Western District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, KY. – Chief U.S. District Judge Greg Stivers yesterday sentenced repeat sex offender Mark Allen Johnson, 31, of Bowling Green, to 20 years’ imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release, for distribution of child pornography, attempted enticement, and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, announced Michael A. Bennett, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The fine work of Branch Chief Madison Sewell, the FBI, and the Roswell Georgia Police Department ensured the successful prosecution of Johnson,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “The prosecution team’s effort resulted in a lengthy 20-year period of incarceration followed by federal supervision for life. The community is safer now for all citizens - especially our children.”
“Due to the lengthy sentence handed down yesterday, the FBI along with our valued partners, have effectively removed a dangerous child predator from our community,” said FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown. “Know that those found exploiting the innocence of children online will be met with rigorous investigators working to hand down the harshest of punishments. The FBI will stop at nothing to provide justice to victims of sexual exploitation.”
In January 2020, Johnson pled guilty in state court to Prohibited Use of an Electronic Communication System to Procure a Minor. According to a sentencing memorandum filed by the United States, Johnson had created a profile and went online to communicate with minors. In one such communication, Johnson engaged with an individual he believed to be a thirteen-year-old girl, but who was actually an undercover Georgia law enforcement officer. Johnson engaged the officer in overtly sexual conversations, and in February 2020 (only a few weeks after his state court plea), he sent the Georgia undercover officer a video of child pornography.
Independently of his Georgia chats, Johnson was also chatting online with another person who he believed to be a minor, and who was an undercover FBI agent. The conversations with the undercover FBI agent date back to December 2019, were overtly sexual, and included an offer to meet the individual he believed to be a minor in order to engage in sex acts.
The investigations combined when, after the FBI conducted a federal search warrant at Johnson’s Bowling Green residence, Johnson provided the Georgia undercover with a copy of the federal search warrant. Johnson explained that he had a new number because the FBI had taken his phone in the search. Johnson was arrested shortly thereafter and has been in federal custody ever since.
After being sentenced by the United States District Court, Johnson is also due to return to state court for sentencing on the state charge to which he pled in January 2020, where the recommended sentence is five years “to run consecutively to any other sentence in any other indictment.”
Branch Chief Madison Sewell of the Bowling Green United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigations were conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Roswell (GA) Police Department.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Three Charged in Connection with Louisville Carjacking and Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett announced today that three Louisville, Kentucky, men have been charged by a federal Grand Jury in a six-count superseding indictment.
“I commend the FBI, HSI, and LMPD for their work in identifying, investigating, and apprehending the defendants who now stand charged with serious violations of federal law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett.
“This investigation highlights the efforts of the Violent Crime Task Force in identifying, investigating, and ultimately arresting our most violent offenders,” said FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown. “The defendants in this case are alleged to have taken advantage of innocent bystanders, including children, for their own personal gain. This is just one example of how FBI Louisville is working diligently with our partners to protect the public from violent crime.”
According to the superseding indictment returned on February 23, 2021, Bruno Castillo-Juarez, 19, has been charged with carjacking a Honda Civic on August 27, 2020, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of the carjacking. Castillo-Juarez was also charged with receiving and distributing child pornography on that same day.
The Grand Jury also charged Ruben Hernandez, 19, with production of child pornography, and Darrin Ammons, 51, with receipt of child pornography.
The charge of carjacking carries a term of imprisonment of no more than 15 years; brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence carries a term of imprisonment of no less than 7 years and no more than life; production of child pornography carries a term of no less than 15 years and no more than 30 years; and receipt and/or distribution of child pornography carries a term of imprisonment of no less than 5 years and no more than 20 years.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ann Marie Blaylock and A. Spencer McKiness. The FBI Louisville Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) are investigating this case.
This case falls with the purview of the Violent Crime Task Force. The partners on the task force include: The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), HSI, LMPD, the Kentucky State Police, the Jefferson Co. Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Attorney’s Office.
This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that
person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.###
Rineyville Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison After Being Caught During Sting OperationRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Melvin Dowell, 55, previously pled guilty before United States District Judge David J. Hale for attempted online enticement and transfer of obscene material to a minor, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Yesterday, Judge Hale sentenced Dowell to 10 years in prison followed by a 10-year term of Supervised Release, ordered payment of a $5,000 Special Penalty Assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, and imposed a $12,000 fine. Dowell will be required to register as a sex offender.
“Outstanding effort by AUSA Lawless and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on a successful investigation and prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “I am grateful for their dedication and the work they do to protect the children of the Commonwealth from sexual exploitation and abuse.”
“This case reminds us that predators will use any means necessary to exploit children, and it’s important for parents and caregivers to have conversations with their children about online safety,” said Attorney General Cameron. “I appreciate the work of our Department of Criminal Investigations and our law enforcement partners in identifying and stopping this predator, and I am grateful to Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett and his team for prosecuting the case.”
According to the Plea Agreement, on August 14, 2019, a Detective with the Kentucky Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations posed as a 15-year-old girl. That same day, an unknown subject (later identified as Dowell), reached out to the UC. The two communicated over e-mail and eventually text message. Dowell directed the conversations to a sexual nature. He requested “naked” images of the UC, requested details about her sexual history, sent sexually explicit images of himself, and requested to meet the girl to engage in sex acts.
On August 30, 2019, law enforcement officials agreed to meet Dowell at a predetermined location in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Dowell continued to communicate with the UC and gave updates to his arrival time while in route. At approximately 6:38 p.m., Dowell stated he had arrived at the location. At the same time, a red Ford Ranger pickup pulled into the driveway of the house where the two had agreed to meet. Dowell then got out of the truck and entered the residence where he was arrested. A pat down search revealed that Dowell had two Skyn brand, non-latex condoms (as discussed during their communications).
After being advised of his constitutional rights, Dowell admitted that he had met a person online that stated they were a minor. He went on to say that he traveled to the location where he was arrested after discussing sex acts with her. He also admitted using the Internet to engage in the conversations via his cell phone. Dowell stated that his cell phones were inside the truck he had driven to the location. Search of the phones under the authority of a search warrant revealed the communications between Dowell and the UC.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case. The joint investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service and Kentucky Attorney General’s Office with assistance from the Elizabethtown Police Department, United States Marshals Service, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF).
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Louisville Resident Sentenced to 12 Months in Federal Prison for Filing False Income Tax Returns and Committing Medicaid FraudRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Chief U.S. District Judge Greg Stivers sentenced Hatem Kaisi, age 52, to twelve months and one day imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, announced Michael A. Bennett, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky. The defendant previously pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with three counts of filing false federal income tax returns for 2012 through 2014 and one count of healthcare fraud for defrauding the Kentucky Medicaid program.
“Terrific work by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Calhoun and Sullivan as well as the FBI and IRS agents who investigated the case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Working together with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners we will continue to identify and aggressively prosecute fraud throughout the 53 counties in the Western District.”
“The defendant failed to report almost $1 million of income on his tax returns,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “Today’s sentence is an important reminder that there are consequences, including jail time, for intentionally filing false tax returns.”
"By filing false income tax returns and abusing a federally-funded program such as Medicaid, this defendant ultimately defrauded hard-working American taxpayers," said FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown. "As this sentence is handed down during this year’s tax season, know that this type of exploitation will not be tolerated. The FBI, the IRS, and our other federal, state, and local partners will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to manipulate the system for their own personal financial gain."
In the plea agreement Kaisi admitted to failing to report $961,592 of income on his 2012 through 2014 federal income tax returns filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). He admitted that he owed additional federal income tax due and owing of $204,842.69 for the tax years 2001 through 2014. Kaisi defrauded the IRS by falsely reporting income earned from his automobile business on the federal income tax returns of others.
In the plea agreement, Kaisi also admitted to concealing his actual income from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Medicaid Services, which is the Kentucky agency responsible for administering Medicaid. For the years 2008 through 2014, Kaisi concealed over $200,000 of income per year to fraudulently qualify his family for Medicaid benefits. As a result of his actions, Kaisi defrauded the Department for Medicaid Services out of approximately $204,842.69. Kaisi’s family members would not have otherwise qualified for Medicaid benefits but for his intentional concealment of income.
Kaisi also agreed to forfeit $347,095 previously seized by the United States from his bank accounts as result of the charged healthcare fraud. The United States agreed to recommend that $204,842.69 of this be applied to the restitution Kaisi owes to the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services. Kaisi also agreed to pay full restitution, in the amount of $209,910.80, to the IRS.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Bryan Calhoun and Amy Sullivan. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations.
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Elizabethtown Man Sentenced to Federal Prison After Being Caught During Sting OperationRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Travis Puckett, 23, originally of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, previously pled guilty before United States District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings for attempted online enticement of a minor, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Today, Judge Jennings sentenced Puckett to 10 years in prison followed by a 15-year term of Supervised Release. There is no parole in the federal system. Puckett will be required to register as a sex offender.
“Mr. Puckett will serve a 10-year federal prison sentence followed by 15 years of supervision as a result of the outstanding work of AUSA Lawless and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Our children and communities are safer because of their tireless effort in identifying, charging, and prosecuting those who engage in this egregious criminal conduct.”
According to the Plea Agreement, on October 6, 2019, a Detective with the Louisville Metro Police Department took part in an undercover investigation on the Internet. The Detective posed as a 14-year-old girl on a social media app. At approximately 6:00 p.m. that evening, a person using the profile of a 22-year-old, white male, from Elizabethtown, and identified as “Travis,” sent the undercover profile a message. “Travis,” later identified as Puckett, initially stated he thought the undercover officer was the police and then stated that he wished the undercover officer was 18. Puckett texted, “your cute and all just don’t want any charges.”
Puckett requested that the undercover detective prove he wasn’t the police and provided a Snapchat username for further communication. The undercover detective communicated with Puckett via Snapchat and sent several non-pornographic pictures of an undercover female officer, all the while maintaining the age of 14. The two stopped communicating at approximately 11:30 p.m. that evening, as the undercover advised that “her” parents were home and they could talk the next day. The next day, around noon, Puckett initiated contact with the undercover. Puckett asked what the undercover was doing that evening around 8:00 p.m. Puckett asked to get together and directed the conversation towards sex. At approximately 10:30 p.m. that evening, Puckett arrived at the agreed upon location and was arrested. When he arrived, he had a cellular telephone and condoms.
During a post-Miranda interview, Puckett admitted he was the person who had been communicating with a 14-year-old girl, beginning on the social media app “Skout.” He admitted telling her he wanted to engage in sexual activities. During the interview, Puckett wrote an apology letter to the undercover persona. In it, he stated he was sorry and that he felt terrible for disrespecting her.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case. The joint investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service, Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, Kentucky State Police, and Louisville Metro Police Department.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Kroger Shooter Pleads Guilty to Federal Hate Crimes and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Kentucky man pleaded guilty today to federal hate crimes and firearm charges arising out of the racially motivated shootings of Black individuals at a grocery store. The federal plea was announced by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pamela S. Karlan of the Civil Rights Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett for the Western District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., the Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville FBI; and R. Shawn Morrow the Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville ATF.
Gregory A. Bush, 53, of Louisville, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and firearm charges arising out of his racially motivated murder of two Black patrons at a Kroger grocery store, and his attempted murder of a third, on Oct. 24, 2018, in Jeffersontown, Kentucky. Bush previously pleaded guilty-but-mentally-ill to state charges for murder, attempted murder, and wanton endangerment arising out of the shooting, and was sentenced to a life term in state prison.
During the plea hearing in federal court, Bush admitted that on Oct. 24, 2018, he drove to a Kroger grocery store in Jeffersontown, Kentucky, armed with a Smith & Wesson, model 411, .40-caliber pistol. In the store, Bush followed a Black man, who was shopping with his grandson, for the length of an aisle before pulling the gun from his waistband and shooting the victim in the back of the head. Bush then shot the victim several more times in the torso, killing him. Bush had no prior relationship with the victim and chose to shoot him because of the victim’s race. Bush then re-holstered his gun and calmly walked out of the store.
In the parking lot, Bush walked up to a Black woman, and shot her several times in the head and body, killing her. Bush had no prior relationship with this victim and chose to shoot her because of her race.
Seconds later, Bush encountered a Black man who was in lawful possession of a handgun. The third victim asked Bush what was going on, and Bush, without responding, began walking toward him with the gun drawn. The third victim fired at Bush, and Bush returned fire. After about a minute, Bush stopped shooting and walked away. Bush had no prior relationship with the third victim and chose to shoot at him because of his race. Bush next encountered a white man, who was legally armed with a firearm. Bush told him, “Don’t shoot me [and] I won’t shoot you. Whites don’t shoot whites.”
“Today’s guilty plea will ensure that a violent and disturbed man will never get another chance to target and terrorize the Black community,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pamela S. Karlan for the Civil Rights Division. “It won’t bring back two pillars of the Louisville community, whose tragic and senseless deaths we mourn, but we hope it sends the message that the Department of Justice will work tirelessly to bring perpetrators of bias-motivated violence to justice.”
“The work of the Jeffersontown Police Department, FBI, and ATF in responding to and thoroughly investigating this tragic event is commendable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett. “The outstanding effort of the federal prosecutors assigned to this case and the solid working relationship we have with our state counterparts in the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office were instrumental in bringing about this plea.”
“The senseless murder of two of our citizens because of their race has no place in our community. Hate cannot, and will not, win,” said FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown. “Today’s guilty plea is just one example of the Department of Justice’s and the FBI’s commitment to protecting civil rights for all and vindicating the rights of violent crime victims.”
“In its mission to protect our nation, ATF stands committed to swiftly arresting those who create terror in our communities through violent acts of hate,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “In this instance, two Louisville African Americans were gunned down while shopping for groceries – merely due to the color of their skin. ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to seek justice for the victims and families of violent hate crimes and we will work tirelessly to enforce laws to prevent these tragedies.”
Bush faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Bush’s sentencing in federal court will be held on June 24, 2021.
This case was investigated by the FBI Louisville Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Louisville Field Division, and the Jeffersontown Police Department, and was prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel Christopher J. Perras of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Gregory of the Western District of Kentucky.
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Former LMPD Officer Sentenced for Civil Rights' Violation - Explorer ProgramRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – United States District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings sentenced Brad Lee Schuhmann today to two years’ probation, six months home detention, sex offender registration, and a $2000 fine announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Schuhmann, 32, originally of Louisville, Kentucky, previously pled guilty before Judge Jennings for deprivation of rights under the color of law. Under the terms of his Plea Agreement, Schuhmann will register as a sex offender.
“This sentencing concludes the third federal prosecution in connection with the LMPD Explorer Program,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “I commend AUSA Lawless and the men and women of the Louisville FBI and LMPD who conducted the investigations into criminal conduct associated with the program.”
According to the Plea Agreement, from May 2002 until April 2009, Schuhmann participated in the Louisville Metro Police Department Explorer Program as an Explorer. In April 2009, he applied for an LMPD sworn officer position. Several people associated with the Explorer Program, including the director of the program and other advisors, wrote letters of recommendation for Schuhmann. LMPD hired Schuhmann as a police officer. Upon completion of the training academy, he was sworn in and took the oath of office on January 29, 2010. Schuhmann remained involved in the Explorer Program during his training period and took on a more formal advisor role after being sworn in as a police officer with LMPD.
While working with the Explorer Program as an advisor, Schuhmann met Jane Doe, a minor participating in the program as an Explorer. The two communicated by cellular telephone, including texting. Schuhmann met Jane Doe outside of Explorer Program activities, including at her home and other locations in Louisville. During these meetings and communications, Schuhmann was in a position of authority or special trust, due to his role as an advisor with the Explorer Program, and he came into contact with Jane Doe as a result of that position. When the two met at her home and other locations, Schuhmann subjected Jane Doe to sexual contact.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the Explorer Program cases. The investigations were conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Public Integrity Unit as part of the Louisville Public Corruption and Civil Rights Task Force.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Convicted Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Brian Marchez Byrd, a registered sex offender living in Louisville, pleaded guilty yesterday before United States District Judge Benjamin Beaton to producing child pornography, transportation of child pornography, and committing a felony against a child by a registered sex offender, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
At his change of plea hearing, Byrd admitted that he made cell phone videos of himself molesting a 10-year-old victim. Byrd then used a social media site to send these videos to another account. At the time he committed these offenses, Byrd was a lifetime registered sex offender, having pleaded guilty in May 2012 to Rape 3rd Degree and Sodomy 3rd Degree with a 13-year-old victim.
Byrd pleaded guilty without the benefit of a plea agreement and faces a statutory mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 35 years and up to 90 years’ imprisonment. Byrd’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 7, 2021.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney A. Spencer McKiness. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with support from the Louisville Metro Police Department.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.
Owensboro Drug Trafficking Organization Members Indicted for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
OWENSBORO, Ky. – Fifteen defendants involved in an Owensboro based Drug Trafficking Organization have been charged by a federal Grand Jury for engaging in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, among other charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
“The allegations involve large quantities of illegal drugs bound for the Western District of Kentucky,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “I commend the DEA for spearheading the criminal investigation into this activity as well as our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners – both here in the Commonwealth and from across the U.S. - who assisted in the effort.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “Operation Reapin Benefits in support of DEA’s Operation Crystal Shield, was a perfect example of how local, federal and state law enforcement partners collaborated at the highest possible levels and crushed a violent drug trafficking organization operating out of Owensboro, Kentucky, Louisville, Kentucky, Orange County, California, Phoenix, Arizona and ultimately Mexico.”
“During the course of this investigation the fine men and women of the Owensboro Police Department, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office members of the DEA Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) River City Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives conducted ten judicially authorized federal write-taps on members of this Owensboro based drug trafficking organization which to date has resulted in the seizure of (238) pounds of methamphetamine, (81) pounds of marijuana, (4.5) pounds of fentanyl pills, (20) ounces of cocaine, (23) firearms including assault rifles with high capacity magazines, $350,000 USC, (6) vehicles, and the arrest of 28 individuals on federal/state drug charges. DEA commends the outstanding work by the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Kentucky, the Daviess County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, and all the agencies who participated in this multi-jurisdictional investigation.”
“These violent organizations use every means to push their drugs and criminal activities into communities both large and small,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “In this instance, the DTO used firearms to further their drug trade and caused serious harm to Kentucky. Our message is clear, if you distribute drugs and violate firearms laws, ATF and our law enforcement partners will work together to hold you accountable. These indictments, announced today, are the result of a coordinated effort of local, state, and federal agencies all committed to reducing violent crime and making our communities safer places to live.”
“The men and women of the Owensboro Police Department remain committed to working with our many partners to effectively reduce violent crime in our city. Said Owensboro Police Chief Art Ealum. Violent crime is a well-known byproduct of the illicit drug trade. We are grateful to the many agencies that worked cohesively with our Street Crimes Unit to investigate this Drug Trafficking Organization and successfully secure indictments for those involved.
Daviess County Sheriff Keith Cain said, “These indictments are the result of an ongoing investigation that initially identified (5) Co-conspirators in a major narcotics criminal enterprise operating in the Owensboro-Daviess County area. This collaborative effort by the Owensboro Police Dept, Daviess Co Sheriff’s Office, DEA, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky continues, with the possibility of additional persons involved being charged.”
The Indictment follows criminal complaints filed against 5 members of the organization in January 2021 and the seizure of approximately 151 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.5 pounds of suspected fentanyl disguised as pharmaceutical pills, multiple firearms, and over $350,000 in United States Currency. According to the federal Indictment, members of the Drug Trafficking Operation, as early as 2016 and continuing through January 13, 2021, conspired with each other and others to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. The Indictment also alleges the possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking. The members of the organization were charged as follows:
Willie Watkins, 30, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
Richard Cason, 29, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Additionally, Mr. Cason is charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking for events occurring on or about January 13, 2021.
Keith Watkins, 28, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Keith Watkins has also been charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl for events occurring between on or about January 12, 2021, and January 13, 2021.
Samuel White, 27, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Mr. White has also been charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine for events occurring on or about October 1, 2019.
Christopher McNary, 31, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Mr. McNary has also been charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine for events occurring on or about November 6, 2020.
William Harvey Duhart, 37, of Phoenix, Arizona, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charge carries no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
Ryan Thruston, 33, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Ryan Thruston has also been charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Receipt or Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.
James Antonio Smith, 37, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
Derrick Lamont Bullitt, 37, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
Karlchaze D. Thruston, 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Karlchaze Thruston has not yet been apprehended at this time and is a wanted fugitive.
Nache Moore, 31, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
Jeremy Poiles, 39, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. If convicted, the charge carries no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Mr. Poiles has also been charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine for events occurring on or about December 11, 2020. Jeremy Poiles has not yet been apprehended at this time and is a wanted fugitive.
Darrion Lamont Moody, 35, of Evansville, Indiana has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charge carries no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. Mr. Moody has also been charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl for events between on or about January 2, 2021, and January 6, 2021.
Devon Harris, 22, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
Joan E. Johnson, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. If convicted, the charges carry no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison.
The investigation is being led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (Evansville Indiana Resident Office, Albuquerque District Office, Phoenix Field Division, Orange County District County Office, Oklahoma City, Flagstaff Resident Office, Paducah POD, Springfield, Missouri, and SOD); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Bowling Green, Kentucky; HSI Oklahoma City; Owensboro Kentucky Police Department, Daviess County Sheriff’s Office; Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma; Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office; Oklahoma City Police Department; Arizona Highway Patrol; and the Daviess County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
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The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Multi-Drug Trafficker and Money Launderer Sentenced to 34 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States District Court Judge Claria Horn Boom today sentenced Dante Watts, 49, of Louisville, Kentucky, to 34 years in federal prison, followed by a life term of Supervised Release for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and money laundering, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. On December 20, 2019, a federal jury convicted and returned guilty verdicts following almost two weeks of testimony. There is no parole in the federal system.
“I commend Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bonar and Sullivan for their exemplary work and leadership during the investigation and trial of this case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. The tireless effort and outstanding work of the DEA and IRS agents who investigated the case, as well as the work of their state and local counterparts, ensured a successful prosecution. Our community is safer now as a result of their professionalism and sacrifice. The lengthy prison sentence serves notice of the consequences to those who traffic illegal drugs in the Western District.”
The Second Superseding Indictment charged Watts, along with 6 codefendants, for his involvement in a major drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing millions of dollars’ worth of narcotics in Louisville between May and July of 2016. The case arose out of a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) wiretap investigation and culminated with the execution of multiple federal search warrants on July 2, 2016 which resulted in the seizure of 31.9 kilograms of cocaine and 4.6 kilograms of heroin in a semi tractor-trailer and other drugs found in multiple locations, including 375 grams of methamphetamine. Agents also seized over $800,000 cash from the sale of narcotics.
The DEA executed another search warrant at Watts’ residence located on Blackthorn Trace in eastern Jefferson County on July 8, 2016. During the search, federal agents found over 6 kilograms of fentanyl in various locations in the kitchen along with a loaded firearm, several blenders utilized to mix drugs in the kitchen, and multiple boxes of plastic baggies and mixing agents. Agents found an additional firearm in Watts’ attached garage, along with empty kilo wrappers. Agents also located a high-tech surveillance system installed in and around the house, and a money counter was also found.
The DEA investigation revealed that Watts and codefendant Ismael Gonzalez received the narcotics from Mexican suppliers. Multiple intercepted phone conversations between Watts and Gonzalez showed that Gonzalez arranged for the shipment of drugs from the southern U.S. border to Louisville by semi-tractor trailer. Once the drugs arrived in Louisville, Gonzalez would oversee the transport to Watts, who would then direct distribution on the streets. Watts would then collect the proceeds of drug sales and send cash back to the suppliers through Gonzalez.
“Mr. Watts and his criminal enterprise caused a great deal of harm to people of this community; he was given many chances, and every time he flouted the mercy of the criminal justice system,” said Special Agent in Charge Todd Scott, head of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Louisville Division. “His sentence today is considerable but justified; long delayed justice for a lengthy criminal career.”
From May 2015 through July of 2016, the IRS showed that Watts spent over $4.2 million dollars which included over $3.5 million dollars in cash casino purchases as well as the purchase of real property. Also, the Court forfeited Watts’ interest in his home on Blackthorn Trace, over $428,000 in cash, over $89,000 seized from an account, 2 loaded firearms, and a gold Breitling for Bentley with 596 diamonds (DEA previously forfeited over $400,000 in cash seized during the investigation).
“IRS CI is committed to following the money in narcotics investigations,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “By tracing the funds, we were able to show how Watts used the narcotics proceeds at casinos and to purchase property.”
Watts has multiple prior felony convictions for a variety of serious offenses including narcotics trafficking, wanton endangerment, and burglary. Watts previously served 14 years in prison in Indiana for dealing cocaine. In 2016, Watts pled guilty to assault in the second degree after having been charged with kidnapping and brutally torturing his own cousin over a drug debt. Watts was accused of chaining his cousin’s legs together, pushing him down basement steps, pistol whipping him and fracturing his eye sockets, and then slicing him several times with a butcher knife. The victim escaped and fled through backyards in St. Mathews with Watts giving chase.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Bonar and Amy Sullivan. The investigation was led by the DEA, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division, the Louisville Metro Police Department, Kentucky State Police, and the Jeffersontown Police Department.
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Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to Fifteen Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OWENSBORO, Ky. – Senior United States District Court Judge Joseph H. McKinley, Jr. sentenced David Miller, 40 years old, of Morganfield, Kentucky to fifteen years’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and four separate instances of possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute it, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Miller was convicted of drug trafficking and firearm offenses in Henderson and Union Counties. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case demonstrates the value of the strong working relationships that exist among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in the Western District,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “The sustained effort of the Henderson Police Department, Kentucky State Police, and ATF – working alongside AUSA Sewell in our Bowling Green office - make Western Kentucky communities safer for all of our citizens.”
This is Miller’s third federal prosecution. In case number 4:07-CR-21-01-JHM, he was sentenced to 70 months for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon; in case number 4:13-CR-32-3-JHM, he was sentenced to 33 months for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Assistant United States Attorney Madison Sewell, Branch Chief of the Bowling Green United States Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case. It was investigated by the Henderson Police Department, Kentucky State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.
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Three Charged with Murder of A Federal WitnessRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY – Three people have been charged with the murder of a witness aiding a federal investigation, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
Bobby Lee Smith, 48, of Louisville, Kentucky, and Cynthia Allen, 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, were both previously charged in a three count Indictment. The Superseding Indictment, returned by a federal grand jury sitting in Paducah, Kentucky on Tuesday February 23, 2021, added defendant, Lesa Andrade, 60, of Tampa, Florida.
According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about May 8, 2016, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, the defendants, Smith and Allen, aided and abetted each other, and did kill A.P. in front of her eight-year old child, with the intent to retaliate for the attendance and testimony given by A.P. in a grand jury proceeding on or about October 8, 2014, in the Western District of Kentucky.
Smith and Allen are also charged with tampering with a witness by killing. According to the Superseding Indictment, Smith and Allen, aided and abetted by each other, did kill A.P. in front of her eight-year old child with the intent to prevent the attendance and testimony of A.P. in an official proceeding, the trial of case number 3:15-CR-00058, scheduled for Nov. 28, 2016, with the intent to prevent the communication by A.P. to a law enforcement officer or judge of the United States relating to the commission of a federal offense.
The Grand Jury also charged the defendants, Smith and Allen, with tampering with a witness by killing. According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about May 8, 2016, Smith and Allen aided and abetted by each other, did kill A.P., in front of her eight-year-old child, a person assisting a federal criminal investigation.
The Superseding Indictment alleges in separate counts that both Andrade and Allen, aided and abetted by others, solicited, commanded, induced and endeavored to engage in conduct that involved the use, attempted use and threatened use of physical force against the person of another by soliciting, commanding, inducing and persuading Smith and/or Allen to engage in conduct, that is to murder A.P., a witness in an official federal proceeding.
If convicted by a jury, Smith and Allen face no less than life imprisonment or the death penalty for Counts 1 through 3. The maximum penalty for Counts 4 and 5 is no more than 20 years, a $250,000 fine and not more than 5 years of supervised release. The defendants will be arraigned in U.S. District Court in Louisville. At present, no arraignment date is scheduled.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph Ansari, Robert Bonar, and Lettricea Jefferson-Webb. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD).
The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation
only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless
proven guilty.Louisville Dentist Charged with Unlawfully Dispensing Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Louisville Dentist who prescribed controlled substances after being suspended by the Kentucky Board of Dentistry (KBD) has been charged by federal criminal complaint, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Paul William Yaggie, DMD, 48, of Louisville, Kentucky has been charged with prescribing hydrocodone and oxycodone in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841.
According to the criminal complaint, on September 18, 2020, the KBD issued a Notice of Immediate, Temporary Suspension (ITS), suspending Yaggie’s dental license and ordering him not practice dentistry. The ITS was personally served to Yaggie on September 21, 2020. Following the ITS, Yaggie continued to see patients and write controlled substance prescriptions. Yaggie prescribed over 625 hydrocodone pills and over 175 oxycodone pills while suspended. On January 6, 2021, Yaggie was evicted from his dental office where he abandoned his patient files. On February 15, 2021, Yaggie met a patient in the parking lot adjacent to his former dental office. Yaggie prescribed the patient hydrocodone and penicillin, charging the patient $200 for the prescriptions and promised dental work. Yaggie failed to complete the dental work, did not return the money, and the pharmacy refused to fill the prescriptions.
The charge carries a potential penalty of no more than 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Ansari. The case is being investigated by the Kentucky State Police (KSP), Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of Inspector General (KY CHFS-OIG), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Diversion Section, Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) and the Shively Police Department (SPD).
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Elizabethtown Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Matthew Alexander Lyons, 34, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was sentenced by United States District Judge David J. Hale yesterday to 25 years in prison followed by a life term of Supervised Release for multiple counts of online enticement of a minor, production of child pornography, sex trafficking of minors, and distribution and possession of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The defendant targeted and exploited vulnerable victims and will now spend more than two decades in federal prison and upon release be under close federal supervision for the rest of his life – a substantial sentence and strong message to others who consider engaging in similar conduct,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “As a result of the outstanding work and dedication of AUSA Lawless, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, the Radcliff Police Department, the Elizabethtown Police Department, and the United States Secret Service, Kentucky kids are safer and our citizens once again well-served by the men and women of law enforcement.”
“We have no higher calling than to protect our children, and this sentence should send a message that the exploitation of our youngest citizens will not be tolerated in the Commonwealth,” said Attorney General Cameron. “Law enforcement at every level worked together to investigate and prosecute these heinous crimes, and I’m grateful for the unwavering commitment of Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett, our Department of Criminal Investigations Investigator Mike Littrell, the Elizabethtown and Radcliff Police Departments, and the U.S. Secret Service to pursue justice on behalf of the victims.”
According to the Plea Agreement and other Court documents, in April of 2020, the Radcliff Police Department received a call from a grandparent who reported that at least one minor was posting on social media about engaging in sexual activity with an adult in exchange for money. A Radcliff PD Detective interviewed two 14-year-old boys, seized their mobile devices, and was granted consent to search those devices by the minors’ legal guardians. Based on initial investigative steps, the Radcliff PD Detective identified Lyons as the adult with whom the two boys had engaged in sexual activity in exchange for money. Lyons had a prior conviction in 2008 in Hardin District Court case 08-F-00401 for attempted prohibited use of electronic communication system to procure a minor for sex, a violation of K.R.S. § 510.155(1). The Detective obtained and executed a Kentucky state search warrant to seize and search Lyons’s mobile device and subsequently asked for help with review of the devices from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
A DCI Detective conducted a review of Lyons’s Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max. The DCI Detective found more than 1,500 image and video files that were identified as known child sexual abuse material stored in a pin-code protected application in a “Frequently Used” folder on Lyons’s iPhone’s main screen. The images were stored in more than 250 categorized folders.
Further examination of Lyons’s iPhone confirmed Lyons’ communication with at least one 14-year-old boy on a social media app. On or about April 1, 2020, Lyons traveled to a convenience store and met two 14-year-old boys. Lyons picked up the boys in his 2017 Chevrolet Silverado truck and drove them to a Dollar General parking lot where sex acts occurred, and videos were taken, in exchange for money.
During the review of Lyons’s iPhone, the DCI Detective also located a chat conversation from February 16, 2020, between Lyons and a 16-year-old boy. During the conversation, Lyons requested, and the boy sent, two photos and two videos of himself engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Another chat conversation between Lyons and an adult, Robert Alan Thompson, showed that Lyons sent Thompson two photos of actual minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and revealed the two men discussing their mutual sexual interest in boys.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case. The Kentucky Office of Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations and Radcliff Police Department conducted the investigation, with assistance from the United States Secret Service and Elizabethtown Police Department.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Louisville Physician Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Distributing and Dispensing Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States District Court Judge David J. Hale sentenced Louisville physician Peter Steiner to 60 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release for knowingly and intentionally distributing and dispensing Schedule II, Schedule III and Schedule IV controlled substances without any legitimate medical purpose and outside the course of professional medical practice, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. There is no parole in the federal system. Steiner was also ordered to forfeit $225,000.
Steiner admitted that he prescribed high dosages and large quantities of controlled substances, prescribed early refills for controlled substances, continued to prescribe controlled substances to patients even though he knew they were addicted, continued to prescribe controlled substances to patients even though he knew they tested negative for those substances, prescribed controlled substances in return for sexually graphic photos and videos, prescribed controlled substances that were contraindicated for patient medical concerns, prescribed controlled substances not typically associated with psychiatric complaints, and prescribed dangerous combinations of controlled substances.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David Wesier and Joseph Ansari. The case was investigated by the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), Kentucky State Police (KSP), Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of Inspector General (KY CHFS-OIG), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Diversion Section, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
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Eastern Kentucky Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Child Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Brian Keith Tackett, 37, of Banner, Kentucky, (Floyd County), pled guilty and was sentenced yesterday by Chief United States District Judge Greg N. Stivers for online enticement of a minor and attempted online enticement of a minor, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Chief Judge Stivers sentenced Tackett today to 15 years in prison followed by a life term of Supervised Release. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the Plea Agreement, in September 2015, law enforcement officials received information from a concerned family member after discovering that an 11-year-old female had been communicating with an adult male, later identified as Tackett, through social media. In addition to “chatting” with one another, the communications between Tackett and the minor involved sexual content, Tackett’s request to meet in person for sex, and the exchange of partially nude images. With the parent’s permission, law enforcement took the minor’s phone and adopted her identity. Tackett subsequently communicated with an undercover officer in the same manner.
Law enforcement officials obtained a state arrest warrant for Tackett and arrested him on September 25, 2015. Tackett was transported to the Glasgow Police Department and, after being advised of his constitutional rights, answered questions posed to him by law enforcement. Tackett admitted sending sexually explicit text messages to an individual he thought was a 13-year-old girl. He stated he received nude photos from both juveniles and adults and further admitted sending pornographic images of adult males to adults and juveniles. Tackett admitted knowing that what he had done was wrong and illegal. He stated that he made contact with other people, including minors, using Twitter, KIK, and Facebook.
Tackett was previously convicted of similar conduct in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, having pled guilty in 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case. The Glasgow Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation with assistance from the Kentucky State Police.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Bowling Green Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Chief U.S. District Judge Greg Stivers sentenced Traci D. Reeder to 120 months’ imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for multiple charges related to the possession and distribution of methamphetamine, announced Michael A. Bennett, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
“This case demonstrates the value of cooperation between our federal and state law enforcement partners and showcases the solid leadership of the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Kentucky State Police,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett. “It also sends a valuable message to would be offenders in the Western District of Kentucky – peddle your poison here and expect to spend significant time in federal prison.”
“To protect our nation and the residents of our communities, Homeland Security Investigations continues to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to seize dangerous narcotics and arrest those who traffic them,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. “Methamphetamine is a dangerous and highly addictive drug that destroys lives.”
“The Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force is a partnership of state, local, and federal investigators working as a team to get career criminals and illegal drugs out of our community. The opening of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Bowling Green has enhanced our ability to bring these types of serious cases into the federal system,” stated the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force Director, Tommy Loving.
In October and November 2019, the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force utilized a confidential source to purchase two ounces of crystal methamphetamine from Reeder on two separate occasions. On November 5, 2019, officers arrested Reeder for several outstanding arrest warrants. When he was arrested Reeder had in his possession some recorded “buy money” which had been used during a previous controlled purchase.
After a positive alert by a Kentucky State Police K-9, officers conducted a search of Reeder’s vehicle. Inside the trunk officers located a toolbox containing three large bags of methamphetamine and over $5,000 in cash. In total, over one pound of crystal methamphetamine was purchased and seized from Reeder.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the Bowling Green United States Attorney’s Office. The case was investigated by the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force, Kentucky State Police, and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
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Death Penalty Sought for Murder of Fort Campbell SoldierRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – The United States filed Notice of Intent to Seek the Death Penalty for Victor Everette Silvers, in connection with the death of Brittney Niecol Silvers, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. Former Acting Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen authorized and directed the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky to seek the death penalty.
According to the superseding indictment, returned on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, Victor Everette Silvers murdered Brittney Niecol Silvers on October 14, 2018, by shooting her with a firearm at the Fort Campbell, Kentucky military installation. Brittney Niecol Silvers was, at the time of her death, assigned to the 96th Aviation Support Battalion at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The penalty for First-Degree Murder (Premediated) is Death or Life Imprisonment.
Victor Everette Silvers is also charged with Attempted First-Degree Murder, Domestic Violence, Violation of a Protection Order, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and two counts of the Use/Carry/Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seth Hancock and Leigh Ann Dycus and Special Assistant United States Attorney Captain Joseph Murphy from the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Army’s Criminal Investigation Command (CID), with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Clarksville, Tennessee Police Department.
The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation
only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless
proven guilty.Feds Arrest Two Militia Members Associated with the Boogaloo BoisRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – John Subleski, age 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, and Adam Turner, age 35, also of Louisville, Kentucky, were arrested by the Louisville Division of Federal Bureau of Investigation today, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
“I commend the outstanding work of the Louisville FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and our state and local law enforcement task force member agencies who work tirelessly every day to identify, locate, and apprehend for prosecution individuals who jeopardize the peace and safety of the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky,” said Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
“FBI Louisville’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), and each of the member agencies, are committed to keeping our communities safe from violent extremists,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown. “Today’s decisive action underscores the exceptional partnership and professionalism of our JTTF membership. The citizens of the Commonwealth can take comfort in the fact we continue to work together every day to protect our communities from extremists seeking to do harm.”
Subleski was charged in a criminal complaint with a violation of 18 United States Code, Section 2101, for using a facility of interstate commerce to incite a riot and committing an act of violence in furtherance of a riot. The complaint against Subleski alleges that he was a member of the militia known as the United Pharaoh's Guard (UPG) who define themselves as Boogaloo Bois. “Boogaloo” is a term referencing a violent uprising or impending civil war. The complaint further alleges that on January 6, 2021, contemporaneous with the Capitol riots, Subleski incited a riot in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, through the use of social media and other electronic communications, and while inciting individuals to riot, he communicated through social media that it was “Time to storm LMPD.”
The complaint further alleges that while rioting in downtown Louisville on the evening of January 6th, members of the Subleski’s group pointed rifles at the driver of a vehicle, blocked intersections, and barricaded a number of roads. Most were openly wielding firearms at the time. According to the complaint, later in the evening, Subleski is on video firing his rifle at a vehicle that drove through one of his group’s barricades and that Subleski fled the scene after firing his rifle at the vehicle.
Turner was charged in a criminal complaint with communicating a threat in interstate commerce in violation of 18 United States Code, Section 875(c). The complaint against Turner alleges that he identifies himself as a member of the United Pharaoh’s Guard and the Boogaloo Bois. The complaint further alleges that on December 25th, 2020, Turner while participating in a protest caravan driving through St. Matthews, confronted St. Matthews Police Officers following a traffic stop of the caravan and that during the confrontation Turner was openly carrying an AR-pistol and an additional hand gun. According to the complaint, Turner was eventually arrested for menacing and resisting arrest. Following the arrest, Turner made a number of Twitter and Facebook posts threatening police officers.
Subleski is scheduled for a preliminary and detention hearing before a United States Magistrate Judge on February 17th at 2:30 p.m. Turner is scheduled for a preliminary and detention hearing before a United States Magistrate Judge on February 17th at 12:00 p.m.
If convicted at trial, both Subleski and Turner face a maximum of 5 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a 3-year term of supervised release.
The FBI Louisville’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), including member agencies Louisville Metro Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Kentucky State Police, University of Kentucky Police Department, Covington Police Department, and the Internal Revenue Service investigated the cases with assistance provided by the FBI Indianapolis’ JTTF and the Louisville Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF).
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offenses charged and must be made under oath before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. The charges set forth in a complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of law.
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Felon Sentenced to 91 Months in Federal Prison for Carjacking During 2020 ProtestsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Damion Lemont Hayes, 21, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced by United States District Judge David J. Hale on Thursday, February 4, 2021, to 91 months’ imprisonment followed by a 3 year term of Supervised Release for his role in a carjacking that occurred during protest activity in Louisville last year, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
“The commitment and partnership between federal law enforcement and LMPD in the fight against violent crime, which includes the extremely dangerous act of carjacking, is very strong,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett. “Like this defendant, those who carjack and threaten the safety of others will be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted.”
“Over the summer, a number of individuals attempted to exploit the unrest in Louisville by committing violent crimes for their own personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office. “Mr. Hayes was one such person. Mr. Hayes’ arrest, conviction, and ultimately his 91-month sentence shows that FBI Louisville and its partners are committed to fostering safe communities by removing violent offenders from our neighborhoods. We simply will not, and cannot, tolerate carjackings in our city.”
“Recently, ATF joined the U.S. Attorney, our federal law enforcement partners and LMPD to address the recent and disturbing uptick in carjackings,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “This is a violent crime that threatens the safety of our community. ATF will continue to leverage all our resources to combat crimes with guns and seek justice for innocent victims.”
On October 26, 2020, Hayes pleaded guilty in United States District Court to the single count of the Indictment charging him with carjacking in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 2119 and 2. Specifically, Hayes admitted to taking a 2017 Subaru Forester on June 3, 2020, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, by force, violence, and intimidation, with the intent to cause death and serious bodily harm for the identified victim.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Hayes was ordered to pay victim restitution in the amount of $ 20,117.81. There is no parole in the federal system.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Louisville Metro Police Department investigated the case.
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Dangerous Kentucky Felon Sentenced to Nearly 16 Years in Federal Prison for Violent Elizabethtown CarjackingRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States District Court Judge David J. Hale this week sentenced Joshua J. Logsdon, 36, of Sonora, Kentucky to 190 months’ imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for an armed carjacking that occurred on February 26, 2019, in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
“This case serves as a reminder to all of the dangers law enforcement officers confront on a daily basis and as an example of the extraordinary work they do to bring violent criminals to justice,” said Michael A. Bennett, Acting United States Attorney. “The citizens of the Western District of Kentucky are fortunate to have the men and women of the Elizabethtown Police Department, Kentucky State Police, and the ATF on duty to serve and protect us.”
“During this armed carjacking - the defendant, Joshua Logsdon, pointed a loaded firearm at the owner of a vehicle, and fired the weapon as the victim attempted to escape. Further, responding police officers were placed in substantial danger when the defendant drove the stolen car directly at them. The federal sentence of nearly 16 years in prison without the possibility of parole is appropriate for this violent crime,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF is thankful to our law enforcement partners who risk their lives to protect our communities.”
“This investigation is a perfect example of the partnership between Federal and local officials in law enforcement and prosecutors. As we continue to work together against violent crime in our communities, it’s great to see examples of how our federal partners are willing to be vested in our efforts”, stated Elizabethtown Police Chief Jeremy Thompson.
Logsdon previously pleaded guilty to carjacking, use and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, on October 22, 2020, in United States District Court.
The case began when Elizabethtown police were assisting detectives with the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force during a drug investigation. When Elizabethtown Police officers attempted to stop a car, Logsdon fled on foot to a nearby residence. Logsdon, who was armed with a Taurus .380 pistol, stole a 2013 Nissan Altima, in Hardin County, Kentucky, by force from the owner of the vehicle. During the carjacking, Logsdon fired a shot as the owner escaped.
As police officers arrived on the scene, Logsdon drove the stolen car directly at the officers, causing the officers to fire their service weapons at the vehicle. Logsdon continued driving through Elizabethtown at a high rate of speed, with police officers in pursuit. Kentucky State Police joined the pursuit on Interstate 65, until the vehicle crashed in a Sonora, Kentucky field.
Logsdon had been convicted of multiple felony offenses including drug possession, burglary, manufacturing a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) and felon in possession of a firearm before committing the armed carjacking.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Tom Dyke and was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Elizabethtown Police Department and Kentucky State Police. Logsdon is also being prosecuted by the Hardin County Commonwealth’s Attorney for felony charges related to the offense.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement to specifically identify criminals responsible for significant violent crime in the Western District of Kentucky. A centerpiece of this effort is Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
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Former Franklin County Middle School Teacher of the Year Sentenced for Child Exploitation Crimes Involving Former StudentRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Robert Alan Thompson, 34, of Hodgenville, Kentucky, was sentenced by United States District Judge David J. Hale on Thursday, January 29, 2021, to 15 years in prison followed by a 15-year term of Supervised Release for online enticement of a minor and production of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
According to the Plea Agreement, on April 21, 2020, law enforcement officials executed a state search warrant at the residence where Thompson was living in LaRue County, Kentucky, and seized Thompson’s iPhone. During a post-Miranda interview, Thompson indicated that he would receive images and videos of child pornography via online links and visit teen chat rooms pretending to be a teenage boy. Thompson further stated that about a month prior to the search he had received two pictures of underage boys engaging in sexually explicit conduct from a friend.
A Detective with the Kentucky Office of Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations conducted a full file system extraction of the iPhone. During the review, the Detective found evidence of child pornography and evidence that, earlier in April 2020, Thompson initiated a conversation with a former 8th grade student of his – who was then 17. Thompson directed the conversation to sexual topics and subsequently asked for, and received, sexually explicit images of the former student.
“I commend the outstanding work of the Kentucky Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations in thoroughly pursing all aspects of this case and the valuable assistance provided by the United States Secret Service, Kentucky State Police, and the Radcliff Police Department,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett. “The teamwork of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors sends a clear message to those who sexually exploit children in the Commonwealth - you will identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“We are fortunate to have strong partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies who work together to stop child exploitation in the Commonwealth,” said Attorney General Cameron. “Our Department of Criminal Investigations and investigator Mike Littrell worked diligently on this case, and we are grateful for the work of Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett and his team, including AUSA Jo Lawless, the United States Secret Service, the Kentucky State Police, and the Radcliff Police Department.”
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case. The Kentucky Office of Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation, with assistance from the United States Secret Service, Kentucky State Police, and Radcliff Police Department.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Oldham County Man Sentenced to 132 Months in Prison for Distributing Narcotics on the Dark Web, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – An Oldham County man was sentenced Wednesday in United States District Court by United States District Judge Benjamin J. Beaton to 132 months (11 years) in prison for charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of firearms by a prohibited person, and conspiracy to launder drug proceeds, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
John Frank Naber III, 21, was first charged by Complaint and was then indicted in April 2019. He pleaded guilty to the charges on October 7, 2020. Naber was sentenced Wednesday, January 20, 2021, in Louisville and remains in federal custody.
As part of a multi-agency narcotics and money laundering investigation targeting Naber, federal authorities executed multiple search warrants in February 2019. Investigators found and seized narcotics and pill pressing equipment which Naber used to manufacture homemade counterfeit Adderall on his family’s property in Oldham County. Naber made his counterfeit pills using methamphetamine and then sold them in bulk to his customers as a vendor on the Dark Web. Authorities also seized drug proceeds, including over $325,000.00 in cash and Bitcoin valued at over $200,000.00.
At the time of his arrest, Naber was prohibited from possessing firearms because he previously pleaded guilty to a felony offense in state court. Namely, on or about September 18, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court Case number 18-CR-000743-003, Naber pleaded guilty to Trafficking in Marijuana. Investigators seized five firearms that Naber unlawfully possessed: a Desert Eagle semi-automatic handgun; a Beretta pistol; a Kimber Micro 9 pistol; an American Tactical 1911 pistol; and a CZ 805 BREN assault rifle.
“This case serves as an example of the strong working relationships that exist among our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners in the Western District of Kentucky” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett “I commend each of the agencies involved for their work during the investigation and prosecution of this defendant.”
“One of the top priorities of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is to stop the distribution of illegal drugs in the communities that we are sworn to protect,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. “The extraordinary efforts by our HSI special agents assigned to this case, working with numerous federal, state and local law enforcement partners, resulted in this lengthy prison sentence and sends a clear message that anyone engaging in this type of illicit behavior will be arrested and prosecuted.”
“This successful partnership between the US Postal Inspection Service, HSI, IRS-CI, CBP, and Kentucky State Police should serve as a warning to anyone dealing in these dangerous and illegal substances. The Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to protecting the American public and by working with our partners, we are unwavering in our mission to identify and disrupt their illegal activity” said Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison, Pittsburgh Division.
“The laundering of drug money allows the traffickers to continue to finance their operations,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “IRS CI is committed to working with our law enforcements partners to stop the flow of illegal proceeds.”
Pending federal charges remain active against Naber’s mother and codefendant, Cara Leann Naber, for conspiracy to launder drug proceeds from her son’s drug trafficking operation and for structuring financial transactions to evade federal cash transaction reporting requirements. Cara Naber has plead not guilty to all charges.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Corinne E. Keel and Robert Bonar. The investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), in collaboration with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and the Kentucky State Police (KSP).
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The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Former Elizabethtown Police Officer Sentenced - For Second Time in Federal Court - To Imprisonment for Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Brian Leasor, 54, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was sentenced by United States District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings on January 19, 2021, to 10 years in prison followed by a life term of Supervised Release for accessing with intent to view child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
According to the Plea Agreement, in 2018, Leasor was serving a 10-year term of Supervised Release imposed in Criminal Action Number 3:05CR-003 in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. In that case, Leasor had pled guilty to one count of receiving child pornography. While in the course of his term of Supervised Release in the Western District of Kentucky, Leasor was enrolled in a monitoring program for his cellular telephone with monitoring services through RemoteCOM. On October 22, 2018, Leasor’s Internet history and computer search terms were reviewed through the monitoring company. His then supervising United States Probation Officer (USPO) conducted a follow-up review. The supervising USPO learned that Leasor had searched the Internet for sexually explicit terms related to young females.
After reviewing the information from the monitoring software, USPOs conducted a search on Leasor’s residence in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. The USPOs found several unauthorized digital items and seized Leasor’s unauthorized cellular telephone for additional forensic examination. The digital items were turned over for digital examination by the United States Secret Service. The examination revealed 40 specific searches involving terms associated with child sexual exploitation that occurred between August and October 2018. The websites and URLs visited in connection with these searches involved child pornography.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case. The United States Probation Office Western District of Kentucky with assistance from the United States Secret Service and Kentucky State Police conducted the investigation.
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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
New Closer Law Enforcement Partnerships in Western Kentucky Result in Most Significant Drug Seizure in Owensboro History - Hundreds of Pounds of MethRead the Press Release
OWENSBORO, Ky. – An Owensboro Drug Trafficking Organization is behind bars and charged with multiple felonies after being caught with 151 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.5 pounds of counterfeit pills with suspected deadly fentanyl, and other drugs, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Traffickers should take heed to keep their poison out of Daviess County and the Western District of Kentucky,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman “They disregard at their own peril as federal, state, and local law enforcement here stand united to take their dope and send them to federal prison. Stay tuned; more to come.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “Today was a big win for the fine citizens of Owensboro. The individuals arrested during this investigation were responsible for peddling poison into Owensboro and our surrounding communities. Anytime we can take this much methamphetamine, fentanyl and firearms off the streets it is huge! The methamphetamine seized had a street value of almost 7 million dollars and could have provided enough dosage units to fill a capacity crowd at a professional football stadium four times over! The DEA Evansville HIDTA Resident Office is committed to working with the Owensboro Police Department and our other federal, state, and local partners to keep our communities safe by investigating and arresting violent drug traffickers. The DEA appreciates the exceptional work by all our partners who brought these individuals to justice.”
“ATF is committed to protecting the public in Western Kentucky,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Shawn Morrow. “This investigation highlights ATF’s work with our law enforcement partners to combat criminal organizations and to make Daviess County a safer place to live.”
“The Owensboro Police Department remains committed to getting narcotics and dangerous offenders off the streets of Owensboro.” Said Owensboro Police Chief Art Ealum. “This investigation is undoubtedly the most significant narcotics investigation in our department’s history, which speaks to the magnitude of the drug epidemic in the Owensboro Metropolitan Area. Our Street Crimes Unit, along with our federal and local partners, have worked tirelessly to take down this drug trafficking organization.”
Sheriff Keith Cain said, "This investigation is yet another example of the strong relationship
that exists between local law enforcement and our federal partners. Both are equally committed to ridding our community of the scourge of organized drug trafficking and keeping our citizens safe."According to the criminal complaints, from September 2020 to present, federal and local investigative agencies have conducted a long term investigation into the Willie Watkins Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) believed to be trafficking in methamphetamine, counterfeit pharmaceutical pills believed to contain fentanyl, and marijuana.
According to the criminal complaints, between January 6, 2021, and January 11, 2021, Willie Watkins, age 30 of Owensboro, Kentucky coordinated the purchase of approximately 150 pounds of suspected methamphetamine with an unidentified male, located in the Los Angeles, California area, and counterfeit pills containing suspected fentanyl from a source in the Phoenix, Arizona area.
According to the complaints, on January 11, 2021, members of the DEA from multiple districts and local law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being operated by another suspected member of the Watkins DTO in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, as the vehicle travelled from Arizona toward the Western District of Kentucky. During a search of the vehicle subsequent to a certified K-9 alert, law enforcement recovered: approximately one-hundred fifty-one (151) pounds of crystal methamphetamine, approximately three and one-half (3.5) pounds of counterfeit pharmaceutical pills suspected of containing fentanyl (contained in Ziploc bags), approximately twenty-one (21) pounds of marijuana, approximately nine (9) pounds of THC edibles, approximately fourteen (14) pounds of THC related vape products, and approximately one (1) gram of ecstasy.
After learning of the stop, as monitored by law enforcement over judicially authorized intercepts over Willie Watkins’ telephone, Watkins made several calls to multiple individuals discussing the seizure of the narcotics by law enforcement and the calculated amount of money he had lost as a result.
Following the seizure of the narcotics in Oklahoma City, Willie Watkins was charged in a criminal complaint with conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
Additionally, according to the criminal complaints, on January 13, 2021, federal and local law enforcement executed multiple search warrants at locations associated with the Watkins DTO in Owensboro, Kentucky. As a result of those search warrants, law enforcement seized additional methamphetamine, counterfeit pills containing suspected fentanyl, marijuana, firearms, and over $325,000 in United States Currency.
Based on the evidence obtained from the long term investigation and the search warrants, additional members of the Watkins DTO, including Christopher McNary, age 31 of Owensboro, Kentucky, Richard Cason, age 29 of Owensboro, Kentucky, Keith Watkins, age 28 of Owensboro, Kentucky, and Samuel White, age 27 of Owensboro, Kentucky were also charged in a second criminal complaint with conspiring with each other and others to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
All five men are charged by criminal complaint with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 400 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841 and 846. The potential penalty for the offense charged is a prison term of 10 years to life, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, and not less than 5 years of supervised release.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offenses charged and must be made under oath before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. The charges set forth in a complaint are merely accusations and the defendant are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Evansville, Indiana Resident Office, Albuquerque District Office, Phoenix Field Division, Orange County District County Office, Oklahoma City, Flagstaff Resident Office, Paducah POD, Springfield, Missouri, and SOD; The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Bowling Green, Kentucky; Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Oklahoma City; Owensboro Police Department, Daviess Co. Sheriff’s Office; Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma; Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office; Oklahoma City Police Department; Arizona Highway Patrol; and the Daviess County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office.
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Edmonson Co. High School Teacher Charged with Attempted Production of Child Pornography, Attempted EnticementRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – An Edmonson County High School Teacher has been arrested and charged with attempted production of child pornography and attempted online enticement, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“The United States Attorney’s Office and the Kentucky Attorney General stand united in protecting our kids,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “We will not permit predators to use the guise of our some of our most trusted and respected fellow citizens, its teachers, to exploit our young people.”
“Child perpetrators are becoming increasingly clever in the methods they use to entice and exploit children, and our Department of Criminal Investigations is focused on devoting resources to tracking these perpetrators online and stopping them before they can carry out crimes against a child,” said Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron. “Our office worked closely on this investigation with U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman, U.S. Secret Service, Kentucky State Police, Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and Louisville Metro Police Department, and I appreciate their partnership.”
William Oneal Lindsey, 28, of Brownsville, Kentucky, was charged on January 13, 2021, by criminal complaint.
According to the criminal complaint, on January 7, 2021, the defendant began an online conversation that was sexual in nature with what he believed to be a minor. In fact, Lindsey was talking with an undercover officer with the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
After several days of conversations, Lindsey was taken into custody at his place of employment, Edmonson County High School without incident. According to the complaint, Lindsey waived Miranda and agreed to be interviewed. During the interview, he admitted the person he met online he knew to be a minor and that the conversation was sexual in nature and he asked for images. He offered that he should not have engaged in the behavior because of the age of the person he was talking to, and went on to say that he had communicated with numerous other girls on various platforms concerning sexually explicit topics and that he believed many of them were minors.
The statutory maximum penalty for attempted enticement is no less than 10 years and no more than life; attempted production carries a sentence of no less than 15 years, and no more than life.
Both counts carry a fine of $250,000, and no less than 5 years and no more than life of Supervised Release per count.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of law.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo Lawless is prosecuting the case. The Office of the Kentucky Attorney General, Department of Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from the United States Secret Service, Kentucky State Police, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office.
Resignation Letter of United States Attorney Russell ColemanRead the Press Release
“Today I submitted my resignation to the President and Acting Attorney General, effective January 20. For a guy whose childhood dream job as an FBI Agent ended early due to a spinal injury, serving as the chief federal law enforcement officer in the place I love, and for the people I’ve known all my life, has been a humbling honor.
I leave this office with gratitude and awe.
Gratitude for the statesmanship and friendship of Senator McConnell who recommended me for this position, to Senator Paul who supported me, and to the White House for the opportunity.
Awe at the gravity of the mission of protecting the families of our West Kentucky district, and of the caliber of the committed public servants of YOUR United States Attorney’s Office. Cynicism abounds regarding government institutions, but we are so fortunate to have good and talented people staffing both this office and serving in federal law enforcement in our Commonwealth.
I traveled to each of the 53 counties in our district seeking ways to be a more responsive partner to business & community leaders, Commonwealth’s Attorneys, sheriffs, and police departments of all sizes. To better protect South Central Kentucky and collaborate with law enforcement partners in the region, we opened a Bowling Green Office for the first time ever. We also increased our staffing in the Paducah Office to more effectively serve our geographically immense district that stretches well beyond Jefferson County, running from Prospect to the Purchase. I’m proud of the outcomes of the challenging cases we worked, and I’m hopeful we delivered justice to victims.
I am forever grateful to Assistant U.S. Attorneys, agents, officers, deputies, and troopers who keep us safe, and are insufficiently lauded for their work. From combatting historic levels of bloody violence in Louisville to child predators in Paducah, and from fighting the torrent of Mexican-produced meth pouring up I-65, to our relentless pursuit of justice for Officer Jason Ellis and Crystal Rogers in Nelson County, West Kentucky lawmen/women are among the very best in the country.
I deeply regret we ran out of time to achieve justice for the families of Officer Ellis and Ms. Rogers during my tenure, and I urge the next Administration to prioritize these active and ongoing investigations. I am also plagued by the loss of life we grieved this year: violent crime took the lives of 173 Louisvillians in 2020 alone, with 572 wounded non-fatally. That’s hundreds of devastated families struggling with this trauma in the midst of a global pandemic. Louisville cannot be complacent about this spike in violence, or 2021 will bring more lost sons like Austin Fitzpatrick, and lost baby girls in Disney coffins like Trinity Randolph.
We must also continue to build relationships between law enforcement and communities that feel under-protected and over-enforced. While our new strategy of Group Violence Intervention (GVI) will not cure all that ails us in Louisville, it will help establish trust, which is the first step toward healing. This approach has worked for decades in cities large and small, and if we deploy GVI the right way, we can put a stop to the senseless deaths of young Black men and women.
Finally, I share in the sentiments of my fellow U.S. Attorneys around the country who were shocked, appalled, and saddened at the violent mob that stormed our Capitol on January 6th, resulting in deaths and multiple injuries, including fallen heroes from the United States Capitol Police. I hope each and every perpetrator is brought to justice, and our country can heal from this tragic chapter. Law enforcement is not a partisan calling, and to be clear, I stand at the ready to be helpful to my successor in any way.
Our Commonwealth has much to be proud of in the strong timber of Kentucky law enforcement, but we must never stop listening and striving to achieve a fairer and more effective justice system. It’s not “happy talk” to say that our men and women in blue, brown, or gray are the finest in the nation, and I am deeply grateful that God afforded me the privilege of being amongst them for a season.”
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Statement from United States Attorney Russell ColemanRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – “Whether vandalizing our nation’s most sacred secular structure or looting neighborhood businesses, there is a line that, when crossed, First Amendment protected protest becomes criminal conduct,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman. “Such violence has no place on Capitol Hill or our Commonwealth. Just as we aggressively pursued federal prosecutions to protect the community, police, and protesters from violence during a tense season in Louisville last year, I join my colleagues from across the country in promising to vigorously enforce federal law as it relates to anyone from the Western District of Kentucky who assaulted the democratic process and put people at risk yesterday.”
Louisville Man Charged Federally After Shooting Officers During Civil UnrestRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Louisville man who shot two police officers and fired multiple rounds at other officers during civil unrest in Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with civil disorder, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“This conduct put the lives of police, protesters, and everyday people at risk and will not be tolerated in the Western District of Kentucky,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Working with Louisville Metro Police, ATF provided investigative resources and technical assistance that in real time linked the crime gun to the trigger puller,” stated Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division. “That assistance led to the arrest of Larynzo Johnson – who now faces charges in state court for shooting two Louisville Metro Police Officers. This violent act, taken against officers who were protecting the city during a time of civil unrest, is unacceptable. ATF is grateful for our courageous law enforcement partners who risk their lives every day to protect our communities.”
Larynzo Johnson, 26, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with civil disorder under title 18 USC 231 (a)3.
According to the criminal complaint, on September 23, 2020, a large group of protestors which had been deemed an unlawful assembly were reported traveling by foot on S. Brook St. towards Broadway. LMPD’s Special Response Team (SRT) was deployed in an attempt to control the movements of the group and to disband the large number of protestors. Police reports throughout the day identified criminal activity, such as, multiple arson attempts at the Hall of Justice and other locations, protestors throwing bottles at police and others, property damage, smashing windows, and shot fired.
At 8:21 pm multiple gunshots were identified at College St. Shortly thereafter LMPD responded to a large group gathered at Brook St. and Broadway, two blocks north of where the shots were detected. LMPD Special Response Team (SRT) deployed aerial crowd control devices, after they’d been deployed gunshots were reported and two LMPD officers had been shot.
According to the complaint, protestors identified the shooters appearance to police. A man matching that description was identified as Larynzo Johnson and arrested. Johnson was arrested by SWAT at the scene and found to be carrying a Smith and Wesson pistol 9mm luger, model SD9VE. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Forensic Laboratory confirmed that fired cartridge casings collected at the scene were fired by the same Smith and Wesson pistol.
An investigation of publicly available social media accounts by Homeland Security Investigations revealed Facebook user “RiotHeartMedia” captured the shooting incident on video while documenting the protests live.
The statutory maximum penalty is 5 years in federal prison.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) Public Integrity Unit.
U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Office Continues to Expand Ability to Protect Southcentral KentuckyRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is today announcing his appointment of Michelle Buchanan as Legal Assistant to the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, the first time such administrative staff have ever been assigned to Bowling Green.
“We are serious about striving to better protect families in Bowling Green and the surrounding counties,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Folks in Southcentral Kentucky will be well-served by the addition of Ms. Buchanan to be the administrative infrastructure to our expanded federal prosecution efforts.”
Buchanan becomes the third full-time employee assigned to the recently staffed United States Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office. She will be instrumental in the day-to-day functioning of the office as she assists two full-time federal prosecutors with their expanding docket of investigations and cases.
With a long history working with prosecutors and private attorneys across Kentucky and Indiana, including her most recent position with the law firm of Cole and Moore, PSC, in Bowling Green, Buchanan brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in litigation support.
Opening the full-time staffed office in February 2020 was a lengthy administrative process, requiring approval from the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, DC, and ultimately Congress. Historically the unstaffed courthouse office has been used by federal prosecutors making the two hour commute from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Louisville. Having full-time federal prosecutors in Bowling Green that live in the community is paying dividends by fostering deeper working relationships with local law enforcement and state prosecutors. The result - better outcomes for the citizens of the Southcentral Kentucky region by mitigating the threat of increased criminal activity to include drug trafficking, child exploitation, and COVID related fraud.
To Combat Highest Level of Violent Crime in City’s History, DOJ Awards $400,000 to Support New Gun Prosecutor in LouisvilleRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is pleased to announce $400,000 in Department of Justice funding to hire a special prosecutor to try federal firearms cases originating in Louisville, Kentucky. The first of its kind award, one of only 13 in the country through DOJ’s Project Guardian, supports violence reduction efforts in Louisville along with the federal carjacking task force, greater ATF and FBI engagement with LMPD, and the roll-out of the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) approach.
“We must bring a sense of urgency to the historic levels of slaughter and wounding that has been 2020 in Louisville, with this innovative new prosecutorial model for targeting trigger pullers doing just that,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Today’s announcement results from a growing partnership with one of our Commonwealth’s most thoughtful and experienced prosecutors, Tom Wine, and allows us to further draw upon the talents of a dedicated public servant like new Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter. Lives will be saved because of it.”
“Keeping its citizens safe is the primary responsibility of government,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Cities plagued by violent crime need the resources to tackle it, and these grant awards will help do that. On the enforcement side, Real Time Crime Centers will make policing more efficient and targeted; and on the prosecution side, Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys will help bring more federal firearms cases to justice.”
A grant to the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office will support the hiring of a full-time local prosecutor who will be empowered to try firearms cases in federal court. Prosecuting gun crimes is central to the Justice Department’s strategy under Operation Legend and other violence reduction initiatives led by the Department. These efforts follow a sustained, systematic and coordinated approach to gun violence in which federal law enforcement agencies work closely with state and local officials to fight violent crime. Funding comes from the Bureau of Justice Assistance, a component of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
“Russell Coleman learned of a unique opportunity in the Spring of 2020 to fund a position at his office using a state prosecutor. I was excited by the prospect of the Office of the United States Attorney and the Office of Commonwealth’s Attorney to further collaborate as we deal with the scourge of gun violence and drug trafficking in our community,” said Jefferson Co. Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine. “In June when we learned our offices would be one of only 13 in the United States to be awarded a Project Guardian grant, we immediately sought out applicants for this position.”
In a ceremony today, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Joshua Porter was sworn-in as a Special Assistant United States Attorney. Porter has been employed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney since 2014. He was promoted to the Deputy Chief of the Narcotics Division in 2018. Porter previously served in the United States Army as an Armored Cavalry Officer serving two combat tours in Iraq. He was awarded a bronze star and purple heart.
“Josh has already served our county and community on numerous levels,” Wine continued. “His service in the United States Army as an Armored Cavalry Officer included two combat tours in Iraq, where he was twice recognized for his bravery. Upon returning to civilian life he enrolled at the Brandeis School of Law. His achievements in law school included the Robert W. Zollinger Award, named for an outstanding prosecutor who served in our office in the 1960’s and 70’s. After law school, Josh worked at the office of the Jefferson County Attorney. Since October 2014 he has worked at our office and has served as the deputy division chief of the Narcotics Unit.
“While we will continue to pursue alternatives of treatment for those addicted to drugs, those who use guns and violence to perpetuate their drug trafficking must be swiftly and strongly prosecuted,” Wine said. “This enhanced collaborative effort will help us identify the offenders that are driving violent crime rates in the most violent areas of Metro Louisville. It will ensure prosecution of those offenders in the federal courts. Our Commonwealth’s prosecutors will identify those qualifying offenders for Josh and the other Assistant United States Attorneys and our federal law enforcement partners such as ATF. I am grateful for the continuing efforts of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect our citizens and make the best use of our resources.”
“This Justice Department award will go a long way toward combatting the recent, and unacceptable increase in violent crime across Metro Louisville,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF looks forward to the addition of a special prosecutor in our mission to reduce gun violence in our communities. Arresting and successfully prosecuting these armed violent offenders and their sources, is a shared commitment with local, state, and federal law enforcement.”
Project Guardian is a nationwide program launched in November 2019 by Attorney General William Barr as a complementary effort to the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program (PSN). Project Guardian uses existing gun laws to comprehensively attack gun violence through the aggressive enforcement of existing laws in an effort to incapacitate the most dangerous and violent offenders.
Dangerous Tennessee Felon Sentenced to 18 Years for Hopkinsville CarjackingRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – United States Senior District Court Judge Thomas B. Russell sentenced a Clarksville, Tennessee convicted felon to 18 years imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release for the defendant’s role in the February 18, 2019, Hopkinsville, Kentucky carjacking, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman. There is no parole in the federal system.
“When you put families and our law enforcement at risk though armed carjacking and shooting at a police officer, then be prepared to face decades in federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This lawlessness will not be tolerated in the Western District of Kentucky.”
“During this armed carjacking - the defendant, Keith Kuzyk, shot a Hopkinsville, Kentucky Police Officer. While that charge is being adjudicated in state court, the federal sentence of 18 years in prison without the possibility of parole is appropriate for this violent crime,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF is thankful to our law enforcement partners who risk their lives to protect our communities.”
Keith A Kuzyk pled guilty to carjacking, use and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, on August 20, 2020, in United States District Court.
Specifically, Kuzyk admitted to taking a 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe on February 18, 2019, in Christian County, Kentucky, by force, violence, and intimidation, with the intent to cause death and serious bodily harm to four identified victims.
Further, Kuzyk admitted to the use, carry and discharge of a Bersa, model Thunder 380 Plus, .380 AUTO semiautomatic pistol, and ammunition, during the carjacking, a crime of violence, as well as possession of a Spike’s Tactical, model ST15, multi (5.56 millimeter/.223) semiautomatic rifle. At the time of the offense, Kuzyk was knowingly a felon in possession of a firearm. Kuzyk was previously convicted of Aggravated Assault and Evading Arrest, Theft over $1,000, and First Degree Possession of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine); all felonies.
Kuzyk was further ordered to pay victim restitution in the amount of $174.00.
Co-defendant Anthony Johnson, of Clarksville, TN, was sentenced by Senior Judge Russell, in United States District Court, on November 18, 2020, to 84 months imprisonment, followed by three years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to carjacking, aiding and abetting, and the use, carry, and brandish of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth Hancock and was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Kentucky State Police; Hopkinsville Police Department; Christian County Sheriff’s Office; Hopkinsville/Christian County Violent Crime Task Force; Clarksville Police Department; and Montgomery County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement to specifically identify criminals responsible for significant violent crime in the Western District of Kentucky. A centerpiece of this effort is Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
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Former Louisville Investment Advisor Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A former registered broker and financial advisor who defrauded multiple investors has been sentenced to 97 months, 3 years supervised release, and a SPA of $1,000 by U.S. District Senior Judge Charles R. Simpson III.
“Trust was the victim in this case; trust in the defendant who portrayed himself as a family member and stole millions, in our financial system, and in other human beings,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Thanks, however, to a diligent career prosecutor and solid work by the FBI, my hope is that our system of justice can help the victims regain some of that lost trust.”
Christopher Hibbard, 44, of Louisville, Kentucky, was initially indicted in November of 2018 with one count of investment fraud and nine counts of wire fraud. He pleaded guilty on June 30, 2020 to the charges.
According to a plea agreement, on or about February 9, 2007, and December 20, 2008, Hibbard made dozens of wire transfers from the brokerage account of a Louisville resident in the total amount of $1,226,995. Hibbard admitted to agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that he had misappropriated and used a substantial portion of the client’s monies for his own personal use. After nearly exhausting the funds in the account, Hibbard presented the client with fraudulent brokerage statements that were used to lull the client into believing the account contained as much as $4 million.
In addition, between January 10, 2011, and December 20, 2017, Hibbard initiated over 300 unauthorized ACH transfers by wire in interstate commerce from client accounts under his management to an American Express account controlled by Hibbard. Hibbard caused the transfers to be made without the knowledge, permission, or other authorization of the account holder(s) thereby misappropriating and embezzling more than $3 million in client monies and using the funds for personal expenditures. In order to effectuate his scheme to defraud, the Defendant engaged in unauthorized trading and liquidation of clients' investments, made unauthorized withdrawals from client annuity accounts, and committed acts of forgery.
Hibbard was a broker registered with three different securities firms between 2004 and 2018. Based upon his violation of securities laws, effective May 2018, the Financial Regulatory Authority suspended Hibbard permanently from associating with any FINRA member in any capacity.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Marisa J. Ford. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
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Seven Charged in Largest Meth Seizure in Warren County HistoryRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Seven defendants have been charged in a conspiracy to deal a large quantity of methamphetamine in the Bowling Green area, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Relationships matter especially in law enforcement, when collaboration is needed to defend our families from the volume of poison that traffickers are pouring into West Kentucky,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “That is exactly why we opened a fully-staffed office of federal prosecutors in Bowling Green earlier this year, to work with some of the finest lawmen and women in our Commonwealth to better protect Southcentral Kentucky.”
“This case resulted in the largest crystal meth seizure in Warren County history. These cases are not possible without a team effort of our state, local and federal partners,” said Tommy Loving, the Executive Director of the Bowling Green/Warren County Dug Task Force. “Our local detectives partnering with the FBI shut down a major supplier of crystal meth and his drug trafficking organization. The US Attorney’s office worked with us from the early stages of this case to help bring it to fruition. The Bowling Green Police, Kentucky State Police, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and WKU Police all participated in the joint investigation with the FBI.”
According to the indictment, beginning June 11, 2020, and continuing to on or about August 30, 2020, the seven defendants: Tyrecus J. Crowe, George Sanchez, Andre M. Graham, Michael D. Padilla, Raymond Derouse Jr., Jeremy Quezada, and Brandon Cherry, conspired to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Derouse, Quezada, and Cherry all face additional counts for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance: methamphetamine.
An accompanying affidavit in support of a federal criminal complaint gives more details surrounding the alleged conduct. According to the document, on July 24, 2020, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) stopped a white Chevrolet Tahoe for speeding. A driver and two passengers occupied the Tahoe. The driver consented to have the DPS search the vehicle. That consent search uncovered approximately 40 pounds of suspected crystal methamphetamine hidden in a black bag. The search also revealed a rental agreement between the rental company and Tyrecus Crowe. The DPS detained the driver and.contacted the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). A special agent with the DEA met the driver and advised the driver of his rights. After receiving his Miranda warnings, the driver agreed to speak with the DEA special agent. The driver explained he was driving the rented car from California to Bowling Green, Kentucky to deliver the crystal methamphetamine to Tyrecus Crowe. The driver stated Crowe rented the vehicle and let the driver use it for this trip. The driver further stated this was his second trip to California to pick up crystal methamphetamine for Crowe. The first trip occurred approximately one week prior. At the end of that trip, the driver successfully delivered approximately 25 pounds of crystal methamphetamine to Crowe's residence in Bowling Green.
During a July 26, 2020 interview, the driver stated that during both trips, Crowe provided the driver with cash to deliver in California. Once in California, the driver met George Sanchez at a pre-determined location in Los Angeles, California. Sanchez met the driver, then the two traveled together in Sanchez's vehicle to a residence relatively close to the initial meeting location. Sanchez and the driver hand counted the money, then Sanchez weighed the money on a scale. The driver did not remember how much money he transported the first trip, but Crowe gave the driver $105,000 in cash during this second trip. The driver gave Sanchez the $105,000 and Sanchez then gave the driver the crystal methamphetamine and drove him back to the driver's vehicle.
If convicted at trial, the defendants face no less than 10 years and no more than life in federal custody. The United States has also filed notice to seek forfeiture from the defendants named to include:$57,000 in cash, a residence in Bowling Green, 2008 Ford Mustang, 2012 Nissan Altima, 2001 Impala, and a 2015 Maserati Ghibli.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Yurchisin of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office. The case is being investigated by the Warren County Drug Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office.
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The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Feds Charge Man for Carjacking That Led to MurderRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Vine Grove, Kentucky man, who carjacked and murdered one person in Louisville has been arrested and charged with carjacking, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“This is exceptional police and prosecutorial work by lawmen and women who take their oath to protect all Kentuckians seriously,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
Ashton Clay Nally, 20, of Vine Grove, Kentucky, was arrested on Sunday December 13, 2020, in Madisonville, Kentucky.
According to the criminal complaint, On November 23, 2020, LMPD received a 911 call of a shooting, which occurred at a home on Crittenden Drive, in Louisville, KY. Upon LMPD’s arrival, they located the victim, lying in the roadway outside the home, who had sustained three gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Upon investigation, LMPD obtained video surveillance and a witness account from a nearby residence. While reviewing the video, an unknown individual can be observed approaching the victim. An argument can be overheard between the two. Three shots can be heard. The victim falls backwards into the roadway while the unknown individual enters the driver’s seat. The unknown individual flees the area in the vehicle at a high rate of speed.
LMPD located the victim’s vehicle, a 2016 Mazda CX-5, at the intersection of Lynn Street and Emmet Avenue where it had wrecked into another vehicle, which was parked on Lynn Street. A search of the vehicle was conducted by LMPD. During the search, a pair of glasses were located on the dashboard. These glasses were identified as having brown metal frame imprinted with MM 5105 BR 52-17-140. The right lens was removed from the frame and lying on the dashboard beside the frame. It appeared whenever the unknown individual wrecked, his glasses had fallen off and the impact caused the right lens to exit the frame.
According to the complaint, on November 30, 2020, LMPD received an anonymous online tip. This tip advised the defendant, Nally, had shot and killed the victim. The tipster also advised after the shooting Nally fled the area in the victim’s vehicle, crashing it nearby. Nally then fled on foot down Preston Highway where he threw the pistol used during the Carjacking onto a roof near the White Castle. LMPD had conducted a neighborhood canvass in the area of the wreckage. During this canvass, LMPD located video footage, which did depict Nally running towards Preston Highway.
On December 2, 2020, LMPD received a second tip that Nally admitted to another individual that he had killed the victim during the carjacking.
The federal carjacking charge carries a maximum sentence of death, a fine of $250,000, and no more than three years of supervised release.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of law.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tom Dyke. The FBI Louisville Field Office and Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating this case.
This case falls with the purview of the federal carjacking task force formed in August of 2020 as carjackings in Louisville skyrocketed. The partners on the task force include: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HIS), the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky State Police, the Jefferson Co. Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Attorney’s Office.
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NFAC Leader “Grandmaster Jay” Charged with Assaulting Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – John F. Johnson, aka, “Grandmaster Jay” has been charged via criminal complaint with assaulting federal task force officers, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Here in Kentucky we revere our First and Second Amendment freedoms, not foolishness which puts police and protesters at grave risk,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“The FBI respects the rights of individuals to peacefully exercise their First Amendment rights," said FBI Louisville Division SAC Robert Brown. "Our mission of protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution is dual and simultaneous, not contradictory. Accordingly, we are committed to investigating violent behavior and those who are exploiting legitimate, peaceful protests and engaging in violations of federal law.”
Johnson, 57, of West Chester, Ohio, was arrested at his home on December 3, 2020. He appeared before a federal judge in Louisville this afternoon.
According to the criminal complaint, Johnson forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, intimidated, and interfered with federally deputized task force officers while they were engaged in or on account of the performance of official duties, when Johnson aimed a rifle at them on September 4, 2020 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Johnson brandished an AR platform rifle at federally deputized Task Force Officers for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) the U.S. Secret Service, and Louisville Metro Police Department officers. The task force officers were on the roof of the Jefferson County Grand Jury Building keeping watch on Jefferson Square Park where there was armed protestors gathering.
Upon arriving at the eastern edge of the roof, the officers and task force officers began their surveillance. A short time after initiating surveillance, some of the officers were blinded by a light which they shortly thereafter determined was a flashlight mounted to the rifle being aimed at them by Johnson.
According to the complaint, the officers and task force officers advised they all perceived a threat from Johnson based on him aiming his rifle at them. All officers advised they were concerned Johnson might intentionally, or even accidentally, discharge a round at them. All officers recognized that the distance between themselves and Johnson was well within the effective range of an AR platform style rifle. Two of the officers advised that they were wearing their LMPD soft body armor, with “Police” semi-reflective placard identifying them, the night of September 4, 2020. None of the officers had drawn their handguns and only one of the officers had a rifle with him, which he did not point at Johnson or the NFAC members on Armory Place. All Officers advised that neither Johnson nor the other NFAC members perceived a threat from the officers on the roof, because neither Johnson or the other NFAC members moved to cover when they saw the officers on the roof of the Jefferson County Grand Jury Building.
If convicted at trial, the statutory maximum sentence is 20 years in federal prison.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of law.
The FBI Louisville Division and Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating this case.
This case falls with the purview of the Attorney General’s Task Force to Combat Violent Anti-Government Extremism. Launched in June 2020, the Task Force is dedicated to supporting the investigation and prosecution of any person or group who commits violence in the name of an anti-government ideology.
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Undercover Operation Named for 7 Year-Old Kentucky Victim Nets Multiple Child PredatorsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. –The United States Secret Service, United States Attorney Russell Coleman, Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, and the leadership of other Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force agencies announced the culmination of “Operation Gabbi Doolin” today. This joint federal, state, and local operation was aimed at exposing child predators in Kentucky communities.
The investigations, which were conducted in Elizabethtown and Louisville, Kentucky, resulted in multiple state and federal arrests. In addition to the arrests, multiple investigative leads were developed that continue to assist law enforcement with the apprehension of child predators.
This operation was named in honor of Gabbi Doolin, a 7-year old child from Scottsville, Kentucky, who was kidnapped and murdered from her brother’s youth football game in Allen County in 2015.
“Kentucky law enforcement has no more important mission than to protect our kids,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “And we can conceive of no more meaningful way honor to Gabbi Doolin and her family than to work together, federal, state, and local, in an operation in her name to remove predators from our Commonwealth. More to come.”
“The local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies that carried out this joint operation are committed to stopping child predators so that no family has to endure the incredible loss the Doolin family has felt these last five years,” said Attorney General Cameron. “We share a goal to find child predators and remove them from communities before they act. Every arrest that we make stops a potential criminal act against a child, and we will continue to do everything in our power to leverage our resources and work together to protect Kentucky’s children.”
“The United States Secret Service remains steadfastly committed to our role in bringing the fullest weight of the law enforcement community at every level to the fight against child predators online,” said Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville field office Robert Holman. “While the dark corners of the internet might seem like a good place to hide within, today’s announcement serves as a powerful reminder that trained investigators across the interagency can and will identify these especially vile criminals, and ensure they are brought to justice.”
Seven individuals have been charged with federal offenses, they include:
- Charles Ashley, 66, of Adolphus, Kentucky has been charged with the attempted enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor, and attempted production of child pornography. He faces not less than 10 years for the enticement charge, not less than 15 years for the attempted production charge and not more than 10 years for attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison.
- Jimmy Kwizera, 22, of Louisville, Kentucky, has pleaded guilty to transfer of obscene material to a minor. He faces not more than 10 years in federal prison at sentencing which has been scheduled for December 10, 2020.
- Melvin Dowell, 54, of Rineyville, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to attempted enticement and transfer of obscene material to a minor. He faces a mandatory minimum 10 year prison sentence. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for February 1, 2020.
- Joseph Zakhari, 33, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged in a Superseding Indictment with attempted online enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor, and attempted production of child pornography. He faces not less than 10 years for the enticement charge, not less than 15 years for the attempted production charge and not more than 10 years for attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison.
- Jeffrie Corn, 25, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with attempted enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. He faces not less than 10 years for the enticement charge and not more than 10 years for attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison.
- Travis Puckett, 23, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, has been charged with attempted enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. He faces not less than 10 years for the enticement charge and not more than 10 years for attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison. Puckett is scheduled to plead guilty on November 23, 2020.
- Eric Vanhandle, 54, Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with attempted enticement of a minor. He faces not less than 10 years in prison for the charge. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jo Lawless. Agencies investigating these cases include: United States Secret Service, United States Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Kentucky Office of the Attorney General Department of Criminal Investigations, Kentucky State Police, Louisville Metro Police Department, Owensboro Police Department, and Elizabethtown Police Department. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), supported the law enforcement efforts.
The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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- Charles Ashley, 66, of Adolphus, Kentucky has been charged with the attempted enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor, and attempted production of child pornography. He faces not less than 10 years for the enticement charge, not less than 15 years for the attempted production charge and not more than 10 years for attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor. The maximum potential sentence is life in prison.
Feds Charge Third Officer from Explorer ProgramRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Louisville Metro Police Department Officer involved with the Explorer Program has been charged with deprivation of rights under the color of law, announced U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. The grand jury charged Schuhmann, while acting under color of law, with willfully depriving Jane Doe, a minor, of a right secured and protected by the Constitution and laws of the United States; that is, the right not to be deprived of liberty without due process of law, which includes the right not to have her bodily integrity violated by a person acting under color of law. This offense involved sexual abuse in the first degree under Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.110(d).
“Justice delayed in the still-ongoing Explorers investigation, by a pandemic, civil unrest, and other hurdles, does not mean justice denied. While I regret the time it has taken us to get to this point, I am proud of the dogged work of career prosecutors, the Louisville Public Corruption & Civil Rights Task Force, and our partners in the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “In stark contrast to those predators with a badge that our office has successfully prosecuted, this city is blessed by some of the finest law enforcement professionals in the nation; federal, state, and local.”
Brad Lee Schuhmann, 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, resigned from LMPD on November 4, 2020. He pled guilty to the Indictment on November 16, 2020.
According to a Plea Agreement, from May 2002 until April 2009, Schuhmann participated in the Louisville Metro Police Department Explorer Program as an Explorer. In April 2009, he applied for an LMPD sworn officer position. Several people associated with the Explorer Program, including the director of the program and other advisors, wrote letters of recommendation for Schuhmann. LMPD hired Schuhmann as a police officer. Upon completion of the training academy, he was sworn in and took the oath of office on January 29, 2010. Schuhmann remained involved in the Explorer Program during his training period and took on a more formal advisor role after being sworn in as a police officer with LMPD.
While working with the Explorer Program as an advisor, Schuhmann met Jane Doe, a minor participating in the program as an Explorer. The two communicated by cellular telephone, including texting. Schuhmann met Jane Doe outside of Explorer Program activities, including at her home and other locations in Louisville. During these meetings and communications, Schuhmann was in a position of authority or special trust, due to his role as an advisor with the Explorer Program. He came into contact with Jane Doe as a result of that position. When the two met at her home and other locations, Schuhmann subjected Jane Doe to sexual contact.
The charge of deprivation of rights under color of law is a federal misdemeanor. The defendant faces no more than one year in prison, a $100,000.00 fine, or both prison and a fine. He also faces one year of federal Supervised Release. Under the terms of his Plea Agreement, Schuhmann will register as a sex offender.
The United States Attorney’s Office previously prosecuted two other LPMD officers associated with the Explorer Program, Brandon Wood and Kenneth Betts. Wood was sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment followed by 10 years’ supervised release for attempted enticement. Betts was sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment followed by 20 years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty in December of 2018 to enticement, attempted enticement, possession of child pornography, transfer of obscene materials to a minor, and distribution of child pornography.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the cases. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Public Integrity Unit as part of the Louisville Public Corruption and Civil Rights Task Force. Federal prosecution of Mr. Schumann, like that of the two previous Explorers-related convictions, was achieved through close coordination with the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
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Homeland Security Officer Honored with U.S. Attorney’s Award for Leadership During Louisville Civil DisturbanceRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is pleased to announce the latest recipient of the U.S. Attorney’s Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement is District Commander Aaron Godbey of the Federal Protective Service (FPS).
“I had a big ask for Commander Godbey and his team at a time of great uncertainty here in Louisville; however they responded in a way that should make all of us and his agency proud,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Commander Godbey led the effort to ensure the safety of Louisville’s federal buildings and protected the public servants that worked inside, all the while respecting the First Amendment-protected activities of peaceful protestors outside.”
The Award commendation presented by U.S. Attorney Coleman to FPS Commander Godbey and his team is for their service on behalf of the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky in protecting downtown Louisville federal buildings, the U.S. District Courthouse, federal public servants, and protestors during the city’s recent period of social unrest. Additionally, Godbey and his team responded to a fiery motor vehicle accident on Louisville’s Watterson Expressway, extricating the driver from the vehicle and attempted CPR to revive the victim. An agency within the United States Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Protective Service mission includes the physical security of 9,500 facilities nationwide and the employees who occupy the structures. FPS Director L. Eric Patterson attended Wednesday’s award presentation in Louisville.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is honoring the extraordinary efforts of its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners in Western Kentucky. Additional awards will be presented throughout the District in the coming months.
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Feds Charge Postal Employee for Destroying MailRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A United States Postal Service employee has been charged for willfully obstructing the passage of mail, announced U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Especially in these times, Americans depend on the reliability and integrity of those that deliver the U.S. Mail,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman. “Conduct by Postal employees that violates that duty will result in swift federal prosecution.”
DeShawn Bojgere, 30, of, Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with the delay or destruction of mail, a federal crime under 18 United States Code 1703.
According to the criminal complaint, sometime between October 5 and October 15, 2020, Bojgere discarded a large quantity of mail. The mail, found in a construction dumpster on Galene Drive in Louisville, included approximately 111 general election absentee ballots from the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office being mailed to voters to be filled out. The dumped mail also included approximately 69 mixed class pieces of flat rate mail, 320 second class pieces of mail, and two national election campaign flyers from a political party in Florida. An analysis of the mail revealed it was from a single route for one scheduled delivery day.
Bojgere admitted to special agents with the U.S. Postal Service that he was responsible for discarding the mail in the construction dumpster. Bojgere is no longer employed by the postal service.
Copies of the mail were made to retain as evidence, while all of the recovered mail was placed back in the mail stream for delivery to its intended recipients.
If convicted at trial, he faces no more than 5 years in prison a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release after serving the sentence.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Tieke and Tom Dyke. The case is being investigated by the United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General.
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Bullitt Co. Woman Sentenced to 94 Months in Prison for Embezzlement, Identity Theft, and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Candi Fluhr, 44, has been sentenced to a total of 94 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings followed by a 3 year term of supervised release for wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, theft from an employee benefit plan, and filing false tax returns, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman. She was also ordered to pay $838,804 in restitution between four victims.
“This is a clear-cut example of what happens when talented investigators from multiple agencies collaborate with talented prosecutors: thieves do real time in federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Criminal acts of this nature are detrimental to hardworking Americans and retirees who desperately need and rely upon their retirement benefits,” said Joe Rivers, Department of Labor Benefits Security Administration Regional Director, Cincinnati Regional Office.
“Candi Fluhr not only defrauded her employer in her scheme but defrauded the IRS through the filing of false tax returns resulting in a tax loss of over $150,000.” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
Fluhr pled guilty to four counts of wire fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, one count of theft from an employee benefit plan, and two counts of filing a false tax return. She was sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment on 7 of the counts plus 24 months’ consecutive on the aggravated identity theft conviction.
According to a sentencing memo before the Court, Fluhr personally engaged in a nearly two-year scheme to steal over $630,000 from Meyer Plumbing and its employees’ 401(k) plan. Between May 2016 and January 2018, Fluhr stole from Meyer Plumbing by forging signatures, including the signature of C.J., on company checks, creating fake checks with the company’s bank account information, making unauthorized cash withdrawals via company debit and ATM cards, and making unauthorized debit card and eTransactions using company funds for her personal benefit, including paying Court ordered restitution stemming from a prior state conviction. Fluhr also caused fraudulent payments to be made from Meyer Plumbing to Anthem Insurance company in order to obtain and maintain health care coverage for herself and her family, without actually paying any of the required employee premiums (to the tune of over $15,000 in loss to the company). By means of the fraudulent scheme, Fluhr attempted to obtain and obtained funds and services to which she knew she was not entitled totaling approximately $756,703. After her fraud was discovered, Fluhr repaid certain funds to Meyer Plumbing in 2017, in an amount of approximately $26,800, and some charges were reversed by the bank.
In addition to the straight embezzlements from the company, Fluhr also stole funds intended for Meyer Plumbing’s 401(k) Plan, an employee pension benefit plan covered by ERISA, by doctoring company bank account statements to make it appear that funds were withdrawn from the company account and moved to an American Fund account for deposits into the Plan on behalf of employees when, in fact, she left those funds in the company bank account in order to embezzle them for her own benefit. Through this method, Fluhr stole $31,882 of Plan assets intended for employees and submitted false and fraudulent documents to conceal her theft.
After her embezzlement was discovered and she was fired from Meyer Plumbing, Fluhr was hired at JLM Services (“JLM”) in mid-2019. As office manager at JLM, Fluhr had access to the company’s financial information. Using that access, Fluhr quickly began to steal again in much the same manner as she did at Meyer Plumbing. Among other methods, Fluhr embezzled funds from JLM by using the access she had to JLM’s Quickbook account to schedule payroll payments to former and fictitious employees and then rerouting the funds to a Green Dot prepaid debit card she accessed. Fluhr also stole from the company by making personal purchases on a JLM checking account and credit card and the credit card of the owner of JLM without authorization. In total, Fluhr stole $39,749 from JLM through these means before her scheme was detected.
During her time between work at Meyer Plumbing and JLM, Fluhr created and presented multiple fraudulent checks to PLS Check Cashing (“PLS”). Only one of those checks, presented in April 2018, ultimately resulted in a loss to PLS. Fluhr presented check numbered 706190201 to the customer service representative at PLS and negotiated the check for $7,741.84. The check was subsequently found to be fraudulently created by Fluhr and resulted in a loss of $7,741.84 to PLS Check Cashing.
Finally, Fluhr stole from the IRS when she filed false tax returns in 2016 and 2017 without reporting her embezzled funds. On December 6, 2017, Fluhr made and subscribed a joint U.S. Individual Tax Return, for the calendar year 2016, which was verified by a written declaration that it was made under the penalties of perjury. Fluhr did not believe the return to be true and correct as to every material matter in that the return failed to report approximately $210,678 in embezzled income on Form 1040A, reporting instead only $23,664 in income. On February 25, 2018, Fluhr made and subscribed a joint U.S. Individual Tax Return, for the calendar year 2017, which was verified by a written declaration that it was made under the penalties of perjury. Fluhr did not believe the return to be true and correct as to every material matter in that the return failed to report approximately $438,367 in embezzled income on Form 1040A, reporting instead only $23,723 in income. As a result of filing false tax returns for calendar years 2016 and 2017 in which she failed to report a total of $649,044 in embezzled funds she received, Fluhr admitted in the plea agreement that there is a total criminal tax loss of $158,270.
Fluhr has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to the Bureau of Prisons.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Tieke and Stephanie Zimdahl. The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Labor, and United States Secret Service.
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Eastern District of Kentucky Federal Prosecutor and Victim Witness Coordinator Recognized by Western District U.S. AttorneyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Russell Coleman, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky, is pleased to announce that Eastern District of Kentucky Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Bradbury and Victim Witness Coordinator Jenny Parker are the latest recipients of the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Award.
“Tackling Kentucky’s drug epidemic requires law enforcement professionals with a laser beam focus on saving lives and serving victims; collaborating across agency and even jurisdictional lines,” said Western District of Kentucky U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Our Commonwealth is blessed by having such public servants, and we are blessed to have such colleagues, as AUSA Bradbury and Ms. Parker.”
The Award commendations presented by U.S. Attorney Coleman to AUSA Bradbury and Victim Witness Coordinator Parker recognize their extraordinary service in support of education, investigation, and the prosecution of overdose cases throughout the 53 counties of the Western District.
AUSA Bradbury counseled with Western District federal prosecutors and their law enforcement partners as they formulated a plan to address overdose cases in the District. Furthermore, he routinely made himself available as a resource over the last several years to discuss best practices in investigating and prosecuting drug overdose cases which resulted in death or serious injury.
Victim Witness Coordinator Jenny Parker provided insight and guidance in the development and operational aspects of the Western District’s Drug Threat Team which focuses on educating school age children about the dangers associated with drug abuse. Ms. Parker’s expertise in the planning and execution of the Eastern District’s nationally recognized Heroin Education and Action Team (HEAT) program proved instrumental in the successful development and operation of the Western District’s Drug Threat Team.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is honoring the extraordinary efforts of its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. Additional awards will be presented during the coming months.
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ATF & LMPD Investigators Honored with U.S. Attorney’s Award for Work in Fighting Violent Crime in LouisvilleRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is pleased to announce the latest recipients of the U.S. Attorney’s Award For Excellence in Law Enforcement are Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) Detectives Holly Hogan, Tyrell Barner, and Jordan Settle, along with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agents Andrew Bledsoe and Dan Volk.
“These ATF and LMPD colleagues demonstrated a level of mission-focus and willingness to collaborate across agency barriers for a unitary purpose: the safety of Louisville families,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman. “Individuals and families across our city are safer for it.”
The Award commendation presented by U.S. Attorney Coleman to LMPD Detectives Hogan, Barner, and Settle, and ATF Special Agents Bledsoe and Volk recognizes the recipients’ extraordinary service on behalf of the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky for their work during the investigation and prosecution of Marcus Bishop. The agents and detectives broke down the silos that historically exist between law enforcement agencies and worked collaboratively to build a drug conspiracy case that included a number of other open LMPD cases – most notably the shooting of a female victim.
As a result of the award recipients’ investigative efforts, Bishop was convicted of the use of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime and three counts of possession with the intent to distribute heroin. He was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison - where there is no parole.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is honoring the extraordinary efforts of its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners across the District. Additional awards will be presented during the coming months.
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New U.S. Attorney’s Office in Bowling Green Delivering on Promises to Better Serve South Central KentuckyRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – In February of this year United States Attorney Russell Coleman officially opened a full-time staffed federal prosecutors’ office in Bowling Green, Kentucky, a first in the history of the Commonwealth.
Since the opening of the office in February and notwithstanding the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal prosecutors now living and working in Bowling Green, have presented, and the grand jury returned, 30 federal indictments in the Bowling Green division. The indictments include 18 cases involving firearms offenses, 10 of which also involved drugs, five stand-alone drug cases, two cases of child exploitation, and two cases involving fraud. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Office is actively coordinating federal investigations across 20 counties alongside numerous state, federal, and local law enforcement partners.
The scope of the enhanced law enforcement cooperation is broad, including collaboration with the following: the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force, Bowling Green Police Department, Edmonton Police Department, Allen County Sheriff’s Office, Hart County Sheriff’s Office, Metcalfe County Sheriff’s Office, Simpson County Sheriff’s Office, Todd County Sheriff’s Office, Barren River Drug Task Force, South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force, Taylor County Drug Task Force, Kentucky State Police (KSP), Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), National Parks Service (NPS), United States Marshals Service (USMS), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), along with numerous Commonwealth’s Attorneys who serve as the chief state law enforcement officers of their respective circuits.
“Promises made to better protect the families of South Central Kentucky are promises being kept,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Stay tuned as much more to come as we work with our Commonwealth’s fine lawmen and women.”
Examples of the type cases handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Office include:
- Dusty G. Westmoreland, 30, of, Summershade, Kentucky, has been charged with Robbery after he stole a truck and drug the vehicle’s owner alongside the vehicle at Mammoth Cave National Park. Westmoreland entered the victim’s Ford F-150 truck, which was stopped as the owner tried to help at the scene of an accident. The victim opened the driver’s side door attempting to stop Westmoreland from stealing the vehicle. A struggle ensued, with Westmoreland striking the victim and dragging him down the side of the road, resulting in injuries to the victim.
- Charles Joasch, 33, of Quebec, Canada, who has been indicted for conspiracy to commit mail fraud. According to the indictment, it was part of the scheme that victims were contacted and told their loved ones had been arrested. The victims were asked to send various amounts of money in cash in order to secure the release of their loved one. Charles conspired in this scheme picking up packages across Georgia, Florida, and in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He would then drop off the packages in Florida, New York, and Boston. The nationwide scheme resulted in more than $300,000 in losses. The charge carries a penalty of not more than 20 years in prison.
- Tamia N. Good, 22, of Eastpointe, Michigan, who has been charged federally with knowingly possessing a controlled substance (meth) with intent to distribute. According to a criminal complaint, Good was stopped in an Uber coming from Nashville, Tennessee and arrested on two outstanding warrants. Upon a search of the vehicle approximately 5 pounds of crystal meth was recovered. The case is being investigated by the South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
- Mark Allen Johnson, 30, of Rockfield, Kentucky, who has been charged in a three count indictment with distribution of child pornography, attempted enticement, and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. Johnson faces no less than 15 years in prison and no more than life behind bars.
Opening the full-time staffed office was a lengthy administrative process which required approval from the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, DC, and ultimately Congress. Historically, the unstaffed office space in the courthouse was used by federal prosecutors who made the two-hour commute from the U.S. Attorney’s main office in Louisville. The presence of the full-time federal prosecutors living and working in Bowling Green equates to enhanced working relationships and more robust investigative support to law enforcement agents, officers, and state prosecutors.
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The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
- Dusty G. Westmoreland, 30, of, Summershade, Kentucky, has been charged with Robbery after he stole a truck and drug the vehicle’s owner alongside the vehicle at Mammoth Cave National Park. Westmoreland entered the victim’s Ford F-150 truck, which was stopped as the owner tried to help at the scene of an accident. The victim opened the driver’s side door attempting to stop Westmoreland from stealing the vehicle. A struggle ensued, with Westmoreland striking the victim and dragging him down the side of the road, resulting in injuries to the victim.
DEA & LMPD Lawmen Honored with U.S. Attorney’s Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement for Combatting Drug Overdose DeathsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is pleased to announce the latest recipients of the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Award are Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Special Agent Nate Mills and Sergeant Tom Schardein, now retired from Louisville Metro Police Department.
“Special Agent Mills and Sergeant Schardein are a case study in how law enforcement should work, tirelessly and collaboratively, without being limited by each agency’s badge, all with the goal of saving lives and preventing further overdose deaths,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
The Award commendation presented by U.S. Attorney Coleman to Special Agent Mills and Sergeant (Retired) Schardein recognizes the recipients’ extraordinary service on behalf of the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky for their unwavering determination to save lives. Special Agent Mills and Sergeant (Retired) Schardein exemplify what it means to be public servants as demonstrated by their investigative prowess and outreach to families who have lost loved ones to drug overdoses. In addition, they have attended countless meetings and seminars working with law enforcement professionals, physicians, social workers, medical examiners, prosecutors, and community members in an effort to raise awareness and ensure the successful prosecution of those that push poison like heroin and fentanyl throughout Western Kentucky communities.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is honoring the extraordinary efforts of its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners across the District. Additional awards will be presented during the coming months.
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FDA Investigator Honored with U.S. Attorney’s Award for Excellence in Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is pleased to announce the latest recipient of the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Award is Special Agent Steve Lamp, an investigator with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“Special Agent Lamp’s dogged determination to keep the pharmaceutical supply chain secure equates to safer families across our Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “I am honored to present this award for the first time to an FDA Special Agent.”
The Award commendation presented by U.S. Attorney Coleman to Special Agent Steve Lamp is for his service on behalf of the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky for his work on a case that started as a simple theft from a pharmacy that led to three federal indictments, two in Kentucky and one in Idaho.
Lamp doggedly followed Kyle Humphrey across the mid-West learning of his thefts from multiple pharmacies and also learning of a history of domestic abuse and gun ownership. Special Agent Lamp flew to Idaho to make a final arrest in this case, catching Humphrey red-handed, with stolen pharmaceuticals and a handgun, while he was under a domestic violence order.
Because of Lamp’s work and the evidence he amassed in his investigation, Humphrey waved a detention hearing and quickly entered a plea of guilty to all three indictments.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is honoring the extraordinary efforts of its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners across the District. Additional awards will be presented throughout the District in the coming months.
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Feds Charge Man Who Victimized Good Samaritan at Mammoth Cave National ParkRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A Kentucky man who stole a truck and drug the vehicle’s owner alongside the vehicle has been charged federally, announced U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Our National Parks are to be places of respite from the outside world; not violent crime,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Violate their sanctity by victimizing other visitors and be prepared to face swift federal charges and ultimately federal prison.”
Dusty G. Westmoreland, 30, of, Summershade, Kentucky, has been charged with Robbery under 18 United States Code 2111.
According to the criminal complaint, a motor vehicle accident occurred resulting in a fire at Mammoth Cave Parkway and Brownsville Road, within the boundaries of Mammoth Cave National Park. A witness to the accident stopped to see if anyone was inside the burning vehicle. Westmoreland entered the witness’s Ford F-150 truck. The witness opened the driver side door attempting to stop Westmoreland from stealing the vehicle. A struggle ensued, with Westmoreland striking the victim and dragging him down the side of the road, resulting in injuries to the victim.
A maintenance employee of the park saw the Ford truck a short time later stopped on the side of the road in the park, and Westmoreland standing beside the truck. On-duty park rangers and the Kentucky State Police took Westmoreland into custody at gunpoint.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for Robbery within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States is not more than fifteen years.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark Yurchisin of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office is prosecuting the case. The case is being investigated by the National Park Service park rangers with assistance from the Kentucky State Police.
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Feds Charge Armed Felon Threatening Louisville PoliceRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Louisville, Kentucky, man, who allegedly threatened police in a social media video while brandishing weapons has been charged federally, announced U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. The resulting investigation and arrest will help keep police safe, and shows all levels of law enforcement working in coordination to take an armed felon who was threatening officers off of the streets.
"Louisville needs healing and safety for its citizens, not armed felons seeking bids to shoot police," said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. "Federal law enforcement here will continue to respond as one to swiftly mitigate threats to our city."
“Threats against law enforcement are unacceptable”, stated Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division of ATF. “When you threaten police and brandish firearms, you can expect the attention of ATF. This morning ATF agents, with the immediate assistance of LMPD, HSI, U.S. Marshal’s, and the FBI, executed a warrant and arrested an armed felon ensuring he wouldn’t carry out those threats.”
Cortez Lamont Edwards, 29, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to the criminal complaint, on September 23, 2020, Edwards went live on Facebook in possession of an AR variant pistol including a non-extendible support brace with an extended magazine. In the video Edwards states he is requesting being paid $30,000.00 to shoot Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officers on scene for a disturbance in the street in front of his residence. An investigation revealed that Edwards is a convicted felon based on a felony conviction in case number 19-CR-001861 from Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky for Complicity to Trafficking in a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
On September 27, 2020, Special Agents from the ATF, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Marshal Service, Federal Protective Service and officers and detectives from the Louisville Metro Police Department executed a search warrant at Edwards’ residence without incident. The defendant was located laying on a couch in the living room of his residence. A Glock model 19, 9-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, bearing serial number BPHA723, was located on the couch where Edwards was sleeping at the time of entry into the residence. At the time of entry into the living room, Edwards was the only adult present in that room and there a toddler present in a playpen.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Louisville Metro Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Marshals Service, and United States Secret Service.
Feds Charge Man for Placing Louisville Police Helicopter at RiskRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A man who pointed a laser pointer at a Louisville Metro Police Department helicopter blinding the pilots has been charged by federal criminal complaint, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman. Following the temporary blindness from the beam of the laser pointer, the two officers immediately encountered headaches that impaired their ability to safely pilot the helicopter.
“Risk the safety of police or the public in violation of federal law in Louisville and expect swift and certain federal prosecution,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Aiming a laser at aircraft is an incredibly dangerous act,” said FBI SAC Robert Brown. “Last night’s incidents threatened the safety of law enforcement who were dutifully protecting lawful protestors. The FBI will continue working with our partners to identify and investigate individuals who threaten the safety of our community.”
“Aiming a laser at our helicopter is not only illegal but it puts the lives of our officers in great danger,” said LMPD Chief Robert Schroeder. “We appreciate the support of our federal partners at the FBI and the US Attorney Russell Coleman.”
Manuel Martin Salazarleija Jr., 25, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with aiming a laser at an Aircraft in violation of 18 United States Code, Section 39A.
According to the criminal complaint, on September 25, 2020, a Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) helicopter was performing surveillance of a vehicle fleeing the scene of a Walgreens burglary in Louisville, Kentucky. While conducting surveillance, at approximately 12:15 am, the two officers piloting the helicopter were temporarily blinded by a laser being pointed directly at the helicopter. Following the temporary blindness from the beam of the laser pointer, the two officers immediately encountered headaches that impaired their ability to safely pilot the helicopter.
Special Agents with the FBI were able to determine the exact location of the occurrence while on the ground. Salazarleija was located within a residence on East Kentucky Street, Louisville, Kentucky. The FBI agents interviewed Salazarleija regarding the incident. Salazarleija admitted to intentionally aiming the beam of the laser pointer at the LMPD helicopter while the aircraft was in flight. He said he was trying to disrupt the helicopter that he assumed was surveilling the protests in Louisville.
Salazarleija further admitted to dismantling the laser pointer and hiding it in a crawl space within his bedroom. Salazarleija shined the laser from his bedroom window located on the third floor of the residence on East Kentucky Street.
Helicopters operated by other law enforcement agencies and news station WLKY also reported being targeted by laser pointer beams while in flight over this area.
The charge carries a fine or imprisonment of not more than 5 years, or both.
The case is being investigated by the Louisville Metro Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offense charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. The charge set forth in a complaint is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Statement from U.S. Attorney Russell ColemanRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Federal law enforcement here in Louisville is sworn to protect First Amendment-protected speech, to include peaceful protest. A key provision of that constitutional right though, is to be “peaceable.” Shooting this city’s law enforcement officers, looting its businesses, and committing arson at the front door of its state courthouse is far from peaceable.
Louisville has endured enough loss of life; we are experiencing historic levels of murders and shootings of our neighbors. No one else in this community should face the loss of a loved one or destruction of their place of business. Cross the line from peaceful protest into federal criminal conduct that puts people at risk and we will do everything in our power to swiftly bring federal charges. If you use lawful protest as a cover to harm this city, be prepared to stare down a federal judge.