Western District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Feds Charged Seven for Meth Trafficking in Owensboro AreaRead the Press Release
OWENSBORO, Ky. – Seven defendants have been charged by a federal Grand Jury for dealing methamphetamine in and around Owensboro, Kentucky, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“Meth is poison. It destroys lives and wrecks families,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Deal it in Daviess County and our Pennyrile Region and expect federal prosecution and significant time in federal prison.”
According to a federal indictment, James Frasier, 39, of Henderson, Kentucky, has been charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine. According to the indictment, as early as September 23, 2019, and continuing through December 20, 2019, Frasier conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the charge carries no less than a mandatory 10 years in federal prison. He also faces a charge of distribution of methamphetamine. The second charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years. There is no parole in the federal system.
Christopher Raley, 31, of Owensboro, Kentucky, has been charged in a separate federal indictment with two charges. He is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a charge that carries no less than 5 years imprisonment. Raley is also charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, for his possession of a Glock, model 19, 9 millimeter handgun and ammunition. Raley was previously convicted of trafficking in methamphetamine in 2016 and receiving stolen property in 2015, both felonies. The charge carries a penalty of no more than 10 years, if convicted.
Arthur J. Abbeduto, 26, of Whitesville, Kentucky, has been charged in a single count indictment. According to the indictment, on or about July 19, 2019, he knowingly possessed with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of a mixture containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. The charge carries no less than 10 years in federal prison, if convicted.
Stephen Autry, 44, of Owensboro, Kentucky; Christina Ray, 35, of Owensboro, Kentucky; and George Quarles, 45, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, are all charged in a single count indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine. According to the indictment, beginning on at least January 24, 2020, and continuing up to and through February 11, 2020, the three knowingly and intentionally conspired with one another and others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. If convicted, the charge carries no less than 10 years in federal prison.
One other defendant has been charged by federal criminal complaint. David E. Brown, 43, of Henderson, Kentucky, faces charges for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to the complaint, in a post-Miranda interview, Brown admitted to trafficking and distributing multiple pound quantities of methamphetamine for the last four years, approximately. During a search, law enforcement seized numerous items, including: a large amount of currency, a money counter, a drug ledger, two digital scales, a loaded .22 caliber Phoenix Arms brand handgun, approximately 10 grams of a substance that had a presumptive field test for cocaine, numerous bags believed to contain over 1,000 grams of marijuana, and a large bag containing pills presumed to be ecstasy.
“The Owensboro Police Department is committed to aggressively pursuing those who continue to prey on some of our most vulnerable citizens by exploiting their addictions for financial gain,” said Owensboro Police Chief Art Ealum. “We are grateful for the united front displayed by our federal, state and local partners to combat drug trafficking in the Greater Owensboro Metropolitan Area.
Drug trafficking is not a victimless crime; therefore, those who engage in such crime should be held to account,” he continued. “I am especially appreciative of U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman for his support in prosecuting the individuals who perpetuate the cycle of drug trafficking and violent crime in our community.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “The individuals arrested during this investigation were responsible for peddling poison into Owensboro and our surrounding communities. Anytime we can take dangerous drugs and firearms off the streets it is a big win! The DEA Evansville HIDTA Resident Office is committed to working with the Owensboro Police Department and our other federal, state, and local partners to investigate and arrest these drug traffickers to keep our communities safe. The DEA appreciates the exceptional work, by all involved, to bring these individuals to justice. “
Multiple partner agencies are involved in the investigations including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Owensboro Police Department, Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, Henderson Police Department, the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, and the Kentucky State Police.
The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury or charge by federal criminal complaint are accusations only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Fed Gun Prosecution of Man Who Killed 7-Year Old Child in Louisville Results in Nearly 6 Year SentenceRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Louisville, Kentucky, man, who fired the shot that killed a 7-year old child on May 21, 2017, has been sentenced to 70 months, followed by 3 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom. Judge Boom also sentenced Williams to 24 hours per year of community service speaking about gun violence in this community. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Dequante Hobbs’ seven years of life mattered; to his family, his neighborhood, and to his entire community,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Law enforcement is but one tool, but we seek to use it wisely to target the trigger-pullers like Wyatt Williams who are ending the promising young lives of so many of our neighbors here in Louisville.”
Wyatt Lamar Williams, 26, of Louisville, Kentucky, pled guilty to three counts of possession of a firearm while he was addicted to or a user of a controlled substance on January 10, 2020.
According to a sentencing memo from the United States, Williams used social media to sell and distribute firearms to others within the community and admitted freely to using controlled substances. Furthermore, one of the firearms the defendant possessed was stolen.
Williams actions with a firearm ended the life of Dequante Hobbs in Louisville. According to reports a dispute broke out at a dice game near Dequante’s residence. During the dispute, Williams began firing a Bersa .380 caliber pistol at others involved in the dice game. One of the rounds from the firearm went through a window at a nearby residence and struck the 7-year old child, causing his death. Louisville Metro Police Department homicide detectives identified Williams as the shooter in the killing and arrested him.
On May 23, 2017, two-days after Dequante’s death, Williams was found in possession of yet another firearm – a stolen Hi-Point 9 millimeter pistol.
The defendant was also successfully prosecuted by the Office of Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine and previously pled guilty in Jefferson Circuit Court to second degree manslaughter, two counts of wanton endangerment and receiving a stolen firearm, and received a 20 year state sentence.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tom Dyke & Larry Fentress (now retired) and United States Attorney Russell Coleman. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in concert with the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD).
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Paducah Police Department Drug Unit Receives First-Ever U.S. Attorney’s Award for Excellence in Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is pleased to announce that the first-ever recipient of the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Award is the Paducah Police Department Drug Unit.
“Paducah has much to be proud of in its Police Department and the PPD Drug Unit, the core mission of which is to fight to remove the poison that threatens the most vulnerable among us and the violence caused by drug trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “The Keeton Corrections facility had long been a thorn in the side of this community and risk to its neighbors. Addressing that threat is a gold standard example of how the feds can come alongside our local law enforcement partners to maximize our ability to keep West Kentucky families safe.”
The Award commendation presented by U.S. Attorney Coleman to Captain Matt Smith, Sergeant Shawn Craven, Detective Corey Willenborg, Detective Beau Green, Detective Nathan Jaimet, and Detective Matt Scheer reads as follows: “In recognition of your exceptional service to the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky. Your dedication and professionalism are in keeping with the highest standards of American law enforcement and reflect great credit on you, the Paducah Police Department, and all law enforcement officers who dedicate their lives to keeping the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky safe.”
The Paducah Police Department’s Drug Unit conducted a nearly two-month long investigation into the drug running activities at a Paducah halfway house resulting in eight arrests. With the assistance of Keeton Corrections and the Kentucky Office of Probation and Parole, detectives were able to execute numerous search warrants – including of the correctional facility. The searches revealed additional drugs and weapons, to include contraband that placed correctional officers at risk.
Several of those arrested have been charged both at the state and federal level. Ralph Gaines Jr. received a 15 year federal sentence as an armed career criminal. David Jones was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison. DeAnthony Woods entered an open guilty plea and will be sentenced in October of this year; he faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison. There is not parole in the federal system.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is honoring the extraordinary efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement officials across the District. Additional awards will be presented throughout the District in the coming months.
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Feds Prosecute Additional Louisville LootersRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Three defendants are now charged by a federal Grand Jury as a result of civil unrest in Jefferson County during the period of Monday, June 1, 2020, through Wednesday, June 3, 2020. The defendants charged are alleged to have engaged in looting a neighborhood pharmacy for controlled substances and firearms from a licensed dealer. This indictment is additive to multiple charges recently announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the looting of neighborhood pharmacies for controlled substances, carjacking, and illegal possession of firearms by convicted felons. These indictments bring the total number of these defendants federally charged to 11.
“In Louisville we honor and protect lawful protest, but loot our businesses and expect to go to federal prison,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
Kroger Pharmacy Burglary
According to the indictment, on or about June 2, 2020, Jordan K. Johnson and Frederick F. Reed conspired with one another to enter the Kroger located at 2710 West Broadway with the intent to steal controlled substances. Both Johnson and Reed are charged with conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances. The charge carries a penalty of no more than 10 years in prison.
Johnson and Reed are also charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances for their possession with intent to distribute alprazolam (Xanax), a schedule IV controlled substance, between June 2, 2020 and July 1, 2020. The charge carries a maximum penalty of no more than 5 years in prison.
Johnson is also charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. On July 1, 2020, Johnson possessed a Glock, model 42, .380 handgun. He had previously been convicted in Hart County Circuit Court, in case number 10-CR-0170 of facilitation of robbery in the first degree, a felony. The count carries a penalty of no more than 10 years in prison.
Stolen firearms
De’Aisjia S. Shrivers has also been charged via superseding federal indictment returned today. According to the indictment, on or about June 2, 2020, Shrivers aided and abetted by others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, stole three firearms from a business licensed to sell guns. The charge of stealing from a licensed dealer carries a penalty of no more than 10 years in prison.
Shrivers is also charged with a single count of possession of a stolen firearm, a Glock, model 30 Gen 4, .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol. The charge carries a penalty of no more than 10 years in prison.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Secret Service, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating these cases.
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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Federal Task Force Formed in Response to Significant Increase in Louisville CarjackingsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – As carjacking skyrockets in Louisville, the FBI, joined by the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco & Firearms, Homeland Security Investigations, Jefferson Co. Sheriff’s Office and the Kentucky State Police have set up a new task force in an effort to take more cases federal – where penalties range up to more than a decade in a federal penitentiary and parole does not exist. This new effort will be in close consultation with the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
Carjacking is a federal crime punishable by imprisonment of up to 15 years and a fine of $250,000. However, if a victim of a carjacking suffers serious bodily injury, the maximum term of imprisonment is up to 25 years. And, if the carjacking victim is killed as a result of the carjacking, a defendant may be imprisoned for any number of years up to life, or sentenced to death. Additionally, if the defendant brandishes a firearm, a consecutive mandatory minimum sentence of seven years is added. If a firearm is discharged, a consecutive mandatory minimum sentence of ten years is added to the sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Put Louisville families at risk though carjacking then be prepared to go to federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “We will respond to this increasing threat to neighborhoods across our city and pledge closer collaboration with our state & local partners to reverse the disturbing trend.”
The FBI Louisville Field Office and law enforcement partners are offering incentives in the form of federal overtime, vehicles and training for Jefferson County law enforcement agencies who are participating in the task force.
"Helping to foster safe communities continues to be a primary focus of FBI Louisville,” said FBI Louisville Division SAC Robert Brown. “As preventing violent crime is a bedrock of the FBI, we look forward to working with and leading a new violent crime task force comprised of FBI, ATF, LMPD, KSP, HSI, and JCSO."
“We have seen a disturbing number of carjackings over the past few weeks,” said LMPD Interim Chief Rob Schroeder. “We are grateful for this collaboration with our federal partners, who always step up for this city when we see spikes in crime or alarming trends in violence.”
“Carjackings are violent crimes that harm our communities and threaten the public’s safety,” stated R. Shawn Morrow, ATF Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville Division. “ATF Special Agents will work closely with our law enforcement partners in order to stop this trend and find those responsible. The combined efforts of our law enforcement partners with the U.S. Attorney’s Office will go a long way in quickly shutting down these violent robberies.”
“The reduction and prevention of violent crime is important regardless where it takes place in our state,” said KSP Commissioner Rodney Brewer. “The Kentucky State Police is committed to providing whatever resources we have available to combat carjacking and other crimes in and around the Louisville Metro region.”
There has already been one such carjacking case taken federal in Louisville. Damion Lemont Hayes, 20, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with carjacking. Hayes was on a felony diversion at the time of the carjacking as a result of a February 2020 conviction for charges that were initially filed as complicity to murder and complicity to robbery.
According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, the victim was driving a black 2017 Subaru Forester with a friend down Bardstown Road. The two victims ran into protestors and police activity on Bardstown – they parked to see what was going on. As the victims were walking they were asked for a ride by two females and five males. They all walked back to the victims’ Subaru, however, only three of the males got in the car.
The victim continued to drive down Bardstown, but was caught in traffic. According to the victim, she was uncomfortable with the men in the car, and told them she needed to get gas. She was directed by one of the men to BP, where one of the men put $20 worth of gas in the Subaru. The driver was then directed to drive to three different houses.
The victim reported she wanted the men out of the car, and as she turned to tell them she needed to get home one of the men in the rear passenger side of the car pointed a gun at her. At that point both victims were forced out of the car. The men attempted to take their cell phones, according to the complaint. A minor struggle ensued and one of the men was sprayed with mace by the owner of the car.
The federal carjacking charge carries a penalty of no more than 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky State Police, the Jefferson Co. Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Attorney’s Office comprise the task force with additional local departments expected to participate as well.
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Previous Recipient of Executive Commutation Federally Indicted for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A Logan County, Kentucky, man, who previously received a commuted sentence for a felony drug conviction by former Gov. Matt Bevin has today been federally charged with armed drug trafficking, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“This is the type of collaboration that those we serve should expect from the new U.S. Attorney’s Office Bowling Green Branch working alongside our partners in the recently federally-designated South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force in Logan and Simpson Counties,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
Kenneth S. Embry, 33, of Russellville, Kentucky, has been charged via a three count federal indictment with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to a criminal complaint, on or about April 1, 2020, Agents with the South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force learned Embry was trafficking large amounts of methamphetamine. Utilizing investigative techniques task force agents obtained a warrant for a motel room occupied by Embry. A search of his car revealed approximately 166 grams of crystal methamphetamine and a Colt .380 semiautomatic pistol. A search of the motel room produced numerous items of drug paraphernalia including: digital weight scales, unused clear plastic baggies and smoking devices. Agents also uncovered a plastic baggie containing a brown powder substance, suspected to be heroin.
Embry is a convicted felon with convictions for possession of a controlled substance in Logan County Circuit Court cases 13-CR-00009 and 19-CR-00054.
The defendant faces no less than 10 years and no more than life in prison for possession with intent to distribute Methamphetamine. He faces no more than 10 years for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and no less than 5 years and no more than life for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
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 South Central Drug Task Force which was designated last month by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy as part of the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
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Feds Charge 14 for Multi-Year Armed Drug Conspiracy Associated with Gang-Related Activity in LouisvilleRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A multi-year, multi-agency effort targeting violent crime in Louisville has resulted in a significant number of arrests and federal charges for the armed distribution of deadly drugs including fentanyl in the city, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
Fourteen individuals have been arrested and charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone and methamphetamine in one of the largest federal takedowns of its type in recent history in Louisville. The charges are an outgrowth of a targeted focus on violent crime in Louisville following historic homicide rates in 2016 and a one third increase in murders and over 100% increase in shootings in the city thus far in 2020.
“The single most impactful way to demonstrate that the lives of Black families, their children, and young men of color actually do matter in Louisville is to reduce murders and shootings in their neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This unified effort to dismantle a group driver of violence in this city builds on our increased federal prosecution over the last three years of the trigger-pullers that are decimating Black families and flooding the UofL Emergency Department with victims.”
“Last year, FBI Louisville and its law enforcement partners initiated an investigation into a neighborhood-based gang after it was identified as being one of Louisville's most violent,” said FBI Special Agent In-Charge Robert Brown Jr. “This operation was the culmination of a strategic targeting of violent offenders. We recognize people living in areas impacted by violence deserve to see their children grow up in safe neighborhoods. The FBI is dedicated to doing its part, but it will take everyone working together to root out violence, mistrust, and fear.”
“Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF and our partners disrupted a criminal organization operating in metro Louisville, by identifying violent offenders and their sources of crime guns and taking them off the street. We will continue to work closely with local and federal law enforcement to keep our communities safe and to hold offenders accountable.”
According to a federal grand jury indictment, beginning December 7, 2017, through June 17, 2020, all 14 defendants knowingly conspired to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, and methamphetamine. The defendants include: Levontay Townes, Deonte Beason, Dariyon Newsome, Kevone Evans, Khalid Ashanti Raheem II, Frank Trammel Jr., Destiney Lashai Rhodes, Kevin Henry, Jen-Luc Henry, Reginald Harris, James Bivens, Pierre Travis, and Jason Edwin Logsdon.
The charge carries a penalty of no less than 5 years, and no more than 40 years imprisonment, a maximum fine of $5 million, and no less than 4 years of supervised release. If a defendant has a prior qualifying conviction, the charge carries no less than 10 years and no more than life in prison, and no less than 8 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Destiney Lashai Rhodes also faces a charge of false statement during the purchase of a firearm in connection with the December 11, 2019, purchase of an F.N., model Five-Seven, 5.7 millimeter pistol and a Del-Ton Inc., model DTI-15, 5.56 millimeter pistol.
The charge carries a penalty of no more than 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and no more than 3 years supervised release.
Frank Trammell Jr., faces an additional charge of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. On or about December 11, 2019, Trammell possessed an F.N., model Five-Seven, 5.7 millimeter pistol and a Del-Ton Inc., model DTI-15, 5.56 millimeter pistol. The defendant had been previously convicted in Jefferson County on August 30, 2018, in case number 17-CR-3414, of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On February 25, 2014, he was convicted in case number 13-CR-0858-003, of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree (more than 4 grams of cocaine), possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, enhanced trafficking in marijuana, and enhanced possession of drug paraphernalia, all felonies. On August 15, 2013, Trammell was also convicted in case number 11-CR-0400-004, of complicity to commit burglary in the first degree, a felony.
The charge carries a penalty of no more than 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and 3 years of supervised release. With three prior qualifying convictions the charge carries a penalty of no less than 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and no more than 3 years supervised release.
The Grand Jury further charged Dariyon Newsome and Kevone Evans with possession on March 10, 2020, of a Smith & Wesson, model M&P15, 5.56 caliber rifle, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a quantity of a mixture and substance containing heroin with the intent to distribute.
The charge carries a mandatory 5 year term of imprisonment consecutive to the underlying possession with intent to distribute sentence, and no more than life, a maximum fine of $250,000, and no more than 5 years supervised release.
Levontay Townes was further charged by the Grand Jury with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. On May 14, 2020. Townes did knowingly possess a Springfield 9 millimeter pistol and ammunition. The defendant has previously been convicted in Jefferson County in case number 11-CR-0173-003 and in case number 10-CR-3252-001, of robbery in the second degree (two counts), possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree (cocaine), and tampering with physical evidence, all felonies. On May 10, 2010, Townes was convicted in Jefferson County in case number 08-CR-3681-001, of robbery in the first degree, a felony.
The charge carries a penalty of no more than 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and no more than 3 years supervised release.
Townes also faces charges for possession with intent to distribute heroin, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
He faces no more than 20 years for possession with intent to distribute heroin, no less than 5 years in a consecutive sentence on each charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, no more than 10 years for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and no more than 20 years for possession with intent to distribute heroin.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
The charges set forth in an Indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Shuts Down Multiple Websites Claiming to Offer Preorders for COVID-19 VaccineRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky has filed a lawsuit in federal court in Louisville, Kentucky to shut down a webpage, six related web addresses and a related Facebook page that the suit says are attempting to lure consumers to “pre-register” for a non-existent COVID-19 vaccine in exchange for $100 worth of Bitcoin (“BTC”), a type of cryptocurrency. The lawsuit names Luke John Flint, of Louisville, Kentucky, doing business through “coronavaccine.center”, “coronavaccine.today”; “coronatesting.site”; “coronatesting.center”; “coronavaccine.shop”; “coronavaccine.club”; and “covid19vaccine.center. Today a federal judge entered an order prohibiting Flint and others associated with the websites from committing wire fraud, maintaining and doing business through the websites and social media, and destroying business records.
According to the civil complaint, the purpose of these websites, which contain several false statements, is to induce victims to pay Flint and those working in concert with him for a non-existent vaccine for COVID-19 amid the global pandemic. There is currently no known FDA approved COVID-19 vaccine. The website and related Facebook page lists the Corona Vaccine Center’s address as 545 South Clay Street, Louisville, KY, which is nothing more than an empty parking lot/field.
The civil complaint further alleges that Flint is not a licensed medical professional and he is not registered with the FDA to investigate or develop a COVID-19 vaccine, and as such, he could not legally distribute a vaccine. When interviewed by federal agents, Flint admitted that there is no known FDA approved vaccine for COVID-19 and that he is unaware if and when one would become available. During this interview, Flint also admitted that he is not a licensed medical professional and is not registered with the FDA to distribute a vaccine for COVID-19, if and when one becomes available.
“Seeking to profit during a global pandemic by offering false hope is both foul and flat out puts vulnerable people at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “We will pursue every available legal tool in our toolkit to swiftly put an end to such predatory conduct.”
Flint has signed an agreed injunction, agreeing that the “United States can establish by a preponderance of the evidence that Defendant is about to violate or is violating” the federal wire fraud statute.
The case is styled United States of America v. Luke John Flint, 3:20-cv-489-CHB. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Elver and William F. Campbell are handling the case. The investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
If you think you are a victim of a scam or attempted fraud involving COVID-19, you can report it without leaving your home by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Two Men Sentenced in Child Exploitation CasesRead the Press Release
COMPUTER MONITORING OF PREVIOUSLY CONVICTED CAMPBELLSVILLE, KY, MAN LEADS TO 15 YEAR SENTENCE
MADISON, IN, MAN ON SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS FOR TRAVELING TO HAVE SEX WITH YOUNG CHILD
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. - A Campbellsville, Kentucky, man, has been sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment followed by a lifetime of supervised release for attempted receipt of child pornography and accessing the internet with intent to view child pornography, thanks to detection software monitored by United States Probation officers. James S. Wolfe, 56, was found guilty of the charges by jury trial in January after less than 30 minutes of deliberation.
LOUISVILE, Ky. - A Madison, Indiana, man, Jon Michael Helms, 46, was also sentenced on Monday. Helms was sentenced by United States District Judge Justin R. Walker to 30 years’ imprisonment followed by a lifetime of supervised release for interstate travel to engage in a sexual act with a child under 12.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“We as parents must face the reality of the growing threat to our kids from the combination of predators and technology; not just to other families or neighborhoods, but a risk to every household with a screen,” said U.S Attorney Russell Coleman. “Though the bright spot being that whether the badge of a U.S. Secret Service Agent, Kentucky Attorney General Detective, U.S. Probation Officer, or credentials of a federal prosecutor, Kentucky law enforcement is unified in giving no quarter in battling to keep our children safe.”
U.S. v. James S. Wolfe
On July 2, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Superseding Indictment charging Wolfe with attempted receipt of child pornography and accessing with the intent to view child pornography. At the time of the charges, Wolfe was serving a 10-year term of Supervised Release imposed by the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia. In that case, Wolfe pleaded guilty to one count of possessing child pornography.
On November 29, 2017, Wolfe was released from the Bureau of Prisons and his 10-year term of Supervised Release commenced. The United States Probation Office in the Western District of Kentucky agreed to accept Wolfe for supervision after changes were made to the conditions of the supervision. Wolfe moved to Campbellsville, Kentucky, where he lived with his mother and older brother. He requested permission to have access to a computer. The United States Probation Office agreed to the request, but Wolfe was supposed to use the computer with internet access to seek employment and conduct routine business. And, the computer had to have monitoring software loaded on it to keep track of Wolfe’s activities. The supervising Probation Officer met with Wolfe and explained the monitoring process to him and his mother. Computer monitoring began on April 24, 2018.
Less than a week later, the monitoring company contacted the Probation Officer concerning Wolfe’s search activities. On May 7, 2018, the Probation Office received notification that Wolfe’s computer was not reporting back to the monitoring company’s servers. Two days after the reinstallation of the monitoring software the Probation Office was again notified of concerning activity on Wolfe’s computer. The search terms clearly referred to children and sexual activity. On May 25, 2018, the supervising Probation Officer conducted an unscheduled home visit and made contact with Wolfe and his mother. When confronted by the Probation Officer concerning the online activity, Wolfe stated that he didn’t think anything he had searched or viewed constituted pornography. The Probation Officer seized the computer, an unauthorized cellular telephone and numerous pages of handwritten notes (containing, among other things, lists of web sites).
A forensic examination of the computer conducted by the United States Secret Service revealed search terms indicative of child sexual exploitation as well as shadow copies of images depicting the sexual exploitation of children. The Secret Service prepared a report and provided it to the United States Probation Office. The United States Probation Officer submitted the information to the Court in support of an action to revoke Wolfe’s Supervised Release and Senior United States District Judge Joseph H. McKinley, Jr., revoked his release on June 3, 2019. Wolfe’s conduct also led to the filing of the new charges for which he was convicted by a jury on January 15, 2020, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, before Chief United States District Judge Greg N. Stivers.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless and was investigated by the United States Probation Office and the United States Secret Service.
U.S. v. Jon Michael Helms
According to the Plea Agreement, a Detective with the Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations engaged in an online undercover investigation concerning child sexual exploitation. The Detective entered a secret group on a social media platform while maintaining an Undercover Persona (UC). On July 20, 2018, the Detective received a message from an unknown party on the Messenger Application with the username: “heartbreaker1974,” who sent several images and videos of suspected Child Sex Abuse during the time the Detective observed the group chat.
On July 30, 2018, "heartbreaker 1974" – later determined to be Jon Michael Helms -- sent a direct message to the UC over the application. During the conversation, Helms stated he was a male in Madison, Indiana, and that he had been engaging his daughter in sexual abuse from 6 months of age until the present (claiming child was 10 at the time). He then provided two images of a female child purported to be his daughter along with a phone number. Helms and the Detective talked on the phone and continued communicating for several days. During that time, the Detective learned Helms’ identity as well as the fact that he was listed on the Indiana Sex Offender Registry (underlying conviction -- 2014 in Jennings County, Indiana, for possession of child pornography).
Helms requested to meet with the Detective (who he believed was an 11-year-old child) to engage in sexual acts. Helms also stated he had previously engaged in sex with a two-year-old child. The two agreed to meet on August 4, 2018, in Louisville, Kentucky. Law enforcement officials tracked Helms from Madison to Louisville. When they saw him approaching the agreed upon location, they stopped the car and arrested Helms, the only passenger in the vehicle. After being advised of his constitutional rights, Helms waived those rights and admitted that he had travelled to Louisville from his home in Indiana to meet a person he had communicated with over the messaging application. He also admitted that he had posted images and videos of child pornography to the app. Later review of his phone confirmed it had been used by Helms to communicate with the Detective.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless. The Kentucky Office of Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations led the investigation with significant assistance from the United States Secret Service.
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California Genetic Testing Company Agrees to Pay $8.25 Million to Resolve False Claims Allegations; Paducah, Ky, Area Hospital Also SettlesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced an $8.25 million settlement with Agendia, Inc., a molecular diagnostics testing company based in Irvine, California, for an alleged nationwide scheme to bill Medicare for Agendia’s flagship genetic test, MammaPrint. The MammaPrint test analyzes the activity of certain genes within a breast cancer tumor to predict the risk of breast cancer recurrence in patients.
“When all the legal jargon is stripped away, this was about delaying the submission of breast cancer screening tests at the expense of our vitally important Medicare program,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “From our largest urban hospitals to medical facilities in the Purchase Region, this conduct will not be tolerated in the Western District of Kentucky.”
The allegations resolved by this settlement were first brought in a lawsuit filed by former employee of Lourdes Hospital, located in Paducah, Kentucky, under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government for false claims and to receive a share of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Flick v. Agendia, Inc. and Mercy Health Partners – Lourdes, Inc. (3:15-cv-050-JRW). The United States intervened in the Civil Action for purposes of settlement in May 2020.
The United States contends that Agendia conspired with hospitals to artificially delay ordering the MammaPrint genetic assay in order to circumvent Medicare’s 14-Day Rule (which establishes who may bill Medicare for certain lab service). During the time period covered by the settlement, Medicare’s 14-Day Rule prohibited laboratories from separately billing Medicare for tests performed on specimens if a physician ordered the test within 14 days of the patient’s discharge from a hospital, regardless as to whether the patient was in an outpatient or inpatient setting. However, if the test was performed 14 days after discharge, then Medicare’s 14-Day Rule permitted laboratories to bill Medicare directly for the test.
The United States alleges Agendia engaged in a nationwide scheme to circumvent Medicare’s 14-Day Rule so that it could inappropriately bill Medicare directly for its MammaPrint tests that were ordered within 14 days. The United States contends that Agendia perpetrated this scheme in one of two ways:
- One way involved Agendia frequently refusing to perform MammaPrint tests if a Medicare patient had been discharged less than 14 days earlier. Agendia would cancel the order and then ask a physician to resubmit the order after the 14-day period had lapsed.
- A second way used what Agendia employees coined a “Medicare hold” system, whereby Agendia automatically held orders for Medicare patients at the time they were received, refusing to test the specimens until 14 days after the patient’s discharge. For orders placed in this “Medicare hold,” Agendia personnel set calendar reminders for the fourteenth day after the patient had been discharged. Agendia personnel then contacted the doctor who had ordered testing, and asked the doctor to “confirm” the order. Agendia then used the “confirmed” date for purposes of billing Medicare instead of the date the test was originally ordered.
In a separate settlement, the United States contended that Mercy Health – Lourdes Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky, worked in concert with Agendia to circumvent the date of service rules. Following breast biopsy procedures, Lourdes Hospital held tissue specimens for 14 days or longer after patients were discharged before sending them to Agendia for testing. Despite knowing the specimen should be immediately sent to Agendia, Lourdes held the test orders for 14 days or longer in order to allow Agendia to separately bill Medicare for the test. This also meant that Lourdes avoided paying Agendia for the testing. In 2017, Lourdes Hospital paid the United States $211,039.28 to settle these false claims allegations.
The matter was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah C. Choate and Benjamin S. Schecter. The investigation was conducted by the Office of Inspector General Health and Human Services.
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Feds Charge Additional Defendant for Looting Neighborhood Pharmacy During Civil UnrestRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a man for attempting to rob a pharmacy during civil unrest in Louisville. This indictment is additive to multiple charges recently announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the looting of neighborhood pharmacies for controlled substances, carjacking, and illegal possession of firearms by convicted felons.
“What does looting a relied-upon neighborhood pharmacy for drugs have to do with constitutionally-protected speech seeking change in policing; nothing,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Federal law enforcement will stand as one to protect our neighbors in all neighborhoods of Louisville.”
Christopher Tinsley, 27, of Louisville, has been charged with conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances by a Federal Grand Jury sitting in Louisville. According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, LMPD responded to a burglary in progress at Walgreens on 5201 S. 3rd St. Louisville, Kentucky. Police observed multiple people fleeing the business when they arrived. Tinsley was detained at that time along with Vontreil Bailey, 30, of Louisville, who the U.S. Attorney’s Office previously announced was charged with conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances.
During a law enforcement interview on June 6, 2020, an employee of the business advised that the burglary had severely affected Walgreens’ ability to conduct business as patients prescriptions had been stolen, and the pharmacy was left in disarray.
The charges carry a penalty of no more than 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating the case.
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Department of Justice Announces $42 Million to Combat Illegal Manufacture and Distribution of Methamphetamine and OpioidsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Department of Justice‘s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) today announced nearly $42 million in funding to support state-level law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and prescription opioids.
The Kentucky State Police will receive more than $2.4 million in funding to support investigations into trafficking in heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
“These are real federal resources to the tune of $2 million to assist Kentucky’s Finest in saving the lives of our families, friends, and neighbors from meth and opioids,” said Russell Coleman, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
“Opioids and methamphetamine are the two greatest drug threats facing the Commonwealth, and this funding will be invaluable in assisting the Kentucky State Police to pursue targeted investigations and enforcement actions involving the unlawful distribution of these poisons throughout Kentucky,” said Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky.
“The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis.”
Drug overdose deaths and opioid-involved deaths continue to increase in the United States. Deaths from drug overdose are up among both men and women, all races, and adults of nearly all ages, with more than three out of five drug overdose deaths involving an opioid. More than 130 people die every day in the United States after overdosing on opioids, while methamphetamine continues to be one of the most commonly misused stimulant drugs in the world and is the drug that most contributes to violent crime.
The COPS Office is awarding more than $29.7 million in grant funding to 14 state law enforcement agency task forces through the Anti-Heroin Task Force Program (AHTF). AHTF provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies with multijurisdictional reach and interdisciplinary team (e.g., task force) structures, in states with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids. This funding will support the location or investigation of illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
The Kentucky State Police will receive $1,455,320.00 in Anti-Heroin Task Force Program funding.
Through the COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP), the COPS Office is also awarding $12 million to 12 state law enforcement agencies. These state agencies have demonstrated numerous seizures of precursor chemicals, finished methamphetamine, laboratories, and laboratory dump seizures. State agencies are being awarded three years of funding through CAMP to support the location or investigation of illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine, including precursor diversion, laboratories, or methamphetamine trafficking.
Kentucky State Police is also receiving $1 million in Anti-Methamphetamine Program funds.
The AHTF and CAMP funding has a tremendous impact on state investigative and seizure work. During the five month period between October 2019 and February 2020, current AHTF grantees reported the seizure of over $4 million in cash and 1,213 firearms. Similarly, for CAMP, grantees reported seizures of more than $7 million in cash and 1,577 firearms.
The complete list of Anti-Heroin Task Force Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/ahtf-award
The complete list of COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/camp-award
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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Louisville Riot Activity Results in Multiple Federal Indictments for Pharmacy Looting, Carjacking, and Armed FelonsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced federal indictments returned against multiple individuals in Louisville, Kentucky, as a result of civil unrest in Jefferson County during the period Monday, June 1, through Wednesday, June 3, 2020. The defendants charged are alleged to have engaged in robbing area pharmacies, a carjacking, and the illegal possession of firearms.
“Our black neighbors and the safety of the neighborhoods in which they live matter,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Which is why looting local pharmacies for dangerous drugs, carrying weapons as a convicted felon, carjacking, and a felon traveling to our city to put police and protestors at risk will not be tolerated by federal law enforcement here. These federal charges, with more to come, seek to respond to lawlessness that has nothing to do with constitutionally-protected protest and everything to do with exploiting Louisville’s challenges for their own gain.”
“Protecting our community’s First Amendment right to peacefully protest is of utmost importance to the FBI. The individuals named in these indictments attempted to subvert peaceful protests for their own personal gain and ultimately threatened the rights and safety of law-abiding citizens,” Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office. “FBI Louisville will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to identify, locate, and apprehend those exploiting nonviolent protests and to ensure individuals wanting to be heard can do so safely.”
“At the request of the Attorney General, ATF has deployed resources and is supporting our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to uphold the rule of law,” stated ATF Louisville Division Special Agent in Charge, R. Shawn Morrow. “These defendants threatened the safety of Metro Louisville and were acting outside of residents who were peacefully assembled. Further, ATF will continue to aggressively investigate the illegal use of firearms and the often resulting violent crime in order to secure the safety of our communities.”
Pharmacy Robberies
● Vontreil Bailey, 30, of Louisville, has been charged with conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances. According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, LMPD responded to a burglary in progress at Walgreens on 5201 S. 3rd St. Louisville, Kentucky. Police observed multiple people fleeing the business when they arrived. Bailey was detained at that time with the prescriptions still in hand. During a Law Enforcement interview on June 6, 2020, an employee of the business advised that the burglary had severely affected Walgreens’ ability to conduct business as patients prescriptions had been stolen, and the pharmacy was left in disarray.
Bailey has numerous previous convictions including: multiple convictions for theft by deception, menacing, fleeing and evading police, wanton endangerment, robbery and burglary.
● Jean-Pierre Crowdus, 31, Frederick D. Eaves, 31, and Channel Lewis, 26, all of Louisville, Kentucky, have also all been charged federally with Conspiracy to Commit Burglary Involving Controlled Substances for breaking in and looting at the CVS drug store at 3130 Portland Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky.
Eaves has also been charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
The charges carry a penalty of no more than 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
Carjacking
● Damion Lemont Hayes, 20, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with carjacking. Hayes was on a felony diversion at the time of the carjacking as a result of a February 2020 conviction for charges that were initially filed as complicity to murder and complicity to robbery.
According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, the victim was driving a black 2017 Subaru Forester with a friend down Bardstown Road. The two victims ran into protestors and police activity on Bardstown – they parked to see what was going on. As the victims were walking they were asked for a ride by two females and five males. They all walked back to the victims’ Subaru, however, only three of the males got in the car.
The victim continued to drive down Bardstown, but was caught in traffic. According to the victim, she was uncomfortable with the men in the car, and told them she needed to get gas. She was directed by one of the men to BP, where one of the men put $20 worth of gas in the Subaru. The driver was then directed to drive to three different houses.
The victim reported she wanted the men out of the car, and as she turned to tell them she needed to get home one of the men in the rear passenger side of the car pointed a gun at her. At that point both victims were forced out of the car. The men attempted to take their cell phones, according to the complaint. A minor struggle ensued and one of the men was sprayed with mace by the owner of the car.
The victims reported they were left at Strader and Wheeler Street in Louisville at 12:23 a.m. on June 3, 2020.
On June 4, 2020, at approximately 1:40 a.m. LMPD officers were in pursuit of the Subaru, which flipped into the median off I-64. At that time five people were inside the vehicle, all of whom were taken to the University of Louisville Hospital. One of the occupants at the time of the crash was defendant Hayes, who was arrested by LMPD on state charges.
The federal carjacking charge carries a penalty of no more than 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
Felons in Possession of Firearms
● Brian N. Dean, Jr., 24 of Louisville, is charged by a Grand Jury Indictment with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to a criminal complaint, on June 3, 2020, LMPD officers responding to a call of shots fired identified Dean as a person who matched the description of a subject who pointed a gun at an individual. Officers approached Dean, upon noticing the outline of a gun in his pocket he was detained, and officers recovered a Glock, model 43, 9mm, with a loaded magazine.
Dean was previously convicted in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with Robbery in the Second Degree (two counts) and Burglary in the Second Degree; all felonies.
● Tevin R. Patton, 27, of Memphis, Tennessee, has also been charged for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The federal criminal complaint asserts that the Memphis, Tennessee, man drew a firearm in downtown Louisville.
According to the criminal complaint, on Monday, June 1, 2020, at approximately 10:20 pm Patton was viewed by law enforcement who were conducting surveillance near South 5th St. in downtown Louisville. During the surveillance, a U.S. Secret Service special agent observed Patton pull out a gun.
Law enforcement at the scene then dispersed the crowd with tear gas and flash bang devices, striking Patton with pepper balls once he was observed pointing the gun in the air. Upon being struck by the pepper balls, Patton ran to his car and fled the scene. Police then stopped Patton’s vehicle and located a Springfield Armory USA, model XDs-45, .45 caliber pistol in his vehicle, partially loaded with four rounds remaining in a ten round magazine.
In 2013, Patton pleaded guilty to Aggravated Burglary, a felony, out of Tennessee. Additionally, in 2016 Patton pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, a felony, out of Tennessee. In 2016, Patton was charged with 4th Degree Domestic Violence and Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for being a convicted felon unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than ten years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Secret Service, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating these cases.
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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U.S. Attorney’s Office Charges Three for Looting of Neighborhood Pharmacy During Civil DisturbanceRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of three individuals for Conspiracy to Commit Burglary Involving Controlled Substances.
“These charges have nothing to do with legitimate protest activity and everything to do with looting a neighborhood pharmacy,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This lawlessness places protestors, police, and near-by families at risk, and will be met with swift federal arrest and prosecution.”
Three defendants, Jean-Pierre Crowdus, 31, Frederick D. Eaves, 31, and Channel Lewis, 26, all of Louisville, Kentucky, have been charged in the criminal complaint.
According to the complaint, on Thursday, June, 4, 2020, at approximately 1:15 a.m. law enforcement officers were dispatched on a commercial alarm at the CVS drug store at 3130 Portland Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky.
Upon arrival, law enforcement witnessed Channel Lewis in the driver’s seat of a vehicle parked outside the pharmacy, and officers located defendants Crowdus and Eaves inside the store.
Video shows Eaves forcing entry into the CVS with a crowbar. Eaves and Crowdus entered the pharmacy. Once inside Eaves forced open the accordion-style pharmacy window and crawled through, searching the pharmacy and placing items into a trash bag. Eaves also attempted to force open the pharmacy safe with the crowbar. The video outside the store also shows defendant Lewis sitting outside the pharmacy in the car – acting as lookout and awaiting the group get-away.
A search of the vehicle by police revealed a Smith & Wesson M&P .40 caliber handgun located next to the driver’s seat, it was purchased in late July of 2019 in Louisville by another individual.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating the case.
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Hardin County Teacher Charged Federally for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of Robert Alan Thompson, 33, of Hodgenville, Kentucky, for online enticement of a minor and production of child pornography.
“Our most basic job in law enforcement is to protect families from violence and safe from predators; when the later are wolves in a sheep‘s clothing of a teacher, that becomes even more urgent,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “As this result shows, the federal partnership with AG Cameron and local partners like the Radcliff Police Department are delivering to protect our most vulnerable Kentuckians.”
“We won’t stand for child exploitation in the Commonwealth, and we’re going after anyone who tries to take advantage of children,” said Attorney General Cameron. “I appreciate the work of our Cyber Crimes Unit and the strong partnership with U.S. Attorney Coleman, which were instrumental in bringing these charges.”
According to the Complaint Affidavit, following execution of a state search warrant, Thompson told investigators that he had received two pictures of underage boys (13-14 years old), from Matthew Lyons. Lyons, 33, was previously charged by the United States Attorney’s Office in April 2020, for several child exploitation offenses, including sex trafficking of a child, online enticement, and attempted production of child pornography.
Thompson is a former middle school teacher in both Franklin and Hardin counties. Hardin County fired Thompson following his arrest on related state charges in April 2020. A Detective with the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office Department of Criminal Investigations conducted a digital forensic examination of Thompson’s phone. During the examination, the Detective discovered Thompson’s social media discussions with a minor (John Doe 1). Further investigation revealed that John Doe 1 was Thompson’s former middle school student. During the online communications, Thompson urged John Doe 1 to send him (Thompson), sexually explicit images. John Doe 1 complied.
The online enticement charge carries penalties of not less than 10 years and not more than life in prison. The production of child pornography charge carries a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years in prison. A conviction under either or both charge also involves fines and Supervised Release of at least five years and could be any number of years up to an including life.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offenses charged and must be made under oath before a United States Magistrate Judge. Charges set forth in a complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless is prosecuting the case. The Kentucky Office of Attorney General, Department of Criminal Investigations, with assistance from the United States Secret Service, Kentucky State Police, and Radcliffe Police Department, conducted the investigation.
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Statement from United States Attorney Russell ColemanRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – These last few months have been tough for Kentuckians, particularly those who call Louisville home. From fears of the virus’ impact on loved ones, to lost jobs and shuttered businesses, to nauseating images of death in Minneapolis, to recent confusing loss of life here at home, the term “Commonwealth” seems anything but to many of our neighbors.
In recent days, many in Louisville have gathered to voice their anger, confusion, and frustration; protest activity so sacred as to be present in our country’s founding document. Those cries of protest continue and must be protected by those of us who have taken an oath to do so. Sadly, there are individuals who are undermining the efforts of these peaceful protestors and placing citizens and police at risk, who are inciting violence and destroying the very physical infrastructure of our city.
Over the last six nights in Louisville two groups have emerged: those forcefully and peacefully demanding that their voices be heard, and simply put, criminals. These criminals have been using the cover of the protests to burglarize drug stores for their controlled substances and gun shops seeking firearms, loot almost half a dozen ATMs, carjack vehicles, and shoot at police. This is violence and mayhem, not constitutionally-protected protest.
Working with our state and local law enforcement partners, federal law enforcement here will be seeking out those that put peaceful protestors and Louisville itself in harm’s way. Looting pharmacies for drugs, breaking into businesses seeking guns, shooting at police, carrying a firearm as a convicted felon, or committing arson, have nothing to do with justice or honoring the lives of others. As Attorney General Barr stated earlier today, “When the rule of law breaks down, the promise of America does too.”
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Prosecuting Armed Felon from Tennessee Arrested During Louisville Protest and RiotsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the federal prosecution of Tevin R. Patton for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The federal criminal complaint asserts that the Memphis, Tennessee, man drew a firearm after curfew earlier this week in downtown Louisville.
“We cherish First Amendment-protected speech in Kentucky but will not tolerate outsiders traveling to Louisville to do harm to our city and its people,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This type criminal conduct puts both protestors and police at risk. Today’s outcome makes Kentuckians safer and results from outstanding collaboration between the FBI, ATF, U.S. Secret Service, and LMPD. At the direction of Attorney General Barr, we will utilize the framework of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to identify, apprehend, and federally prosecute anyone who exploits peaceful protest for violence or to violate federal law.”
According to the criminal complaint, on Monday, June 1, 2020, at approximately 10:20 pm Patton was viewed by law enforcement who were conducting surveillance near South Fourth Street in downtown Louisville. During the surveillance, a U.S. Secret Service special agent observed Patton pull out a gun.
Law enforcement at the scene then dispersed the crowd with tear gas and flash bang devices, striking Patton with pepper balls once he was observed pointing the gun in the air. Upon being struck by the pepper balls, Patton ran to his car and fled the scene. Police then stopped Patton’s vehicle and located a Springfield Armory USA, model XDs-45, .45 caliber pistol in his vehicle, partially loaded with four rounds remaining in a ten round magazine.
In 2013, Patton pleaded guilty to Aggravated Burglary, a felony, out of Tennessee. Additionally, in 2016 Patton pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, a felony, out of Tennessee. In 2016, Patton was charged with 4th Degree Domestic Violence and Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for being a convicted felon unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than ten years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. There is not parole in the federal system.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josh Judd. The United States Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating the case.
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Department of Justice Awards Nearly $400 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky.– The Department of Justice today announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. The awards announced today are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.
“From Carlisle County in the west to Russell County in the east these resources to the tune of over $2.4 million will help protect Kentucky communities large and small,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. 43 percent of the awards announced today will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The complete list of awards can be found here. To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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KY Federal-State Law Enforcement Combatting Growing Threat of Child Exploitation During COVID PandemicRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The United States Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Secret Service, and the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General are asking the public to continue to be alert as state, local, and federal law enforcement combat significant amounts of child exploitation in Kentucky during the COVID pandemic.
U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman; Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron; Jerry C. Templet Jr., Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville; Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office; Ralph Gerdes, Acting Special Agent in Charge Louisville Secret Service made the announcement today in an effort to protect Kentucky’s young people.
“The threat to our kids is very real and growing during this pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “In Kentucky though, I could not be more proud of how law enforcement is working with a singularity of purpose across multiple agencies to protect our most vulnerable.”
“The responsibility to protect our children falls on all of us, and the cooperation and partnership among state and federal agencies is unprecedented,” said Attorney General Cameron. “At every level, we have a shared commitment to ending child exploitation and aggressively pursuing predators, and I am grateful for the dedication of our law enforcement community to seek justice on behalf of Kentucky’s children.”
Reports of child exploitation have increased significantly around the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the FBI has received over 195 reports of incidents throughout the United States and in other countries in which a video teleconferencing participant was able to broadcast a video depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The FBI considers this activity to be a violent crime, as every time child sexual abuse material is viewed, the depicted child is revictimized. Furthermore, anyone who inadvertently sees child sexual abuse material depicted during a virtual event is potentially a victim, as well.
Parents should be aware of several signs that may indicate their child is in danger. Including:
- Turning away from family and friends
- Receiving gifts through mail – from someone you don’t know
- Making calls to unknown numbers
- Taking extra steps to conceal online activity
- Having online friends they don’t know in real life
- Hiding their activity online
- Being overly protective of their devices
Some of the recent charged cases of child exploitation include cases investigated by the Kentucky law enforcement agencies listed above and tireless effort from numerous additional state and local partners. The Kentucky State Police has also been a critical partner in these cases as a foundational part of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.
- Thomas Matthew Follmer, 48, of Louisville, Kentucky, was charged April 20, 2020, for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. The attempted enticement charge carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment, maximum potential sentence of life in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000.00, followed by no less than 5 years and could be up to a life term of Supervised Release.
- Barrett Lawrence, 37, of Franklin, Kentucky, was charged on May 8, 2020, with attempted receipt of child pornography, accessing with intent to view child pornography, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Due to a prior conviction for the attempted rape of a three-year-old, Lawrence faces enhanced penalties. The combined mandatory minimum sentence is 15 years and potential maximum sentence is 120 years in prison, followed by no less than 5 years and could be up to a life term of Supervised Release. The maximum potential fine is $1,000,000.00.
- Chase Bowman-Raines, 23, of Morganton, North Carolina, who resides at Fort Campbell, charged on April 21, 2020, with possession and distribution of child pornography. He faces not less than 5 years and no more than 20 years for distribution of child pornography; and not more than 20 years for possession of child pornography. The charges also carry terms of at least five years and could be up to any number of years, including life, of supervised release.
- Shasta Maria Coiles, 38, of Lewisport, Kentucky, was charged March 26, 2020, with two counts of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. If convicted at trial, faces not less than 15 years and not more than 40 years for distribution of child pornography; and not less than 10 years and not more than 20 years for possession of child pornography.
- Matthew Lyons, 33, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was charged in late April for sex trafficking of a child, attempted production of child pornography, attempted online enticement, distribution and possession of child pornography. If convicted at trial, and due to his prior conviction, Lyons faces not less than 25 years and not more than 50 years in prison for production of child pornography; not less than 10 years and not more than life for the attempted enticement and sex trafficking of a child; not less than 15 years and not more than 40 years for distribution of child pornography; and not less than 10 years and not more than 20 years for possession of child pornography. The charges also carry terms of at least five years and could be up to any number of years, including life, of supervised release.
- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky worked closely with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina leading to the arrest of Nathan Branham, 39, of Cheraw, South Carolina. The Criminal Complaint charged Branham with online enticement of a 13-year-old Louisville girl and transfer of obscene material to a minor. The combined penalties include a 10-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment, maximum potential sentence of life, a $250,000.00 fine and Supervised Release of five years up to life.
There is no parole in the federal criminal justice system.
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.
Online child exploitation materials can be reported with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-843-5678 or online at www.cybertipline.org.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Prosecuting Domestic Violence on Ft. KnoxRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of Chaniqua Boyd, via criminal complaint, with assault occurring on the Fort Knox, KY military installation, land within the federal maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States.
“Law enforcement must be especially vigilant during this pandemic of the risk of domestic violence and we will be especially aggressive in responding when it occurs,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
According to the criminal complaint, on May 10, 2020, Fort Knox Military Police responded to the residence of Boyd and Army Sgt. First Class V.G. where they detained Boyd. V.G. was transported to Louisville for treatment of a stab wound to the upper chest which resulted in a punctured lung. According to a statement given by Boyd, she stated she did not intend to stab V.G.
If convicted at trial the maximum sentence for assault with a dangerous weapon with the intent to do bodily harm is 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mac Shannon and U.S. Army Captain James D. Taylor, Special Assistant United States Attorney. The U.S. Army Criminal Investigative Division (CID) conducted the investigation with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
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Louisville Native Returns Home to Join U.S. Attorney's Office's Fight Against Violent Crime & Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is today announcing his appointment of Frank Dahl as a federal prosecutor in the Louisville, Kentucky-based U.S. Attorney’s Office which serves the 53 counties and nearly 2.5 million people of the Western District of Kentucky.
“As we begin Police Week, I can think of few more tangible ways to honor our law enforcement partners than to add a respected and experienced prosecutor of Frank Dahl’s caliber to our fight against violent crime and drug trafficking here in Louisville and across the Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Frank is well-respected by law men and women from his many years with one of our most important partners, the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. His service as ‘a fed’ here will only enhance our relationship with that premier office.”
“As much as I was sorry to see Frank leave our office in 2018, I am just as happy to see that he has returned to Kentucky,” said Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine. “He has a keen mind and a great grasp of the law which will benefit the US Attorney’s Office as well as ours. I look forward to Frank working with our prosecutors as we continue to collaborate with the US Attorney's Office for the [Western District] of Kentucky.”
Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Dahl is a Louisville native and a graduate of the University of Louisville and UofL’s Brandeis School of Law. While in law school, he worked as a law clerk for the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and subsequently served as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in the office after his graduation. During his 12-year tenure as a state prosecutor in Louisville, Dahl rose quickly through the ranks and became the narcotics section chief. He tried numerous cases involving violent crime, drug trafficking, homicide, and firearms offenses.
In 2018, Dahl began work as an AUSA in Evansville Indiana, working for the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. During his time with that office, he earned a reputation as a prolific case developer and handled a variety of cases involving drug trafficking organizations, violent crime, firearms offenses, and drug overdoses. During his time in Evansville, Dahl worked with both federal and state law enforcement agencies located in Kentucky in support of his work in Indiana.
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Man Who Threatened Governor & KY State Troopers Charged FederallyRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of Jeremiah Wooley, 25, of Kevil, Kentucky, for possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device).
“Albeit unusual times and despite elevated risk to their own safety, Kentucky law enforcement continues to show up to protect our Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “I could not be prouder of the mission-driven collaboration between the FBI, ATF, KSP and United States Attorney’s Office in the Purchase Region and across Kentucky.”
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the FBI in Kentucky is especially grateful for the strong law enforcement partnerships throughout the Commonwealth,” said FBI Special Agent In-Charge Robert Brown Jr. “This investigation is a great example of law enforcement working side by side to keep Americans safe.”
“ATF will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to investigate anyone who poses a threat against the citizens and communities of the Commonwealth,” stated ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Lissa G. Jordan. “This is another great example of law enforcement agencies working together for the same goal, which is to keep Kentuckians safe.”
According to the Criminal Complaint filed today, on April 29, 2020, Kentucky State Police charged Defendant Wooley for threats made against Kentucky’s Governor and Kentucky State Police Troopers via a social media platform under a false name. During the arrest Wooley had two handguns on his person. A search warrant of Wooley’s residence revealed approximately 12 firearms, including a 50 caliber rifle, assault style firearms, shotguns, and handguns.
A State Police Hazardous Device investigator also discovered approximately 50 MKII pineapple style hand grenades in a bucket in the bedroom of the defendant. All of the grenades, with the exception of one, had been rendered inert by a hole drilled in the hull of the grenade or had been manufactured as novelty items. However, one of the grenades had the hull-hole welded shut, and boxes in the same room contained all of the necessary components to complete and assemble the grenade, including black powder, time fuses, electric matches ammunition primers, and grenade spoons, safety pins, and spring cock strikers.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for unlawfully possessing an unregistered firearm (destructive device) is 10 years imprisonment, a $10,000 fine, or both, and not more than a 3 year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth Hancock who also serves as the branch chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office-Paducah. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Kentucky State Police conducted the investigation.
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A Criminal Complaint is an accusation only and
the person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Louisville Man Charged Federally After Barricading Himself in Residence with GunRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of Christopher Charrier, of Louisville, with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“Pandemic or no pandemic, LMPD and federal law enforcement remain active partners in seeking to protect our city,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman. “If you carry or possess firearms in Louisville as either a convicted felon, drug user, or are subject to a domestic violence order, federal prosecution awaits.”
According to the Criminal Complaint filed on April 30, 2020, Charrier barricaded himself in his residence with a firearm on April 29, 2020, when law enforcement attempted to take him into custody for an outstanding warrant. After an extended standoff, Charrier put the firearm down and was taken into custody by the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department and United States Marshal Service’s Fugitive Task Force.
After being read Miranda Rights, Charrier, admitted that he possessed the firearm – a Heckler and Koch model VP9, 9-millimeter handgun. Charrier is a previously convicted felon, convicted in Jefferson County Circuit Court case 20-CR-000314 of Escape Second Degree.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tom Dyke. The United States Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force, the Louisville Metro Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation.
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A Criminal Complaint is an accusation only and
the person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Owensboro Doctor Faces Federal Civil False Claims AllegationsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Owensboro Dr. Kishor N. Vora faces civil False Claims Act allegations for executing an elaborate and extensive scheme to maximize profits at the expense of both patients and Medicare, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“I know from personal experience that Owensboro is served by a community of dedicated and talented medical practitioners whose sole focus is that of their patients’ care and well-being,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “What will not be tolerated by the United States Attorney’s Office, however, is when that motivation shifts to a physician’s misuse of patients as a tool for financial gain in violation of federal law.”
According to the complaint, Vora knowingly and willfully accepted illegal kickbacks from a laboratory, National Molecular Testing Corporation (NMTC), in exchange for sending Medicare-reimbursed orders for pharmacogenomics testing (tests that show how genes affect a person’s response to particular drugs). The complaint alleges that Vora also ordered and submitted medically unnecessary and unreasonable tests to NMTC in exchange for these illegal kickbacks.
From at least May 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013, Vora and Owensboro Medical Practice PLLC and Owensboro Heart and Vascular knowingly caused the submission of more than $3 million in false claims to Medicare by entering into financial arrangements with the laboratory related to the referral, furnishing and submissions of claims for pharmacogenomics testing; receiving illegal remuneration from the clinical laboratory in exchange for referrals, and causing to be billed to Medicare claims for testing that were not medically necessary.
The United States specifically alleges that the defendants caused false claims to be presented for payment to government health care programs; submitted false statements material to these claims; and conspired with others to present false claims for payment. If found liable for violations of the False Claims Act, the defendants would be responsible for three times the damages to government healthcare programs and civil penalties.
The matter is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica R. C. Malloy with assistance from Cristal Fox, Phil Bezehertny, and Melissa Reynolds. The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Inspector General.
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US Attorney Coleman Adds Second Full-Time Federal Prosecutor to Bowling Green OfficeRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is today announcing the swearing-in of Mark Yurchisin, as the second full-time Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) assigned to the newly-staffed Bowling Green Office.
The Bowling Green U.S. Attorney’s Branch Office is located in the William H. Natcher Federal Courthouse and opened on a full-time basis following a community dedication ceremony in February of this year. AUSA Yurchisin joins Branch Chief AUSA Madison Sewell, who was the first ever full-time Assistant United States Attorney based in Bowling Green.
“I promised this community that federal law enforcement would work hard to be better partners in furtherance of our duty to protect families who live outside of urban areas like Louisville,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “To help fulfill that pledge, I could not be more pleased to again swear-in Mark, this time as a full-time federal prosecutor. He brings a wealth of relationships to our new Bowling Green Office with such top-flight law enforcement partners as the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force, dedicated sheriffs and talented Commonwealth’s Attorneys across the region.”
AUSA Yurchisin, who was born and raised in Warren County, previously served as a part-time Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the office in which he will now serve a full-time federal prosecutor. Prior to being sworn in today as an AUSA, Yurchisin served as an Assistant County Attorney for Warren County Attorney Amy Milliken. Before he joined the Warren County Attorney’s Office, AUSA Yurchisin served as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 38th Judicial District in Morgantown, Kentucky.
Having two full-time AUSAs who live and work in the Bowling Green community will foster deeper working relationships with local law enforcement and state prosecutors which in turn will lead to better outcomes for the citizens of the entire Southcentral Kentucky region. Their work with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners will play a vital role in the investigation and prosecution of violent crime, drug trafficking, child exploitation, federal firearms, and fraud related offenses, to include combatting newly emerging COVID related fraud.
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Warning: Potential Fraud Scams Surrounding SBA LoansRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Small Business Administration warns Kentuckians to be alert about possible scams relating to the CARES Act. SBA’s Office of Inspector General has published a list of possible scams and fraud schemes to raise public awareness: https://www.sba.gov/document/report--sba-programs-scams-fraud-alerts.
U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman, Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office, SBA OIG Eastern Region Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kupperbusch and Robert Coffey, SBA Kentucky Acting District Director, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent those in need from being victimized a second time by criminals using the program as an opportunity to commit fraud.
“Every dollar that these thieves steal is a dollar that’s not putting someone back to work or that’s failing to assist small businesses rebuild,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “We will do our job in law enforcement but urge small business owners to use an abundance of caution to avoid becoming a victim.”
“Those seeking to profit from the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to exploit the opportunities presented to them,” said Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office. “As we have witnessed with other types of COVID-19 related fraud, criminals are attempting to prey upon entities during their time of fear and anxiety. The FBI along with our partners are working every day to keep Americans safe during this unprecedented time.”
“Fraudsters prey upon those in vulnerable positions, and this is a critical time for our nation’s small businesses,” said SBA OIG’s Eastern Region Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kupperbusch. “SBA OIG and its law enforcement partners are actively working together to root out fraud in SBA’s programs and bring those responsible to justice. The public is encouraged to learn about potential fraud schemes and scams as a safeguard to being victimized.”
When the CARES Act was signed into law, the doors were opened for small businesses to access $349 billion in federal aid at a most crucial time for entrepreneurs that are balancing the health and safety of their families and themselves while operating their small business. Not only did small businesses take note of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), but, unfortunately, so did those with bad intentions
“With so much money involved, it is little wonder that hackers and others sought ways to defraud these desperate businesses at a most critical time,” said Robert Coffey, SBA Kentucky Acting District Director. “Entrepreneurs must be on guard against these attempts. The best defense is to exercise your business acumen when presented with offers, for example, if someone approaches you to help you get your funding faster by giving your bank account information.”
Entrepreneurs should remember that if anyone asks you for money, they are not legitimate, nor are emails that end in anything but “.gov”. Even if someone has some details about your loan request, do not fill in the blanks by providing information that you have already provided through the application process. A confidential, legitimate source has this information already. SBA does not reach out to initiate a loan.
If you have any doubt, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your nearest SBA office to ask. As you are working harder than ever to preserve your business and its employees amid the Coronavirus pandemic, do not allow bad actors to hinder your efforts.
If you have questions, please refer to the official SBA website where most of your questions can be answered. The address is: www.sba.gov and stay up to date on the most current information by following Kentucky SBA on Twitter @SBA_Kentucky.
You are encouraged to report fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, or misconduct involving SBA programs to the SBA OIG hotline at (800) 767-0385, or online at: https://sbax.sba.gov/oigcss/.
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U.S Attorney Coleman Seeks Help from Local Hospitals in Reporting Hoarding and Price Gouging of Medical SuppliesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today sent a letter to hospital executives in the Western Kentucky, asking them to provide details to law enforcement about individuals and companies that might be acquiring or selling medical supplies for the purpose of hoarding or price gouging.
“Attorney General Barr has been crystal clear that we are to use every tool in our tool kit to protect Americans at this time of national challenge from fraud and predatory practices,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “In Kentucky, one of those tools is the leadership of our many fine hospitals, from Western Baptist to UofL and everywhere in between.”
The letter was sent to hospitals and healthcare systems in Western Kentucky, as part of a coordinated, nationwide effort to combat COVID-19 related fraud. On March 20, Attorney General William Barr directed all 93 U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of COVID-19 fraud. U.S. Attorney Coleman appointed Assistant United States Attorney David Weiser to lead the Office’s COVID-19 response. The Office is also partnering with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, the FBI Louisville Field Division, and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office as part of the Kentucky Coronavirus Fraud Task Force.
U.S. Attorney Coleman encourages the public to report COVID-19 related fraud to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or to the email address [email protected].
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Read U.S. Attorney Coleman’s letter to hospital leadership below:
As the United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky, I am the chief federal law enforcement officer in an area encompassing 53 counties and a population of 2.2 million Kentuckians. Our office’s primary responsibility is to enforce the laws of the United States on behalf of the citizens we serve; your same patient population. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, our office is prioritizing the deterrence, investigation, and prosecution of wrongdoing related to the COVID-19 pandemic – including those engaged in hoarding and/or price-gouging with regard to critical medical supplies. These practices are not only morally repugnant in light of the pandemic we are facing, but also, if left unchecked, can inhibit hospitals, physicians and other health care professionals, governmental agencies, and the public from fully implementing measures designed to save lives and mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus.
By Executive Order dated March 23, 2020, President Trump delegated to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) the authority to designate materials critical to our the fight against COVID-19 as “scarce” pursuant to the Defense Production Act of 1950. On March 25, 2020, the HHS Secretary designated 15 categories of health and medical supplies as “scarce,” thus triggering both criminal prohibitions and civil enforcement remedies that our office will aggressively enforce. These categories currently include:
- N-95 Filtering Facepiece Respirators;
- Other Filtering Facepiece Respirators (e.g., those designated as N99, N100, R95, R99, R100, or P95, P99, P100);
- Elastomeric, air-purifying respirators and appropriate particulate filters/cartridges;
- Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR);
- Portable Ventilators;
- Chloroquine phosphate or hydroxychloroquine HCl;
- Sterilization services for certain medical devices and certain sterilizers;
- Disinfecting devices and other sanitizing and disinfecting products suitable for use in a clinical setting;
- Medical gowns or apparel, e.g., surgical gowns or isolation gowns;
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) coveralls, e.g., Tyvek Suits;
- PPE face masks;
- PPE surgical masks;
- PPE face shields;
- PPE gloves or surgical gloves; and
- Ventilators, anesthesia gas machines modified for use as ventilators, and positive pressure breathing devices modified for use as ventilators, ventilator tubing connectors, and ventilator accessories.
In this time of critical shortage, we are asking for your assistance in identifying individuals and companies that may have acquired vital medical supplies in excess of what they would reasonably use, or for the purpose of charging exorbitant prices. Our office is committed to investigating and prosecuting any such incidents as well as any other fraudulent conduct designed to benefit from this pandemic (e.g., false treatments, tests, and/or vaccinations for COVID-19). In furtherance of this goal, I have created a federal COVID-19 Task Force, led by Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) David Weiser, to investigate and prosecute these crimes. If you have any information related to this topic, I ask that you please contact AUSA Weiser at 502-625-7068 or by email at [email protected]. I too, am always available to be of assistance and can be reached at (502) 582-5911 or [email protected].
With help from institutions like yours, the Department of Justice is using every available measure ensure that these scarce materials are available to treat those affected by the coronavirus. I am deeply grateful for the vital work that you do on a daily basis and for your institution’s commitment to the people of Kentucky. I look forward to collaborating with you to protect the citizens of our Commonwealth and enforce the laws of the United States during this time of national emergency.
Very respectfully,
Russell M. Coleman
United States Attorney####
Hardin County Man Faces Federal Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of Matthew Lyons, 33, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, for sex trafficking of a child, attempted production of child pornography, attempted online enticement, distribution and possession of child pornography.
“Despite the many unknowns of this pandemic some certainties can still be relied upon,” said United States Attorney Russell Coleman. “From the U.S. Attorney’s Office to the Secret Service, and from the Radcliff PD to the professionals of Attorney General Cameron’s Office, Kentucky law enforcement is collaborating like never before to protect our most vulnerable.”
“Partnerships among Kentucky’s law enforcement community are essential in our fight to end the exploitation of children and go after those who commit crimes against them,” said Attorney General Cameron. “I’m grateful to U.S. Attorney Coleman and his team for working with our Cyber Crimes Unit to bring these charges.”
According to the Criminal Complaint filed on April 23, 2020, law enforcement officials became aware of Lyons’s criminal conduct after receiving a complaint that a minor had posted on social media about engaging in sexual activity with an adult in exchange for money. Radcliff Police Detective Richard Carman interviewed two minors, (John Doe 1 and 2), seized their mobile devices, and was granted consent to search those devices by the minors’ legal guardians. Detective Carman identified Lyons as the adult with whom John Doe 1 and 2 had engaged in sexual activity in exchange for money. He learned that Lyons had a prior conviction in 2008 Hardin District Court, Case No. 08-F-00401, for attempted prohibited use of an electronic communication system to procure a minor for sex, a violation of K.R.S. § 510.155(1). Detective Carman obtained and executed a Kentucky state search warrant to seize and search Lyons’s mobile device. Detective Carman turned over the cellular telephones to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Cybercrime Unit for forensic examination.
DCI Detective Michael Littrell conducted the examinations of the cellular telephones. On Lyons’s phone, he discovered more than 1,500 image and video files that were identified by hash values of known child sexual abuse material. In review of the remaining media files, he found hundreds more images and videos that were familiar to Detective Littrell from previous investigations and were obvious depictions of actual minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The images were 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 revealed that on or about April 1, 2020, he was communicating with at least one 14-year-old boy (John Doe 1), on the Grindr social media app. A later interview with John Doe 1 revealed that Lyons exchanged photographs and conversations with the boy via the app, then transitioned to text messaging. Lyons agreed to pay John Doe 1 $50.00 in exchange for Lyons performing oral sex on John Doe 1. Lyons and John Doe 1 agreed to meet at a convenience store in Hardin County, Kentucky. That same day, Lyons traveled to the convenience store and met two 14-year old boys (John Doe 1 and John Doe 2). Lyons picked up the boys in his 2017 Chevrolet Silverado truck and drove them to a Dollar General store parking lot. Lyons performed oral sex on both boys. One of the boys videoed the sex act. The video was recovered from Lyons’s phone as well as the phone of one of the boys. Lyons paid John Doe 1 $70.00 and John Doe 2 $60.00.
While reviewing Lyons’s phone, Detective Littrell also discovered a chat conversation from February 16, 2020, between Lyons and a boy named “Trevor” who indicated he was 16 years old. During this conversation Trevor, at the request and persuasion of Lyons, sent two photos and two videos of himself engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Lyons also sent Trevor sexually explicit images of himself.
Detective Littrell also located a chat conversation between Lyons and another adult, Robert Alan Thompson. Further investigation revealed that Thompson was a middle school teacher in Frankfort, Kentucky, during the 2017-2018 school year after which he moved to the Hardin County School District and continued teaching middle school. Lyons and Thompson engaged in a chat conversation on April 30, 2018. During the conversation, Lyons sent Thompson two photos of actual minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Law enforcement officials executed a search warrant on Thompson’s residence and arrested him on state charges earlier this week.
If convicted at trial, and due to his prior conviction, Lyons faces not less than 25 years and not more than 50 years in prison for production of child pornography; not less than 10 years and not more than life for the attempted enticement and sex trafficking of a child; not less than 15 years and not more than 40 years for distribution of child pornography; and not less than 10 years and not more than 20 years for possession of child pornography. The charges also carry terms of at least five years and could be up to any number of years, including life, of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless. The Kentucky Attorney General’s Office Department of Criminal Investigations and Radcliff Police Department with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and United States Secret Service conducted the investigation.
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A Criminal Complaint is an accusation only and
the person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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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.
Oldham Co. Man Charged Federally for Possession of Firearms While Under Domestic Violence OrderRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of John James Shaughnessy III, 45, of Crestwood, Kentucky, for possessing firearms while under a Domestic Violence Order, possession of a destructive device not registered to him under the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Records, and manufacture of a destructive device not registered to him under the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Records.
“Kentucky families must be safe in their own homes. The United States Attorney’s Office will not tolerate the illegal possession, and in this case frightening use, of a firearm by someone subject to a Domestic Violence Order,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “I am again pleased by the seamless collaboration with our state and local law enforcement partners to protect Kentuckians during this unsettling time, especially the Oldham County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.”
According to the Criminal Complaint, on April 17, 2020, a neighbor contacted the Oldham County Police Department and stated that Shaughnessy was firing fully automatic weapons at his residence. Officers were notified by dispatch of a current Domestic Violence Order (DVO) against the defendant. The DVO stated that Shaughnessy was not to possess or purchase any firearms.
While setting up a perimeter, officers heard a vehicle start at the rear of the residence and saw tail and brake lights coming from a carport at the rear left corner of the house. Officers then observed a black Ford Ranger pickup driving around the residence and down the driveway with no headlights on. Law enforcement was able to get behind the vehicle and observed the vehicle with no head or taillights and unable to maintain lanes. The vehicle, driven by Shaughnessy, crossed the center yellow line multiple times before driving off the roadway multiple times on the right hand side and side swiping a trash can.
Oldham County Officers initiated a traffic stop. Shaughnessy exited the vehicle dressed in full military Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) with a large knife on his side and an empty holster on the other side. The defendant stated that he had a pistol in his pocket. In a pocket on the mid left leg, officers located a .380 Walther handgun. The defendant stated that he also had other weapons inside the vehicle.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. The maximum sentence for possession and manufacture of unregistered destructive devices is no more than 10 years in prison, and a $10,000 fine.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia Gomez and the Office of Oldham County Commonwealth’s Attorney Courtney Baxter. It is being investigated by the Oldham Co. Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in support of the Oldham County Police Department.
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A Criminal Complaint is an accusation only and
the person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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U.S. Attorneys Russell Coleman and Rob Duncan join Attorney General Cameron to Launch PSA Warning Kentuckians of Fraudulent COVID-19 Testing SitesRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman joined U. S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky Rob Duncan and Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron to release a joint public service announcement (PSA) regarding fraudulent COVID-19 testing sites.
The 60-second PSA alerts Kentuckians to the dangers of fraudulent COVID-19 testing sites and urges them to work with a licensed healthcare provider if they experience COVID-19 symptoms. The Commonwealth’s COVID-19 website, kycovid19.ky.gov, contains guidance on when to seek care for COVID-19 symptoms.
Scammers may use fraudulent testing sites to obtain personal information and payment from patients, often without fully processing the tests or providing patients with the results.
“Thieves using the cover of this health threat to prey on Kentuckians would be well-advised to avoid the Commonwealth as arrest and prosecution await you here,” said U.S. Attorney Coleman. “Please assist law enforcement by reviewing these indicators of fraud, use good common sense, and report any concerns as quickly as possible.”
“Information regarding the availability of COVID-19 testing is rapidly changing to keep pace with demand, and we want to arm Kentuckians with tips and information on how to avoid fraudulent COVID-19 testing sites,” said Attorney General Cameron. “Just a few weeks ago, our office opened an investigation into pop-up COVID-19 testing sites in Louisville after learning they were engaging in questionable practices, and we’re prepared to go after any testing site that seeks to take advantage of Kentuckians during the pandemic.”
“We want Kentuckians who need COVID-19 testing to get it, but we are encouraging Kentuckians to follow the direction of state and local health departments, including where to seek legitimate testing,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “Kentuckians should be aware that fraudulent COVID-19 testing sites are appearing across the Commonwealth, but they should rest assured that law enforcement is aware of this risk, proactively monitoring the situation, and pursuing criminals who are trying to take advantage of this extraordinary situation.
The following tips should be used to avoid fraudulent COVID-19 testing sites:
- Contact a trusted, licensed healthcare provider if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and believe you need to be tested.
- Avoid any testing site that requires up-front payments or payments in cash only.
- Contact your local health department to confirm the validity of a testing site. You can access the contact information for local health departments here.
Attorney General Cameron, U.S. Attorney Duncan, and U.S. Attorney Coleman recently partnered with the FBI to launch the Kentucky Coronavirus Fraud Task Force. The mission of the task force is to identify, investigate, and prosecute fraud related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic impacting Kentuckians.
If you believe you are a victim of a COVID-19 scam, report it immediately to the Attorney General’s Office by visiting ag.ky.gov/scams or by calling 1-888-432-9257.
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Paducah Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
PACUCAH, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced the charging of Salaam Muhammad AKA Wayne D. Askew, 46, for being a felon in possession of an AK-47 type assault rifle and ammunition via federal Criminal Complaint.
“This is exactly the type coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement that best serves the people of the Purchase Region,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “While much remains unknown during this pandemic, Kentuckians should rest assured that the professionals of the ATF, Paducah Police Department, and United States Attorney’s Office remain on the job to protect their families.”
According to the Criminal Complaint, Paducah Police Department officers responding to a call identified Muhammad in a vehicle with a Norinco, model BWK-92 Sporter, 5.56 X 45, semiautomatic rifle, with a loaded magazine and round in the chamber.
The defendant was previously convicted for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of “crack” cocaine in case number 5:03-CR-17-R. Muhammad was convicted of the felony in United States District Court. The defendant was also convicted on December 18, 2000, in McCracken County Circuit Court in case number 00-CR-126, of 1st degree possession of a controlled substance, cocaine, a felony offense. He was also charged with assault resulting in a felony conviction in 1992.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth Hancock who also serves as the Branch Chief of U.S. Attorney’s Office-Paducah. The case is being investigated by the Paducah Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in support of the Paducah Police Department.
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A Criminal Complaint is an accusation only and
the person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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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 Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods, programs that bring together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Dayton Jones Charged by U.S. Attorney with Production of Child PornRead the Press Release
PACUCAH, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is today announcing the arrest of Dayton Jones, 24, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Jones has been charged via a federal Criminal Complaint with one count of producing child sex abuse material, that is, child pornography.
“This prosecution is about one thing and one thing only, Mr. Jones’ conduct in harming someone’s child in the Western District of Kentucky in violation of federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “It serves as a reminder that despite these uncertain times, Kentucky families are well-served by some inspiring federal, state, and local law enforcement professionals that put themselves at risk to protect our kids.”
“FBI Louisville stands ready, alongside our federal, state, and local partners, to find and hold accountable criminals who seek to exploit one of our most vulnerable populations, our children,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office. “Even in these trying times, our investigators will work tirelessly to ensure the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky are protected from those who seek to victimize them."
Jones is charged for conduct which occurred in October 2014. He created a video depicting child pornography. He created and shared the video with others, using the social media application Snapchat. Jones previously pled guilty to state charges involving sodomy, wanton endangerment, and distribution of material depicting the sexual performance of a minor, in Christian Circuit Court Case Number 14-CR-588.
Jones faces a mandatory minimum 15-year sentence in federal prison. The maximum potential penalties are 30 years in prison, a $250,000.00 fine, and Supervised Release of five years up to and including life. There is no parole in the federal system.
Today’s charging is the direct result of career prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney’s Office working side-by-side with law enforcement officials investigating the case. The case was investigated by the Christian County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Christian County Sheriff’s Office, Kentucky State Police, Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, and the United States Marshals Service, who all played critical roles in advancing the federal charges and securing Jones’ arrest.
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A Criminal Complaint is an accusation only and
the person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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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.
WARNING: Potential Fraud Scams Surrounding COVID-19/Economic Impact PaymentsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The United States Attorney’s Office and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) warned Kentucky taxpayers today to be alert about possible scams relating to COVID-19 economic impact payments.
U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Cincinnati Field Office, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent taxpayers in need from being victimized a second time by criminals using the recently approved payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.
“Despite the uncertainty of recent events, some things remain crystal clear: the men and women of federal law enforcement remain on the job to protect Kentucky families; dedicated and talented special agents of IRS Criminal Investigative Division and career federal prosecutors stand ready to protect the tax payer,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Please consult the safety tips to stop fraud before it happens.”
“Ruthless criminals will take this opportunity to prey upon our fears in order to try and line their own pockets by stealing your money or your personal information,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.”
COVID-19 economic impact payments will be on their way in a matter of weeks. For most Americans, this will be a direct deposit into your bank account. For the unbanked, elderly or other groups we have traditionally seen receive tax refunds via paper check, they will receive their economic impact payment in this manner as well.
Scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or use this as an opportunity to get you to “verify” your filing information in order to receive your money, using your personal information at a later date to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme. Because of this, everyone receiving money from the government from the COVID-19 economic impact payment is at risk.
United States Attorney Coleman and Special Agent in Charge Jackson offer the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued.
- The IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
- The IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information - even if someone claims it's necessary to get your check. It's a scam.
- If you receive a call, don't engage with scammers or thieves, even if you want to tell them that you know it's a scam, or you think that you can beat them. Just hang up.
- If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, delete them. Don't click on any links in those emails.
- Reports are also swirling about bogus checks. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it’s a fraud - it will take the Treasury a few weeks to mail those out. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires that you verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a fraud.
Don’t become a victim by allowing criminals to exploit your emotions. Stay strong, tell your family, friends and neighbors about these scams.
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
The Department of Justice Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Owners and Managers of Rental Properties in Russellville, KentuckyRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Department of Justice announced today that it has filed a lawsuit alleging that the co-owners and managers of rental properties in Russellville, Kentucky, violated the Fair Housing Act by subjecting female tenants to sexual harassment and retaliation.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, alleges that Gordon Whitescarver sexually harassed a number of female tenants since at least 2012. According to the complaint, he, among other things, made repeated and unwelcome sexual comments, entered the homes of female tenants without their consent, touched female tenants’ bodies without their consent, requested sexual favors, offered reduced or free rent in exchange for sexual favors, and took adverse housing-related actions against female tenants who refused his sexual advances. The lawsuit also names as a defendant Betsy Whitescarver, Gordon Whitescarver’s wife, who co-owns and manages the properties. According to the complaint, she threatened and retaliated against women who complained about her husband’s harassment.
“No woman should have to endure sexual harassment to remain in her home,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Fair Housing Act protects tenants from sexual harassment and retaliation by their landlords, and the Justice Department will hold accountable those who engage in such reprehensible and illegal conduct and will work tirelessly to obtain relief for their victims.”
“Be it Logan County or Louisville, this foul conduct towards women will not be tolerated in the Western District of Kentucky,” said Russell Coleman, the United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
In October 2017, the Department of Justice launched an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing. In April 2018, the Department announced the nationwide rollout of the initiative, including three major components: an outreach toolkit to leverage the Department’s nationwide network of U.S. Attorney’s Offices; a public awareness campaign, including the release of a national Public Service Announcement; and a new joint Task Force with HUD to combat sexual harassment in housing. Since launching the initiative, the Department of Justice has filed 14 lawsuits alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing.
Today’s lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate the victims, civil penalties to vindicate the public interest, and a court order barring future discrimination. The complaint contains allegations of unlawful conduct; the allegations must be proven in federal court. Special thanks to the Russellville Police Department for their assistance in this matter.
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination at rental dwellings owned or managed by the Whitescarvers, or who have other information that may be relevant to this case, can contact the Housing Discrimination Tip Line, at 1-800-896-7743, and select option number 98 to leave a message.
Individuals can also report sexual harassment and other forms of housing discrimination by e-mailing the Justice Department at [email protected].
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Department of Justice today announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“Kentucky law enforcement needs resources not just happy talk to help respond to the current pandemic while still keeping its eye on the constant threat from drug trafficking and violent crime,” U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “The Department of Justice is happy to oblige with over $3 million available to those that protect the families of our Commonwealth.”
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
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Federal and State Officials Launch Kentucky Coronavirus Fraud Task ForceRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – In response to the increased threat of fraud presented by the coronavirus, federal and state law enforcement leaders from Kentucky announced today the formation of the Kentucky Coronavirus Fraud Task Force.
The Kentucky Coronavirus Fraud Task Force is a joint federal and state partnership coordinated by Assistant United States Attorneys from both the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky, in partnership with experienced fraud investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office. The mission of the task force is to identify, investigate, and prosecute fraud related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic impacting Kentuckians.
“We will not allow thieves to profit from fear,” said Western District of Kentucky U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Kentuckians should be confident that their state and federal law enforcement is steadfastly working as one to prevent those who would use this virus to exploit our families.”
“Kentucky law enforcement is united in the fight against those who seek to profit from fear during the COVID-19 national emergency,” said Robert M. Duncan, Jr. U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Federal prosecutors in Kentucky are working closely with the FBI and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office to identify individuals engaging in COVID-19 fraud, preying on vulnerable populations and the extraordinary anxiety caused by this public health crisis. Together, we remain committed to protecting our fellow Kentuckians from fraudsters and these truly despicable schemes.”
"FBI Louisville stands ready to investigate scams surrounding the COVID-19 crisis. The last thing the American people need, in the middle of this pandemic, is criminals trying to exploit them for their financial gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office. “In starting this task force, FBI Louisville and its partners share a commitment to protect the American people in spite of these unprecedented circumstances."
“Those who try to capitalize on this health crisis by taking advantage of our citizens will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron. “This unified effort between our office and our federal partners should signal to fraudsters that we will take aggressive action against them for targeting Kentuckians during this pandemic.”
The task force will review and investigate credible leads of fraud associated with the coronavirus pandemic, regardless of the loss amount, focusing on schemes to exploit vulnerable populations, including the elderly and concerned citizens, and schemes that endanger health and safety. Federal prosecutors from the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky will meet and confer with the FBI and Office of the Kentucky Attorney General on a regular basis to prioritize cases and surge resources where needed.
In the Eastern District of Kentucky, Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCaffrey is serving as the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator. Assistant United States Attorney David Weiser is serving as the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator for the Western District of Kentucky.
As our nation continues to face the spread of COVID-19, the critical mission of the U.S. Department of Justice must and will continue, as we work together to safeguard our public health system, protect the safety and security of the citizens of Kentucky, and reassure the public that law enforcement is enduring to meet its mission. The Department of Justice will be a nationwide partner in bringing aggressive action against scams, hoarding, and price gouging for critical medical supplies.
Some examples of COVID-19 scams include:
- Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
- Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.
- Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
- Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.
- Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
- App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
- Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as "research reports," make predictions of a specific "target price," and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
- Price Gouging scams: When sellers and/or retailers sell or rent an item for a price “which is grossly in excess of the price prior to the declaration” per KRS 367.374. Goods and services included in this prohibition include consumer food items; goods or services used for emergency cleanup; emergency supplies; medical supplies; home heating oil; building materials; housing; transportation, freight, and storage services; and gasoline or other motor fuels.
- Other scams include fraudsters claiming to work for the government or banks/credit cards and offering assistance for student loan relief, foreclosure or eviction relief, unemployment assistance, debt relief, and direct financial assistance, like government checks.
U.S. Attorney Coleman, U.S. Attorney Duncan and Attorney General Cameron urge everyone, especially those most at risk of serious illness, to avoid these and similar scams by taking the following steps:
- Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19.
- Check the websites and email addresses offering information, products, or services related to COVID-19. Be aware that scammers often employ addresses that differ only slightly from those belonging to the entities they are impersonating. For example, they might use "cdc.com" or "cdc.org" instead of "cdc.gov."
- Be wary of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the general public this way.
- Do not click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Doing so could download a virus onto your computer or device.
- Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is operating and up to date.
- Ignore offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. Remember, if there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.
- Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies. Avoid companies whose customers have complained about not receiving items.
- Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID- 19 before giving. Remember, an organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like "CDC" or "government" in its name or has reputable looking seals or logos on its materials. For online resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.
- Be wary of any business, charity, or individual requesting payments or donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail. Don’t send money through any of these channels.
- Be cautious of "investment opportunities" tied to COVID-19, especially those based on claims that a small company’s products or services can help stop the virus. If you decide to invest, carefully research the investment beforehand. For information on how to avoid investment fraud, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website.
- For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites.
If you believe you have been a target or victim of a scam or fraud, please report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via email at [email protected]
Kentuckians wishing to report online scams and fraud can contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
To file a price gouging complaint, visit ag.ky.gov/pricegouging or call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257.
U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman Announces Federal Covid-19 Coordinator to Fight FraudRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman has appointed a federal prosecutor to fight back, and assist state and local prosecutors and law enforcement partners against fraud in the Western District of Kentucky relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
United States Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys nationwide to remain vigilant in detecting, investigating and prosecuting criminal activity associated with the crisis.
“Whether from thieves who seek to use this challenging time to exploit our neighbors, violent criminals, or the drug cartels who profit from their poison; we will protect the people of this Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “I could not be prouder to partner with Attorney General Cameron and his team of public servants to do so. Kentucky is well-served when federal and state prosecutors collaborate as one.”
As part of the COVID-19 strategy, U.S. Attorney Coleman has appointed Assistant U.S. Attorney David Weiser, a veteran white collar crime prosecutor, to serve as the district’s COVID-19 Coordinator. The coordinator serves as legal counsel for the district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, prosecute or assist in the prosecution of Coronavirus cases, and conduct public outreach and awareness related to the virus.
As our nation continues to face the spread of COVID-19, the critical mission of the U.S. Department of Justice must and will continue as we work together to safeguard our justice system and thus the safety and security of the citizens of Kentucky.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is working hand-in-hand with the Kentucky Office of Attorney General Daniel Cameron to aggressively identify and prosecute against scams being perpetrated online and in-person by thieves seeking to exploit the evolving public health crisis.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is a crisis that takes support from every level of government,” said Cameron. I appreciate United States Attorney Coleman’s proactive steps to fight illegal schemes, and we look forward to collaborating with our federal colleagues to protect Kentuckians.”
Some examples of COVID-19 scams include:
• Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
• Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.
• Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
• Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.
• Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
• App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
• Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as "research reports," make predictions of a specific "target price," and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
• Price Gouging scams: When sellers and/or retailers sell or rent an item for a price “which is grossly in excess of the price prior to the declaration” per KRS 367.374. Goods and services included in this prohibition include consumer food items; goods or services used for emergency cleanup; emergency supplies; medical supplies; home heating oil; building materials; housing; transportation, freight, and storage services; and gasoline or other motor fuels.
U.S. Attorney Coleman and Attorney General Cameron urge everyone, especially those most at risk of serious illness, to avoid these and similar scams by taking the following steps:
• Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19.
• Check the websites and email addresses offering information, products, or services related to COVID-19. Be aware that scammers often employ addresses that differ only slightly from those belonging to the entities they are impersonating. For example, they might use "cdc.com" or "cdc.org" instead of "cdc.gov."
• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the general public this way.
• Do not click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Doing so could download a virus onto your computer or device.
• Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is operating and up to date.
• Ignore offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. Remember, if there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.
• Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies. Avoid companies whose customers have complained about not receiving items.
• Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID- 19 before giving. Remember, an organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like "CDC" or "government" in its name or has reputable looking seals or logos on its materials. For online resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.
• Be wary of any business, charity, or individual requesting payments or donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail. Don’t send money through any of these channels.
• Be cautious of "investment opportunities" tied to COVID-19, especially those based on claims that a small company’s products or services can help stop the virus. If you decide to invest, carefully research the investment beforehand. For information on how to avoid investment fraud, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website.
• For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites.
We urge you: don’t fall victim to these frauds. We have set up a dedicated toll free Hotline and dedicated email addresses for the public to report suspected COVID-19 fraud. If you believe you have been a target or victim of these frauds, please report them at:
Kentuckians wishing to report scams and fraud can contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation: https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
To file a price gouging complaint, visit ag.ky.gov/pricegouging or call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257
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Murray, Kentucky Child Predator Sentenced to Life ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – A Calloway County, Kentucky, man, has been sentenced to life in federal prison by United States Senior Judge Thomas B. Russell, announced U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
Jeffrey Desmond Carter, age 41, was convicted by a jury on all 25 counts of production of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography, and one count of sex trafficking children in September of 2019.
“The most basic job of government is to keep people safe, especially the most vulnerable, our kids,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This outcome, removal of a child predator from our Commonwealth for life, is an example of, federal, state, and local law enforcement coming together to do just that. I could not be prouder of the federal prosecutor and investigators involved in this case. They represent the very finest in Kentucky law men/women.”
Carter, of Murray, Kentucky, was charged on October 18, 2016, by a federal grand jury with 25 counts of production of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography, and one count of sex trafficking children.
According to evidence before the Court, on February 5, 2015, the Calloway County Sheriff’s Department was notified that a 15 year-old female had sent sexually explicit photos and videos of herself to Carter, through a Facebook messenger account under the name of Adam Bryan. The investigation soon merged with an investigation by the Murray Police Department.
At the same time the Calloway County report was made, another report was being made to the Murray Police Department that a 14-year old girl sent nude images to Carter. Through investigative techniques, Carter was identified and a search warrant was obtained for his Murray, Kentucky, apartment.
A search warrant for Carter’s apartment was executed on February 10, 2015, by law enforcement agents from the Murray Police Department, Calloway County Sheriff’s Department, and Kentucky State Police. A number of items were seized from the residence including electronic devices. Carter was present when the warrant was executed and was taken to the Murray Police Department for questioning. After waiving his Miranda rights, Carter admitted to using the “Adam Bryan” Facebook account and to contacting girls under the age of 18 and requesting nude images and videos from them. Further, Carter admitted to engaging in sexual acts with a number of minor females and to recording those encounters. Carter stated that he would pay money or provide gifts to the minor females in exchange for participating in the sex acts or for sending nude images or videos. In addition to his verbal confession Carter wrote out a confession; in this written confession, Carter specifically named six of the victims listed in the indictment, and provides a description of a seventh.
The Kentucky Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory performed an analysis on the devices seized during the search warrant; in reviewing the reports and data an FBI special agent and other authorities were able to identify at least 12 victims, including those already known to law enforcement.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth A. Hancock and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In addition to the original investigative agencies including the Murray Police Department, Calloway County Sheriff’s Department, and the Kentucky State Police, assistance in the federal investigation was received from the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department; McCracken County Sheriff’s Department; Metropolis, Illinois Police Department; Murray State University Police Department; and Lotus, formerly the Purchase Area Sexual Assault and Child Advocacy Center.
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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.
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Louisville Psychiatrist Pleads Guilty to Distributing Controlled Substances Without A Medical PurposeRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Louisville psychiatrist Dr. Peter Steiner has pleaded guilty to intentionally distributing schedule II, III, and IV controlled substances, without any legitimate medical purpose and outside the course of professional medical practice, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“This is a crystal clear example of the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuting a doctor turned drug dealer; not an attempt to insert itself into the legitimate practice of medicine,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Trading powerful controlled substances for graphic sexual images in a predatory fashion is far afield from the type of true patient care that the vast majority of Kentuckians enjoy from their fine doctors.”
Steiner was initially indicted by the Grand Jury on June 25, 2018. The charges stem from Dr. Steiner’s operation Kentuckiana Mental Health Associates, a mental health and opioid addiction practice, where Dr. Steiner prescribed medically unnecessary drugs that were also prescribed outside the usual course of professional practice. He illegally prescribed thousands of units of stimulants and Buprenorphine. He unlawfully distributed opiates as well.
According to a plea agreement, Steiner has pleaded guilty to count 1 of the indictment – conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Between August 2012 and March 2018, Steiner conspired with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute schedule II – IV controlled substances, without any legitimate medical purpose and outside the course of professional medical practice.
Dr. Steiner prescribed high dosages and large quantities of controlled substances, prescribed early refills for controlled substances, and continued to prescribe to patients even though he knew they tested negatively for those substances. Steiner also prescribed in exchange for sexually graphic photos and videos; he also prescribed controlled substances not typically associated with psychiatric complaints, and prescribed dangerous combinations of controlled substances.
According to the plea agreement, at the time of sentencing, the United States will agree that a sentence of 48 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release is the appropriate sentence in this case. At the sentencing hearing the United States will move to dismiss counts 2 through 26 of the Indictment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Weiser. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Kentucky State Police (KSP), Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), and the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of the Inspector General.
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Kentucky Correctional Officers Sentenced for Beating Handcuffed Detainee and Attempting to Cover up the AssaultRead the Press Release
The Hon. Rebecca Grady Jennings of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky sentenced David M. Schwartz, 48, and Donna K. Gentry, 55, former correctional officers at the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections (LMDC), on charges of violating the civil rights of a pretrial detainee, writing false reports, and obstructing justice, for their roles in the assault of an inmate at LMDC and the subsequent attempt to cover up the misconduct.
Schwartz was sentenced to 24 months of incarceration and Gentry was scheduled to eight months of home confinement. Schwartz and Gentry previously pleaded guilty on Oct. 31, 2019. A third officer, Devan Edwards, previously pleaded guilty to assaulting the detainee and failing to intervene to prevent Schwartz from assaulting him.
“These officers violated their oath to defend the laws of our nation,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will vigorously seek to uphold the constitutional rights of inmates and will hold our correctional officers accountable for their actions.”
“The rule of law requires holding everyone to this same standard regardless of position of authority,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman for the Western District of Kentucky. “The conduct here is an aberration among our city’s fine public safety professionals and I am grateful for the KY Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force and our career federal prosecutors who achieved justice in the result.”
“Corrections officers have extremely difficult jobs; however, our community demands these officers conduct themselves professionally. Through the Kentucky Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force, FBI Louisville will continue to aggressively investigate any public official that abuses those they have been sworn to protect,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office.
According to documents filed in connection with the guilty pleas, on April 18, 2018, Schwartz, while on duty as a correctional officer, punched a pretrial detainee, T.W., in the face while T.W. had his hands cuffed behind his back, and while he was pleading with Schwartz and posing no threat. Schwartz then wrote a false and misleading report, in which he intentionally omitted the fact that he had used force against T.W., and wrote a citation charging T.W. with felony third-degree assault, in which he knowingly included false information about T.W.’s conduct.
On the same date, Gentry, who was then a sergeant, learned that Schwartz and Edwards had assaulted the detainee and that Edwards had accidentally turned on his body camera and recorded part of that assault. Gentry wrote and filed a false report, in which she included false statements and made material omissions about the excessive force used by Schwartz and Edwards. She then directed Edwards to review her report and provide the same false account in his own report, changing the wording so that it would not be obvious that he had copied from her report.
Edwards will be sentenced on March 5, 2020.
This case was investigated by the Kentucky Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force which consists of the FBI, Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky office of the Attorney General, and the Kentucky State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Gregory of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Litigation Counsel Christopher J. Perras of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.
Bowling Green Attorney Pleads Guilty to Laundering over $700,000 of Illegal ProceedsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Bowling Green real estate attorney H. Harris Pepper, Jr. entered a guilty plea to money laundering, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“The rule of law means that everyone is held to the same standard, to include attorneys and influential members of communities like Bowling Green,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This result is the product of a diligent career federal prosecutor and strong investigative work by the IRS.”
“Legal professionals are held to high ethical standards. Harris Pepper, Jr., a trusted real estate attorney, went to great lengths to conceal the true ownership of several real estate investments,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “The IRS will take every step to ferret out those who conspire to launder the proceeds earned from illegal sports gambling.”
Pepper was initially charged with the single count in a felony information on February 14, 2020.
According to a plea agreement, from 2008 through 2016, Pepper conspired with Douglas Booth to conceal proceeds of Booth’s illegal sports-gambling operation in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Pepper conspired with Booth to launder proceeds of the illegal gambling operation into real estate investments.
During the course of the conspiracy, Booth purchased a percentage ownership of Hard Six, LLC, by providing $125,000 in cash to Pepper. Hard Six owned real estate and buildings that it leased to Dollar General Store, Inc. Both Pepper and Booth knew the investment from Booth were proceeds from unlawful activity.
In 2010, Booth attempted to purchase a percentage ownership of an apartment complex on Louisville Road in Bowling Green, Kentucky, by providing $90,000 in cash to Pepper. Both men knew portions of the proceeds invested were from illegal activity. Pepper did not document or record Booth as an owner in the apartment complex in order to conceal Booth’s involvement in the transaction.
From 2009 through 2016, Booth purchased and maintained a percentage of ownership of HAAM Investments, LLC, by providing approximately $250,000 in cash to Pepper. HAAM Investments was created for use and purchase of an apartment complex in Russellville, Kentucky. Both Pepper and Booth knew portions of proceeds invested were from unlawful activity. Pepper transferred his ownership of HAAM Investments in July 2009. Pepper did not document or record Booth as an owner in HAAM Investments in order to conceal Booth’s investment in the transaction.
From in or about 2010 through 2016, Booth purchased and maintained an ownership interest in MYP Properties by providing approximately $200,000 in cash and relief from gambling debt to Pepper. MYP Properties was used and created to own and operate apartment complexes. Both Pepper and Booth knew portions of the proceeds invested were proceeds of unlawful criminal activity. Again, Pepper did not document Booth as an owner of MYP Properties in order to conceal his involvement in the transaction.
According to the plea agreement, the United States will seek a sentence of imprisonment which should not exceed 12 months and 1 day of imprisonment. The defendant is free to argue for any sentence, including probation. Sentencing is scheduled for June 11 at 10am in Louisville.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Calhoun. The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman Appointed to Working Group of Presidential Commission on Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman will serve on President Donald Trump’s Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice Law Enforcement Recruitment and Training Working Group. The Working Group will hear from experts and practitioners with firsthand experience within law enforcement about best practices, challenges, and innovative strategies to address and enhance law enforcement operations and processes, including the recruitment and training of law enforcement.
“Our very finest in Kentucky and the nation wear a badge,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “I am honored to support the President’s Law Enforcement Commission through service on this effort to explore the critically important challenges of recruitment, retention, and training of our law enforcement colleagues.”
The Working Group meeting will focus on the issues affecting officer recruitment, retention, and training. The group will evaluate how to improve and increase the enlistment, retention, and training of police officers across the country and develop recommendations to submit to the Commission. The Commission meeting will include topic-specific panel presentations, during which the President’s Law Enforcement Commission will hear from a number of witnesses, participating in topic-specific panel discussions, who will share information about officer safety, health, and wellness needs, challenges, lessons learned, best practices, successful programs, and other information that directly address the police officer safety, health, and wellness focus area.
On October 28, 2019, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order No. 13896, authorizing and designating the Attorney General to create such a Commission that would explore modern issues affecting law enforcement that most impact the ability of American policing to reduce crime. Attorney General William P. Barr announced the establishment of the Commission on January 22, 2020.
The Executive Order instructs the Commission to conduct its study by focusing on the law enforcement officers who are tasked with reducing crime on a daily basis. It also directs the Commission to research “important current issues facing law enforcement and the criminal justice system,” and recommends a variety of subjects for study, such as, but not limited to:
- The challenges to law enforcement associated with mental illness, homelessness, substance abuse, and other social factors that influence crime and strain criminal justice resources;
- The recruitment, hiring, training, and retention of law enforcement officers, including in rural and tribal communities;
- Refusals by State and local prosecutors to enforce laws or prosecute categories of crimes;
- The need to promote public confidence and respect for the law and law enforcement officers; and
- The effects of technological innovations on law enforcement and the criminal justice system, including the challenges and opportunities presented by such innovations
In forming the Commission, the Department of Justice has marshaled together the expertise and experiences of all sectors of the law enforcement community—urban police departments, county sheriffs, state attorneys general and prosecutors, elected officials, United States Attorneys, and federal law enforcement agencies. They come from distinct states, cities, counties, and towns across the country but share a common mission of safeguarding their respective communities from a variety of threats.
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Former First Asst. McCracken Co. Commonwealth's Attorney Joins Paducah Branch United States Attorney's Office Full-TimeRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman announced today the full-time addition of Raymond Dykie McGee as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office.
“Adding a prosecutor of Dykie McGee’s quality to the Paducah Office shows that our commitment to the Purchase is not mere happy talk; instead backed up with action” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman “The feds will continue to collaborate with our state and local partners to better protect Western Kentucky families from drug trafficking, violent crime, and those that would prey on our kids and elderly Kentuckians.”
Mr. McGee joins two full-time Assistant United States Attorneys, a paralegal, and a legal assistant in the Paducah branch office, keeping U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman’s commitment of service to the Purchase and Pennyrile Regions. The addition of Mr. McGee will continue to strengthen working relationships with state prosecutors and local law enforcement agencies in the region. McGee previously served the office in a joint capacity as a Special Assistant United States Attorney while he prosecuted felony cases in state court as First Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 2nd Judicial Circuit (McCracken County).
“Dykie has been an invaluable asset to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, and while we’re sad to see him go we know he will also be a tremendous asset to the United States Attorney’s Office,” said Commonwealth’s Attorney Dan Boaz.
The allocation of prosecutorial resources in the Paducah Branch Office is closely-tied to a robust full-time federal law enforcement presence which includes the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The welcome addition of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) resources in the coming months will round out the federal law enforcement presence in the region.
McGee joins Assistant United States Attorney Seth Hancock, Branch Chief of the Paducah Office, and Assistant United States Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus in prosecuting federal cases in United States District Courts located in Paducah and Owensboro.
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Three LMPD Officers Charged in Overtime Case SentencedRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Three Louisville Metropolitan Police Department (LMPD) officers charged with wire fraud for their part in a scheme to defraud the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the federal government, and their own department have been sentenced today, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
All three were sentenced to 3 years’ probation with 8 months on curfew, required to pay the costs associated with that location monitoring curfew, ordered to pay restitution in their individual amounts, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.
“Louisville is well-served by the men and women of LMPD, whose culture is one of self-sacrifice, heroism, and deep conviction in regularly risking comfort and personal safety to protect our city,” stated U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “The theft by these three defendants was not borderline conduct, not merely knocking off early on a Friday afternoon; instead, falsification of arrest citations, lying, and failing to report for duty, once even documented sleeping on a couch instead of at work protecting our families. The United States Attorney’s Office and our partners the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office will give no quarter to those who tarnish the badge worn so honorable by so many within LMPD.”
“Those police officers who have abused the public trust for personal gain must answer to consequences just like the suspects they arrest,” stated Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine. “Every day, our police do tireless, thankless work for their community. And trust between the public and those officers is absolutely vital. While this case is now resolved, our community should rest assured that the office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney and the office of the U.S. Attorney will always strive to protect that trust by enforcing the law--regardless of who has violated it.”
Defendants Brian Stanfield, Todd Roadhouse, and Mark Final took part in a scheme that ran from at least 2014 to in or about August 2017 to defraud LMPD, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and the federal government for monetary gains by submitting overtime requests for time they did not actually work on behalf of LMPD and failing to work during their assigned shifts. The three also submitted overtime requests claiming to have worked hours for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) on Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) matters. All three defendants waived Indictment by the grand jury and pleaded guilty to a felony Information before the Court in October 2019.
According to Sentencing Memoranda before the Court, to bolster and support their fraud, the defendants falsified numerous documents including overtime reports, payroll submissions, and uniform citation arrest reports of defendants charged within LMPD’s Script Unit where all three defendants worked during the relevant time. The defendants further coordinated with one another to ensure that the time that each submitted for overtime payments did not conflict with specific times that one or more of them was also purporting to work secondary employment and to ensure their overtime requests were submitted in the LMPD payroll system in such ways as to not raise concerns.
The defendants went even further to provide documentary support for hours of overtime they did not actually work by creating false entries in the uniform citation arrest reports they issued. Specifically, the defendants would falsely report the time of the citation arrest and/or deceptively add one or more of the other defendants’ names on the officer’s signature line of the citation to make it appear that the additional defendant was present and involved in the citation arrest, when, in fact, this was not true. As an example, if a citation arrest actually occurred at 6 pm, the defendant writing the report would falsify the time on the uniform citation arrest report to state that the arrest had occurred at a later time, perhaps 9 pm, in order to make it appear that he worked later into the evening than he actually had and to justify the submission of overtime hours not worked. The defendant drafting the citation report would also add a co-defendant’s name to the report on the officer’s signature line even though the defendant whose name was added was not present for the arrest nor involved in the investigation in order to allow the co-defendant to claim overtime pay for a shift covering the falsified time on the report despite his not actually working during that shift.
It was further part of the scheme that the defendants submitted overtime requests claiming to have worked hours for the DEA and the ATF on OCDETF matters when they, in fact, did not work those hours. Stanfield submitted falsified overtime hours to both DEA and ATF, while Roadhouse and Final falsified hours to claim time worked and paid out of ATF OCDETF funds. Ultimately, the defendants were paid through LMPD for these claimed, but not worked, hours, and the DEA and the ATF reimbursed LMPD pursuant to their respective OCDETF Agreements.
The defendants engaged in this fraud and misrepresentation in order to steal funds from the Louisville Metro Police Department and the federal government by way of an inflated paycheck as well as to increase their salary over time in order to inflate the benefits they would receive from the Kentucky Retirement Systems upon retirement.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Zimdahl and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaleb Noblett of the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and was investigated by the Kentucky Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force which consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), LMPD, the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, and the Kentucky State Police.
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Former Kentucky Deputy Jailer Sentenced for Repeatedly Tasing Suicidal Inmate to Punish Him for CursingRead the Press Release
James Eakes, a former deputy jailer with the Fulton County Detention Center in Hickman, Kentucky, was sentenced today to 48 months in prison and one year of supervised release for willfully depriving a Kentucky citizen of his constitutional rights under color of law.
On April 29, 2019, a federal jury convicted Eakes, 54, of willfully depriving an inmate of the right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment by assaulting him with a dangerous weapon. According to evidence and testimony, Eakes repeatedly tased inmate L.B. after L.B. cursed at him.
“The Department of Justice is committed to protecting victims from cruel and unusual punishment,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “As demonstrated by this sentencing the Civil Rights Division will relentlessly pursue justice on behalf of those whose rights were abused.”
“Each of us in law enforcement take an oath to uphold the rights of all; we don’t get to pick and choose,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman for the Western District of Kentucky. “Victims will be protected, and those found to be violating the law will be prosecuted regardless of their position or what office they hold.”
“The FBI will not tolerate correctional officers who violate a person’s civil rights,” said FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge James Robert Brown Jr. “Former deputy jailer, Eakes, took an oath to protect the inmates under his control. Not only did he abuse his position of authority, but he also betrayed the public’s trust. As civil rights and color of law violations are a top priority of the FBI, we will continue to aggressively pursue law enforcement officials who abuse their power.”
The jury heard evidence that Eakes was first called to L.B.’s cell because L.B. told guards he was suicidal. As required by the jail’s procedures, Eakes and two other female deputy jailers then removed all of L.B.’s possessions from his cell and made L.B. strip naked. Eakes left the cell and closed the door, which automatically locked, leaving L.B. in his cell with only an anti-suicide garment.
The evidence and testimony showed that, after he was locked in his cell, L.B. cursed at Eakes from behind the cell door. Eakes then ordered that the door be unlocked, removed his Taser from his holster, opened the door, and immediately shot L.B. with his Taser. Eakes then entered L.B.’s cell, and, while activating the Taser, repeatedly yelled at L.B. not to curse at him again. Despite the fact that L.B. took no aggressive action towards Eakes and remained slumped against the cell wall, Eakes tased L.B. two additional times.
The FBI Louisville Field Office, Hopkinsville Resident Agency conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Sewell of the Western District of Kentucky and Trial Attorney Zachary Dembo of the Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.
U.S Attorney Russell Coleman Opens Bowling Green Office with Full-Time Federal Prosecutors for First Time EverRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – For the first time in the history of Kentucky there will be a full-time staffed federal prosecutors’ office in Bowling Green, Kentucky, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman.
“You shouldn’t expect less of your government the further you live from Louisville or the Golden Triangle,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Having a full-time office in Bowling Green will allow us to better collaborate with our many outstanding law enforcement partners throughout SouthCentral Kentucky in the fight to protect Warren and surrounding counties from predators seeking our kids, online thieves targeting our older family members, and historically high levels of drug cartel-produced poison from Mexico.”
Opening the full-time staffed office 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 Assistant U.S. Attorneys in Bowling Green that live in the community will foster deeper working relationships with local law enforcement and state prosecutors that will lead to better outcomes for the citizens of the Southcentral Kentucky region in mitigating the threat of increased drug trafficking in ever more dangerous substances, online elder fraud, and child exploitation.
“The opening of a United States Attorney's Office will both expedite federal cases and foster a closer working relationship with state, local and federal law-enforcement,” said Tommy Loving, Director of Bowling Green-Warren Co. Drug Task Force. “I have personally asked many times over the last 20 years for a full-time United States Attorney's Office to be opened in Bowling Green. I thank United States Attorney Russell Coleman for listening to our needs and opening this office. Without his strong support of law-enforcement this would have never happened and it will be a great asset to the entire region.”
“As the Warren County Attorney, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with the United States Attorney’s Office to provide a collaborative effort between County Government and the Federal Government,” said Warren Co. Attorney Amy Milliken. “This partnership, while unique, will prove to be beneficial to all Warren County citizens. Working together builds strong partnerships and those partnerships equate to friendships. I am excited to work with USA Russell Coleman to make this office, position and partnership a success!”
"FBI Louisville welcomes the United States Attorney’s Office (WDKY) full-time to Bowling Green,” said Special Agent In-Charge Robert Brown Jr. “This is a monumental win for Kentucky. Having dedicated federal prosecutors working side by side with our Special Agents in Bowling Green, as well as with other federal and state partners, will only bolster all of our commitments to protecting the citizens of the Western District of Kentucky.”
The announcement was made during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the United States District Courthouse in Bowling Green, which will initially accommodate full-time Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Madison Sewell who will be joined by Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) Mark Yurchisin, and yet another full-time AUSA later this year once hired by U.S. Attorney Coleman.
Yurchisin, who was born and raised in Warren County, was sworn-in as the first-ever Bowling Green-based Special Assistant U.S. Attorney on Wednesday during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He currently serves as an Assistant County Attorney for Warren County Attorney Amy Milliken. Prior to joining the county attorney’s office, Yurchisin served as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 38th Judicial District in Morgantown, Kentucky. As a SAUSA, Yurchisin will serve as a critical link between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and local prosecutors to better protect the people of Southcentral Kentucky from drug trafficking, fraud, and violent crime.
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Albany Pharmacist Pleads Guilty to Illegal Distribution of Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – An Albany, Kentucky, pharmacist has pleaded guilty to three counts of illegal distribution of controlled substances, announced the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
Kenton L. Shearer was charged via an Information on January 10, 2020, with three counts of illegal distribution of controlled substances.
Between March 10, 2015, and April 15, 2015, Shearer filled, or allowed his employees to fill, prescriptions containing hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, for patient J.Y., even though Shearer knew that the prescriptions were not written for a legitimate medical purpose. Shearer knew J.Y. was doctor shopping to obtain prescriptions for the same medications from multiple doctors, and because the hydrocodone polistirex (cough medicine) Dr. Michael Cummings prescribed to J.Y. had been prescribed for far longer than recommended in prescription guidelines.
Between August 16, 2011, and June 21, 2014, Shearer filled, or allowed his employees to fill, prescriptions containing hydrocodone, a Schedule III controlled substance, for patient J.Y., even though Shearer knew that the prescriptions were not written for a legitimate medical purpose. Shearer knew J.Y. was doctor shopping to obtain prescriptions for the same medications from multiple doctors, because the hydrocodone polistirex (cough medicine) Dr. Michael Cummings prescribed to J.Y. had been prescribed for far longer than recommended in prescription guidelines, and because Shearer filled prescriptions early on multiple occasions.
Between August 16, 2011, and April 8, 2015, Shearer filled, or allowed his employees to fill, prescriptions containing alprazolam, a Schedule IV controlled substance, for patient J.Y., even though Shearer knew that the prescriptions were not written for a legitimate medical purpose. Shearer knew J.Y. was doctor shopping to obtain prescriptions for the same medications from multiple doctors, and because Shearer filled prescriptions early on multiple occasions.
The United States will seek a sentence of 15 months in federal prison followed by a term of 3 years supervised release. The defendant has agreed to forfeit a $200,000 monetary judgment to the United State, which will be due on or before the sentencing date. Sentencing is set for May 14, 2020.
Dr. Michael Cummings was prosecuted by the United States and was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment in July of 2019.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Weiser. The case was investigated by the Kentucky State Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of the Inspector General.
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Jury Convicts Campbellsville Man on Child Porn ChargesRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A Campbellsville, Kentucky, man, has been found guilty at trial for attempted receipt of child pornography and accessing the internet with intent to view child pornography, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman. The jury convicted James S. Wolfe after deliberating for less than 30 minutes.
“Prey on our kids in the Western District of Kentucky and expect swift and aggressive federal prosecution,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This outcome is due to the fine work of the United States Probation Office, U.S. Secret Service, and a dedicated prosecutor.”
On July 2, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Superseding Indictment charging Wolfe with attempted receipt of child pornography and accessing with the intent to view child pornography. At the time of the charges, Wolfe was serving a 10-year term of Supervised Release imposed in Criminal Action Number 1:10CR-002 from the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia. In that case, Wolfe pled guilty to one count of possessing child pornography.
On November 29, 2017, Wolfe was released from the Bureau of Prisons and his 10-year term of Supervised Release commenced. The United States Probation Office in the Western District of Kentucky agreed to accept Wolfe for supervision after changes were made to the conditions of the supervision. Wolfe moved to Campbellsville, Kentucky, where he lived with his mother and older brother. He requested permission to have access to a computer. The United States Probation Officer assigned to Wolfe’s supervision agreed to the request, but Wolfe was supposed to use the computer with internet access to seek employment and conduct routine business. And, the computer had to have monitoring software loaded on it to keep track of Wolfe’s activities. The supervising Probation Officer met with Wolfe and explained the monitoring process to him and his mother. Monitoring began on April 24, 2018.
Less than a week later, the monitoring company, RemoteCom, contacted the Probation Officer concerning Wolfe’s search activities. On May 7, 2018, the supervising Probation Officer received notification that Wolfe’s computer was not reporting back to RemoteCom’s servers. Two days after the reinstallation of the monitoring software, RemoteCom again notified the Probation Officer of concerning activity on Wolfe’s computer. The search terms clearly referred to children and sexual activity. On May 25, 2018, the supervising Probation Officer conducted an unscheduled home visit. The Probation Officer made contact with Wolfe and his mother. When confronted by the Probation Officer concerning the online activity, Wolfe stated that he didn’t think anything he had searched or viewed constituted pornography. The Probation Officer seized the computer, an unauthorized cellular telephone and numerous pages of handwritten notes (containing, among other things, lists of web sites).
A forensic examination of the computer conducted by the United States Secret Service revealed search terms indicative of child sexual exploitation as well as shadow copies of images depicting the sexual exploitation of children. The Secret Service agent prepared a report and provided it to the United States Probation Office. The United States Probation Officer submitted the information to the Court to revoke Wolfe’s Supervised Release. United States District Judge Joseph H. McKinley, Jr., revoked Wolfe’s Supervised Release. Wolfe’s conduct also led to the filing of the charges for which he was tried earlier this week in Bowling Green, Kentucky, before Chief United States District Judge Greg N. Stivers.
The defendant faces a mandatory-minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Wolfe is scheduled to appear before Chief Judge Stivers for sentencing on April 23, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., CDT, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Wolfe remains in the custody of the United States Marshals Service.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jo Lawless. The case was investigated by the United States Probation Office and the United States Secret Service.
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Marion Co. Man Sentenced for Drug Distribution, Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States District Judge David J. Hale sentenced Phillip Randolph Johnson Jr. of Marion County, Kentucky, to 180 months followed by 5 years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to a seven count federal indictment.
“Armed drug dealing will not be tolerated in Marion County or the Western District of Kentucky,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Those who ignore this warning will pay a heavy price, in this case a decade and a half in federal prison.”
“Armed felons who illegally possess and use guns to further drug deals are criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” stated ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Tommy Estevan of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF provides investigative resources that lead to arrests and successful prosecutions of these offenders”
On October 3, 2019, Johnson, 38 years of age, entered a plea of guilty to all seven counts of the federal indictment. The federal charges included 2 Counts of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, 2 Counts of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, 1 Count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, 1 Count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and 1 Count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Johnson was previously convicted in Marion County of reckless homicide and two charges of trafficking in a controlled substance (cocaine) in the first degree, all felonies.
The federal charges to which Johnson pleaded guilty are based on conduct which occurred between November 13, 2018, and November 30, 2018, in Marion County. According to the plea, Johnson sold cocaine and methamphetamine to law enforcement officials on multiple occasions between the above dates and on November 30, 2018, was found in possession of a Taurus, Model PT809, 9 millimeter semiautomatic pistol and ammunition, following the execution of a search warrant of the residence from which he had been selling narcotics.
Based on the fact that Johnson had two prior felony controlled substance offenses and pleaded guilty to the current drug charges, the Court determined he is a “career offender” for sentencing purposes which made him eligible for an enhanced sentence.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mac Shannon, and was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Lebanon Police Department.
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Man Who Fired Bullet That Killed 7-Year Old Child in Louisville Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Louisville, Kentucky, man, who fired the shot that killed a 7-year old child on May 21, 2017, has now pleaded guilty to three federal firearms charges, announced U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman.
“The face of gun crime in our city is an innocent child sitting at his kitchen table eating birthday cake on a Sunday night,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “This case demonstrates how the feds can partner with LMPD and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to maximize our ability to incapacitate the trigger-pullers and protect kids like Dequante Hobbs.”
Wyatt Lamar Williams, 25, of Louisville, Kentucky, was charged in a superseding indictment on October 1, 2019, by a Federal Grand Jury sitting in Louisville with a three counts of being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm.
Williams faces no more than 10 years in federal prison per count and a period of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The defendant was also successfully prosecuted by the Office of Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine and previously pled guilty in Jefferson County Circuit Court to second degree manslaughter, two counts of wanton endangerment and receiving a stolen firearm, and received a 20 year state sentence.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Larry Fentress and United States Attorney Russell Coleman. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD).
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