Western District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hopkinsville Man Sentenced to over 11 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Hopkinsville, Kentucky man was sentenced last week to 11 years and 6 months in federal prison for three counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of distribution of fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Office, and Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Shaveon Richardson, 26, was sentenced to 11 years and 6 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for three counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of distribution of fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On May 24, 2022, and June 1, 2022, Richardson distributed over 50 grams of methamphetamine in Christian County, Kentucky. On June 9, 2022, Richardson aided and abetted another person in the distribution of 96 fentanyl pills. On June 14, 2022, Richardson provided another person with approximately 1 pound of methamphetamine to distribute.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty and the Hopkinsville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Barren County Man Sentenced to over 4 Years in Federal Prison for Being Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Barren County, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 4 years and 9 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after previously been convicted of a felony.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Dwayne T. Smith, 37, of Glasgow, Kentucky, was sentenced to 4 years and 9 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a Glock GMBH, model 19, nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol on June 7, 2022. Smith was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses:
On June 25, 2019, in Barren Circuit Court, Smith was convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, receiving stolen property, and possession of synthetic drugs–second or subsequent.
On October 7, 2019, in Barren Circuit Court, Smith was convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and the Glasgow Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark J. Yurchisin II and R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Two Louisville Men Sentenced for Multiple Carjackings and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Two Louisville men were sentenced this week to 22 and 17 years in prison for a string of armed carjackings that occurred in Jefferson County, Kentucky, from May to June of 2022.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Fahad Alasawi, was sentenced to 22 years in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for four counts of carjacking and four counts of possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Alasawi was also ordered to pay $14,158.33 in restitution.
Mauricio Diaz, was sentenced to 17 years in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for three counts of carjacking, one count of attempted carjacking, and three counts of possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Diaz was also ordered to pay $13,585.33 in restitution.
There is no parole in the federal system.
From May 27, 2022, through June 2, 2022, Alasawi and Diaz stole or attempted to steal five vehicles including a Toyota Corolla, a Ford Focus, a Chevrolet Traverse, and a BMW 537xi from different victims, one of whom was 12-years old, with threats of violence and while possessing a firearm. Most of the carjackings occurred in a Louisville apartment complex. Diaz admitted to acting as a look out for the carjackings while Alisawi threatened the victims with violence.
The case was investigated by The FBI Louisville Field Office, HSI Louisville, and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from
occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Owensboro Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
Owensboro, KY – This week an Owensboro man was sentenced to 25 years in prison for methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking charges.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Sheila Lyons of the DEA Chicago Field Division, and Chief Art Ealum of the Owensboro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Willie Watkins, 32, was sentenced to 25 years in prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture.
The following co-defendants have previously been sentenced in this case.
On November 10, 2023, Richard Cason, 32, of Owensboro, was sentenced to 15 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture.
On February 16, 2023, Keith Watkins, 30, of Owensboro, was sentenced to 8 years and 4 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture, and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
On December 13, 2023, Samuel White, 30, of Owensboro, was sentenced to 5 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture, and distribution of methamphetamine.
On October 24, 2022, William Harvey Duhart, 40, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture.
On August 10, 2022, Derrick Lamont Bullitt, 40, of Louisville, was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture.
On June 9, 2022, Jeremy Poiles, 41, of Owensboro, was sentenced to 10 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Co-defendants Christopher McNary and Nache Moore have previously pled guilty and will be sentenced at a later date.
The DEA Evansville Resident Office and the Owensboro Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Man for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on December 5, 2023, charging a Louisville man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Ryan Akeem Turner, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On September 28, 2023, Turner possessed a Ruger, model LC9S, 9-millimeter caliber pistol.
Turner was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On February 22, 2021, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (heroin), convicted felon in possession of a handgun, and possession of a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (heroin).
On February 22, 2021, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of complicity to receiving stolen property under $10,000.
On October 13, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of 3 counts of trafficking in a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (more than 2 grams of heroin) and convicted felon in possession of a handgun.
On October 15, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (heroin).
On April 6, 2011, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (cocaine).
On December 18, 2008, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (cocaine), tampering with physical evidence, and possession of a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (cocaine).
On December 18, 2008, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (cocaine) and tampering with physical evidence.
On December 18, 2008, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Turner was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, in the first degree, first offense (cocaine).
The defendant made his initial court appearance yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. He remains in custody pending trial. If convicted, Turner faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Livingston County Commercial Fisherman Sentenced to Five Years of Federal Probation for Lacey Act ViolationRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Livingston County, Kentucky man was sentenced to five years of probation for a Lacey Act violation involving the illegal harvesting and sale of shovelnose sturgeon roe.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Stephen Clark of the Southeast Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, and Colonel Jeremy McQueary, Director of Law Enforcement for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources made the announcement.
Among other things, the Lacey Act makes it unlawful for any person to transport and sell fish that were taken in violation of any law or regulation of any state. Kentucky regulates fishing for sturgeon and its eggs, which are marketed as caviar. A violation of the Lacey Act constitutes a felony if the fish had a market value in excess of $350.
According to court documents, Charles Hopkins, 52, was sentenced to five years of probation for conspiring with others to sell shovelnose sturgeon that had been harvested in violation of Kentucky law. Hopkins was also ordered to pay a $20,000 fine to the Lacey Act Reward Account and $348,613 in restitution to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
“I commend the work and collaboration of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources for their outstanding effort in investigating this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Those who seek to ignore laws designed to protect our natural resources should take note that our federal and state law enforcement partners will thoroughly investigate, and this office will aggressively prosecute, violations of federal law.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Sewell, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Man for Bank Robbery and Possession of a Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned a five-count indictment on November 21, 2023, charging a Louisville man with three bank robberies, possession of a firearm during a bank robbery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Corey D. Ware, 28, was charged with three bank robberies, possession of a firearm during a bank robbery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On September 16, 2022, Ware robbed two banks in Jefferson County. On September 22, 2022, Ware possessed a firearm and robbed another bank in Jefferson County. Ware possessed the firearm after having previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On December 20, 2017, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Ware, was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance, first degree (three counts), trafficking in a controlled substance, second degree, and trafficking in marijuana with a firearm.
The defendant made his initial court appearance yesterday, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Ware remains in federal custody pending trial. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of 80 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by LMPD, FBI, and HSI with assistance from the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac Shannon is prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Christian County Woman Sentenced to over 11 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine and Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Christian County, Kentucky, woman was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine, followed by an additional 1 year and 6 months in prison for violating a previous term of federal supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Hopkinsville Police Chief Jason Newby made the announcement.
According to court documents, Ahgeana Bailey, 29, of Hopkinsville, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of distributing over 50 grams of methamphetamine. At the time she committed this offense, Bailey was on federal supervised release for a 2019 conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. She was sentenced to an additional 1 year and 6 months in prison for violating the terms of her supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty and the Hopkinsville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Federal Trial Jury Finds Texas Man Guilty of Kidnapping an Adult Victim and Transportation of a Minor Across State Lines for Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Friday evening a federal jury convicted a Texas Man of fifteen criminal offenses to include transportation of a person for illegal sexual activity, transportation of a minor for illegal sexual activity, and inveigle and decoy kidnapping. To “inveigle” a person means to lure, or entice, or lead the person to do something by making false representations or promises or using other deceitful means. “Decoy” means enticement or luring by means of some fraud, trick, or temptation. He was also convicted of bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and interstate threats to ransom.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, in November of 2018, Bryan Douglas Conley, age 41, used an online dating website to lure and entice a minor from Ohio to travel to Tennessee to meet with him. Conley created and used a false online profile named “Bryant” and offers of money and property to lure the minor across state lines. Conley and the false profile “Bryant” offered the minor money for sexual activity in Kentucky and Tennessee. Conley ultimately abandoned the minor several days later in Texas and stole her purse and phone.
In January of 2019, Conley used an online date website to inveigle and decoy an adult victim. Conley created the online profile “Lance Debeers” and falsely claimed to be a modeling agent. Both Conley and “Lance” engaged the victim in discussions about modeling. On January 29, 2019, Conley met the victim in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. He took the victim’s phone and provided her an unknown substance to drink as part of the modeling contract. He bound the victim and drove around Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee issuing ransom demands to the victims’ parents in Tennessee. The ransom demands included threats to physically and sexually harm the victim if his demands were not met.
On January 30, 2019, Conley retrieved a ransom placed by the FBI in Oak Grove, Kentucky. He was arrested shortly after retrieving the ransom. The victim was located in the car. Prior to the kidnapping, Conley met the victim and took her credit card and attempted to make purchases at a retail store in Oak Grove, Kentucky. He also attempted to access her credit card customer profile using the victim’s social security number.
In June of 2019, after Conley had been arrested and released from custody and ordered to wear an ankle monitoring device, he removed the device and fled to Ohio. He was subsequently arrested and detained.
Conley is scheduled for sentencing on March 11, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Conley remains in federal custody pending sentencing. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Brentwood Tennessee Police Department, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Judd and Joel King are prosecuting the case with assistance from paralegal James Aaron Cooper.
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Bowling Green Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green woman was sentenced last week to 10 years in prison for possession with the intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Task Force made the announcement.
According to court documents, Adrienne Cauzzort, 40, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by a 4-year term of supervised release, for possession with the intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
There is no parole in the federal system.
On June 6, 2022, Cauzzort possessed, with the intent to distribute, 30.27 grams of methamphetamine. Cauzzort also possessed two handguns after having been previously convicted of the following felony offenses. On July 20, 2015, in Warren Circuit Court, Cauzzort was convicted of wanton endangerment in the first degree and robbery in the second degree. Cauzzort was also convicted of possessing the two handguns in furtherance of her drug trafficking crime.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Allen County Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – An Allen County, Kentucky, man was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Chief Darren Tabor of the Scottsville Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Timothy E. Austin, 50, of Scottsville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 12 years in prison, followed by 5 of supervised release, for possession with the intent to distribute 154.747 grams of methamphetamine on August 15, 2022. Austin was sentenced for possessing a total of 263.876 grams of methamphetamine intended for distribution. The increased drug amount was based on other relevant conduct of the defendant that the Court considered when imposing the sentence.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the Scottsville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Jefferson County Felon Sentenced to over 16 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County man was sentenced yesterday to 16 years and 8 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Timothy Lewis, 53, was found guilty by a federal jury on March 13, 2023, for being a felon in possession of firearm. He was sentenced yesterday to 16 years and 8 months in federal prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to evidence presented at trial, on June 25, 2018, Lewis illegally possessed a Smith & Wesson, Model M&P 40 PRO Series, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol and ammunition. Lewis had previously been convicted of the following felonies.
On January 31, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court under case number 16-CR-2203, Lewis was convicted of burglary in the third degree, receiving stolen property under $10,000, theft by unlawful taking over $500, and tampering with physical evidence.
On July 29, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court under case number 14-CR-1604, Lewis was convicted of complicity to burglary in the second degree.
On September 7, 2012, in Jefferson Circuit Court under case number 12-CR-0775, Lewis was convicted of complicity to receiving stolen property under $10,000 and theft by unlawful taking (two counts).
On October 19, 2007, in Jefferson Circuit Court under case number 06-CR-3183, Lewis was convicted of receiving goods by fraud, burglary in the second degree (three counts), theft by unlawful taking over $300 (twelve counts), theft by unlawful taking over $300 – auto (two counts), receiving stolen property over $300 (three counts), receiving stolen property over $300 - vehicle, criminal possession of forged instrument in the second degree, fraudulent use of a credit card (three counts), tampering with physical evidence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia P. Gomez prosecuted the case with the assistance of paralegal Julie Mason.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Russell County Man Sentenced to over Two Years in Federal Prison for Defrauding Two Local Non-Profit OrganizationsRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Russell County man was sentenced last week to 2 years and 3 months in federal prison for defrauding two Russell County area non-profit organizations.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to court records, Charles Davis, 57, was sentenced last week to 2 years and 3 months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, for two counts of wire fraud. The charges were in in connection with his thefts while working as treasurer from two Russell County non-profit organizations, ArtWorks Community Arts Education Center, a local non-profit in Jamestown, Kentucky, that provides arts education to children, and the Russell County Arts Council, another non-profit that provides arts education to children and the community. Davis was also ordered to pay $352,336.72 in restitution to ArtWorks Community Arts Education Center and the Russell County Arts Council.
This case was investigated by the FBI.
Assistant United States Attorney Madison Sewell, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Albany Felon for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on November 21, 2023, charging a New Albany, Indiana man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Demetrus Forrest II, also known as Demetrius Forrest, 22, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On November 15, 2023, Forrest possessed a Glock, model 17c, 9-millimeter handgun. Forrest was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On December 9, 2022, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Forrest was convicted of fraudulent use of a credit card under $10,000, receiving stolen property under $10,000, theft by unlawful taking from a vehicle $500 or more but under $10,000 (2 counts), theft by unlawful taking – firearm, and receiving stolen property (firearm).
The defendant made his initial court appearance last week, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The defendant remains detained pending trial. If convicted, Forrest faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Felon for Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on October 18, 2023, charging a local man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Dashawn Billingslea, 18, was charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. On June 21, 2023, Billingslea possessed a Karri’s Guns, Model KG 15, multi-caliber rifle and a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber handgun. Billingslea was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense. On June 12, 2023, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Billingslea was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
The defendant made his initial court appearance last week, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The defendant remains detained pending trial. If convicted, Billingslea faces a minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for CARES Act FraudRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced yesterday to 1 year and 6 months in prison for charges related to his submission of twelve fraudulent Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act applications.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Kelly K. Moening, Special Agent in Charge, Treasury Inspector General for the Tax Administration, Great Lakes Field Division, made the announcement.
According to court documents, Blake Patterson, 38, was sentenced yesterday to 1 year and 6 months years in prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for twelve counts of wire fraud and one count of bank fraud. There is no parole in the federal system.
Patterson filed six fraudulent applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and six applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans between August 7, 2020, and May 11, 2021, seeking more than $740,000 and resulting in the theft of $133,802. Patterson utilized the entities et Propellente, LLC, Darke Rose LLC, and Link, LLC. Patterson organized all three entities after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He then exaggerated the number of employees, revenue, cost of goods sold, and payroll expenses of those entities in the fraudulent applications. Further, every EIDL and PPP application included a question asking whether any individual owning 20% or more of the equity of the applicant was subject to an indictment or other means by which formal criminal charges are brought in any jurisdiction at the time of the application. Patterson’s applications falsely omitted that he had criminal charges pending against him in Jefferson County Circuit Court at the time he submitted the applications.
Patterson was also ordered to pay $133,802 in restitution.
This case was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for the Tax Administration.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Elver and Christopher Tieke prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Louisville Felon Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Distribution Offenses, to Include Causing a Fatal Overdose, and Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Today, a local man was sentenced to 13 years in prison for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury, distribution of fentanyl, and for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Dalton Hayes, 21, was sentenced to 13 years in prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury, distribution of fentanyl, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Hayes was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On March 31, 2021, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Hayes was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, schedule II oxycodone less than 10 dosage units, receiving a stolen firearm, and receiving stolen property over $500 but less than $10,000.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The DEA Louisville Field Division and LMPD investigated the case.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Dahl.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Felon for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on November 21, 2023, charging a local man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Jaron Bobbitt, 38, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On November 13, 2023, Bobbitt possessed an Anderson Manufacturing, AM-15, multi-caliber pistol, bearing serial number 19221737, and ammunition. Bobbitt was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On November 9, 2021, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of two counts of receiving stolen property, possession of controlled substance in the first degree, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.
On January 16, 2019, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of escape in the second degree.
On August 31, 2018, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of receiving stolen property, theft of identity of another without consent, and criminal mischief in the second degree.
On April 29, 2011, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.
On June 17, 2004, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, cocaine, tampering with physical evidence, and receiving stolen property.
On May 7, 2004, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of receiving stolen property, receiving a stolen vehicle, and tampering with physical evidence.
On December 3, 2001, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Bobbitt was convicted of wanton endangerment in the first degree and receiving a stolen vehicle.
The defendant remains in state custody on charges related to a November 13, 2023, incident in which he brandished a firearm at LMPD police officers. He will make made his initial court appearance on a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Bobbitt faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Former JCPS Teacher Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Violating Federal Child Sexual Exploitation LawRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A former Jefferson County Public Schools teacher was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for attempted online enticement.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron made the announcement.
According to court documents, Kevin O’Donnell, 26, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, for attempted online enticement of a minor. There is no parole in the federal system. O’Donnell used the internet to communicate with an undercover law enforcement officer who he believed to be a 14-year-old girl for the purposes of engaging in sexual contact. O’Donnell then traveled to meet the undercover agent to engage in sexual conduct.
This case was the result of a joint federal, state, and local operation called Operation Angel, aimed at making federal arrests of individuals who preyed upon children. The United States Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Louisville Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Downtown Louisville Bomb Threat HoaxRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced today to 2 years and 9 months in federal prison for a downtown Louisville bomb threat hoax.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Jackie Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court records, Jimmy Smith, Jr., 50, was sentenced today to 2 years and 9 months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, for providing false information and a bomb threat hoax. On August 12, 2022, Smith rode a bicycle in downtown Louisville while carrying a backpack. He placed an item in a high-traffic, business area of downtown Louisville near the riverfront. The package was labeled “bomb.” The Louisville Metro Police Department bomb squad dismantled the “device” and determined that it was not operational. However, a significant area of downtown Louisville had to be shut down for several hours to clear the device.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Murdering a Man During a CarjackingRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Yesterday, a local man was sentenced to federal prison for a carjacking that resulted in death. He was also sentenced for the use, possession, and discharge of a firearm during, and in relation to, a crime of violence, resulting in murder.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Ashton Clay Nally, 23, of Louisville was sentenced to 30 years in prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for carjacking resulting in death, and the use, possession, and discharge of a firearm during, and in relation to, a crime of violence, resulting in murder. These charges stem from a carjacking resulting in the death of the victim that occurred on November 23, 2020, at 2135 Crittenden Drive in Louisville.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“I commend the FBI Louisville Field Office, LMPD, and the prosecutors for their work in this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Fighting violent crime remains a high priority of this office and together with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners we will continue to actively investigate and aggressively prosecute those who commit violence and place the safety of our citizens at risk.”
“This sentence should serve as a stark warning to the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky who choose to commit armed carjackings and other senseless acts of violence. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will not stand for violent offenders who recklessly terrorize innocent lives,” said Special Agent in Charge Stansbury. “In partnership with the Louisville Violent Crime Task Force, FBI Louisville will continue to work tirelessly to ensure violent criminals are removed from our streets.”
The FBI Louisville Field Office and LMPD investigated the case.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alicia P. Gomez and Mac Shannon.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Three Louisville Men Sentenced in Federal Court for Fentanyl and Heroin Trafficking Related OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – This week, the third and final local man was sentenced to federal prison for fentanyl and heroin trafficking related offenses. One man was also sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
On July 27, 2023, Ramontez Bell, 23, was sentenced to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture and a mixture of heroin, possessing with the intent to distribute a fentanyl mixture, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Bell was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense. On August 22, 2019, Bell was convicted in Jefferson Circuit Court of complicity to tampering with physical evidence.
Also on July 27, 2023, Duane Johnson, 33, was sentenced to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture and a mixture of heroin.
On November 2, 2023, Keidrick Grinstead, 33, was sentenced to 7 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture and a mixture of heroin.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI Louisville Field Office Safe Streets Task Force and LMPD investigated the case.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Dahl.
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U.S. Attorney's Office for Western District of Kentucky Celebrates Funding Announced During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – The Department of Justice joined survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide as it recognized October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (“DVAM”). This was a time to center the experiences of survivors; to honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; to express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and to raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. As its monthlong observance of DVAM ends, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (“OVW”) awarded $782,036 to organizations working in Western Kentucky to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Data from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
The announced OVW grants will reach Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, culturally specific communities, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes.
Specifically, organizations providing services for survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in the Western District of Kentucky received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year:
OVW awarded $340,618 to two Western Kentucky organizations under the State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault. Under this initiative, ZeroV, Inc., formerly the Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence, received $108,034, and the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs received $232,584. These organizations provide support for programs and shelters across Kentucky, including locations in Louisville, Elizabethtown, Owensboro, Paducah, Hopkinsville, Bowling Green, and Somerset.
OVW awarded $441,418 to Women Aware, Inc., a non-profit in Paducah, Kentucky, under the Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program) to provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Western District of Kentucky U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett stated, “I am thrilled to share these funding awards from the Office on Violence Against Women which benefit organizations and service providers advocating for victims and helping survivors throughout the Western District of Kentucky escape abuse, heal from trauma, and rebuild their lives. These awards will support their ongoing commitment to providing essential services in our communities and empowering survivors and their families to realize a life free from abuse.”
“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.”
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to over 17 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Trafficking Offenses and Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced yesterday to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking offenses and for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and U.S. Marshal Gary B. Burman of the U.S. Marshals Service, Western District of Kentucky, made the announcement.
According to court documents, Brandon Keeling, 39, was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Keeling was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On February 21, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, he was convicted of complicity to trafficking methamphetamine, fleeing or evading police in the first degree, wanton endangerment in first degree, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. On January 21, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, he was convicted of complicity to trafficking cocaine.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the U.S. Marshals Service with assistance from the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert B. Bonar prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Bowling Green Man for Domestic Violence Offense at Mammoth Cave National ParkRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on October 11, 2023, charging a Bowling Green, Kentucky man with committing domestic assault.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Scott L. Larson, Regional Chief Ranger of the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Rakan F. Elsalem, 39, was charged with one count of domestic assault by a habitual offender. On May 1, 2023, Elsalem committed a domestic assault within the Mammoth Cave National Park, a place within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States. At the time Elsalem committed the domestic assault, he had two prior convictions for offenses that would have been, if subject to federal jurisdiction, assault against a spouse or intimate partner. These included convictions of assault in the fourth degree on September 22, 2020, and on January 24, 2022, in Warren District Court.
Elsalem made his initial court appearance on October 19, 2023, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Elsalem faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison for Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced yesterday for the illegal possession of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Chief Sue Mudd of the Springfield Police Department made the announcement.
According to court document, Javier Michael Vega, 30, was sentenced to 4 years in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. On June 29, 2021, in Washington County, Kentucky, Vega kidnapped a woman at gunpoint and ordered her into his vehicle by threatening to shoot her. At some point while Vega and the victim were driving around in Vega’s vehicle, Vega became angry and fired a round from one of the firearms. The Springfield Police Department, who had been given a description of Vega’s vehicle, initiated a traffic stop. During a search of the vehicle, police recovered two handguns. Vega was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Springfield Police Department and with assistance from the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Tieke prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Two Sentenced for Federal Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – Two members of a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy were sentenced yesterday for their roles in the conspiracy. Both were also convicted of possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine on two occasions.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Sheriff Matt Hillbrecht of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
According to court documents, Angela Dawn Moore, 43, of Marshall County, Kentucky, and Kevin Bellamy, 44, of Paducah, Kentucky, were sentenced for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in the Western District of Kentucky. Both defendants were also sentenced for possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine based upon seizures made by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office in January of 2021 and the Kentucky State Police in March of 2021.
Moore was sentenced to 12 years and 6 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. Bellamy was sentenced to 4 years in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA Paducah post of duty, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Hancock, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Hopkinsville Man Sentenced to over 10 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing HandgunsRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Hopkinsville, Kentucky man was sentenced today to 10 years and 1 month in prison for illegally possessing a handgun on two separate occasions.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Sheriff Tracy White of the Todd County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, Marquez Penman, 30, was sentenced to 10 years and 1 month in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On May 17, 2022, in Logan County, Kentucky, Penman possessed a Taurus handgun. Nine days later, on May 26, 2022, in Todd County, Kentucky, Penman possessed a Ruger handgun. Penman was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On October 7, 2015, in Christian Circuit Court, Penman was convicted of two counts of first-degree robbery. On August 1, 2012, in Christian Circuit Court, Penman was convicted of second-degree robbery.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office, the Kentucky State Police, and the Todd County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Violating Federal Child Sexual Exploitation LawsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for attempted sex trafficking of children and attempted online enticement.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service, and Jeffersontown Police Chief Richard W. Sanders made the announcement.
According to court documents, Steven B. Earnest, 35, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by a 30-year term of supervised release, for attempted sex trafficking of children and attempted enticement of a minor. There is no parole in the federal system.
Earnest used the internet to communicate with an individual to negotiate to pay to engage in sexual conduct with a 12-year-old child. Earnest then traveled to an agreed upon location, with money, to engage in the sexual conduct, where he was arrested.
“I commend the work of the Secret Service, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, and the Jeffersontown Police Department for their outstanding work during the investigation of this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “The protection of our most vulnerable citizens is a top priority of this office. Along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners we will continue to identify, apprehend, and aggressively prosecute those who seek to sexually exploit our children.”
This case was the result of a joint federal, state, and local operation called Operation Angel, aimed at making federal arrests of individuals who preyed upon children. The United States Secret Service, the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, and the Jeffersontown Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced yesterday to 25 years in prison for federal drug and firearm offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Matthew Lewis, 39, was sentenced to 25 years in prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 1 kilogram or more of heroin, possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Lewis was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On July 21, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court, he was convicted of attempted kidnapping, assault in the second degree, wanton endangerment in the first degree, and being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun. On January 19, 2006, in Bullitt Circuit Court, he was convicted of 2 counts of possession of a controlled substance in the first degree. On September 23, 2005, in Jefferson Circuit Court, he was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
This case was investigated by the DEA, FBI, and Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia P. Gomez prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Greenville Man for Firearms Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Owensboro, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on October 11, 2023, charging a Greenville, Kentucky man with firearms trafficking and dealing in firearms without a license.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to the indictment, from June 1, 2023, to September 14, 2023, in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, David Smith, 57, engaged in firearms trafficking when he transferred or otherwise disposed of 13 handguns to a person whose possession of the firearms Smith knew, or had reasonable cause to know, would constitute a felony.
Additionally, Smith is also charged with dealing in firearms without a license when from June 1, 2023, to September 14, 2023, in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, Smith willfully engaged in the business of dealing in firearms when he did not have a license to do so.
Smith will make his initial court appearance on October 26, 2023, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Smith faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Yurchisin, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Joint Investigation Leads to Federal Indictment for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on September 19, 2023, charging several Hopkinsville, Kentucky residents with conspiring to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, and Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Jay Brown, 54, Joseph Brown, 34, Vanchaize Brown, 39, Deerrica Finch, 34, Jane Majors, 43, and Tapaulda Hancock, 41, all of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, were charged with conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and distributing 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The defendants recently made their initial court appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, the defendants each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty and the Hopkinsville Police Department Special Investigations Unit, with assistance from the ATF Bowling Green Field Office, HSI, USPIS, the Kentucky State Police, the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, and the Madisonville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Two Chicago Men Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Offenses Related to Stealing U.S. MailRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Two Chicago men were each sentenced today to 2 years and 6 months in prison for conspiring to steal U.S. Mail and for illegally using and possessing a key to access U.S. Postal Mail receptacles.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Brandon King, 21, and Angel Martin, 25, were each sentenced to 2 years and 6 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiring to steal mail matter from U.S. Postal Mail receptacles and for the illegal use and possession of a key used to open U.S. Postal Mail receptacles.
There is no parole in the federal system.
As part of the conspiracy, King and Martin illegally used the key to access U.S. Postal Mail receptacles in the Louisville area and to steal items deposited in the mail receptacles. During the conspiracy, they fraudulently negotiated and attempted to negotiate stolen checks. The total intended loss caused by their conduct was $179,540.30. In June of 2022, King and Martin were arrested after attempting to flee from local law enforcement in the Louisville area.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the Jeffersontown Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel King, formerly with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky and now with the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Calhoun prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury in Paducah Indicts Oklahoma Man for CARES Act FraudRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A federal grand jury in Paducah, Kentucky returned an indictment on August 8, 2023, charging an Oklahoma man with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of wire fraud involving the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) financial assistance program.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge John McCabe of the United States Army’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) at Fort Campbell made the announcement.
According to the indictment, between February 2021 and April 29, 2021, Kendarian Quentrell Dixon, 23, of Yukon, Oklahoma, conspired with unnamed persons to file a fraudulent application for a loan from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a financial assistance program established by the CARES Act. At the time, Dixon was a soldier in the United States Army stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Dixon received $20,833 from the loan, which he transferred to associates and spent on personal expenses.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) PPP loans were designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses who were in operation on February 15, 2020, to keep their workers on the payroll. PPP loan proceeds were required to be used by the business on certain permissible expenses. Interest and principal on PPP loans could be entirely forgiven if the business spent the loan proceeds on the allowable expenses within a designated period and used a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
Dixon made his initial court appearance today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Dixon faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI Paducah Satellite Office and the United States Army CID at Fort Campbell are investigating the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Bowling Green Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced yesterday to 15 years in prison for methamphetamine trafficking and firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement.
According to court documents, Jimmy Norris, 46, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, for possessing with the intent to distribute 23.456 grams of methamphetamine, illegally possessing a sawed-off shotgun that was not registered under the National Firearms Act, and possessing three handguns, two rifles, and a sawed-off shotgun as a convicted felon. Norris was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On August 24, 2016, in Warren Circuit Court, Norris was convicted of first-degree promoting contraband. On August 24, 2016, in Warren Circuit Court, Norris was convicted of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. On October 17, 2012, in Warren Circuit Court, Norris was convicted of first-degree wanton endangerment. On September 6, 2006, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Norris was convicted of felon in possession of a firearm.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Federal Jury Finds Two Owensboro Men Guilty of Methamphetamine Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Owensboro, KY – Yesterday, a federal jury in Owensboro, Kentucky convicted two local men of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Sheila G. Lyons of the DEA Chicago Field Division, and Chief Art Ealum of the Owensboro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Cedric Swanagan, 37, and Courtland Reed, 32, were convicted of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine between September 2021 and April 4, 2022, in Daviess County, Kentucky and elsewhere. The jury also convicted both Swanagan and Reed of possession with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine on February 22, 2022, in Daviess County and elsewhere. The evidence presented at trial included recorded phone calls between the defendants that were intercepted during a federal wiretap investigation and evidence involving approximately 876 grams of pure methamphetamine associated with the defendants.
The jury further found that Swanagan had committed one serious drug felony and that Reed had committed one serious drug felony and one violent felony prior to committing the offenses in this case. These findings increased the mandatory minimum sentences for both defendants.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 25, 2024, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Swanagan and Reed both remain in federal custody pending sentencing. Swanagan faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison. Reed faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years a maximum of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
The DEA and the Owensboro Police Department investigated this case, with assistance from the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the Indiana State Police, the Kentucky State Police, the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, the McLean County Sheriff’s Office, and the Owensboro-Daviess County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Josh Porter are prosecuting the case, with assistance from paralegal specialist Aaron Cooper.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Former Park City Mental Health Counselor Sentenced to over 8 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A former Park City, Kentucky mental health counselor was sentenced today to 8 years and 4 months in prison for receiving, distributing, and possessing child sexual exploitation materials.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville made the announcement.
According to court documents, Carl Anthony Puleo, 55, was sentenced to 8 years and 4 months in prison, followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, for one count each of receiving, distributing, and possessing child sexual exploitation materials. Puleo was also ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution. During an investigation, an HSI Agent downloaded child sexual exploitation materials from Puleo through a file-sharing network. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by HSI Bowling Green.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Former Columbia Police Chief Sentenced for Stealing City FundsRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – The former City of Columbia Chief of Police was sentenced today to 5 months in federal prison for stealing city funds.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
According to court documents, between February 2020 and February 2021, Jason Dewayne Cross, 46, of Columbia, Kentucky, the Columbia Chief of Police at the time, stole over $25,000 from the Columbia Police Department evidence room and drug purchase fund.
Cross was sentenced to 5 months in prison, followed by a 1-year term of supervised release, for violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A), which makes it a federal offense for a city employee to steal more than $5,000 from a city that received over $10,000 in federal assistance in a calendar year. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Kentucky State Police and the Columbia Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Weiser prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Paducah Woman for False Tax Claims and Small Business Administration FraudRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky returned an indictment on September 12, 2023, charging a Paducah woman with eight counts of filing false tax claims and one count of wire fraud involving the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) financial assistance program.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Natasha Harris-Johnson, 49, made a claim against the United States for payment of a refund of taxes on eight separate occasions in various amounts which she knew to be false, fictious, and fraudulent, and to which she knew she was not entitled. Additionally, between March 2020 and June 2020, Harris-Johnson filed a fraudulent application for a CARES Act financial assistance program, Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), and fraudulently obtained over $159,000 by way of this program. EIDLs provided loan assistance (including $10,000 advances) for small businesses and other eligible entities for loans up to $2 million. The EIDL proceeds could be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred. In the false EIDL applications Harris-Johnson submitted, she made false claims about the gross revenue and cost of goods sold by her company, HJ&J Development LLC.
Harris-Johnson will make her initial appearance on October 19, 2023, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Harris-Johnson faces a maximum of 60 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne E. Keel is prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Kentucky Celebrates Funding Awarded to the Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet for the Continued Fight to Combat Violence Against WomenRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett joins the United States Department of Justice, and Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), in commemorating of the 29th anniversary of the original enactment of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
VAWA’s signature program is the STOP (Services, Training, Officers, and Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grants Program, which awards funds to every U.S. state and territory to promote a coordinated community response among law enforcement, prosecution, courts, victim services organizations, and other community services to ensure the safety of survivors. OVW is awarding $2,445,428.00 under the STOP Program to the Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet to enhance the capacity for communities across the country to develop programs to end gender-based violence and hold offenders accountable.
The Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet is the second largest cabinet in state government with more than 7,000 employees. The cabinet oversees five departments, including the Kentucky State Police, Department of Corrections, Department of Juvenile Justice, Department of Criminal Justice Training, and the Department of Public Advocacy. The cabinet also administers the Office of the State Medical Examiner and the Office of Drug Control Policy.
“Prior to the enactment of VAWA, survivors were primarily left to fend for themselves, often cycling in and out of dangerous environments with little help from legal systems or service providers,” OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo said. “VAWA has changed this landscape by supporting a coordinated community response to address domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking in a more comprehensive manner. It emphasizes survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and community-based approaches and ensures that services are available across every state and territory.”
“The violence goes beyond the victim and the abuser. Children, friends, relatives, and the entire community suffer,” stated United States Attorney Bennett. “Through this important financial support of our state partners, we continue to use all the tools at our disposal to ensure victims have a viable path to safety and justice.”
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U.S. Attorney's Office Hosts "United Against Hate" Outreach EventRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY– This week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky, hosted its first “United Against Hate” Community Outreach Event, bringing together law enforcement and Louisville’s Faith Community to discuss effective strategies to prevent, report, and respond to hate crimes and incidents.
“United Against Hate” is a nationwide Department of Justice initiative to combat unlawful acts of hate. “We are excited to bring this initiative to the Western District and thankful to our law enforcement partners and community faith leaders for uniting with us to combat hate and protect civil rights, especially in our faith communities,” said U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.
The event, held Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at the Louisville Public Library Main Branch, featured presentations from Assistant U.S. Attorneys, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Louisville Metro Police Department on identifying hate crimes and incidents, the importance of reporting, and strategies to protect places of worship.
“Combating hate crimes and bias incidents is one of the top priorities of the Department of Justice and our office,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “People in the Western District, and across the country, deserve to live without fear of being attacked or harassed because of where they are from, what they look like, whom they love, how they worship, or what they believe.”
As part of its United Against Hate Program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office plans to engage with diverse communities across the Western District to further education and prevention efforts and encourage reporting of hate crimes, bias incidents, and discrimination to local and federal authorities. By convening community forums and providing education about civil rights statutes and incident reporting mechanisms, we will build relationships and root out hate in the district.
If you believe you are the victim of a hate crime or that you witnessed a hate crime, immediately report the crime to your state or local police by dialing 9-1-1, then quickly report the incident to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). You can report to the FBI online at tips.FBI.gov or by phone by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). If you believe a bias incident or act of discrimination may not involve a hate crime, you should still report such incident to the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division at civilrights.justice.gov or by contacting the Civil Rights Coordinator at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Two Louisville Gang Members Charged with Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Two Louisville gang members were charged with federal firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Virgil Jackson, age 20, of Louisville, Kentucky, is charged with possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a felony. Jackson was charged by federal complaint, is in state custody, and will be brought to federal custody at a later date. Jackson is prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On May 19, 2023, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Jackson was convicted of receiving stolen property – vehicle – over $300 and unlawful transaction with a minor in the second degree in case number 22-CR-001243. On May 19, 2023, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Jackson was convicted of complicity to engaging in organized crime – criminal syndicate, complicity to receiving stolen property $10,000 or more, and complicity to criminal mischief in the first degree in case number 21-CR-001433-005. On May 5, 2023, in Oldham County Circuit Court, Jackson was placed on diversion for complicity to receiving stolen property $1,000 < $10,000, fleeing or evading police in the first degree (on foot), two counts of complicity to wanton endangerment in the first degree, and unlawful transaction with minor in the second degree in case number 21-CR-00124.
Dacorey Hodges, age 19, also of Louisville, formerly of California, is charged with possessing a firearm while being a fugitive from justice. Hodges is prohibited from possessing a firearm because he has an active felony arrest warrant for burglary in Orange County, California, that was issued on August 1, 2023, in case number 19DL0480.
Hodges was charged by a federal complaint and was arrested this week. He made his initial appearance yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. A detention hearing is currently scheduled for September 18, 2023, at 2:30 p.m.
According to the complaint, Jackson is a member of the Jack Gang and Hodges is a member of Cali to Victory, a subset of the Victory Park Crips gang. Both gangs have been identified by law enforcement as violent street gangs operating in Louisville, Kentucky. The complaint alleges that on September 4, 2023, at approximately 2:23 a.m., a drive-by shooting occurred at the Waffle House located at 2805 Fern Valley Road in Louisville, Kentucky. A female victim received a gunshot wound to the foot during the shooting. Investigators were able to review video recordings from the Waffle House surveillance cameras and identified Jackson and Hodges as two of the individuals who fired weapons. On September 12, 2023, ATF agents, with the assistance of LMPD, executed federal search warrants at Hodges’ and Jackson’s residences. At Jackson’s residence, law enforcement recovered one firearm with an extended magazine. At Hodges’ residence, law enforcement recovered three firearms along with assorted types of ammunition.
If convicted, both defendants face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Alicia Gomez are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Suspended Kentucky Attorney and Wife Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Willful Failure to Pay TaxRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A suspended Kentucky attorney and his wife were sentenced in federal court today for wire fraud and willful failure to pay tax. The former attorney was sentenced to 2 years and 9 months imprisonment and his wife was sentenced to 2 years and 3 months imprisonment.
United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service Louisville Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Cincinnati Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, made the announcement.
According to court documents, Andrew Nicholas Clooney, 55, was sentenced to 2 years and 9 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release. Christel Marie Clooney, 51, was sentenced to 2 years and 3 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Andrew Clooney and Christel Clooney were also ordered to pay $663,965.16 in restitution to former clients.
Andrew Clooney practiced as a personal injury attorney through the Clooney Law Office. Christel Clooney served as the office manager for the Clooney Law Office. From August 2016 through October 2018, the Clooneys used funds that belonged to clients of the Clooney Law Office on personal expenses. Further, the Clooneys made approximately $426,098 in income in 2016, on which they owed approximately $107,140 in federal income taxes. The Clooneys neither filed a tax return for tax year 2016 nor paid any of their outstanding tax liability for that year.
The United States Secret Service and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda E. Gregory prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Shelbyville Woman for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky returned an indictment on September 6, 2023, charging a Shelbyville woman with seven counts of wire fraud.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, between December 2019 and September 2021, Amy Hall, 37, as the Accounting Controller for a local design and construction company, stole more than $260,000 from her employer. She used access to the company’s credit card and bank account granted to her by virtue of her position as accountant to devise and execute a scheme to steal the company’s funds for her own use and benefit and for the use and benefit of others.
Hall made her initial court appearance on September 8, 2023, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Hall faces a maximum sentence of 140 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Secret Service is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Elver is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Four Defendants Sentenced on Federal Charges Stemming from Staged Motor Vehicle AccidentsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Four defendants were sentenced this week for conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Two of the defendants were also sentenced for mail fraud, and one defendant was sentenced for money laundering.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Jones of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Cincinnati Field Office, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, and Director Juan Garrett of the Kentucky Department of Insurance made the announcement.
According to court documents, Joel Abad, 40, of Miami, Florida, Junis Peguero, 40, of Riverview, Florida, Carlos Vazquez, 57, of Louisville, Kentucky, Jose Cordoba Reira, 47, of Louisville, Kentucky, and Miguel Moreno-Cardenas, 55, of Louisville, Kentucky, conspired to recruit people to participate in fake automobile accidents and to obtain treatment at certain chiropractic clinics in Louisville, Kentucky, where insurance companies were billed for the treatment.
On September 7, 2023, Peguero was sentenced to 2 years and 7 months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and mail fraud.
On September 7, 2023, Vazquez was sentenced to 5-years’ probation for conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
On September 8, 2023, Reira was sentenced to 1 year and 2 months in prison, followed by a 2-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering.
On September 8, 2023, Moreno-Cardenas was sentenced to 1 year and 2 months in prison, followed by a 2-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and mail fraud.
All defendants were ordered to pay $343,832.41, jointly, and severally, in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.
Joel Abad will be sentenced later.
The case was investigated by the FBI, IRS-CI, USPIS, and the Kentucky Department of Insurance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Ansari and Christopher Tieke prosecuted the case with assistance from health care fraud investigator Bob Masterson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Two Nelson County Residents for Cocaine and Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on July 11, 2023, charging two Nelson County residents with conspiring to traffic in cocaine and fentanyl. One resident was also charged with possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing cocaine and fentanyl.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Jones of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Sheriff Ramon Pineiroa of the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Neal Scott Stone, 47, and Keely Logsdon, 39, both of Bardstown, Kentucky, were charged with conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and distributing over 400 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of cocaine between March 7, 2023, and June 24, 2023. Additionally, Stone was charged with possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing over 500 grams of cocaine and over 40 grams of fentanyl on June 24, 2023.
Both Stone and Logsdon recently made their initial court appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Both Stone and Logsdon remain in federal custody pending trial. If convicted, both defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, the DEA, the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force, with assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky State Police, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisville Felon Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Stealing Firearms from a Licensed Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County, Kentucky man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison followed by a 3-year term of supervised release for burglarizing a federally licensed firearms dealer and illegally possessing a stolen firearm in Louisville, Kentucky.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, on November 25, 2021, Martavious Kincaide, 29, a convicted felon, stole firearms from a licensed firearms dealer’s business inventory. On December 6, 2021, Kincaide was in possession a Springfield Armory XD-M, 9-millimeter handgun, which was one of the firearms stolen from the licensed dealer. Kincaide later admitted to stealing the guns. In addition to the 10-year prison sentence, Kincaide was ordered to pay $13,600 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This case is yet another example of what occurs when our federal and local law enforcement partners have longstanding solid working relationships,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “ATF and LMPD have demonstrated over time that working together is force multiplier resulting in a safer Louisville for all who live, work, and visit here. I commend both agencies for their continued focus on fighting violent crime and removing crime guns from our streets.”
“To reduce violent crime, ATF targets the sources of crime guns,” said Special Agent in Charge Morrow. “Many crime guns come from theft from vehicles, residences, and sometimes gun stores. In Kentucky, ATF investigates every theft from federal firearm licensees, and we work hard to recover stolen guns before they can be used to harm our community. I am proud of the work of the ATF Louisville Office and Louisville Metro Police Department. They should be commended for their prompt response and excellent result on this investigation.”
The case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Office and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Spencer McKiness, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Returns Four Indictments Charging 34 DefendantsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury in Louisville charged 34 Louisville and Southern Indiana residents in four indictments involving methamphetamine, fentanyl, and firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Jones of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the first indictment, Thomas Gunter, 39, Desmond Allen, 37, Byron Mayes, 49, David Carter, 41, and Lauren Baum, 31, all of Louisville, and Brandon Traughber, 41, of Georgetown, Indiana, and Jason Hill, 40, of Corydon, Indiana, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Beginning as early as January 1, 2021, and continuing through August 16, 2023, the defendants conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Gunter is also charged with ten counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Allen, Mayes, Baum, and Hill are also each charged with one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Carter is also charged with four counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Traughber is also charged with two counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to the second indictment, Adrian Hamilton, 51, Antonio O’Neal, 47, Randall Dilley, 49, Keith Dewayne Settles, 51, Coy Tucker, 32, Jaiquinton Wordlaw, 40, Heather Boling, 25, Dontray Bard, 38, Todd Allgood, 54, and Imani Tennyson, 21, all of Louisville, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Beginning as early as January 1, 2021, and continuing through August 16, 2023, the defendants conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture.
Hamilton and Tennyson are also each charged with two counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. O’Neal is also charged with five counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Dilley is also charged with four counts of distributing a fentanyl mixture and three counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Settles is also charged with three counts of distributing a fentanyl mixture. Tucker is also charged with six counts of distributing a fentanyl mixture and one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Wordlaw is also charged with one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Boling is also charged with four counts of distributing a fentanyl mixture, two counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Bard is also charged with one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Allgood is also charged with six counts of distributing a fentanyl mixture.
According to the third indictment, Dennis Rice, 44, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, and Tomerriel Macklin Jr., 23, Damon Fortney, 44, Dominique Kinnard, 33, Curnesha Smith, 30, Derrik Goodman, 26, Bruce Boerner, 56, and Dawn Burns, 55, all of Louisville, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Beginning as early as March 28, 2023, and continuing through August 16, 2023, the defendants conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Rice, Macklin Jr., and Goodman are also each charged with three counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Fortney is also charged with six counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Kinnard is also charged with one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Smith is also charged with seven counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Boerner is also charged with four counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Burns is also charged with five counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to the fourth indictment, Kendall Shaw, 41, Jaron Collier, 45, Ryan Mitchem, 41, Saentay Sheard, 46, Stephen Piercy, 46, Sean Underwood, 51, Christopher Shanahan, 33, Jason Cheser, 48, and Lacy Elliot, 35, all of Louisville, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Beginning as early as January 1, 2021, and continuing through August 16, 2023, the defendants conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Shaw is also charged with three counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Collier is also charged with two counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Mitchem and Sheard are also each charged with one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Piercy is also charged with four counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and three counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Underwood and Elliot are also each charged with one count of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Shanahan is also charged with three counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Cheser is also charged with three counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Twenty-six of the 34 defendants have been arrested and will make their initial court appearances today and tomorrow before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The following eight defendants have not yet been arrested: Bard, Mayes, Shaw, Wordlaw, Kinnard, Boerner, Shanahan, and Hill. If convicted, the defendants each face minimum sentences ranging from 10 to 35 years, and all each face a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
The cases are being investigated by the FBI, HSI, the IRS-CI, and the Louisville Metro Police Department, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police, the Shepherdsville Police Department, the Jeffersonville, Indiana Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Josh Porter and Frank Dahl are prosecuting the cases.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Elizabethtown Woman Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for CARES Act FraudRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – An Elizabethtown, Kentucky woman was sentenced today to 2 years and 9 months in federal prison for charges related to her submission of three fraudulent Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act applications.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Vince Zehme of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Jones of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, Kelly Woods, 43, filed three fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans between May 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, resulting in the theft of $1,318,955. Woods utilized the entities Philips Healthcare LLC and LB Acquisitions LLC. Woods organized LB Acquisitions LLC after the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. She then exaggerated the number of employees and payroll expenses of those entities in the fraudulent applications. Following release from her 2-year and 9-month sentence, Woods was ordered to serve 3 years on supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Woods was also ordered to pay $1,318,988 in restitution and a $15,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the FDIC Office of Inspector General and the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Elver and David Weiser prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-
720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Real Estate Investor Resentenced to Prison for Bid Rigging After Retaliating Against WitnessesRead the Press Release
A real estate investor was resentenced yesterday in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky to 18 months in prison after his probation was revoked for retaliating against witnesses. He is also required to pay a criminal fine of $171,000 and restitution of $79,000.
Mackie E. Shelton of Scottsville, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to bid rigging a farmland auction on Nov. 29, 2022, in violation of the Sherman Act. According to court documents, Shelton and a co-defendant were real-estate investors who demanded and accepted payoffs to rig the outcome of an April 21, 2018, auction for hundreds of acres of farmland and timber in Allen County, Kentucky. The crime resulted in a financial loss to the Kentucky family selling the property. As a result of his conviction, Shelton lost his professional auctioneer and real-estate licenses, and initially received a sentence of three years of probation with 26 consecutive weekends in jail. While on probation, he retaliated against witnesses who cooperated with law enforcement in the case, resulting in the resentencing. His 18-month prison sentence will be followed by three years of supervised release. He was required to report for prison in two days.
“As part of our commitment to investigating and prosecuting antitrust crimes throughout America’s heartland, we will never hesitate to protect witnesses who cooperate with law enforcement,” said Acting Director of Criminal Enforcement Emma Burnham of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This sentence is a warning that intimidating or retaliating against witnesses will not be tolerated.”
“Retaliating against a witness strikes at the very heart of our country’s judicial system,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office. “The FBI will aggressively investigate allegations of witness retaliation as our system of justice demands that actions such as these not be tolerated.”
The FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Jariel A. Rendell and Alison M. Friberg of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal I Section prosecuted the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
Anyone with information about bid rigging and other antitrust crimes targeting America’s farmers and rural communities should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.