Eastern District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lexington Woman Sentenced to 12 Months for Making Fake Bomb Threats to 911 Emergency Response CenterRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington woman, Crystal Brotherton, 32, was sentenced on Thursday, to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, after previously admitting to intimidating individuals by making threats involving explosives and the destruction of buildings.
Brotherton admitted to calling Lexington’s 911 system and telling the operator there were bombs at multiple business at an intersection off of New Circle Road. She admitted to demanding the businesses be evacuated in 15 minutes or “everyone will die.” According to her plea agreement, Brotherton made three calls to 911, on June 20 and 21, 2019, all involving similar threats of death and destruction.
Under federal law, Brotherton must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of the Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Moynahan.
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.
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Fort Mitchell Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - Joseph Shockey, 53, of Fort Mitchell, Ky., was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison on Thursday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, after previously pleading guilty, in January 2020, to bank fraud.
In his guilty plea agreement, Shockey admitted that, in 2014, he applied for and obtained a line of credit for $500,000 from Stock Yards Bank and Trust Company. Later that same year, Shockey was sued in Utah and ultimately a default judgment in the amount of $579,063 was entered against him in 2015. Shockey extended the line of credit from Stock Yards but failed to advise the bank, as he had agreed to do, of the judgment. Shockey defaulted on the loan and the bank suffered a loss of $463,000. As part of his plea agreement, Shockey agreed to pay $449,496.07, in restitution.
Under federal law, Shockey must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, jointly announced the sentencing
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Leonhard.
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.
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Former State Employee Sentenced to 30 Months for Mail Fraud, Identity Theft and Theft of FundsRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. –Diana Baker, 53, of Louisville and a former employee of the Kentucky Commission (now Office) for Children with Special Care Needs, was sentenced to 30 months on Thursday, by U.S. District Judge Greg Van Tatenhove, for mail fraud, aggravated identity theft, and four counts of theft from the state agency.
Baker was a 28-year employee of the Commission, which is an agency within the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services that assists families with children with special health care needs in obtaining funding and care. According to the plea agreement, between 2007 and 2018, Baker, who was an Administrative Branch Manager in the Louisville office, manipulated software programs, to generate fraudulent payment vouchers, which purported to reimburse the families of special needs children for out of pocket expenses or pay third party vendors for services to children. These vouchers were sent in the regular course of business to the Kentucky State Treasurer’s Office, which issued checks that were actually used to make payments on Baker’s credit card accounts, to pay doctors and dentists for services to Baker’s family, and, in one instance, to pay a carpenter for work on a dock for lakefront property owned by Baker. The amount of the alleged theft is approximately $45,000.
Under federal law, Baker must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Louisville Field Office, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of the Inspector General. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ken Taylor.
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.
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Fifteen Defendants Plead Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy in International Cyber Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Fifteen defendants have pleaded guilty to-date for their roles in a transnational and multi-million dollar scheme to defraud American victims through online auction fraud.
Four of the guilty pleas took place in the past 24 days before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew A. Stinnett of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky.
Bogdan-Stefan Popescu, 30, of Romania, pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020, to one count of RICO conspiracy. According to plea documents, Popescu operated a car wash in Bucharest, Romania, where he managed coconspirators in the RICO enterprise. From at least December of 2013, Popescu oversaw an operation whereby he knowingly negotiated fraudulently obtained Bitcoin. He did so in many ways. For example, he would sometimes receive cryptocurrency from coconspirators who obtained the funds through online fraud scams, transfer the cryptocurrency to other conspirators such as codefendant Vlad-Călin Nistor. He would then direct that Nistor exchange the cryptocurrency for fiat currency, and deposit the fiat currency into bank accounts held in the names of various employees and family members. According to court documents, in addition to providing money laundering services, Popescu also coordinated the dissemination of tools used to defraud American-based victims, such as the language and photographs for fake advertisements as well as usernames and passwords for IP address anonymizing services. Popescu also assisted members of the RICO conspiracy by connecting them with other members who could provide call center services—that is, who would impersonate eBay customer service representatives over the phone.
Liviu-Sorin Nedelcu, 34, of Romania, pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020, to one count of RICO conspiracy. According to court documents, Nedelcu worked in conjunction with others to post advertisements for goods online. To maintain the appearance of legitimacy, Nedelcu created fictitious entities through which he purported to sell vehicles. Once Nedelcu and his coconspirators convinced victims to purchase falsely advertised goods, they sent the victims invoices for payment that appeared to be from legitimate sellers, such as eBay Motors. Upon receiving payment, Nedelcu and his coconspirators engaged in a sophisticated money laundering scheme to convert the victim payment into Bitcoin.
Vlad-Călin Nistor, 33, of Romania, pleaded guilty on May 19, 2020, to one count of RICO conspiracy. According to plea documents, Nistor was the founder and owner of the Romania-based Bitcoin exchange Coinflux Services SRL. He exchanged cryptocurrency into local fiat currency on behalf of the Romania-based members of the conspiracy, knowing that the Bitcoin represented the proceeds of illegal activity. According to plea documents for example, Nistor exchanged over $1.8 million worth of Bitcoin for co-defendant Bogdan Popescu.
Beniamin-Filip Ologeanu, 30, of Romania, pleaded guilty on May 19, 2020, to one count of RICO conspiracy. According to court documents, Ologeanu worked in conjunction with others in the conspiracy to post advertisements for goods to auction websites, including eBay, and sales websites, including Craigslist. Once Ologeanu or his coconspirators convinced victims to purchase and provide payment for falsely advertised items, Ologeanu reached out to U.S.-based conspirators to convert the victim payment into other forms of payment and transfer part of it to Ologeanu in Bitcoin. Ologeanu also purchased fraud proceeds from other coconspirators, typically in the form of prepaid debit cards, to be laundered by U.S.-based coconspirators.
“Today’s modern cybercriminals rely on increasingly sophisticated techniques to defraud victims, often masquerading as legitimate businesses,” said Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These guilty pleas demonstrate that the United States will hold accountable foreign and domestic criminal enterprises and their enablers, including crooked bitcoin exchanges that swindle the American public.”
“The guilty pleas announced today are a direct result of the extraordinary cooperation and partnership among law enforcement agencies at the local, state, federal, and international levels,” said U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan Jr. for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “These partnerships helped dismantle a sophisticated organized crime group who preyed upon victims across the United States. I commend the exceptional work conducted by our law enforcement partners and trial team members who worked diligently to hold these defendants accountable.”
“Through the use of digital currencies and trans-border organizational strategies, this criminal syndicate believed they were beyond the reach of law enforcement,” said Assistant Director Michael D’Ambrosio, U.S. Secret Service, Office of Investigations. “However, as this successful investigation clearly illustrates, with sustained, international cooperation, we can effectively hold cyber criminals accountable for their actions, no matter where they reside. I commend the hard work and perseverance of all those who joined together in this investigation and prosecution. This includes our partners in Europe, as well as those closer to home.”
“Today’s guilty pleas serve as a reminder that IRS-CI special agents will uncover illegal activity here and abroad, pierce the perceived veil of anonymity provided by cryptocurrencies, and bring those responsible for unlawful acts to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Larsen of the IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York Field Office. “We will continue to push the agency to the forefront of complex cyber investigations and work collaboratively with our law enforcement partners to ensure the United States financial system is protected.”
“These are scam artists who hide behind a wall of technology which allows them to prey upon innocent victims throughout the United States,” said Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer. “The dismantling of this criminal enterprise was made possible because of the incredible level of cooperation between the law enforcement community here in Kentucky.”
According to court documents, the defendants participated in a criminal conspiracy that engaged in a large-scale scheme of online auction fraud. Specifically, Romania-based members of the conspiracy posted false advertisements to popular online auction and sales websites—such as Craigslist and eBay—for high-cost goods (typically vehicles) that did not actually exist. Members of the conspiracy would convince American victims to send money for the advertised goods by crafting persuasive narratives, for example, by impersonating a military member who needed to sell the advertised item before deployment.
According to court documents, members of the conspiracy created fictitious online accounts to post these advertisements and communicate with victims, often using the stolen identities of Americans to do so. They also delivered invoices to the victims bearing trademarks of reputable companies in order to make the transaction appear legitimate. Members of the conspiracy also set up call centers, impersonating customer support, to address questions and alleviate concerns over the advertisements.
Once victims were convinced to send payment, the conspiracy participants engaged in a complicated money laundering scheme wherein domestic associates would accept victim funds, convert these funds to cryptocurrency, and transfer proceeds in the form of cryptocurrency to foreign-based money launderers.
The 15 defendants who have pleaded guilty in this case have yet to be sentenced. Two other defendants in the case are scheduled for trial starting on Sept. 14, 2020, before the Honorable Robert E. Wier of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky. Three others are fugitives.
In addition to pleading guilty in this case, on Jan. 13, 2020, Adrian Mitan pleaded guilty in a related money laundering conspiracy, arising from online schemes, including a credit card phishing and brute-force attack scheme, designed to steal money from Americans. According to court documents, Mitan phished for payment card information of U.S. customers, hacked into the electronic systems of American businesses, and then conducted a brute-force attack on their point-of-sale systems for the purpose of stealing the remaining payment card information. Mitan then directed American money launderers to create clone payment cards with the stolen information, which were used to extract money from the customers’ accounts. These fraudulent proceeds were then returned to Mitan in the form of Bitcoin.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service, Kentucky State Police, Lexington Police Department, IRS Criminal Investigation, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and supported by the Justice Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and the International Organized Crime Intelligence and Operations Center (IOC-2). Assistance was provided by the Romanian National Police (Service for Combating Cybercrime) and the Romanian Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (Agency for Prosecuting Organized Crime). The Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section provided significant support and the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant support in securing and coordinating the arrests and extraditions from Romania of more than a dozen defendants.
This case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Timothy C. Flowers and Senior Counsel Frank H. Lin of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn M. Anderson and Kenneth R. Taylor of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky.
Individuals believing they may be victims of the advanced fee and online auction fraud or brute-force attack schemes described herein are encouraged to visit the following website to obtain more information: https://justice.gov/usao-edky/information-victims-large-cases. Tips to avoid becoming a victim of online auction fraud can be found here on the U.S. Secret Service’s website.
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.
Dayton Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - A Dayton, Ohio man, Robert Amos, 33, pled guilty in federal court on Tuesday, before U.S. District Judge David Bunning, to possession with intention to distribute 50 grams of more of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
In his guilty plea, Amos admitted that, when was stopped by law enforcement, he was in possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of fentanyl for distribution.
Amos was indicted in March 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and J.T. Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by DEA and the FADE Drug Task Force. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker.
Amos is scheduled to be sentenced on September 14, 2020. He faces a minimum of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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CEO and CFO of Lexington Medical Companies Plead Guilty to Defrauding the United StatesRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - Ann Sonderman Giles, 56, and Lu Anne Wallace, 66, both of Lexington, pled guilty on Thursday, before U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, to conspiring to defraud the United States.
According to their plea agreements, from January 2014 through July 2017, Wallace and Giles served as the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively, for multiple healthcare-related companies registered in Kentucky. Giles and Wallace admitted to conspiring to defraud the United States by failing to pay over IRS mandated trust fund taxes for the companies. Additionally, the companies run by Giles and Wallace failed to pay over their required matching portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. In total, Giles and Wallace conspired to defraud the United States out of tax revenue in the amount of approximately $1,595,726.
Giles and Wallace were indicted in June 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Milton Goff III, Senior Advisor Criminal Investigations, U.S. Department of Labor; Rod Owens, Special Agent-in-Charge, SSA Office of the Inspector General, Atlanta Field Division—Nashville; and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation; jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Labor, Social Security Administration, and IRS. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Moynahan.
Giles and Wallace are scheduled to be sentenced on September 21, 2020. They face a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000, or twice the amount of loss. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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Statement from U.S. Attorney Duncan Regarding Community DemonstrationsRead the Press Release
In recent days, many have gathered in cities throughout the Eastern District of Kentucky to express anger, frustration, and grief, and to seek understanding, equity, and justice. Those attending are exercising important rights bestowed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, including the freedom of speech, the right to peaceably assemble, and right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. I support their exercise of these fundamental rights.
We are truly fortunate that our District has not experienced the acute violence witnessed in other areas across the country. Across our District, the majority of those demonstrating have been peaceful and responsible in presenting their message for understanding and change. Significant credit is due to the demonstrators, as well as the police departments in these communities.
As these demonstrations bear witness, there are genuine concerns regarding the influence of racism in society and people are rightly moved to pursue change. It is imperative that we work to build trust in the criminal justice system and ensure justice for all. It is equally important that we engage with community leaders to find constructive solutions to other critical problems. I pledge my commitment to these essential efforts.
The Constitution mandates equal protection under the law. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky will continue to work tirelessly to achieve just that. True Justice simply compels it.
Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington, Ky., man, Cheike Gueye, 35, pled guilty in federal court on Monday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, to two counts of bank robbery.
According to his plea agreement, Gueye admitted that on December 11, 2019, he robbed both the Kentucky Bank and the Blue Grass Federal Savings and Loan, in Paris, Ky. Gueye admitted to entering the banks and passing tellers a note that instructed them to give him all the money in the drawers or he would kill everybody. Gueye also admitted to carrying a toy gun in the waistband of his pants and taking measures to make it visible to bank personnel. In total, Gueye took $7,881.01 from the two banks.
Gueye was indicted in February 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, Louisville Field Division; J. “Butch” Best, Chief of the Paris Police Department; Michael Bosse, Chief of the Georgetown Police Department; and Tony Asbury, Bourbon County Sheriff, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Paris Police Department, Georgetown Police Department, and the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Greenfield.
Gueye is scheduled to be sentenced on October 2, 2020. He faces up to 20 years in prison for each count, and a maximum fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 100 Months for Series of Commercial RobberiesRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington man, Jackie B. Love, 55, was sentenced in federal court on Monday, to 100 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for a series of five commercial robberies.
In pleading guilty, Love admitted that he robbed five different businesses around Fayette County, on different occasions, from April 19-25, 2019. According to his plea agreement, Love entered the business establishments, demanded money from the cash registers and brandished a firearm in at least three of the robberies. Love admitted to taking $1,255, collectively, from the robberies. The Lexington Police Department arrested Love on April 26, 2019. He pleaded guilty in December 2019.
Under federal law, Love must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge for ATF, Louisville Field Office; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by 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 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.
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.
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West Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. - A Williamson, W. Va. man, Curtis Hight, 38, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Edward Atkins, to distributing heroin and crack cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Hight admitted that on October 16, 2019, in Pike County, he sold heroin and crack cocaine to a confidential witness from his residence. According to his plea agreement, during the controlled purchase, a handgun was within arm’s reach of Hight when he made the sale. Officers seized 13 firearms, ammunition, a bulletproof vest, one gram of heroin, 2.5 grams of crack cocaine, $15,775 in cash, and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking from his residence.
Hight was indicted in November 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Office; and Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Parman and Nick Rabold.
Hight faces up to 20 years in prison for the heroin trafficking charge, and not less than five years for the firearms charge, which must run consecutively. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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 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.
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Pulaski County Man Sentenced to 292 Months for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Nancy, Kentucky man, Rex Doane, 35, was sentenced on Friday to 292 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for production of child pornography.
In his guilty plea agreement, Doane previously admitted that, on May 31, 2019, he engaged in an online conversation with a 15-year-old minor female, using Facebook Messenger. He also admitted to requesting explicit images from the minor victim. After she transmitted a sexually explicit photograph to him, he continued to send the victim sexually-explicit messages.
Doane pled guilty in December 2019.
Under federal law, Doane must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for life.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by 11HSI and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna Reed.
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.
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.
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Final Defendant in Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Mt. Vernon, Kentucky man, Brice Hubbard, 47, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday, before Magistrate Judge Hanly A. Ingram, to conspiring with others to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture.
Hubbard admitted that, from February 2019 to May 2019, he conspired with Dallas Clifford, Dustin Hurley, and Jordan Moore to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Hubbard admitted to supplying pound level quantities of methamphetamine to co-conspirators, who would then sell the methamphetamine to middlemen and end-users. Hubbard also admitted to arranging the sale of a pound of methamphetamine in Berea, Ky.
Clifford and Hurley pleaded guilty in February 2020, and are scheduled to be sentenced on July 23, 2020 and June 12, 2020, respectively. Moore pleaded guilty in May 2020 and is scheduled to be sentenced on September 17, 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna Reed.
Hubbard is scheduled to be sentenced on a date yet to be determined by the court. He faces up to life in prison. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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.
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Two from Lexington Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. Chris Michael Moberly, 33, and Caitlin Sue Maggard, 31, both from Lexington, pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday, before U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, for their roles in conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
According to their plea agreements, between September 2019 and October 2019, Moberly and Maggard conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. They both admitted that, on multiple occasions, they travelled to Scott County, Tennessee, for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine to other distributors in Tennessee and Kentucky, including McCreary County. Moberly admitted to enlisting other individuals to assist with transportation to make methamphetamine deliveries. In October 2019, law enforcement disrupted a drug transaction, seizing 50 grams of methamphetamine from Moberly and Maggard.
Moberly and Maggard were indicted in January 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; and Sheriff Ronnie Phillips, Scott County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Department, jointly announced the guilty pleas.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Scott County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Trimble.
Moberly is scheduled to be sentenced on October 6. He faces a minimum of ten years in prison. Maggard is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9. She faces a minimum of five years in prison. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - An Ohio man, Isaac Benson, 44, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday, to 120 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after being convicted of possession with intention to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to Benson’s guilty plea agreement, in June 2019, he admitted to bringing 100 grams of methamphetamine, from Dayton, Ohio, to Newport, Ky., to sell to a confidential informant. Benson’s vehicle was stopped by law enforcement, who found the methamphetamine and $3,624 in cash.
Benson pleaded guilty in November 2019.
Under federal law, Benson must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; and Christopher Conners, Director of the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the DEA and the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
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.
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London Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky.- A London, Ky., man, Ronnie Bowling, 56, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday to 180 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, after previously pleading guilty to possession with intention to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to Bowling’s plea agreement, between February 20, 2019 and February 22, 2019, Bowling engaged in multiple conversations with a distributor, in which they arranged for Bowling to obtain two pounds of methamphetamine. Bowling admitted meeting the distributor at a prearranged meeting location with $15,476.00 in cash to purchase more than 500 grams of methamphetamine that he intended to distribute in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
Bowling pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Bowling must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and 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; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; and Sheriff John Root, Laurel County Sheriff’s Department jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the DEA and Laurel County Sheriff’s Department. 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.
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Former Harrison County Constable Convicted of Using a Minor to Produce Sexually Explicit Images and VideosRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.- A Cynthiana, Kentucky, man was convicted on Tuesday, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington for using a minor to produce sexually-explicit images and videos.
After one hour of deliberation, following a day and half trial, the jury convicted 37-year-old William Michael Fields Jr., of two counts of employing, using, persuading, enticing, or coercing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of making a visual depiction of that conduct.
According to testimony at trial, Fields used a 17-year-old minor to produce sexually explicit images in the back of an ambulance in Bourbon County, on March 17, 2019. The evidence also revealed that the Defendant used the same minor to produce five videos and two images of sexually explicit conduct at the Emergency Medical Training Facility in Bourbon County, on March 23, 2019.
Fields, a former Harrison County Constable and Paris Fire Department firefighter, was indicted in October 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jerry C Templet Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; Daniel J. Cameron, Kentucky Attorney General, and Chief E. Douglas Robinson, Cynthiana Police Department; and jointly announced the conviction.
The investigation was conducted by ICE and the Cynthiana Police Department with assistance from the Kentucky OAG Cyber Crimes Branch. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Roth and Mary Melton.
Fields will appear for sentencing on September 4. He faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of 60 years in prison. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing a 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.
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Department of Justice Awards Nearly $400 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. The awards announced today are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
“This critical funding provides several local law enforcement agencies in the Eastern District of Kentucky with an opportunity to hire more officers to protect and serve their communities. That allows police departments and sheriff’s offices across Eastern Kentucky to expand existing law enforcement and public safety efforts, something that benefits us all,” said Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky.
The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. 43 percent of the awards announced today will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The complete list of awards can be found here. To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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.
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Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - A Cincinnati man, Frank Traylor, 43, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday, to 90 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after being convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and felon in possession of a firearm by convicted felon.
According to Traylor’s guilty plea agreement, he admitted that in July 2019 in Kenton County, he sold crack cocaine on two occasions to confidential informants. During this time and in furtherance of his drug trafficking, he used Deziah Dye, 22, his co-defendant, to make a straw purchase of a Glock pistol. Traylor admitted that upon search of his residence, law enforcement officers found the Glock, 3.4 grams of crack cocaine, baggies, a digital scale, and razor blades. Traylor further admitted that he possessed the firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking and that he had previously been convicted of a felony, prohibiting him from possessing a firearm.
Traylor pleaded guilty in November 2019. Dye also pleaded guilty in November 2019 and has not yet been sentenced.
Under federal law, Traylor must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the ATF. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Harris.
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 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.
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.
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Owsley County Man Sentenced to 240 Months for Armed Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Booneville, Kentucky, man, James Everett Smith, 52, was sentenced in federal court on Monday, to 240 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for his convictions for to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to his guilty plea agreement, Smith admitted that on September 23, 2018, in Owsley County, law enforcement responded to a shots-fired complaint. After searching Smith’s residence, they discovered six firearms, various ammunition, over 685 grams of methamphetamine, $1,170 in cash, digital scales, and other controlled substances. The firearms and methamphetamine were located next to each other. Smith further admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from owning a firearm.
Smith pleaded guilty in February 2020.
Under federal law, Smith must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and 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; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Filed Division; and Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the ATF and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Parman.
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 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.
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.
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Former Postal Service Employee Sentenced for Embezzling Postal FundsRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. - A former United States Postal Service (USPS) employee from Eminence, Kentucky, Christina Victoria Gregory, 33, was sentenced in federal court on Monday, to three years of probation, by U.S. District Judge Gregory VanTatenhove, after her conviction for embezzling postal funds.
According to her guilty plea agreement, Gregory admitted that, from April through May of 2019, she was employed as a Postmaster Relief; and during that time, she knowingly embezzled funds from her USPS cash and stamp drawer and unlawfully converted USPS money order funds to pay for her own personal expenses. She intentionally converted and used $2,851.64 of USPS funds.
Gregory pleaded guilty in January 2020.
In addition to three years of probation, Gregory was also ordered to pay $2,710.03 in restitution.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and pecial Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely, U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by USPS-OIG. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tashena Fannin.
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.
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Mexican National Convicted of Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Mexican National residing in Lexington was convicted today, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington, of two counts of conspiring to distribute cocaine and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
After three hours of deliberations, following a three day-trial, the jury convicted 36-year-old Daniel Segura-Corro of conspiring to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and conspiring to commit money laundering.
According to testimony at trial, in early 2015, Segura-Corro engaged in an agreement with other individuals from Mexico to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine in the Lexington area. In August of 2015, several search warrants were executed by the Lexington Police Department, recovering approximately $20,000 in cash and large quantities of cocaine, from his residence.
The evidence at trial established that Segura-Corro and other co-conspirators fled to Mexico, after the Lexington Police Department seized this cocaine. In mid-2018, the investigation led to several additional search warrants, where additional kilograms of cocaine were recovered. In July 2019, a search warrant was executed at Segura-Corro’s apartment, resulting in the seizure of more than $99,000 in drug proceeds. In the course of the investigation, $188,000 in drug proceeds and seven kilograms of cocaine were seized. Segura-Corro was sending thousands of dollars of drug proceeds, by wire transfer, to his hometown of Vera Cruz, Mexico. Segura-Cora was ordered to forfeit the $99,000 in drug proceeds.
Segura-Coro was indicted in February of 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the conviction.
The investigation was conducted by FBI and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger W. West.
Segura-Coro will appear for sentencing on September 4, 2020. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years, up to a maximum of life in prison. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal statutes before imposing a sentence.
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Lawrenceburg Man Sentenced to 360 Months for Receiving, Distributing, and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. - A Lawrenceburg, Kentucky man, William Richard Smith, was sentenced in federal court Thursday, to 360 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove, after previously being convicted at trial of receiving, distributing, and possessing child pornography.
According to testimony at trial, Smith distributed twenty-five videos of child pornography to an investigator with the Kentucky Office of Attorney General (OAG), Cyber Crimes Branch, who was performing an undercover investigation using an online peer-to-peer network. After identifying Smith as the individual who distributed the images, a search warrant was executed on Smith’s residence, during which several electronic devices were seized. Forensic examinations of those devices revealed that, in addition to distributing child pornography, Smith also possessed 1,622 sexually explicit visual depictions of minors and had been receiving those visual depictions using a peer-to-peer network since May 2016. Smith was indicted in February 2019.
In November 2019, Smith stood trial in federal court. After deliberating for an hour, following a two-day trial, the jury convicted him of seven counts of receipt, one count of distribution, and one count of possession of visual depictions involving minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Under federal law, Smith must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for 20 years.
“The receipt, possession, and distribution of child pornography is especially damaging, because it continues to traumatize victims long after the initial exploitation,” said United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr. “The defendant’s conduct was abhorrent and undoubtedly deserves the substantial penalties imposed by the Court. I commend the efforts of the investigators from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and agents from Homeland Security Investigations, whose work helped hold this defendant accountable for his criminal actions.”
United States Attorney Duncan; Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Daniel Cameron, Kentucky Attorney General, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Kentucky OAG Cyber Crimes Branch and HSI. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Marye and Mary Melton.
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Final Defendant Sentenced in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Somerset, Kentucky, woman, Kathie Huff, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday, to 68 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, after previously pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Huff was the final defendant to be sentenced in this case.
In her plea agreement, Huff admitted that between September 2017 and March 2019, she conspired with others to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in Pulaski, Laurel Wayne, McCreary, and Anderson counties. According to Huff’s plea agreement, she developed an arrangement with a methamphetamine dealer in Louisville, through whom she regularly obtained large quantities of methamphetamine and then returned to Pulaski County to sell it. According to court documents, Huff’s source of methamphetamine supply was David Ameral. Ameral also supplied other members of the conspiracy, including Robert Jerome “Cotty” Beach, who Huff introduced to Ameral. Additionally, as part of the conspiracy, Ameral also supplied methamphetamine to Ignacio Brasfield.
Huff pled guilty in October 2019. Huff’s co-conspirators have received the following sentences: Ameral received 137 months and five years supervised release; Brasfield received 151 months and eight years of supervised release; and Beach received 157 months and five years of supervised release.
Under federal law, Huff and her co-conspirators must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Upon her release, Huff’s will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for four years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police; Chief Bryan Taylor, Lawrenceburg Police Department; Chief William Hunt, Somerset Police Department; and Sheriff Greg Speck, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, KSP, Louisville Metro Police Department, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, the Lake Cumberland Area Drug Task Force, Somerset Police Department, and Lawrenceburg Police Department
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Frankfort Woman Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering and Filing False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. - A Frankfort woman, Lesley Wade, pled guilty in federal court on Tuesday, before U.S. District Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove, to money laundering and filing a materially false tax return.
Wade was a long time employee of the Franklin County Board of Education (FCBOE), most recently serving as the FCBOE’s Financial Director. In Wade’s guilty plea agreement, she admitted that, starting in February 2011 and continuing through about June 25, 2019, she wrote unauthorized checks of FCBOE money to herself, then falsified the necessary FCBOE records and invoices to cover up her crimes.
Wade also served as Treasurer of Leestown Gospel Church in Frankfort, where she essentially had plenary control over its financial management, with little oversight or internal controls. Wade also admitted to periodically using her control over the Church’s finances to launder money she had stolen from the FCBOE, using the Church’s account before writing checks to herself, attempting to avoid detection and making the checks appear legitimate.
Her theft of funds, which took place over a term of years, resulted in the FCBOE losing a total of $1,624,593. Further hiding her theft of funds, Wade also admitted that she willfully filed false individual income tax returns, for the years 2011-2018, by intentionally failing to report the income from her fraudulent scheme. The total amount of tax loss is $315,677.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for the Louisville Division of FBI; and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation; jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and IRS. The United States was represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Chapman.
Wade is scheduled to be sentenced on September 17, 2020. For the money laundering charge, she faces up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $500,000. For the tax charge, she faces up to three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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Fort Campbell Soldier Sentenced to 192 Months for Attempted Online Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. - A Fort Campbell soldier, Daniel J. Zulawski, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday, to 192 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove, following his conviction for using the internet to attempt to persuade, induce, or entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.
According to testimony at trial, Zulawski traveled from Lexington to Frankfort after communicating with an undercover officer on the Kik application. During this communication, they discussed his engaging in sexual relations with the undercover officer and her fictitious 11 and 13 year-old children. Evidence revealed that Zulawski initially responded to a Craigslist ad, posted by the undercover officer, which indicated she was a mother interested in incest.
Zulawski was indicted in May 2018. The criminal conduct occurred in January 2018. He traveled from Lexington, where he was staying for a week of training for the U.S. Army, to Frankfort on January 17, 2018, when he was arrested. He was convicted during a three-day trial in November of 2019.
Under federal law, Zulawski must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for 20 years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Ralph A. Gerdes, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Louisville Field Office of the United States Secret Service; and Daniel Cameron, Kentucky Attorney General, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command at Ft. Campbell, and the Kentucky Office of Attorney General’s Cyber Crimes Branch. The United States represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Marye and Will Moynahan.
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Covington Man Sentenced to 132 Months for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - A Covington man, Dennis Duane Free, 32, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday, to 132 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after previously admitting to conspiring with others to distribute crack cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
In his plea agreement, Free admitted that he conspired with another individual, Robert Lee Copeland, to distribute crack cocaine between October 1, 2018 and April 2, 2019. On three occasions, Free sold crack cocaine to law enforcement personnel. On April 2, 2019, following his arrest, law enforcement officers seized additional crack cocaine, three firearms, and cash from his residence. In total, 14.2 grams of crack cocaine was seized. Free further admitted that he possessed the firearms found in his residence for protection in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.
Free has three prior felony convictions, including convictions for felony possession of cocaine and being a convicted felon in possession of firearms.
Under federal law, Free 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, and James Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the FBI Safe Street’s Task Force. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
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 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.
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.
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Richmond Man Sentenced to 200 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and CocaineRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.- A Richmond, Ky., man, Richard Duerson, was sentenced in federal court on Friday to 200 months in prison, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, after previously being convicted of conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
According to the evidence at trial, on March 2, 2019, officers with the Richmond Police Department obtained and executed a search warrant on Duerson’s apartment in Richmond. During the search, in Duerson’s bedroom, officers located quantities of cocaine and over 50 grams of methamphetamine, including 661 pills containing methamphetamine, as well as approximately $10,000 in cash wrapped in a sock in the bedroom closet.
After Duerson’s arrest, officers investigated several recorded phone calls he made to Jennifer McFarland, his co-defendant, from the Madison County Detention Center, discussing the removal of various items from his apartment. On March 8, 2019, officers obtained a second search warrant, for McFarland’s Richmond residence. During this search, officers located approximately 303 grams of methamphetamine, 679 grams of cocaine, several firearms, and multiple items used for mixing and preparing narcotics for sale.
McFarland was sentenced in March 2020 and received 151 months in prison.
Under federal law, Duerson must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and 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; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; Sheriff Mike Coyle, Madison County Sheriff’s Department; and James Ebert, Chief of Police, Richmond Police Department, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was investigated by the DEA, Madison County Sheriff’s Department, Richmond Police Department, and the Madison County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Francisco Villalobos II.
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.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 21 Months for Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.- A Lexington man, Damien O. Porter, 21, was sentenced in federal court on Friday to 21 months in prison, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
On May 12, 2019, officers with the Lexington Police Department responded to a theft call at a local business. While investigating, officers made contact with Damien Porter and located a loaded .9mm handgun Porter attempted to conceal. During his guilty plea, Porter admitted he had previously been convicted of a felony and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Under federal law, Porter must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., 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 made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the ATF and Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia T. 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 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.
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.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Dejon Jasper, 27, of Lexington, was sentenced today, to 120 months in federal prison, by United States District Judge Danny C. Reeves, for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
In November 2018, officers with the Lexington Police Department, initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Jasper. During the stop, Jasper was in possession of a stolen Smith and Wesson .40 caliber pistol, 28 grams of fentanyl, and 4 grams of cocaine. During his plea, Jasper admitted to possessing the narcotics for distribution and possessing the firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
Under federal law, Jasper must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for five years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; R. Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of the Lexington Police Department, jointly made the announcement.
The ATF and the Lexington Police Department conducted the investigation. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Cynthia T. Rieker.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The PSN program was reinvigorated as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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.
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Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Escaping Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington man, Billy J. Earls, 35, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday, before U.S. District Judge Karen K. Caldwell, to escaping federal custody.
In his guilty plea agreement, Earls admitted that he absconded from a residential confinement center, where he had been sentenced to serve 18 months for a supervised release violation. Earls was confined to Dismas Charities, a residential center located in Fayette County, to serve the remainder of his federal sentence. On February 11, 2020, the U.S. Marshals Service was notified that Earls had left the center, without permission. He was found, three days later, by law enforcement in Campbell County, Kentucky.
Earls was indicted in March 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Norman E. Arflack, U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Kentucky, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily K. Greenfield.
Earls is scheduled to be sentenced on July 21, 2020. He faces up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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.
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Frankfort Man Indicted for Assaulting and Threatening to Kill FBI AgentsRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.- A Frankfort, Ky., man was indicted on Thursday for assaulting and threatening to kill special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
A federal grand jury in Lexington returned an indictment charging 29 year-old Phillip E. Morris with one count of knowingly and intentionally assaulting, impeding or resisting FBI special agents, in the performance of their official duties. The indictment also alleges that Morris knowingly and intentionally threatened to murder FBI special agents, with the intent to impede, intimidate, or interfere with them while they were engaged in the performance of their official duties.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Louisville Field Division, jointly announced the indictment.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI. The indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger West.
A date for Morris’s to appear in court has not yet been scheduled. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000. 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.
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Somerset Man Sentenced to 128 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky.- A Somerset, Kentucky, man, Tommy Vaughn, 42, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday to 128 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for conspiring to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine and heroin.
According to Vaughn’s plea agreement, he admitted that beginning in October 2018 through February 2019, Vaughn conspired to others to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine and heroin that he obtained from a source of supply in Richmond, Kentucky. Vaughn was previously convicted of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance- First Degree in Kentucky state court in 2006. .
Under federal law, Vaughn must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 8 years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Office; and Sheriff Greg Speck, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the FBI and Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna Reed.
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.
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Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington man, Lamar Van Williams, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday, to trafficking fentanyl, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew A. Stinnett.
Williams admitted that on July 23, 2019, he was in possession of a digital scale and 23 grams of fentanyl, items he tried to discard while fleeing from the Lexington Police.
Williams was indicted in December 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Kiebler.
Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on September 8, 2020. He faces up to 30 years in prison for the drug trafficking charge. 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 Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.), a focused enforcement effort that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas.
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.
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LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Middlesboro, Kentucky man, Robert Billy Taylor, 54, was sentenced in federal court on Monday, to three years of probation and a $75,000 fine, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for making and submitting false records regarding ginseng sales, in violation of the Lacey Act. Taylor was also prohibited from engaging in ginseng dealing as an agent or dealer in any state during the term of his probation.
According to his plea agreement, Robert Billy Taylor was the owner and operator of Taylor’s Roots and Herbs and Taylor’s Fresh Ginseng, in Middlesboro, Kentucky. Taylor was a dealer of wild American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and was licensed in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. The harvesting and sale of ginseng is governed by both federal and state regulations. As a dealer, he was required to maintain certain purchase and sales records.
The investigation by the United States Department of Fish and Wildlife revealed that over a period of years, Taylor had falsified the required Kentucky Ginseng Purchase Forms for multiple purchases of wild ginseng, including failing to include the correct weight of purchases, not keeping records of all his purchases, and purchasing ginseng that he knew was harvested from another state, but not properly certified before entering Kentucky. Taylor also acknowledged that he had stored 54 pounds of dry ginseng, despite telling law enforcement that he had not stored any, and possessing ginseng that had been harvested improperly, out of season.
Taylor’s son, Billy Taylor, was also sentenced on Monday for violations of the Lacey Act. He received one year of probation and community service.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky made the announcement.
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.
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.
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Mexican National Sentenced to 24 Months for Unlawful Re-Entry into United StatesRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Mexican National, who was residing in Jessamine County, Ky., Amancio Juarez Altunar, 39, was sentenced on Friday to 24 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Danny C. Reeves, for unlawful re-entry into the United States, after a previous deportation for an aggravated felony.
Juarez previously pleaded guilty to one count of illegal re-entry into the U.S., after deportation for an aggravated felony offense of a residential burglary conviction from Amarillo, Texas, in 2008. In January 2010, Juarez was released to ICE for deportation to Mexico. Juarez was located in Jessamine County in October 2019, after he was arrested for DUI in a single-vehicle injury collision. During his interview with ICE agents, he admitted that he had returned to the U.S. in 2015 without any legal authority to do so.
In addition to his prior deportation in 2010, Juarez had been voluntarily removed from the U.S. on at least eight separate occasions.
Under federal law, Juarez must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon release, he will be deported from the United States.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Jerry C Templet Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by ICE. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Bradbury.
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.
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California Man Convicted of Attempted Online Enticement of a Minor to Engage in SexRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A California man, Michael John Davidson, 31, was convicted today by a federal jury sitting in Frankfort of attempted online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. The jury reached its verdict after approximately one hour of deliberations following a day and a half trial.
According to testimony at trial, on February 20, 2019, Davidson contacted an individual who self-identified as a 15-year-old female living in Franklin County, Kentucky, using the KiK messenger application over the Internet, on his cellular telephone. The person Davidson contacted was, in reality, an adult male investigator with the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General’s Cyber Crimes Branch (“the UC”). From February 20-22, 2019, a conversation between Davidson and the UC ensued over KiK. The Defendant turned the conversation sexual and transmitted several images of himself.
The conversation between the Davidson and the UC led to a planned meeting for sex on February 22, 2019. On February 22, 2019, Davidson drove from Jamestown, Kentucky, to Frankfort, Kentucky, in order to meet the UC and engage in criminal sexual activity. When the Davidson arrived at the agreed-upon meeting place in Franklin County, he was arrested by law enforcement.
Davidson was indicted in September 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Daniel Cameron, Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Kentucky; and Ralph Gerds, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service Louisville Field Division, jointly announced the conviction.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service and Kentucky Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Branch. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin M. Roth and Special Assistant United States Attorney James T. Chapman.
Davidson will appear for sentencing on September 17, 2020. He faces a sentence of not less than 10 years in prison. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal statutes before imposing a sentence.
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Laurel County Man Sentenced to 300 Months for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. - A Laurel County man, Timmy L. Fields, 58, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, after previously being convicted of possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to evidence at trial, on April 21, 2019, a Kentucky State Police Trooper stopped Fields’ vehicle and found Fields in possession of more than 985 grams of methamphetamine. Fields traveled to Lexington to purchase the methamphetamine from a source of supply before transporting it into Laurel County for distribution. Fields has prior felony drug convictions for unlawful possession of a methamphetamine precursor and trafficking in a controlled substance.
Fields was convicted in January 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville Field Division; and Rodney Brewer, Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by DEA and Kentucky State PoliceThe United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jenna E. Reed and R. Nicholas Rabold.
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.
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Fayette County Man Pleads Guilty to Two Armed Robberies of Lexington PharmacyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, Michael R. McReynolds Jr., 32, pleaded guilty on Friday, before Chief United States District Judge Danny Reeves, to Hobbs Act robbery and carrying and using a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to McReynolds’ plea agreement, on September 27, 2019, he robbed the Hubbard & Curry Pharmacy located in Lexington. McReynolds, who was armed with an AK-style firearm, took oxycodone pills, other drugs, and approximately $300. On October 21, 2019, McReynolds again robbed the pharmacy. During the second robbery, McReynolds was again armed with an AK-style firearm, and he stole approximately 500 oxycodone pills.
Based on evidence collected, law enforcement officers identified McReynolds as the perpetrator of both robberies. Officers arrested McReynolds at his fiancée’s home on October 21, 2019, and located several of the prescription pills that were stolen during the pharmacy robberies.
As part of his plea agreement, McReynolds admitted to possessing and brandishing a firearm to help facilitate his robberies of the pharmacy.
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 Lawrence Weathers, Chief of Police, Lexington Police Department jointly made the announcement.
McReynolds Jr. is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2020. He faces up to 20 years in prison on the robbery convictions and a minimum of 10 years in prison, to run consecutively, for the firearm convictions. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and applicable federal sentencing statutes.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The PSN program was reinvigorated as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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.
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.
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Florence Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky.- A Florence, Kentucky, man, Cordero D. Warren, 31, pled guilty in federal court on Wednesday, before U.S. District Judge David Bunning to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
Warren admitted that on September 24, 2019, officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Florence. During the traffic stop, officers observed a loaded handgun on the floorboard at Warren’s feet. According to the plea agreement, Warren admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Warren was indicted in October 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Sheriff Michael A. Helmig, Boone County Sheriff’s Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and Boone County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Leonard.
Warren is scheduled to be sentenced on August 18, 2020. He faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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 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.
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.
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Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 150 Months for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati man, who admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine and multiple sales of crystal methamphetamine was sentenced today to 150 months in prison.
U.S. District Judge David Bunning sentenced 35-year-old Michael Angelo Williams for conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and four counts of methamphetamine distribution.
Williams pled guilty in October of 2019.
Williams previously admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine for several months in 2019. Williams sold a total of over 240 grams of substances containing methamphetamine on several occasions ranging from March through July of 2019 at locations in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. Agents arrested him on August 14, 2019, and seized a loaded handgun and ammunition. Williams has several prior convictions for offenses such as drug trafficking and illegally carrying firearms.
Under federal law, Williams 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.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; William C. Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office; and Christopher Conners, Director of the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke.
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.
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Cincinnati Man Sentenced to 137 Months for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati man, Lucien J. Lanier, 35, was sentenced to 137 months in federal prison on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge David L. Bunning, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, 40 grams or more fentanyl, and 10 grams or more of acetylfentanyl.
Lanier admitted that, between May 23, 2018 and June 27, 2018, he conspired with Dante Martin and Tomorrow Tuggle to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and acefentanyl. According to court records, officers conducted a series of controlled buys from Martin, in 2018 in Kenton County. Martin was driven to each of the transactions by Tuggle. Lanier admitted that on each occasion he was a source of supply for the drugs and had instructed Martin on how to “cut” the drugs for distribution.
Lanier was arrested at a residence in Cincinnati on June 28, 2018. A search of the residence uncovered drug paraphernalia, drug packing materials, digital scales, marijuana, more than 100 grams of fentanyl, more than 100 grams of crack cocaine, four firearms and ammunition, and bundles of United States currency.,
At the time of his arrest for the drug trafficking conspiracy, Lanier was a fugitive wanted by the Cincinnati Police Department for the felonious assault of a female victim on June 10, 2018. According to court records, Lanier, in an unprovoked attack, punched the victim in the head, resulting in the victim having emergency brain surgery. Lanier was ultimately convicted on that charge in Hamilton County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas and on sentenced to serve 5 years imprisonment.
Lanier pleaded guilty to the drug trafficking conspiracy charge in September 2019. Lanier has four prior felony drug trafficking convictions.
Lanier’s co-defendants were sentenced in March 2019. Martin received 84 months in prison and Tuggle received three months.Under federal law, Lanier and his co-defendants must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Judge Bunning ordered that Lainer’s sentence for the drug conspiracy charge be served consecutively to the sentence Lanier is serving for the felony assault. Lanier will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 5years, following his release.
“The sentence imposed by the Court reflects the seriousness of Lanier’s offense, and the significance of his criminal history, which includes convictions for drug offenses and violent conduct,” said Robert M. Duncan, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Lanier was ultimately held accountable because of the dedicated work of the law enforcement officers involved in this investigation. I commend them for their efforts to protect the public.”
“The criminal history of Lanier shows his complete disregard for the lives of others,” said DEA Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin. “Because of the cooperation between DEA, local law enforcement counterparts, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, this drug trafficker is out of the community and facing a significant sentence.”
U.S. Attorney Duncan, DEA Special Agent in Charge Martin, and Chris Conners, Director of the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
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.
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Union Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Union, Kentucky, man, Randy Lee Hall, 37, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Danny C. Reeves, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Hall admitted that on November 14, 2019, he possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. According to his plea agreement, law enforcement officials searched Hall’s car and recovered 64.5 grams of actual methamphetamine, and Hall admitted that he intended to distribute the drugs.
Hall was indicted in December 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Keith W. Martin, Special Agent in Charge for the DEA Detroit Field Division; and Chief Tom Grau, Florence Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and the Florence Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda B. Harris.
Hall will be sentenced on a date yet to be determined by the Court. He faces a sentence of not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, and a fine of not more than $10 million. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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.
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Raceland Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Raceland, Kentucky, man, Gary Kendall, age 66, was sentenced in federal court on Monday, to 120 months in prison, by U.S. District Court Judge David Bunning, for possession of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, Kentucky State Police began investigating Kendall based on a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). According to the tip, the electronic service provider Chatstep reported to NCMEC that it had information that, on or about January 6, 2017, a suspected image of child pornography had been uploaded by a user of its internet chat service. A search executed at Kendall’s residence revealed a hard drive with five images depicting sexual images of females who were under 12 years old. Kendall admitted that he used Chatstep and that he would go to the site, pretending that he was a little girl, to upload images. Kendall was already a lifetime registered sex offender at the time of the investigation. Kendall previously was convicted in U.S. District Court in the Southern District of West Virginia of receiving child pornography in March 2001.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Division; and Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police, made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily K. Greenfield.
Under federal law, Kendall must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 15 years, following his release.
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.
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.
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Former Boyd County Deputy Sheriff Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights ViolationRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - A former Deputy Sheriff from Cattlesburg, Kentucky, Patrick Allen Adkins, pleaded guilty in federal court Monday, before U.S. District Court Judge David L. Bunning, admitting that he violated the rights of a woman to be free from unwanted sexual conduct.
Adkins admitted that, in 2013, he used his position as Deputy Sheriff at the Boyd County Sheriff’s Department to request that a female victim perform sexual acts on him, in exchange for assisting her with retrieving property that she had reported as taken. According to the plea agreement, Adkins also directed her to destroy evidence of his conduct, to keep her from reporting his conduct to other law enforcement.
Adkins was indicted in June 2018. The indictment record for this case was previously sealed in public record.
“The conduct in this case was particularly despicable,” said Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “The victim asked for the assistance of law enforcement; instead, she became the victim of abuse and her civil rights were violated. The defendant callously disregarded his oath to uphold the law and protect the public. Fortunately, his actions are not representative of the overwhelming majority of law enforcement officers – individuals who serve with integrity, respect for the law, and compassion for victims. It is our hope that the defendant’s guilty plea and conviction can, in some way, mitigate the damage he has done.”
"The vast majority of law enforcement officers valiantly perform their duties. Officers like Adkins who act for their own self-interest do a disservice to all law enforcement and to the citizens of Kentucky,” said Special Agent in Charge James Robert Brown, Jr., FBI Louisville Field Office. “Police misconduct erodes public confidence and trust in law enforcement. For that reason, investigations into public corruption and the violation of civil rights are the FBI’s top criminal priorities. I hope Adkins’ guilty plea shows our commitment to honest law enforcement in the Commonwealth."
“This type of conduct undermines the core values of law enforcement officers everywhere,” said Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police. “It smacks in the face of our oath of office to protect the weak against oppression and intimidation. I’m pleased that our investigative efforts contributed to placing this predator behind bars.”
United States Attorney Duncan, Special Agent in Charge Brown, KSP Commissioner Brewer, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hydee Hawkins and Dmitriy Slavin.
Adkins is scheduled to be sentenced on September 14, 2020. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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Lawrenceburg Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Wire and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, man, Joe G. Peavler, 53, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on Monday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, after previously admitting to committing wire fraud and assisting in the preparation of a false income tax return.
In his plea agreement, Peavler admitted that, between 2004 and 2018, he managed a warehouse owned by someone else and, during that time, he devised a plan to rent space in the warehouse to two separate entities, keeping the money for himself without knowledge or authority by the owners. Peavler’s fraud scheme was furthered by interstate wire communications. Peavler also admitted to failing to declare this rent money on his tax returns, for each of the years he received the rent.
Peavler pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Peavler 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. As part of his sentence, Peavler was also ordered to pay an excess of $1.5 million in restitution.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for the Louisville Division of FBI; and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and IRS. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Roth and Ken Taylor.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s efforts to identify and prosecute those persons who facilitate elder financial exploitation.
The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Mission, being carried out through the Kentucky Elder Justice Task Force, is to seek justice for victims of elder financial exploitation. Anyone who knows someone who may be a victim of an elder financial exploitation, is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
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Jackson Woman Sentenced to 10 Months for Soliciting Kickbacks and Obstructing JusticeRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Jackson, Ky., woman, Theresa C. Merced, 81, was sentenced to five months imprisonment to be followed by five months of home detention, and was ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, following her convictions for soliciting kickbacks from a toxicology laboratory in exchange for urine drug testing referrals, lying to law enforcement agents about the kickback she received, and then attempting to cover up the kickback by requesting the alteration of certain financial records.
Merced, the office manager of a substance abuse treatment clinic in Jackson previously admitted that, between December 2018 and August 2019, she solicited kickbacks from the CEO of a toxicology lab in exchange for urine drug test referrals. In August 2019 the CEO delivered to Merced a $4,000 check as part of a larger package of promised inducements, which she caused to be cashed. When Merced was questioned about the check by law enforcement agents in September 2019, she denied knowledge of it, and stated that the $4,000 was probably a loan from the lab CEO to her husband. Shortly after her interview with the agents concluded, Merced called the lab CEO and asked that he alter the lab’s financial records so that the entry for the $4,000 check would say “rent/loan,” consistent with the lie she told the agents.
Under federal law, Merced must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. As a special condition of her supervised release, Merced is prohibited from working in any capacity in which she influences referrals for medical testing.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Atlanta Field Office, and Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Kentucky Office of Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCaffrey.
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Ashland Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - An Ashland man, Danny P. Chaffin Jr., 38, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison on Monday, before U.S. District Court Judge David L. Bunning, after previously pleading guilty to bank robbery.
According to Chaffin’s plea agreement, he admitted that on April 5, 2019, he robbed the Bluegrass Community Federal Credit Union in Ashland. Chaffin admitted to wearing a black mask and running into the Credit Union and demanding the teller to “Give me all the money now!” The teller complied, and Chaffin was able to take $12,506. Chaffin was arrested the following day in possession of $10,256 of the bank’s money.
Chaffin pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Chaffin 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; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Chief Todd Kelley, Ashland Police Department; jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Ashland Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Moynahan.
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.
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U.S. Attorney Duncan Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr., joins U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr in recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“When someone agrees to ‘protect and serve,’ they are making a significant commitment to the communities on behalf of themselves and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “It can be very difficult work but they selflessly perform it, making themselves available to people in need and working tirelessly to enforce the law and protect us all. This week, please join us in paying tribute to our police officers, by thanking the brave men and women who carry a badge and dedicate themselves to protecting and serving, even when their job puts them in harm’s way every day.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including two officers here in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 128 Months for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Rakim Moberly, 31, of Lexington, was sentenced today, to 128 months in federal prison, by United States District Judge Danny C. Reeves, for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
In April 2019, officers with the Lexington Police Department, responded to a disorder call involving Rakim Moberly. During the investigation, officers located a loaded 9mm handgun in Moberly’s pocket. While under arrest at the Fayette County Detention Center, Moberly attempted to conceal several bags of narcotics. Officers retrieved the bags and located 9.62 grams of fentanyl, 37.415 grams of methamphetamine, and .475 grams of cocaine.
Under federal law, Moberly must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for five years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Tommy Estevan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of the Lexington Police Department, jointly made the announcement.
The ATF and the Lexington Police Department conducted the investigation. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Cynthia T. Rieker.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The PSN program was reinvigorated as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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.
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Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington man, Andrew Maurice King, 29, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday before U.S. District Court Judge Danny Reeves to trafficking 10 grams or more of valerylfentanyl and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
According to his plea agreement, King admitted that on May 30, 2019, Lexington Police Department officers found significant quantities of marijuana, oxycodone, fentanyl, and valerylfentanyl; approximately $2,900 in cash; scales and packaging; and a Romarm SKS rifle, in his residence. King admitted that he possessed the valerylfentanyl with the intent to distribute and that he was a convicted felon, prohibiting him from possessing the firearm.
King was indicted in December 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Lexington Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Kiebler.
King is scheduled to be sentenced on August 20, 2020. King faces a minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years for the drug conviction, and he faces up to 10 years for the firearm conviction. 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 the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force’s (OCDETF) Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS), a Department of Justice initiative designed to target trafficking of dangerous synthetic opioids.
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.
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