Kentucky pleaded guilty today to federal charges of wire fraud and tax evasion.
In his guilty plea, Welsch admitted defrauding clients of the debt collection business he owned and operated, RCC Services, Inc. Specifically, he admitted to collecting debts on behalf of creditors and keeping the money for his own use. He also admitted to collecting more than debtors owed (sometimes making multiple, unauthorized debits from their accounts) and charging his clients for fees/expenses that he never actually incurred. Finally, Welsch admitted evading taxes in the process.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Office and Casey Kilgore, Chief of Police, Ft. Thomas Police Department, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the IRS CI, the FBI, and the Ft. Thomas Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant United States Attorney Elaine K. Leonhard.
Welsch is currently scheduled to appear for sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Danny C. Reeves, in Covington, on September 2, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Welsch faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of sentences.
Richmond Man Convicted of Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Richmond, Kentucky man was convicted on Tuesday, by a federal jury sitting in Covington, of distribution of more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, distribution of heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
After 45 minutes of deliberations, following a 2-day trial, the jury convicted 57-year-old John William Lawson of the offenses.
According to testimony at trial, Lawson was arrested after a traffic stop during which officers located a loaded handgun, drug paraphernalia, and more than $23,000 in United States currency. Subsequent search warrants at Lawson’s residence in Madison County revealed more than one pound of methamphetamine, which was determined to be 100% pure. The search also resulted in the seizure of an additional $57,000 in United States currency, thousands of Xanax pills, and several firearms.
Lawson was indicted in June 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Louisville Field Division; Chief James Ebert, Richmond Police Department, and Sheriff Mike Coyle, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, jointly announced the verdict.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, the Madison County AHIDTA Task Force, the Richmond Police Department, and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Todd Bradbury and David Kiebler.
Lawson will appear for sentencing on September 16, 2021. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum of life imprisonment. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing its sentence.
This case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. t involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, Acting U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Richmond Man Convicted of Methamphetamine Trafficking and Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - A Richmond, Kentucky, man was found guilty today, by a federal jury sitting in Covington, of possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
After less than two hours of deliberation, following a four-day trial, the jury convicted 35-year old Lavone Dixon of both charges.
Dixon was indicted in January 2020. His co-defendant, Tiffany Thompson, is awaiting a separate trial. According to the testimony at trial, on September 17, 2019, Dixon traveled to Dayton, Ohio, to pick up over three ounces of crystal methamphetamine for distribution, and was arrested in Grant County, Kentucky while in route to Richmond with the methamphetamine. Agents executed a search warrant on Dixon’s residence, on September 22, 2019, and located three firearms concealed in the residence. Dixon was a convicted felon at the time of these offenses and was not permitted to legally possess firearms. The testimony also indicated that Dixon had traveled to Dayton for methamphetamine and heroin, multiple times, and distributed those drugs in the Richmond area
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, jointly announced the verdict.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the AHIDTA Richmond Task Force, the AHIDTA Mount Sterling Task Force, Miami Valley Bulk Smuggling Task Force, and the Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke.
Dixon will appear for sentencing on September 7, 2021. He faces up to life in prison. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing a sentence.
Several Central Kentucky Farmers Plead Guilty to Charges Related to Crop Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - Several Central Kentucky men, Roger Wilson, Robert Livingood, John Watkins, and Morgan Wayne Culbertson pleaded guilty in federal court Monday, to charges related to crop insurance fraud.
Roger Wilson, 88, former owner of Clay’s Tobacco Warehouse and current owner of Ag Wood, Inc., both in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit crop insurance fraud before U.S. District Judge Karen K. Caldwell. Wilson admitted that between September 2013 and May 2018, he arranged for farmers to purchase poor quality tobacco to present to tobacco graders, so the farmers could receive poor quality tobacco grades to report to on their federally-backed tobacco insurance (called multi-peril crop insurance or “MPCI”) claims of loss. Wilson further admitted he knew his actions were designed to facilitate the filing of false claims of loss, which in turn caused the federal government to pay out indemnity payments, or to increase the amount of those payments, to farmers who were not entitled to them.
Robert Livingood, 64, a farmer who owns and rents tobacco farmland in Bourbon, Fleming, Harrison, and Nicholas Counties, also pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit crop insurance fraud. Livingood admitted that, in Crop Year 2014, he submitted a false MPCI claim of loss, by submitting fake tobacco sales bills he obtained from Clays Tobacco Warehouse and underreporting the amount of tobacco production he had that year. He further admitted to selling muddy tobacco, which he knew would be used by other farmers to obtain fake grade reports. According to his plea agreement, Livingood also obtained MPCI policies in his son’s name, in Crop Years 2014 and 2015, even though the crop ensured in his son’s name actually belonged to Livingood. As a result of his misrepresentations, Livingood caused a loss to the federal government of approximately $313,652.
John D. Watkins, 49, a farmer who owns and rents tobacco farmland in Bath, Fleming, and Nicholas Counties, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to commit crop insurance fraud and one count of crop insurance fraud. In his plea agreement, Watkins admitted to failing to report his total tobacco production from Crop Years 2011 through 2014, which influenced the federal government to pay out sums of indemnity payments to which he was not entitled. He further admitted to having an agreement with Kevin Watkins, his co-defendant, to handle Kevin Watkins’s MPCI paperwork and to fail to accurately report Kevin Watkins’s tobacco production, likewise influencing the federal government to pay out indemnity payments to which Kevin Watkins was not entitled.
Morgan Wayne Culbertson, 33, a farmer with tobacco farmland in Montgomery, Clark, and Bath Counties, also pleaded guilty today to a conspiracy to commit crop insurance fraud. According to his plea agreement, Culbertson underreported his crop production on his MPCI claims of loss, by, among other things, selling tobacco for cash at Clay’s Tobacco Warehouse and failing to report tobacco he sold in others’ names. He also admitted to obtaining fake grade sheets by paying $0.20 per pound to obtain quality adjustments on the tobacco production he did report. In Crop Years 2015 and 2016, Culbertson also failed to report his total production on his own policies. He also obtained policies and filed claims of loss, including fake sale bills from Clay’s Tobacco Warehouse, on MPCI policies in the names of his brother (2014 and 2015), grandfather (2014 and 2015), and mother (2015 and 2016).
Previously, two other farmers, Jesse Smith and R. Chad Price, pleaded guilty to crop insurance fraud related offenses. On April 29, 2021, Jesse Smith, 56, pleaded guilty to committing crop insurance fraud. On May 5, 2021 Price, 39, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit crop insurance fraud and tax evasion. Smith and Price both admitted to working with others to submit false MPCI claims of loss.
Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier IV; Jason M. Williams, Special Agent in Charge, United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation; James Robert Brown, Jr. Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisville Field Office:, and Sharon P. Clark, Commissioner, Kentucky Department of Insurance jointly announced the guilty pleas.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; Federal Bureau of Investigation; and the Kentucky Department of Insurance. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn Anderson and Erin Roth.
Jesse Smith and R. Chad Price face a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000Jesse Smith, R. Chad Price, Roger Wilson. John D. Watkins are scheduled to be sentenced on August 19, 2021. Wilson faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000, while Watkins faces a maximum of thirty years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000. Robert Livingood and Morgan Culbertson face a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 and are scheduled to be sentenced on August 12, 2021. Any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statutes.
Acting U.s. Attorney Shier Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier, IV recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“Making the commitment to serve your community is the first of many sacrifices that members of law enforcement choose to make when they turn to public service,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shier. “The work that follows is demanding, persistent, and hazardous; but without that service and sacrifice, our communities become less safe and less resilient. National Police Week reminds us to collectively reflect on the sacrifices of members of law enforcement and allows us to show our sincere appreciation for the service they provide to our communities.”
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 highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19. Here in the Eastern District of Kentucky, one officer died in the line of duty, due to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Estill County Man Convicted of Methamphetamine Trafficking and Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - An Estill County man was convicted on Thursday, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington, of four counts of trafficking methamphetamine and a firearm offense.
Following a three day trial before United States District Judge Karen K. Caldwell, the jury convicted 56 year-old George Harrison on three counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The evidence at trial established that Harrison sold methamphetamine to the Kentucky State Police, in a series of controlled purchases. Specifically, Harrison sold over 50 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant, on three separate occasions, in September of 2018. During a search of his premises, at the time of arrest, approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine and over $1,000.00 was found. Harrison was arrested on September 18, 2019 and detained at the Fayette County Detention Center. While incarcerated, Harrison communicated through recorded jail phone calls with his girlfriend about securing drugs, money, and a firearm that law enforcement did not recover during the search of his house. The Kentucky State Police secured another search warrant and recovered a 45 -caliber pistol, $16,546.00 and more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. The jury found that the $16,546.00 was forfeitable to the United States, as drug proceeds.
Harrison was indicted in August of 2019.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Jerry C. Templet Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations; and Colonel Phillip “PJ” Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the jury’s verdict.
The investigation was conducted by DEA, ATF, DHS-HSI, and the Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily K. Greenfield
Harrison will appear for sentencing on August 6, 2021. If the district court finds Harrison’s prior Kentucky conviction for complicity to commit murder conviction is a serious violent felony, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years to life imprisonment. For the firearm offense, he faces up to ten years. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing a sentence.
North Fort Mitchell Family Dentistry Agrees to Resolve Alleged Violations of the Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The federal government has reached an agreement with a northern Kentucky dentistry practice, which will increase access to dental services for patients with disabilities.
The settlement agreement resolves a compliance investigation, under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), into North Fort Mitchell Family Dentistry. The investigation was initiated by a complaint to the U.S. Department of Justice, asserting the dentistry office was not accessible to people who used wheelchairs. The ADA prohibits places of public of accommodation, including the professional offices of health care providers, from discriminating against individuals with disabilities and requires them to remove architectural barriers to access.
As part of the agreement, the practice’s owner has agreed to add accessible parking, install a wheelchair lift, and post signage. Some of the required work under the agreement has already been completed.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, in partnership with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, enforces a variety of federal statutes that prohibit various forms of discrimination, including the ADA, through its Affirmative Civil Enforcement (“ACE”) section. This matter was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Carrie Pond.
For more information on the ADA, visit ADA.gov or call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TTY).
– END –
Danville Man Sentenced to 87 Months for Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.— A Danville, Ky., man, Leonard Riley, 45, was sentenced to 87 months in prison on Friday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, after previously pleading guilty to transporting child pornography using the Internet.
According to Riley’s plea agreement, he admitted that on July 30, 2017, he was in possession of 23 images and two videos of child pornography on his smart phone. These images depicted children under 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Riley further admitted that he knew the images he received, possessed, and transported through his computer involved minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Riley pleaded guilty in January 2021.
Under federal law, Riley must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence, and upon his release from prison will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations; and Colonel Phillip Burnett, Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by DHS-HSI and KSP-Electronic Crime Branch. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Marye.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
– END –
Booneville Pharmacy Agrees to Pay $250,000 to Resolve Alleged Violations of the Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Booneville, Kentucky pharmacy, Public Drug Company, d/b/a Booneville Discount Drugs, has agreed to pay the United States $250,000 to settle civil allegations that it failed to make and maintain complete and accurate records of its controlled substances, in violation of the federal Controlled Substances Act (“CSA”).
Under the CSA, pharmacies authorized to possess controlled substances are required to maintain complete and accurate records of each controlled substance received, dispensed, and disposed. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) has the authority to inspect the records of these pharmacies and verify that their controlled substances records are complete and accurate in compliance with the CSA.
The United States alleged that Booneville Discount Drugs failed to maintain complete and accurate records of its controlled substances inventories from November 25, 2016 to April 25, 2018. In an audit performed by the DEA, Booneville Discount Drugs’ records did not account for observed shortages of oxycodone and methadone in its inventories during this time period. Booneville Discount Drugs also self-disclosed its recordkeeping discrepancies of controlled substances to the DEA.
The Government’s work in this investigation illustrates its commitment to combatting violations of controlled substances laws. Tips from all sources about possible violations of controlled substances laws can be reported to the DEA at www.dea.gov/submit-tip.
The DEA, Diversion Control Division conducted the investigation of alleged violations. Assistant United States Attorney Meghan Stubblebine represented the United States. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
– END –
Louisville Man Sentenced to 300 Months for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky.— Quinn R. Turner, 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison on Friday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after being convicted of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Turner was convicted on September 17, 2020 after a three-day jury trial. Evidence at trial showed that Turner led a conspiracy responsible for distributing multiple kilograms of crystal methamphetamine during 2018. He was arrested with a loaded handgun while attempting to sell a pound of methamphetamine in Warsaw, Kentucky on October 3, 2018. Turner has a prior conviction for armed bank robbery and was released from prison less than a year before committing these crimes.
Turner was indicted in December 2018. He was the final member of the conspiracy to be sentenced. Turner’s co-defendants previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges and were sentenced in October 2020. Ashley Daugherty received 60 months in prison and Laura West received 42 months in prison.
Under federal law, Turner must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence, and upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Keith Martin, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Detroit Field Division; and Director Christopher Conners, Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kyle Winslow and Tony Bracke.
– END –
Bourbon County Man Sentenced to 360 Months for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Paris, Ky., man, Johnathan Scott Mason, 27, was sentenced to 360 months on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for the production of child pornography.
According to his guilty plea agreement, in March 2020, law enforcement officers were made aware of Mason’s activity on the social media application, Kik. On this app, Mason expressed a sexual interest in children and said that he had sexually explicit images of minors, which he had produced. Mason admitted that he knew that the visual depictions were produced and transported using the Internet.
Mason pleaded guilty in January 2021.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Lt. Colonel Phillip Burnett, Acting Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police; jointly announced the sentence.
Under federal law, Mason name must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for life.
The investigation was conducted by Department of Homeland Security-HSI and KSP-Electronic Crimes Branch. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Marye.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
— END —
Versailles Man Sentenced to 240 Months for Armed Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Versailles, Ky., man, David McKinney, 52, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, after previously pleading guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to his plea agreement, McKinney admitted that, from November to December 2019, he distributed more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. On December 10, 2019, during traffic stop, law enforcement found McKinney in possession of methamphetamine and a handgun. The firearm was loaded with a round in the chamber. Law enforcement also located a digital scale in McKinney’s pocket. McKinney admitted that he possessed the handgun for his protection and to further his drug trafficking crimes.
McKinney pleaded guilty in October 2020.
Under federal law, McKinney name must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Office; and Lt. Colonel Phillip Burnett, Acting Commissioner, Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Villalobos.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, Acting U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
– END –
Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Lexington man pled guilty Tuesday, to charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and filing false tax returns.
Ricky L. Meek, 63, pled guilty to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of filing false tax returns.
The information charged that Meek conspired with J.M., the daughter of H.W., to receive and spend funds, that were deposited in a federally insured financial institution, under false pretenses. In his guilty plea agreement, Meek admitted that he and J.M. failed to notify the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System (KTRS) of H.W.’s death, back in 2014. Then, for a period of nearly five years, Meek and J.M. took H.W.’s pension benefits, which were continuing to be deposited in H.W.’s bank account, even though H.W. was only entitled to those benefits for her lifetime. Meek admitted that he and J.M. purported to act as H.W. (or H.W.’s power of attorney) when withdrawing and spending the money. As a result of his actions, Meek admitted to causing KTRS to pay out $256,253.13 in retirement benefits improperly. He also admitted to failing to report those funds on his tax returns.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation; and Lesley C. Allison, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburg Division, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Anderson.
Meek is scheduled to appear on July 15, 2021, for sentencing at 1:00 p.m. He faces up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000,000 on the bank fraud charges and up to three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,00 on the false tax return charges. Any sentence, however, will be set by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable sentencing statutes. Meek has agreed to provide restitution in this case.
Boyle County Man Sentenced to 27 Years for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Perryville, Ky., man, Kenneth Ray Cook, 42, was sentenced on Tuesday to 324 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, following his conviction for distribution of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, on August 28, 2019, Cook admitted to intentionally uploading images of child pornography on the Internet. Additionally, Cook’s distribution and possession of child pornography involved 600 or more images, including eight videos or similar visual depictions. Cook had a prior qualifying conviction, further enhancing his sentence.
Cook pleaded guilty to the charge in October 2020.
Under federal law, Cook must serve 85 percent of his prison sentences. Cook will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for life, following his release.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Lt. Colonel Phillip Burnett, Acting Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police; jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DHS-HSI and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Marye and James Chapman.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Elkhorn City Attorney Indicted for Bank Fraud and Filing a False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. — An Elkhorn City, Ky., man was indicted Thursday, on charges of bank fraud and filing false tax returns.
A federal grand jury sitting in London returned the indictment charging Timothy Belcher, 55, with seven counts of bank fraud and three counts of filing false tax returns.
The indictment alleges that Belcher used his position as an attorney to misappropriate money from a client’s escrow account, over a period of years, and that he failed to report those funds as income on his federal tax returns.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Office; and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation, jointly announced the indictment.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. The indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Mattingly Williams.
A date for Belcher to appear in court has not yet been scheduled. He faces up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000,000 on the bank fraud charges and up to three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,00 on the false tax return charges. However, any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
Any indictment is an accusation only. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Johnson County Man Sentenced to 125 Months for Importing Pounds of Methamphetamine from GeorgiaRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. – A Johnson County man, Sean Tharp, was sentenced to 125 months in federal prison on Thursday, by United States District Judge Robert E Wier, following his conviction for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
Tharp pled guilty to the charge in November 2020.
According to his plea agreement, between April 2020 and September 2020, Tharp conspired with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Tharp admitted that he developed a relationship with a supplier of methamphetamine outside of Kentucky, from whom he obtained pound quantities of methamphetamine on multiple occasions. Tharp admitted to traveling to Georgia to obtain the methamphetamine, which he brought back to the Johnson County area to sell. In his plea agreement, Tharp admitted that the conspiracy involved at least 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Under federal law, Tharp must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon Tharp’s release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; and Doug Saylor, Johnson County Sheriff, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Johnson County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Trimble.
Pulaski County Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Armed Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky.— Danny Butt, 48, of Science Hill, Ky., was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to Butt’s plea agreement, on August 11, 2020, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Butt’s residence and found him in possession of 50 grams of methamphetamine, which he admitted was his and intended to sell. In the same room, law enforcement found digital scales, baggies, syringes, cash, a loaded rifle, and a loaded pistol. Butt admitted to owning the firearms to protect himself, his methamphetamine, and the proceeds.
Butt pleaded guilty in November 2020.
Under federal law, Butt must serve 85 percent of their prison sentence. Upon Butt’s release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for four years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office and Greg Speck, Pulaski County Sheriff , jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Trimble.
This is case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, the U.S. Attorney coordinates PSN efforts, in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s targeted initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
Middlesboro Man Sentenced to 300 Months for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A former Middlesboro firefighter, Robert Christopher England, 36, was sentenced on Tuesday, to 300 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, after previously being convicted of receiving and possessing child pornography, on a Middlesboro Fire Department laptop.
According to the evidence at trial, England received child pornography on three separate occasions and possessed a collection of over 600 images, between April of 2017 and June 23, 2018. England’s fire department laptop was seized, on June 23, 2018, by the Middlesboro Police Department. At the time, England was serving as a Lieutenant within the Middlesboro Fire Department. A forensic review conducted by the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crimes Branch showed evidence of dark web access via Tor Browser and child pornography “playlists” created in ManyCam, a web conferencing program.
The Court found that England possessed images portraying sadistic conduct and children under the age of 12 years. England was also found to have engaged in a pattern of hands-on sexual abuse of a minor and the willful obstruction of justice for deleting his child pornography collection when confronted by law enforcement.
England was convicted in November 2020.
Under federal law, England must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 20 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, James R. Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Louisville Division; and Acting Commissioner Col. Phillip Burnette, Jr., Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crimes Branch. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Lexington Man Sentenced to 83 Months for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky.— Darryl W. Stewart, Jr., 32, of Lexington, was sentenced to 83 months in federal prison on Tuesday, by U.S. District Judge Gregory VanTatenhove, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to Stewart’s plea agreement, he admitted that on September 3, 2019, law enforcement found him in possession of a handgun. Stewart admitted that he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Stewart was previously convicted of Reckless Homicide in Fayette Circuit Court, in December 2015. Stewart pleaded guilty to the current charge in December 2020.
Under federal law, Stewart must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, the U.S. Attorney coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s targeted initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Final Defendant Sentenced to 284 Months in Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Florence man, John P. Darnell, 65, was sentenced on Friday to 248 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to his guilty plea agreement, Darnell conspired with others to distribute 500 grams of more of methamphetamine, between March 1, 2019 and December 11, 2019. Specifically, Darnell admitted that law enforcement executed a search warrant on a residence and located three firearms and four baggies of methamphetamine that belonged to him. Darnell further admitted that he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Darnell pleaded guilty in July 2020.
Darnell’s co-defendants were previously sentenced. Buddy J. Pauly received 72 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Lori A Wilson received 30 months in prison and five years of supervised release.
Under federal law, Darnell and his co-defendants must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Darnell will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, following his release.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Division, jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, the U.S. Attorney coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s targeted initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 174 Months for CarjackingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati man, Sammie Green, 25, was sentenced to 174 months in federal prison on Tuesday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after previously pleading guilty to carjacking and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
According to his plea agreement, Green admitted that, on August 15, 2019, he got into a domestic dispute with his girlfriend, during which a pizza delivery driver arrived. His girlfriend and her children fled from Green and asked the delivery driver to call the police. As the delivery driver called the police, Green fired multiple shots from a handgun. Green then approached the delivery driver, pointed the gun at him, and demanded the keys of his vehicle. When the delivery driver complied, Green fled in the stolen vehicle.
Green pleaded guilty to the charges in September 2020.
Under federal law, Green must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, following his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Michael Helmig, Boone County Sheriff, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the ATF and Boone County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tony Bracke and Kyle M. Winslow.
Monticello Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Possession of Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. — A Monticello, Ky., man, Chandler Burnette, 40, was sentenced today to 84 months, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearm by a convicted felon.
According to Burnette’s plea agreement, on September 17, 2019, law enforcement officers responded to a theft report at Burnette’s residence. There, they found him in possession of 38 grams of methamphetamine and scales. Burnette admitted to possessing the drugs with the intent to distribute it to others. Law enforcement also found Burnette in possession of a .22 caliber handgun. Burnette admitted knowing he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Burnette pleaded guilty in October 2020.
Under federal law, Burnette must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, following his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Tim Catron, Wayne County Sheriff, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and Wayne County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick Rabold.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, the United States Attorney coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s targeted initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian
Florida Woman Sentenced to Six Months for Selling Counterfeit Medical DevicesRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Hollywood, Florida, woman, Janaina Nascimento, 38, was sentenced on Thursday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, to six months in federal prison, after previously being convicted of selling counterfeit Ethicon Surgicel® Original Hemostat (“Surgicel”), an absorbable surgical mesh used to control bleeding, that was ultimately purchased by the University of Kentucky Medical Center.
Nascimento pled guilty to one count of introducing into interstate commerce a “misbranded” medical device, in violation of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. In her plea agreement, Nascimento admitted that in January 2019, she purchased 70 boxes of Surgicel from a distributor in the United Arab Emirates. When she attempted to re-sell the product to a United States purchaser, that buyer cautioned her that the Surgicel was not authorized for sale in the United States, pointing to a warning label on the box that stated “NOT FOR RE-EXPORT TO THE U.S.A.” Instead of investigating potential problems with the Surgicel, Nascimento removed individual packages of the product from their boxes with the warning label, and sold 828 such packages to a company called XS Supply, LLC, which then resold those 828 units to the University of Kentucky Medical Center, in April 2019. After complaints from several surgeons about the product, an investigation determined that the 828 units of Surgicel sold by Nascimento were a non-sterile counterfeit.
Following her term of imprisonment, Nascimento will be on supervised release for a period of one year, during which time she will be prohibited from operating or working for any company engaged in the sale of medical devices. Nascimento also paid restitution of $24,012 to the University of Kentucky Medical Center.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Mark S. McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office; and Phillip Burnett, Jr., Acting Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations and the Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCaffrey.
Cynthiana Man Sentenced to 36 Months for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Cynthiana, Ky., man, Randall Perry, 54, was sentenced on Thursday to 36 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for mail fraud.
Perry pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud in June 2020. According to his plea agreement, Perry was an employee at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) in Georgetown, Ky. Perry admitted that between November 9, 2015 and November 6, 2017, he stole various parts and equipment from the Georgetown plant, then sold some of those stolen parts through eBay and other means, fraudulently representing to online consumers that he was in lawful possession of the equipment he offered for sale. Perry mailed stolen equipment to purchasers and obtained $254,799.30 from this scheme.
TMMK identified 842 stolen parts and valued them at $1,216,147.61. The Court found TMMK’s loss calculation to be appropriate and ordered Mr. Perry to also pay restitution equal to that loss amount.
Under federal law, Perry must serve 85 percent of his prison sentences. Perry will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for one year, following his release.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Lesley C. Allison, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburg Division; and Michael Bosse, Chief of the Georgetown Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by USPIS and Georgetown Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tashena Fannin.
Whitley County Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Williamsburg, Ky., man, Amos Sparkman, 25, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, before U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, to the production of child pornography.
According to his guilty plea agreement, in October 2020, Sparkman started an online relationship with a minor female, using the social media platform Snapchat. Sparkman confessed to a sexual relationship with the minor and possessed a video of the minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct with Sparkman. Sparkman admitted that he used the minor victim to produce visual depictions of the minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct and that the depictions were then transferred using Snapchat.
Sparkman was indicted in January 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
Sparkman is scheduled to be sentenced on July 13, 2021. He faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, in addition to a maximum $250,000 fine. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Clay County Man Sentenced to 196 Months for Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LONDON, KY. - A Manchester man, Richard Scott Smith, 45, was sentenced on Tuesday to 196 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, for one count of distribution and one count of possession of child pornography. Smith was further ordered to pay $31,000 in restitution to his victims.
In his plea agreement, Smith admitted to distributing sexually explicit images of an 8-year-old female via the Skout application. Skout is a social networking application. Judge Boom held that Smith’s conduct involved children as young as 3-years-old and involved more 1,200 images under the United States’ Sentencing Guidelines. Smith has two prior convictions for assault, and a federal conviction for transporting undocumented aliens within the United States.
Smith pled guilty in October of 2020.
Under federal law, Smith must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Smith will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years, following his release.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI London Office. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Crescent Springs Business Reaches Agreement with Government Addressing Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – MD Food, the owner of a Subway franchise in Crescent Springs, Kentucky (“MD Food”), will pay $1,000 to a complainant and modify its policies and practices, to ensure access for individuals with disabilities using a service animal, as part of a civil settlement agreement with the federal government. The agreement resolves a civil investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky into allegations that MD Food excluded an individual using a service animal, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. (“ADA”).
The investigation was prompted by a citizen complaint. The complainant, a veteran, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and uses a service animal to assist with his disability. He attempted to dine-in at the Subway restaurant, but an employee required him to leave, pursuant to its “no dogs” policy. Because of the denial of access, the veteran reported that he was embarrassed, anxious, and suffered emotional distress.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including restaurants, are required to modify their policies, practices, or procedures—such as a no pet policy—to permit the use of a service animal by an individual with a disability. A service dog generally may go wherever the public is allowed, and a public accommodation may not require documentation about the service dog.
“Restaurants, as public accommodations, are required to ensure proper access to their customers with disabilities,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting Untied States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “This includes allowing service dogs, which are a necessary means for many individuals with disabilities. The Department of Justice is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have proper access under the ADA and we are pleased that MD Food has agreed to modify its policies and practices to comply with the Act.”
Under the agreement, MD Food will adopt and implement a service dog policy; provide training on the service dog policy to employees and managers; post the service dog policy at the restaurant; and pay $1,000 in damages to the veteran. MD Food cooperated with the government throughout the investigation.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Pond, in coordination with the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
People interested in finding out more about the ADA or this settlement agreement can call the toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TDD), or access the ADA website at http://www.ada.gov. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
Atlanta Man Sentenced to 270 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – An Atlanta man, Tramone Brandon Horne, 36, was sentenced to 270 months in federal prison on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Robert E. Wier, after previously admitting to engaging in a conspiracy to distribute aggravated amounts of methamphetamine throughout Whitley, Laurel, and Knox Counties.
In his guilty plea agreement, Horne admitted to traveling from Georgia into Whitley County to deliver methamphetamine in pound quantities. The Court found that Horne occupied a management role in the conspiracy, and employed violence and firearms. Horne has several prior felony convictions, including convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, burglary, terroristic threats, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Horne had been released from a prior period of state incarceration less than four months before he joined the methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy.
Horne pled guilty in August of 2020. Under federal law, Horne must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, after his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn S. Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Rusty Hedrick, Chief of the Corbin Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and the Corbin Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, Acting U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Two Doctors Charged in Illegal Opioid Distribution and Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Kentucky returned an indictment Wednesday charging two doctors for their alleged involvement in conspiracies to illegally distribute opioids and commit health care fraud.
According to court documents, Drs. William Lawrence Siefert, 67, of Dayton, Ohio, and Timothy Ehn, 48, of Union, Kentucky, orchestrated their alleged illegal prescribing and health care fraud conspiracies through Northern Kentucky Center for Pain Relief, a pain clinic in Florence, Kentucky. Siefert, a medical doctor, was employed by the clinic, while Ehn, a chiropractor, was the clinic’s owner. Siefert and Ehn allegedly offered drug-seeking patients who should not have received opioids easy access to these dangerous controlled substances, then billed Medicaid for millions of dollars in medically unnecessary urinalysis testing related to these patients.
The indictment alleges that Siefert and Ehn’s alleged illegal opioid prescribing conspiracy was a contributing factor in the opioid overdose deaths of at least six former clinic patients.
Siefert and Ehn are each charged with one count of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Separately, Siefert was charged with three counts of health care fraud and 11 counts of illegal distribution of controlled substances, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, and clonazepam, and Ehn was charged with eight counts of health care fraud.
The announcement was made by Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicholas L. McQuaid of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier IV of the Eastern District of Kentucky; Special Agent in Charge Keith W. Martin of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Detroit Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Derrick Jackson of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Atlanta Region; Special Agent In Charge James “Robert” Brown Jr. of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office; and Executive Director W. Bryan Hubbard of the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) in the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA’s Detroit Field Division, Cincinnati District Office Diversion Group; the FBI’s Louisville Field Office; HHS-OIG’s Louisville Field Office; and the Kentucky MFCU.
Trial Attorney Dermot Lynch and Assistant Chief Kilby Macfadden of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in October 2018, the ARPO Strike Force, which operates in 10 districts, has charged 91 defendants, including 68 licensed medical professionals, and its casework has targeted the alleged illegal distribution of more than 65 million controlled substance pills involving more than 350,000 prescriptions. Since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for approximately $19 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in this case should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Randolph Morris Indicted for Wire Fraud and Federal Tax Violations for Failing to Report Income from Professional Basketball in ChinaRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Randolph Morris was indicted yesterday on federal charges of wire fraud and making false statements on his federal tax returns. As alleged in the indictment, from 2010 to 2017, Morris failed to report more than $13 million dollars that he earned while working as a professional basketball player in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
A federal grand jury sitting in Lexington returned an 11-count indictment against the 35-year-old Morris, who played at the University of Kentucky from 2004 to 2007, before entering the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he played until 2010. The wire fraud counts allege that Morris submitted false income information to the Kentucky Department of Revenue, for the 2015, 2016 and 2017 tax years, when he played for the Beijing Ducks. The alleged failure to report any of his earnings from his Chinese team during those years deprived the state of Kentucky of more than $400,000 in tax revenue. The remaining eight counts allege that Morris failed to report his earnings from the Beijing Ducks on his federal 1040 and 1040A forms, for the years 2010 through 2017.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Cincinnati Field Office, jointly announced the indictment.
A date for Morris to appear in federal court has not yet been scheduled. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 on each wire fraud count. For the counts of making false statements on tax returns, he faces a maximum prison sentence of three years. However, any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
Any indictment is an accusation only. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Nicholasville Compounding Pharmacy and Its Owner Sentenced for Unlawful Distribution of Prescription Drugs Unlawful Distribution of Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A compounding pharmacy based in Nicholasville, and its owner, were sentenced in federal court on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove, for unlawful distribution of compounded prescription drugs. Tailor Made Compounding (TMC) was sentenced to three years probation and forfeited $1,788,906.82. The owner, Jeremy Delk, was sentenced to three years probation, including four months home incarceration, 100 hours of community service, a $20,000 fine, and a prohibition from participating in a business involving the distribution of prescription drugs.
Delk was sentenced on his guilty plea to one count of unlawfully engaging in wholesale distribution of a prescription drug, without licensing TMC as a wholesale distributor with the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. According to his plea agreement, from October 23, 2018 through May 14, 2020, TMC sent 112 vials of Methylcobalamin, a prescription form of vitamin B12, to a licensed physician who operated an anti-aging/wellness clinic in the Greater Los Angeles area. Rather than sending individualized, patient-specific prescriptions to TMC, as is required by law, this physician made bulk orders of Methylcobalamin without issuing prescriptions or providing accurate patient names. Delk, as owner and chief executive officer of TMC, knowingly caused TMC to fill and ship bulk, wholesale distributions of Methylcobalamin to the physician, knowing that TMC had never applied for permission from the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy to act as a wholesale distributor of prescription drugs. When authorities from the FDA and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy inspected TMC, between August 20 and October 24, 2018, Delk took steps to hide records of TMC’s wholesale distributions of Methylcobalamin, as well as other records.
TMC was sentenced on its guilty plea to one count of distributing unapproved new drugs throughout the United States, from October 25, 2018 through April 1, 2020. Specifically, TMC pleaded guilty to unlawful distribution of selective androgen receptor modulators (“SARMS”) and other substances that the FDA had not approved for distribution in the United States. SARMS are synthetic chemicals designed to mimic the effects of testosterone and other anabolic steroids. Products containing SARMS were often marketed and sold for body-building purposes. According to the plea agreement, TMC also unlawfully distributed other unapproved new drugs, including BPC 157, Cerebrolysin, CJC 1295, DSIP, Epitalon, GW 501516, Ipamorelin, LGD-4033, LL-37, Melanotan II, MK 677, PEG-MGF, Selank, and Semax. In connection with the plea, TMC agreed to forfeit $1,788,906.82, representing its 2019 sales for these products.
Tailor Made and Delk pleaded guilty in October 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV., Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Mark S. McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office; and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation jointly announced the sentences.
The investigation was conducted by the FDA and the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate K. Smith.
Mason County Man Sentenced to 135 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - A Maysville, Kentucky man, Harry Elza Gilbert, 60, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison on Tuesday, by U.S. District Chief Judge Danny C. Reeves, for possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, between August and December 2019, Gilbert possessed approximately 125 grams of methamphetamine that was seized by local law enforcement in both Mason and Lewis Counties. Gilbert admitted that intended to distribute the drugs.
Gilbert pled guilty in July 2020.
Under federal law, Gilbert must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, after his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; Johnny W. Bivens, Lewis County Sheriff and Jared Muse, Chief of the Maysville Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maysville Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
Lexington Man Sentenced to 36 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking Multiple VictimsRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON—Prince Bixler, 41, of Lexington, Kentucky, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Wier to 36 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $333,100 in restitution to three sex trafficking victims.
In September 2020, a federal jury convicted Bixler of 15 federal felonies related to his extensive and violent sex and drug trafficking operation that forced young, drug-addicted women to prostitute and sell crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines throughout the Lexington area. Specifically, the jury convicted Bixler of three counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, two counts of tampering with a witness, victim or an informant, one count of operating an unlawful prostitution business enterprise, six counts of distributing controlled substances including crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, and three counts of being a felon in possession with a firearm.
“Prince Bixler cruelly used violence to create a climate of fear to coerce his victims, while at the same time he increased their dependence on him by exploiting and furthering their serious drug addictions,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pam Karlan. “Human trafficking shatters the lives of those it impacts, leaving lasting physical and mental scars. There can be no place in our society for this conduct and I hope that today’s sentence brings some measure of justice to the victims while it also prevents Prince Bixler from harming others in the future.”
“Prince Bixler preyed on vulnerable women, to operate a prostitution enterprise and sell illegal drugs in our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shier. “His conduct caused enduring physical and emotional damage to these women, and further spread the devastation of highly addictive and dangerous drugs. We will continue to do our part in identifying, prosecuting, and punishing those who engage in human trafficking. The despicable conduct in this case justifies those efforts, and certainly warrants the punishment the Court has imposed.”
“Mr. Bixler was simply a predator in our community. This sentencing is a success in the fight against those who exploit the vulnerable and illustrates our dedication to bring these criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge James “Robert” Brown, Jr., FBI Louisville. “We are also grateful to our law enforcement partners, especially the ATF, the Lexington Police Department, Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, and the Eastern District of Kentucky’s U.S. Attorney’s Office, for their unwavering efforts not only in this investigation, but in our continued fight to disrupt and dismantle human trafficking networks throughout the region.”
“Prince Bixler exploited women with physical violence and drugs while peddling illicit, and deadly narcotics throughout the Lexington community,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “Frequently these felons use firearms to further their violent, criminal activities. ATF is committed to investigating and arresting these felons and finding justice for their known and unknown victims.”
Evidence presented at trial, including the testimony of three victims, established that defendant Prince Bixler compelled three victims into prostitution between 2013 and March 2018 by physically assaulting them and others to create a climate of fear and intimidation. He exploited their dependence on crack cocaine or heroin, using it to worsen their addictions and to keep them around him. The defendant also sold crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine throughout the Lexington area to numerous customers. When the Lexington Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in March 2018, they recovered numerous firearms. The defendant, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing these and other firearms.
As the investigation into the defendant’s illegal conduct continued throughout 2018 into 2019, he became aware that multiple potential witnesses were subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury in Lexington. The defendant threatened one witness with physical violence in an attempt to dissuade her from testifying truthfully before the grand jury. The defendant also repeatedly called and harassed another witness on the eve of her scheduled grand jury appearance in an attempt to prevent her from testifying truthfully before the grand jury.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pam Karlan for the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier, IV for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; R. Shawn Marrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence. This case was investigated by the Lexington FBI office, the Lexington ATF office, and the Lexington Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hydee Hawkins for the Eastern District of Kentucky and Special Litigation Counsel Matthew Grady for the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
Two Martin County Men Sentenced for Violating Federal Law Governing Ginseng SalesRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. – Two Lovely, Kentucky men, Sherman Jude, 73, and Johnathon Jude, 40, were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for violations of the Lacey Act, regarding ginseng purchases and required record keeping. Sherman Jude received two years of probation with a $30,000 fine. Johnathan Jude received one-year probation with a $1,500.00 fine.
The harvesting and sale of ginseng is governed by regulations, which include record keeping requirements and a limited harvest season. According to their guilty plea agreements, Sherman Jude was a dealer of wild American ginseng; and his son, Johnathon Jude, worked with him to keep records of the ginseng purchased from diggers and harvesters.
The investigation by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service revealed that over a period of years, the Judes falsified the required Kentucky Ginseng Purchase Forms, for multiple purchases of wild ginseng. This included failing to keep records of all the purchases and purchasing ginseng that was known to have been harvested from another state, without being properly certified before entering Kentucky, in violation of the regulations. Sherman Jude also acknowledged that, as of August 2019, he had purchased 12.5 pounds of ginseng that had been harvested improperly, out of season.
The Judes pleaded guilty in October 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was directed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily K. Greenfield.
Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 36 Months for Possession of a Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati man, Alex Collins, 37, was sentenced on Tuesday to 36 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to his plea agreement, on March 1, 2020, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Collins, who only stopped momentarily before driving off and hitting a car and utility pole. Collins admitted that during that stop, he was in possession of a loaded handgun. Collins further admitted that he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Collins has a previous felony conviction from Ohio in 2014 for felonious assault. Collins pleaded guilty to the current charge in September 2020.
Under federal law, Collins must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, after his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, and Rob Nader, Chief of the Covington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Covington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Harris.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, Acting U.S. Attorney Shier, coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Possession of a Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati man, Keith A. Shaffer, 34, was sentenced on Tuesday to 30 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to his plea agreement, on March 11, 2020, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Shaffer’s vehicle, finding him in possession of a 9mm loaded gun. Shaffer admitted that he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Shaffer was previously convicted of second-degree burglary, in July 2006. Shaffer pled guilty to the current charge in September 2020.
Under federal law, Shaffer must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, after his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Bill Birkenhauer, Chief of the Highland Heights Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the ATF and the Highland Heights Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, Acting U.S. Attorney Shier, coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 188 Months for Distribution of Fentanyl and HeroinRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati man, Thomas Coleman, 48, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison on Tuesday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after previously admitting to distributing fentanyl and heroin.
In his guilty plea agreement, Coleman admitted to selling fentanyl and heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, on several occasions in December 2019, at locations in Covington. Coleman has nine prior convictions for drug trafficking. He was also released from his parole, for a prior prison term, less than eight months before committing the new crimes.
Coleman pled guilty in October 2020.
Under federal law, Coleman must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for eight years, after his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Rob Nader, Chief of the Covington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Covington Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke.
- Lexington Petty Offense Docket Cancelled
Knox County Man Sentenced to 22 Years for Armed Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. — A Corbin, Ky., man, John Helton, was sentenced to 264 months or 22 years in federal prison on Tuesday, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, after previously being convicted of armed methamphetamine trafficking and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The evidence at trial established that, on June 9, 2019, deputies with the Knox and Laurel County Sheriff’s Offices searched the residence that Helton shared with his wife, Anita, seizing over 300 grams of crystal methamphetamine and four firearms, including three that were loaded. Helton then directed his wife to go to his mother’s residence, to get money to bond him out of jail. When law enforcement searched that residence, they found over $8,000 secreted in a closet. A search of a child’s playhouse on the property also revealed over 800 grams of additional crystal methamphetamine, and another firearm. The Kentucky State Police had made a controlled purchase of methamphetamine that was arranged with Helton, but delivered by his wife.
Anita Helton pled guilty to conspiring with Helton to distribute methamphetamine and possessing firearms in furtherance of that offense. Anita Helton was sentenced to 38 months, followed by five years of supervised release.
Under federal law, Helton must serve 85 percent of his sentence. Upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey T. Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Lt. Phillip Burnett, Acting Commissioner, Kentucky State Police; Sheriff Mike Smith, Knox County Sheriff’s Department; and Sheriff John Root, Laurel County Sheriff’s Department, jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, KSP, the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, and the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew H. Trimble.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, the United States Attorney coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
— END —
South Carolina Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Production and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. - A South Carolina man, Jonathan Edward Manigault, 36, was sentenced on Monday to 480 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for one count of production of child pornography and one count of knowingly receiving child pornography.
Manigault admitted that he directed Christina B. Mitchell, of Pike County, to take photographs of a 3-year-old victim engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Manigault provided Mitchell with specific, detailed instructions on what types of explicit photographs to produce and provide him. According to the plea agreement, Mitchell transmitted the photographs to Manigault using the Facebook Messenger application. Thereafter, Manigault had Mitchell agree to produce additional images of an additional underage victim.
Manigault pleaded guilty in September 2020.
Mitchell pleaded guilty, on August 26, 2019, to two counts of producing child pornography. According to her plea agreement, Mitchell produced sexually explicit images of a 3-year-old and an 8-year-old victim. Mitchell was sentenced to 420 months in federal prison, in February 2020.
Under federal law, Manigault and Mitchell must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Manigault will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 15 years, following his release.
“One of the greatest responsibilities of law enforcement is to protect young children from sexual exploitation, abuse, and the damage it causes,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “As this case shows, there are some who prey on astonishingly vulnerable victims. So, we will continue to do our part to ensure that these offenders are identified, prosecuted, and punished. The despicable conduct in this case justifies our efforts, and certainly warrants the punishments the Court has imposed.”
“There is no place in our society for criminals who prey upon our most precious and vulnerable children,” said James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office. “The sentences administered today are a direct reflection of a criminal justice system that will not stand for such contemptible behavior. The FBI and all of our law enforcement partners stand ready to use all of our available resources to protect our youngest citizens.”
Acting United States Attorney Shier; SAC Brown, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Chief Chris Edmonds, Pikeville Police Department, jointly announced the sentences.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Louisville Field Office, FBI Columbia Field Office, and the Pikeville Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
— END —
Bourbon County Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Paris, Ky., man, Johnathan Scott Mason, 27, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, before U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, to the production of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, in March 2020, law enforcement officers became aware of Mason’s activity on the social media application, Kik. On this app, Mason expressed a sexual interest in children and said that he had sexually explicit images of minors that he had produced. Mason admitted that he used a minor victim to produce visual depictions of the minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct and that the depictions were then transported using the Internet.
Mason was indicted in July 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Acting Commissioner Lt. Colonel Phillip Burnett, Kentucky State Police; jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by Department of Homeland Security-HSI and KSP-Electronic Crimes Branch. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Marye.
Mason is scheduled to be sentenced on April 7, 2021. He faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, in addition to a maximum $250,000 fine. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
— END—
Carlton S. Shier, IV to Serve as Acting United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr., has announced that, following his resignation on Sunday, January 24, 2021, First Assistant United States Attorney Carlton S. Shier, IV will serve as the Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky.
Shier has served as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney since 2013. As the First Assistant, he has acted as the U.S. Attorney’s principal deputy and advisor, supporting the U.S. Attorney in managing the operations of the Lexington headquarters, and its two branch offices in Fort Mitchell and London. Shier previously served as the Acting U.S. Attorney from January to November of 2017.
The Eastern District of Kentucky encompasses the 67 easternmost counties in the Commonwealth, has a population of approximately 2.2 million, and includes the cities of Lexington, Covington, Frankfort, Ashland, Pikeville, Somerset, and London. The United States Attorney oversees a staff of approximately 110, including 49 Assistant U.S. Attorneys, and is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes and representing the United States in civil litigation, in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
— END —
Lexington Man Sentenced to 71 Months for Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking and Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, Christopher Lovings, 36, was sentenced to ____ months in federal prison on Thursday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base and possession of firearm by a convicted felon.
According to his plea agreement, on January 28, 2019, law enforcement observed a vehicle matching reports of a stolen vehicle at a gas station on Versailles Road in Lexington. Lovings was identified as the driver. Law enforcement located approximately four grams of crack cocaine and approximately eight grams of fentanyl on Lovings, along with a handgun under the drivers’ seat. Lovings admitted to being in possession of the drugs with intent to distribute and further admitted to being in possession of the firearm as a convicted felon.
Lovings was previously convicted of a felony in 2006 and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Under federal law, Lovings must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, ATF, and Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Robert Duncan Jr., coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
— END —
Florence Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky.- A Florence, Ky., man, Robert Picklesimer, 34, pleaded guilty on Thursday, before U.S. District Judge David Bunning, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to Picklesimer’s plea agreement, on September 17, 2020, law enforcement responded to a report of a possible overdose in a hotel room in Florence. Picklesimer was the sole occupant of the hotel room, and officers located over 18 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a handgun in the room. Picklesimer admitted that he owned the methamphetamine and indicated that he had been distributing it to make money.
Picklesimer was indicted in November 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Tom Grau, Florence Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Florence Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke.
Picklesimer is scheduled to be sentenced on May 20, 2021. He faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
— END —
Missouri Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Missouri man, Gregory Parrish Evans, 58, was sentenced on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, to 120 months in federal prison, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, approximately 15 kilograms of methamphetamine was delivered to Evans, in Laurel County, Ky. Evans admitted to agreeing with a co-conspirator to sell the methamphetamine by fronting quantities to customers. On March 10, 2020 Miles further admitted to taking delivery of $13,000 that he believed was the proceeds from the sale of the fronted methamphetamine.
Evans pleaded guilty to the federal charge in October 2020.
Under federal law, Evans must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisville Field Office, announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by FBI. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Parman.
— END —
Somerset Man Sentenced to 206 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A Somerset, Ky., man, Jimmy Siegfried Grider, 56, was sentenced to 206 months in federal prison on Tuesday, before U.S. District Court Judge Claria Horn Boom, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, between January 2015 and September 2018, Grider admitted to conspiring with others to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and on March 28, 2018, law enforcement seized 187 grams of methamphetamine from his residence. Grider admitted to developing an arrangement with a methamphetamine dealer, through whom he regularly obtained large quantities of methamphetamine, and then sold the methamphetamine in the Pulaski County area.
Grider was previously convicted for manufacturing methamphetamine in Pulaski Circuit Court in March 2005. Grider pleaded guilty to the federal charge in July 2020.
Under federal law, Grider must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and J. Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Chief William Hunt, Somerset Police Department; Chief Wayne Bird, Williamsburg Police Department; and Sheriff Greg Speck, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, Somerset Police Department, Williamsburg Police Department, and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Trimble.
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.
— END —