Western District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Drug Trafficker from Ville Platte Sentenced on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - A Ville Platte man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
Closton John Melvin, a/k/a “Git Money C,” a/k/a “C.J.,” 34, was sentenced to 127 months (10 years, 7 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. Melvin pled guilty to the charge on November 8, 2019. The charge stems from a multi-agency investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Melvin and 11 other co-defendants.
In November and December 2018, law enforcement agents made undercover purchases of methamphetamine and cocaine from Melvin. According to documents introduced in court, laboratory tests confirmed that the drugs sold by Melvin were 27.9 grams of cocaine and approximately 122 grams of methamphetamine. Law enforcement agents continued their investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Melvin and obtained authorization from the court to conduct a wiretap on Melvin’s cell phone that he used to organize narcotics transactions. During the interceptions, law enforcement agents intercepted calls wherein Melvin used his phone to coordinate methamphetamine distribution and he sold smaller amounts of other drugs including powder and crack cocaine.
This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
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Illegal Alien Sentenced for Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Melvin Yovanni Maradiaga-Leinus a/k/a “Melvin Lainez,” 39, a native and citizen of Honduras, was sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Maradiaga-Leinus to 24 months in prison. Upon completion of his sentence, Maradiaga-Leinus will be remanded to the custody of the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
The charges stem from a complaint received by the Lafayette Police Department on February 8, 2020 about two Hispanic males discharging a firearm. As a Lafayette Police Department officer was searching the area on foot, he observed another individual walking down the street and requested that the individual walk toward him. The suspect removed his shirt and a black handgun fell out. The law enforcement officer drew his weapon and the suspect picked up the firearm, at which point the officer discharged four shots at him, all of which missed. The suspect, who was later identified as Maradiaga-Leinus, was ordered to lie on the pavement and he complied. Officers approached Maradiaga-Leinus and he was found to be extremely intoxicated. He was arrested for possession of the firearm. Under federal law, it is unlawful for a person who is illegally in the United States to possess a firearm.
The Department of Homeland Security – Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Lafayette Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Houston Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – A Houston, Texas man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 42 months (3 years, 6 months) in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release for his role in smuggling cocaine to the Opelousas and Eunice areas.
Kevin Robertson, 53, was charged in a June 19, 2019 indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Robertson pled guilty to the charge on December 9, 2019.
Louisiana State Police Troopers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle that Robertson was driving on Interstate 20 near Lake Charles on April 20, 2019. According to information presented to the court, law enforcement officers conducted a search of Robertson’s vehicle and found seven ounces of crack cocaine, one kilogram of cocaine, and other controlled substances, and he was arrested.
This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
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Convicted Felon from Lafayette Sentenced for Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Jeremy Rubin, 32, of Lafayette, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 52 months (4 years, 4 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Rubin pleaded guilty on July 24, 2020 to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The charge stems from a domestic disturbance call that Lafayette City Police Department officers responded to on August 19, 2018. The caller advised that her boyfriend had threatened her, directed her into a bedroom, placed a handgun to her head and threatened her life. Law enforcement officers arrived at the residence where the call had been placed and questioned Jeremy Rubin about the incident. Rubin denied having a firearm and denied consent for law enforcement officers to search his vehicle. A search warrant was obtained and officers found the firearm and ammunition in a case bearing Rubin’s name in the vehicle. Further investigation by law enforcement officers revealed that the firearm had been reported stolen.
Rubin has a previous felony conviction for first degree robbery (2008). Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF and Lafayette City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamilla A. Bynog prosecuted the case.
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Department of Justice is Combatting COVID-19 Fraud but Reminds the Public to Remain VigilantRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – The Department of Justice is reminding members of the public to be vigilant against fraudsters who are using the COVID-19 pandemic to exploit American consumers and organizations and to cheat disaster relief programs, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. In particular, the department is warning the public about scams perpetrated through websites, social media, emails, robocalls, and other means that peddle fake COVID-19 vaccines, tests, treatments, and protective equipment, and also about criminals that fabricate businesses and steal identities in order to defraud federal relief programs and state unemployment programs.
At the direction of Attorney General William Barr on March 16, 2020, the Department of Justice mobilized to safeguard Americans from coronavirus-related fraud and other illegal activity. On March 18, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen instructed the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) to take coronavirus-related complaints from the public and facilitate information sharing among law enforcement partners and regulators, like the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Drug Administration. The Deputy Attorney General tasked U.S. Attorneys to appoint Coronavirus Fraud Coordinators in each judicial district, including the Western District of Louisiana, who has done that very thing. Our office, along with many other U.S. Attorney’s Offices, have also established a regional task force to improve federal, state, and local law enforcement coordination and these members are working diligently to track down any and all complaints that are received in connection with these type of crimes. On March 24, following the President’s invocation of his authorities under the Defense Production Act, the Attorney General formed the DOJ Hoarding & Price Gouging Task Force, which is a nationwide effort to deter, detect, and prosecute hoarding and profiteering in the sale of health and medical resources essential to combatting the spread of COVID-19. Memoranda from the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General prescribing these measures may be found at www.usdoj.gov/coronavirus/DOJresponse.
To date, the NCDF has received more than 76,000 tips concerning COVID-19-related wrongdoing. Similarly, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center has also received more than 20,000 tips regarding suspicious websites and media postings. These tips, as well as reports made directly to the offices of U.S. Attorneys, FBI field offices, and other law enforcement agencies, have led to federal law enforcement opening hundreds of investigations.
The department charged its first COVID-19-related fraud case on March 25, and since then, the department has filed criminal charges in 33 cases across the country involving scam vaccines, treatments, or testing or price gouging in the sale of scarce medical supplies. Additionally, the department has initiated civil actions in 11 cases to enjoin fraudulent coronavirus schemes targeting consumers, including cases against defendants marketing ozone gas, silver-ion solution, and bleach-based solution as treatments.
The department has also focused on prosecuting bad actors who have exploited federal relief programs enacted on March 27 under the CARES Act that are intended to assist hard-hit Americans and businesses. In particular, the department has charged 65 defendants in 50 separate cases to date that relate to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The total intended loss to the PPP in those cases is more than $227 million. The defendants in these cases include those brazen enough to submit PPP loan applications for fabricated businesses named after “Game of Thrones” characters and to spend PPP loan proceeds on exotic cars, boats, and expensive jewelry.
The department has coordinated closely with the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) and various other federal law enforcement agencies to stand up the U.S. Department of Justice National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force. (See https://www.justice.gov/file/1319301/download.) This task force is charged with investigating numerous fraud schemes targeting the unemployment insurance programs of state workforce agencies, which have been distributing additional Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds provided for under the CARES Act. To date, the department has charged fraud or money laundering in 12 cases relating to unemployment insurance, and has also been supporting DOL-OIG’s efforts to mitigate the threats that transnational criminal organizations and other identity thieves continue to pose to the important benefits programs on which unemployed Americans rely. The department’s leadership has been crucial in organizing and focusing the whole of federal law enforcement on this important issue, including by leveraging the capabilities and resources of the International Organized Crime Intelligence and Operations Center and by hiring additional prosecutors to investigate and charge these schemes.
Moving forward, the department also is concerned about, and will aim to deter and prevent, attempts by wrongdoers to prey upon potential victims by leveraging news about anticipated approval of a COVID-19 vaccine or about the potential enactment of new disaster relief bills that extend or expand upon CARES Act relief.
The department encourages the public to continue to report wrongdoing relating to the pandemic to the NCDF and to remain vigilant against bad actors looking to exploit this national emergency. To report a scam relating to COVID-19, or if you have information on hoarding or price gouging of critical supplies necessary to respond to the spread of COVID-19, you can report it without leaving your home by calling the NCDF Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form, available at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. You can also contact the local U.S. Attorney’s Office in Shreveport at 318-676-3600 or in Lafayette at 337-262-6618 to report any wrongdoing relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Two Bossier City Men Sentenced for Federal CrimesRead the Press Release
Joshua B. Kimes, 36, of Bossier City, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Kimes pled guilty to the charge on October 30, 2019.
While conducting a narcotics investigation in 2018, law enforcement agents set up surveillance of Joshua B. Kimes and others who were known to be distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. Kimes and other co-conspirators were found to be arranging transactions to sell methamphetamine in various quantities. Between April and May 2018, agents observed Kimes traveling from the Western District of Louisiana to Waskom, Texas to purchase methamphetamine. According to information presented to the court, Kimes arranged purchases of methamphetamine from a co-defendant for eventual resale.
On May 9, 2018, law enforcement agents intercepted phone communications wherein Kimes and a co-defendant made arrangements to travel from the Western District of Louisiana to Waskom, Texas to purchase methamphetamine. The next day, agents observed Kimes and the co-defendant travel from Shreveport to Waskom, Texas. Shortly after crossing the Louisiana state line back into the Western District of Louisiana, the vehicle driven by Kimes was stopped for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, agents located and seized approximately 1.5 ounces of methamphetamine and Kimes and his co-defendant were arrested. The North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine.
The DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
Illegal Possession of Firearm Leads to Federal Prison Sentence for Bossier City Man
Laterreon Daron Morrison, 24, of Bossier City, was sentenced to 78 months (6 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Morrison pled guilty to the charge on February 4, 2020.
According to documents filed with the court, Morrison was involved in a hit and run accident at Hearne Avenue and Hilry Huckaby Boulevard in Shreveport on May 1, 2018. When Morrison fled the scene of the accident, the vehicle that he struck began to follow him. Shreveport Police officers were able to get behind Morrison’s vehicle with lights and sirens activated and he eventually stopped in the middle of Hilry Huckaby Boulevard, exited the vehicle and officers ordered him to the back of the car. While officers attempted to conduct a pat down, Morrison fled on foot. He was subdued and taken into custody. Officers found a pistol inside the vehicle while inventorying it for impound. Morrison, who was previously convicted of a felony charge of aggravated battery in Bossier Parish in 2014, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. Morrison also has prior state arrests for aggravated second degree battery and attempted armed robbery.
The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Owner of Local Oil and Gas Company Pleads Guilty to Employing Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Tim Icenhower, 58, of Marshall, Texas, the Owner and President of Icenhower Oil and Gas, Inc. (IOG) in Bossier City, Louisiana, pled guilty today to unlawful employment of aliens. In addition, IOG pled guilty to one count of harboring aliens. The hearing was before United States District Judge Donald E. Walter.
According to information presented in court, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Shreveport began receiving complaints in early 2016 that IOG was hiring undocumented individuals from Mexico. In March 2016, during their investigation of IOG, DHS requested employment documents from IOG to verify employees’ legal status and visited the IOG facility in Bossier City, Louisiana. DHS agents met with an IOG human resources official to inspect the documents and assess IOG’s employment verification process. DHS agents provided IOG officials with a handbook for employers that discussed the rules and regulations for employing individuals in the United States and other information about a free online program offered by DHS to employers so they can verify the legal status of potential employees.
On October 16, 2016, IOG officials issued a letter to DHS advising of the results of its internal investigation and audit. The letter identified 69 individuals that IOG terminated because they were “unauthorized.” The letter also identified 22 undocumented employees that IOG claimed it needed to retain because they were essential to fulfill certain pending contractual obligations.
On January 27, 2017, DHS agents visited the IOG facility in Bossier City again and conducted another audit and found that IOG still had undocumented employees that were not authorized to work there. DHS agents issued a Warning Notice to IOG that they were still in violation and advised that there would be a follow-up audit in six months.
DHS conducted a follow-up audit of IOG in June 2017 and identified at least 17 individuals who were still employed at IOG that had been identified in the October 2016 audit as undocumented and unauthorized employees. Neither Icenhower nor IOG terminated the employment of these individuals after learning that they were undocumented aliens.
Icenhower faces a maximum penalty of up to six months in prison, and his company, IOG, could be ordered to pay a fine of up to $500,000. Sentencing is scheduled for February 11, 2021.
The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell is prosecuting the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Monroe Man Sentenced for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – Robert A. Hebert, 60, of Monroe, Louisiana, has been sentenced for child exploitation, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Hebert to 360 months (30 years) in prison followed by supervised release for life for the crime. Hebert pleaded guilty to the charge June 15, 2020.
The federal charges in this case stem from a complaint received by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office on May 16, 2019 that a four-year old male child was being sexually assaulted and molested. After further investigation, law enforcement agents learned that Hebert had sexually exploited the minor victim. A search of Hebert’s laptop and digital camera revealed inappropriate images of the defendant and the victim, as well as images of other prepubescent children, which Hebert had downloaded from the internet.
The FBI and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Federal and Local Law Enforcement Agencies Conduct Round-Up of Defendants Indicted on Drug Trafficking Charges as Part of Ongoing Effort to Reduce Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley announced today that 13 defendants have been arrested on federal charges and 27 defendants have been arrested on state charges following an investigation into drug trafficking activities in the Shreveport/Bossier City area that began in 2016.
This long-term investigation, dubbed Operation Hustle City, was conducted by the DEA’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) which is comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers working jointly on drug trafficking cases in the Western District of Louisiana. The investigation has resulted in 4 separate indictments charging 13 individuals with federal drug charges. The prosecution of these defendants is also part of the Department of Justice’s ongoing effort to reduce violent crime in our community.
The indictments allege that these individuals conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana. The defendants named in the four separate indictments and their charges are as follows:
Defendant Name
Charges
Shamariay Duntae Locke, a/k/a “Shu,” a/k/a “Supa Shu,” 35, Haughton, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of marijuana – two counts
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – one count
Jeremy Rechard Francis, a/k/a “Casper,” 37, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of marijuana – two counts
Rico Deangelo Lawrence, 34,
Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 4 counts
- Lawrence, who has a prior federal drug trafficking conviction, is also charged with a sentencing enhancement based on his criminal history
Robert Lynn Baulkman, a/k/a “Fridge,” 34, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – one count
Danny Glen Roy Welch, 45, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – one count
Frank Gilford Joshua, IV, a/k/a “Bubba,” 33, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 4 counts
Keynon Letray Frazier, IV, a/k/a “Green Eyes, 25, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 2 counts
Michael Shane Haynes, IV, 42,
Bossier City, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of marijuana – one count
- Haynes also charged with a sentencing enhancement based upon his criminal history
Garrett Oshann Sudds, 38,
Bossier City, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 1 count
Henry A. Wright, a/k/a “Tweety,” 41, Shreveport, LA
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 3 counts
Arnelius Danta Terrell, 32, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 2 counts
Ladarrell Cortrell Washington, 39,
Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine – one count
- Distribution of methamphetamine – 3 counts
Schyler Algernon Smith, 31, Shreveport, LA
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine – one count
- Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 1 count
- Smith also charged with a sentencing enhancement based upon his criminal history
These defendants have been arraigned in federal court, with the exception of Schyler Algernon Smith, who is in custody and will be arraigned at a later date, and three men who are currently fugitives: Rico Deangelo Lawrence, Keynon Letray Frazier and Ladarrell Cortrell Washington.
Each of the defendant fugitives are aware that they are wanted and should be considered as armed and dangerous and should not be approached by non-law enforcement. Anyone with information concerning the whereabouts of any of these defendants, please contact Shreveport DEA Office at 571-362-4972 or the U.S. Marshal’s Service Violent Offender Task Force by using their online tip portal at: www.usmarshals.gov/tips.
In addition to the defendants who are facing federal charges, this joint law enforcement operation also resulted in the following individuals being arrested on state charges:
- Jeff Aldridge, 31, Many, LA;
- Williams Brooks, 58, Shreveport, LA;
- Deandre Brown, 24, Shreveport, LA;
- Timothy Colbert, 32, Dallas, TX;
- Marcus Davis, 41, Shreveport, LA;
- Mischa Early, 42, Shreveport, LA;
- Dallas Edwards, 18, Shreveport, LA;
- Jamarcus Edwards, age and city unknown;
- Chad Feazell, 42, Shreveport, LA;
- Eric Gilliam, age and city unknown;
- Robert Guyer, 22, Shreveport, LA;
- Ronnie Holden, age and city unknown;
- Dominique Jackson, 30, Bossier City, LA;
- Samyah James, 19, Las Vegas, NV;
- Ceazar Love, 27, Shreveport, LA;
- Tra Moore, 26, Houston, TX;
- Valerie Noble, 28, Wasco, CA;
- Corey Parker, 35, Bossier City, LA;
- Blake Perot, 32, Bossier City, LA;
- Toledo Prim, 52, Shreveport, LA;
- Kelvin Roberson, 37, Shreveport, LA;
- Iyana Rodgers, 23, Tomball, TX;
- Mykendrick Shandle, age and city unknown;
- Brandon Small, 36, Shreveport, LA;
- Jayson Smallwood, 22, Bossier City, LA;
- Brian Snider, 39, Haughton, LA; and
- Joey Steele, 44, Bossier City, LA.
“This operation serves as a model of what can be accomplished when federal, state, and local law enforcement join forces to target drug trafficking and other violent crime,” said Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “This investigation is ongoing and anyone who may have additional information about these defendants or their associates are asked to contact the DEA immediately.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley said, “Drug dealing and violent crime often go hand in hand and spread fear and destruction in our communities. These investigations and resulting arrests clearly demonstrate the combined strength that federal, state and local law enforcement agencies bring to bear in the battle against these drug traffickers and strike a significant blow to their drug trafficking organizations. We are leveraging our respective resources and expertise to achieve results that we could not accomplish on our own. Our combined, concentrated efforts are making communities safer by disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs to our neighborhoods.”
“We were happy to participate in this interdictive operation and look forward to further cooperative endeavors to make our community safer,” said Caddo Parish District Attorney James E. Stewart, Sr.
Shreveport Police Department Chief Ben Raymond added: “Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are committed to reducing violence in our area. Operation Hustle City is but one example of our ongoing efforts to reduce the criminal element; an element that contributes to violent crime and affects all of our residents.”
“I appreciate and applaud the difficult and dangerous work performed by each deputy, officer, and agent. Their dedication is the story, not the actions of a bunch of thugs,“ said Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Federal agencies including DEA, Department of Homeland Security, ATF, FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, all are working jointly with the Louisiana State Police, Shreveport Police Department, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier City Police Department, Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ruston Police Department and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, in conducting this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown is prosecuting the federal cases.
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West Monroe Man Sentenced for Stealing FirearmsRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Ashton A’qumartez Thomas, 21, of West Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Thomas to 30 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for possession of stolen firearms. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $14,306.89. Thomas pled guilty on June 15, 2020.
According to information presented to the court, Thomas was involved in a burglary at TP Outdoors in West Monroe, Louisiana on August 27, 2018. The burglary committed on that date happened in the same fashion as a burglary at the same store on August 29, 2017. This led law enforcement agents to investigate Thomas, as he was the prime suspect in the 2017 burglary. Agents went to the residence of Thomas’ mother where he lived, and which is in close proximity to TP Outdoors. Upon arrival at the residence, officers learned that Thomas was not present but were given consent to search the residence. Agents recovered a hammer and pry bar from under Thomas’ bed. While searching the backyard of the residence, agents found a fresh pile of dirt, sticks and leaves. That portion of the yard was excavated and five of the stolen firearms from the 2018 burglary of TP Outdoors were recovered.
The ATF, West Monroe Police Department and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant AnnouncementRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT/LAFAYETTE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force announced the availability of approximately $154,931 in PSN grant funds for the Western District of Louisiana. The Department of Justice, the Office of Justice Programs and the Bureau of Justice Assistance is seeking applications for funding of a grant under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. At least 30% ($41,831) of the grant funds must be designated for grants under the PSN Program to fund new and/or current gang violence reduction strategies in the Western District. In addition, approximately $97,607 can be designated to fund both new and/or current comprehensive gun crime and gang violence reduction strategies within the Western District.
PSN furthers the Department of Justice=s mission to reduce violent crime by providing support to state, local and tribal efforts to create safer neighborhoods through a sustained reduction in violent crime and gang violence committed with firearms utilizing prevention, enforcement and intervention methods.
Various types of single or multi‑grantee grant proposals are welcome including those that address the following:
- Gang violence and gun violence reduction, deterrence, prevention, community outreach and education;
- Enforcement, adjudication and supervision programs;
- Prisoner re-entry programs; or
- Other innovative related projects.
Grant proposals must be submitted to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ATTN: PSN Grant Competition, 800 Lafayette Street, Suite 2200, Lafayette, LA 70501, no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, October 30, 2020.
The FY 2020 PSN Grant Announcement, OMB No. 1121-0329 can be found on the website for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Louisiana at: . More information about the program can be located at www.psn.gov or www.bja.gov/programs/psn.
Interested applicants may also contact Assistant U.S. Attorney and PSN Coordinator Jamilla A. Bynog at (337) 262-6618 for additional information.
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Monroe Lab Owner Indicted for Paying Bribes and Kickbacks Resulting in Improper Billings to Medicare of Approximately $117 MillionRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – George M. “Trey” Fluitt, III, 53, of Monroe, made his initial appearance in United States District Court today, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. Fluitt, the owner and operator of Specialty Drug Testing, LLC (“Specialty”) in Monroe, was indicted by a federal grand jury for paying bribes and kickbacks in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute, resulting in improper billings to Medicare of approximately $117 million.
Fluitt was charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks. In addition, the indictment charges Fluitt with two counts of offering and payment of kickbacks and bribes in connection with a federal health care program, specifically Medicare.
According to the indictment, Fluitt and Specialty conspired with other unnamed co-conspirators and companies to unlawfully enrich themselves and others by soliciting and paying kickbacks and bribes in return for patient DNA specimens and physicians’ orders for cancer genetic tests and pharmacogentic testing. The indictment alleges that Fluitt and two other co-conspirators created and transmitted invoices and spreadsheets reflecting the kickback and bribe payments owed by Specialty, and used email and other forms of communication to inform each other of Medicare reimbursements, the payment of kickbacks and bribes, and other matters related to the scheme to defraud. It is further alleged in the indictment that as a result of these false and fraudulent claims, Medicare paid to Specialty at least the approximate amount of $28,726,229.
If convicted, the defendant faces up to five years in prison for each count of conspiracy to defraud health care program. Fluitt also faces 10 years in prison for illegal kickbacks. The defendant faces up to 5 years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, forfeiture and restitution.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation. U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division, Trial Attorneys Gary A. Winters, Justin M. Woodard, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Owner of Medical Laboratory Sentenced to Prison for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Shreveport, Louisiana, business owner was sentenced to 40 months in prison on Sept. 30, 2020, for filing false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana Alexander C. Van Hook.
According to documents and information provided to the court, Robert C. Poimboeuf was a part owner of D&G Holdings LLC, a medical laboratory in the Shreveport area. From 2011 through 2015, Poimboeuf filed false tax returns that underreported gross receipts earned from his business. Poimboeuf concealed from his tax return preparers at least two bank accounts reflecting income earned, and falsely characterized business receipts as non-taxable loans. As a result of these actions, Poimboeuf caused a tax loss of more than $1.9 million to the IRS.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Maurice Hicks Jr., ordered Poimboeuf to serve 1 year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $1,904,477.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division, who assisted Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook in the prosecution of the case.
Illegal Immigrant Formerly Living in Abbeville Sentenced for Distributing Heroin and CocaineRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Jesus Silverio Cervantes, 36, an illegal immigrant from Mexico who formerly lived in Abbeville, Louisiana, has been sentenced. United States District Judge Dee Drell sentenced Cervantes to 120 months (10 years) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for possession of heroin with intent to distribute.
Jesus Silverio Cervantes was indicted on May 12, 2011 and charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin. According to documents introduced in court, Cervantes and other co-conspirators operated a cocaine and heroin drug trafficking organization from a residence in Abbeville, Louisiana from on or about January 1, 2008 until March 1, 2011. Cervantes and other co-conspirators and members of the drug trafficking organization received not less than five kilograms of cocaine and not less than one kilogram of heroin at this residence for distribution in the Western District of Louisiana and elsewhere, including the greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana area. Before Cervantes was arraigned on these charges he disappeared and remained a fugitive until August 16, 2018, when he was arrested by law enforcement officers in Tacoma, Washington. Cervantes pled guilty to the charge on January 27, 2020.
In addition, as a result of being convicted on the charges above, Cervantes was in violation of his probation from a previous conviction in the Western District of Louisiana for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm (2007). For this violation, Cervantes was sentenced to an additional 6 months in prison. This sentence will run consecutive to the sentence imposed for possession of heroin with intent to distribute.
The DEA and Department of Homeland Security - Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Luke Walker prosecuted the case.
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Owner of Medical Laboratory Sentenced to Prison for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – A Shreveport business owner was sentenced today to 40 months (3 years, 4 months) in prison for filing false tax returns, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
According to documents and information provided to the court, Robert Clifton Poimboeuf, 58, was part owner of D&G Holdings, LLC, a medical laboratory in the Shreveport area. From 2011 through 2015, Poimboeuf filed false tax returns that underreported gross receipts earned from his business. Poimboeuf concealed from his tax return preparers at least two bank accounts reflecting income earned, and falsely characterized business receipts as non-taxable loans. As a result of these actions, Poimboeuf caused a tax loss of more than $1.9 million to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
In addition to the term of imprisonment, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. ordered Poimboeuf to one year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $1,904,477.
Acting United States Attorney Van Hook and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman thanked special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division, who assisted Acting United States Attorney Van Hook in the prosecution of the case.
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Pollock Prisoner Sentenced to 29 Years for Killing Fellow InmateRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a United States Penitentiary Pollock inmate was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dee Drell to 350 months (29 years, 2 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for killing another inmate. This sentence imposed will run consecutive to the federal sentence he is currently serving. Cortez pled guilty to the charge on March 4, 2020.
David Cortez, 36, a citizen of Mexico who is currently serving a federal sentence for drug trafficking, was sentenced on one count of second degree murder. According to information presented to the court, Cortez and another inmate stabbed a cellmate on June 18, 2014 while outside in the yard at the United States Penitentiary in Pollock, Louisiana, which is within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States and located in the Western District of Louisiana. The victim inmate sustained a number of stab wounds to his upper and lower back, chest, shoulders, arms, neck and head, and died as a result of the injuries. Cortez killed the victim inmate with malice aforethought.
The FBI and U.S. Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary J. Mudrick prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Heroin Trafficker Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Billy Louviere, 44, of Lafayette, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Michael J. Juneau sentenced Louviere to 55 months (4 years, 7 months) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for possession of heroin with intent to distribute. Louviere pled guilty to the charge on January 7, 2020.
Law enforcement agents received information that Louviere and other co-conspirators were buying and selling heroin in the Lafayette area. Agents obtained authorization to intercept wire and electronic communications for a cell phone utilized by a known heroin dealer in Lafayette. Beginning on January 29, 2019 and continuing thereafter, law enforcement agents intercepted communications between Louviere and other co-conspirators regarding transactions wherein a co-conspirator provided a supply of heroin to Louviere nearly every day. Louviere would use some of the heroin but would also redistribute the heroin to other people for profit. Louviere was supplied approximately 3.5 grams of heroin per transaction.
On February 22, 2019, law enforcement agents intercepted a communication between Louviere and the heroin dealer and afterwards, observed Louviere have a brief meeting with the dealer. Later, Lafayette Police Department officers stopped the vehicle Louviere was driving for a traffic violation. The Lafayette Police Department K-9 officer conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle and alerted to narcotics in the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and found a scale, baggies, and a burnt spoon. Louviere admitted to purchasing the heroin earlier that day.
The FBI and Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Former Rapides Parrish Corrections Officer Sentenced to 11 Months in Federal Prison for Assaulting InmateRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that a former correctional officer with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO), Detention Center 1, in Alexandria, Louisiana, was sentenced today in federal court for assaulting an inmate detained at the facility.
Dominic Davidson, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Dee Drell to 11 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release. Davidson previously pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020, to one misdemeanor count of violating the civil rights of an inmate in his custody.
“Physical, violent, and unjustified abuse by members of our law enforcement community is unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is dedicated to ensuring that no one in this country is above the law and will continue to prosecute anyone who uses a position of power illegally to violate the civil rights of others.”
“Correctional officers have a sworn duty to ensure that inmates are protected, rather than abused,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook for the Western District of Louisiana. “The abuse of authority by this law enforcement officer and the violation of the inmate’s civil rights will not be tolerated. We will continue to pursue cases where this type of abuse and indiscretion occurs”
“Along with our partners, the FBI will aggressively investigate allegations wherein correctional officers abuse their position of power and authority over prisoners to deny them their constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran. “The law suffers the most when those in a position of trust abuses their power. The FBI is appreciative of its partnerships with the Rapides Sheriff's Office, the U.S. Attorney’s office of the Western District of Louisiana and the trial attorneys from the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.”
According to plea documents and information presented in court, on June 14, 2018, while on duty as a correctional officer, Davidson entered the locked holding cell of pretrial detainee K.F. and began punching K.F. repeatedly in the face and body. Prior to Davidson entering the cell, K.F., who was completely naked and locked securely inside his cell, had been banging on the door in an attempt to get officers’ attention. In response to the banging, Davidson put on a pair of rubber gloves, unlocked and entered K.F.’s cell, pushed K.F. to the ground, and struck K.F. numerous times in the head and body. At no point before, during, or after the assault did K.F. pose a threat to himself or others.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Mudrick of the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorneys Katherine DeVar and Thomas Johnson of the Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.
Former Rapides Parish Correctional Officer Sentenced for Assaulting InmateRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – A former correctional officer with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO), Detention Center 1, in Alexandria, Louisiana, was sentenced today in federal court for assaulting an inmate detained at the facility, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.
Dominic Davidson, 27, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dee Drell to 11 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release. Davidson previously pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020, to one misdemeanor count of violating the civil rights of an inmate in his custody.
According to plea documents and information presented in court, on June 14, 2018, while on duty as a correctional officer, Davidson entered the locked holding cell of pretrial detainee K.F. and began punching K.F. repeatedly in the face and body. Prior to Davidson entering the cell, K.F., who was completely naked and locked securely inside his cell, had been banging on the door in an attempt to get officers’ attention. In response to the banging, Davidson put on a pair of rubber gloves, unlocked and entered K.F.’s cell, pushed K.F. to the ground, and struck K.F. numerous times in the head and body. At no point before, during, or after the assault did K.F. pose a threat to himself or others.
“Physical, violent, and unjustified abuse by members of our law enforcement community is unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is dedicated to ensuring that no one in this country is above the law and will continue to prosecute anyone who uses a position of power illegally to violate the civil rights of others.”
“Correctional officers have a sworn duty to ensure that inmates are protected, rather than abused. The abuse of authority by this law enforcement officer and the violation of the inmate’s civil rights will not be tolerated. We will continue to pursue cases where this type of abuse and indiscretion occurs,” stated Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
SAC Bryan Vorndran stated, "Along with our partners, the FBI will aggressively investigate allegations wherein correctional officers abuse their position of power and authority over prisoners to deny them their constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment. The law suffers the most when those in a position of trust abuses their power. The FBI is appreciative of its partnerships with the Rapides Sheriff's Office, the US Attorney’s office of the Western District of Louisiana and the trial attorneys from the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Mudrick of the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorneys Katherine DeVar and Thomas Johnson of the Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.
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Two Former Postal Service Employees Indicted on Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – A federal grand jury returned indictments yesterday charging two former United States Postal Service employees, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.
Shinice Jordan, 32, of Shreveport, Louisiana, has been charged with one count of theft of mail matter and one count of delay or destruction of mail. According to the indictment, on July 23, 2019, Jordan, who worked as a Letter Carrier with the U.S. Postal Service, stole a Walmart gift card from a letter which had been entrusted to her to deliver. It is further alleged that on that same date, Jordan delayed the opening of the letter which was intended to be delivered by her as an employee of the U.S. Postal Service.
Sedarius Howard, 33, of Shreveport, Louisiana, has been charged with one count of delay or destruction of mail. The indictment alleges that on March 16, 2020, while working as a Letter Carrier with the U.S. Postal Service, Howard destroyed or delayed delivery of mail that was his duty as an employee to deliver.
If convicted, both Jordan and Howard face up to 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody is prosecuting the cases.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Illegal Possession of Drugs and Firearms Sends Three Men to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA/LAFAYETTE/SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that three convicted felons have been sentenced in United States District Court for illegal possession of firearms.
Breaux Bridge Man with Lengthy Criminal History Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearm
Nacorvrick Green a/k/a “G-Nate,” 41, of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell to 180 months (15 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Green previously pled guilty to the charge on December 2, 2019.
Lafayette Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle Green was driving on June 13, 2018. Officers found a loaded semi-automatic pistol in the vehicle and arrested Green, who is a convicted felon. Prior to his arrest, Green had seven felony convictions for drug trafficking. Under federal law, it is it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF, Lafayette Police Department and Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel J. Vermaelen and Jamilla A. Bynog prosecuted the case.
Shreveport Man Sentenced for Drug and Firearms Crimes
Jerrick Stephenson, 28, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 78 months (6 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Stephenson pled guilty to the charge on September 6, 2019.
Stephenson was stopped by Shreveport Police Department officers for a traffic infraction on July 28, 2018. Stephenson attempted to flee on foot from law enforcement officers but was apprehended a short distance away and arrested. Officers found a pistol and two loaded magazines under the driver’s seat of the vehicle he was operating. Also inside the vehicle were 130 grams of marijuana and a digital scale with marijuana residue. Stephenson was previously convicted of possession of controlled dangerous substances in 2014 and knew that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition because of his prior felony conviction.
The ATF and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cadesby B. Cooper prosecuted the case.
Alexandria Man Sentenced on Federal Firearms Charges
Malcolm Xavier Williams, 29, of Alexandria, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell to 15 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Williams was also ordered to pay a $7,000 fine. He pled guilty to the charge on March 5, 2020.
On February 21, 2019, Alexandria Police Department officers responded to a call on Aguillard Lane in Alexandria. Upon their arrival, officers found Williams, who had outstanding active warrants, and placed him under arrest. During a search incident to the arrest, officers found the key to a vehicle that was parked and running nearby in Williams’ pocket. Inside that vehicle, officers found a loaded black handgun on the driver’s side floorboard. Before his arrest on February 21, 2019, Williams, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior conviction for illegally carrying a weapon in 2017. At the time of arrest, Williams knew his status as a convicted felon.
The ATF and the Alexandria Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford prosecuted the case.
Each of these cases was brought as part of Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), programs that have been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Claiborne Parish Constable Indicted for Selling and Misbranding Illegal SupplementsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging William Earl Maddox, 72, of Haynesville, Louisiana, with selling and misbranding illegal supplements online and in stores. Maddox has been charged with two counts of mail fraud, three counts of misbranding of a drug with intent to defraud or deceive, and seven counts of wire fraud.
According to the indictment, from around January 1, 2015 and continuing until about December 31, 2018, Maddox, the elected Constable in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, sold supplements in capsules in stores and on eBay and websites that he operated, advertising them to be all-natural herbal supplements to treat impotence.
The indictment alleges that Maddox obtained green capsules in unlabeled blister packs in the mail from foreign countries, including China, which contained sildenafil, the active ingredient in the prescription drug Viagra; tadalafil, the active ingredient in the prescription drug Cialis; and testosterone propinionate, an anabolic steroid and a Schedule III controlled dangerous substance. It is alleged that Maddox had the capsules repackaged and advertised them to contain all natural ingredients but the labeling did not reveal that the capsules contained sildenafil, tadalifil, or testosterone propinionate.
The indictment further alleges that when customers purchased these products, payment was made to the PayPal business account for Middle Marketing, LLC, which was Maddox’s company. Maddox would then ship the capsules to customers via the United States Postal Service and transfer the funds generated from the sale of the products from the PayPal account to his Middle Marketing bank account.
If convicted, the defendant faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on the mail and wire fraud counts and up to 3 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on the misbranding of a drug with intent to defraud or deceive counts in the indictment.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica D. Cassidy and Earl M. Campbell are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Shreveport Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Drugs and Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Brien Keith Powell, 51, of Shreveport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter. Powell was sentenced to 168 months for Possession of Crack Cocaine, and 60 months for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, for a total of 228 months in prison (19 years), followed by 5 years of supervised release. Powell pleaded guilty to the charges on January 10, 2020.
On March 28, 2018, officers with the Caddo/Shreveport Narcotics Task Force obtained a search warrant of Brien Keith Powell’s residence and property. Upon execution of the search warrant, officers found drug paraphernalia and a revolver in the residence. Officers also found powder and crack cocaine, ecstasy, a digital scale, another handgun and ammunition in Powell’s vehicle. Powell had over $1,500 in cash in his pocket.
After Powell was arrested by officers, he admitted that all of the narcotics and firearms belonged to him and that he was selling the narcotics to make a living. Further investigation by law enforcement revealed that the firearms had both been reported stolen. The North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory analyzed the narcotics and determined the drugs to be 38.34 grams of cocaine base, crack cocaine.
Powell has a lengthy criminal history, having been convicted of aggravated battery with a dangerous weapon (1986 and 1990), possession of narcotics (1990), Second Degree Kidnapping (1994), Armed Robbery (1995), Felon in Possession of Firearm (2000), Possession of a Controlled Substance (2007) and Possession of Counterfeit (2014).
The ATF and Caddo/Shreveport Narcotics Task Force conducted the investigation and Assistant United States Attorney Tennille Gilreath prosecuted the case.
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Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force Announces "Project R.I.S.K."Read the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – The Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force is comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and non-governmental organizations, and was formed in an effort to promote enhanced collaboration between all agencies involved in combatting human trafficking cases in our area. This Task Force has launched a campaign to fight sexual predator cases called “Project R.I.S.K.,” Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.
Members of the Task Force have noticed a disturbing trend in the rise of sexual predator cases in the Western District of Louisiana. Because of this trend, the Task Force has launched “Project R.I.S.K.” (Reliable Internet Safety for Kids).
Since March 2020, the coronavirus pandemic has pushed our youth to be on the internet more than ever before. Today, the internet not only entertains and connects our youth with their peers, but a vast majority of them are using the internet for virtual schooling. The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office has reported a 200% increase in online sexual predator cases since the beginning of the pandemic. This increase in internet activity allows more opportunity for predators to interact with our youth. As we see in all cases, predators will also adapt to their changing environments.
The Task Force has created a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to launch Project R.I.S.K. and contains messages from leaders of area law enforcement agencies providing advice to help prevent predators from victimizing children.
Leaders advise all guardians, including parents, teachers, and custodians, to place ALL devices such as computers, laptops, tablets, and smart phones in common areas. Smart phones, even those with no service, allow the same access to predators as a computer or other device. Guardians need to know what apps are on these devices and also know their children’s passwords. Project R.I.S.K. also encourages all guardians to engage in their children’s activities.
All agencies in this Task Force share a united front to eliminate all human trafficking type cases; however, to be more successful, they need assistance from the public. Many parents and guardians want to protect their children but may not know where to look for reliable internet safety information. Project R.I.S.K. is designed to assist with that. The Project R.I.S.K. PSA will provide reliable information and the law enforcement agencies involved in this Task Force can help as well. Members of the Task Force will be available to meet with citizens, local government officials, community organizations, school boards, churches, and other groups to discuss Project R.I.S.K. and internet safety.
The members of the Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force are:
Law Enforcement Members
Bossier City Marshal’s Office
Bossier City Police Department
Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office
Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office
Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force (FBI-Shreveport Field Office)
Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office
DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office
Federal Bureau of Investigations, Shreveport Field Office
Greenwood Police Department
Homeland Security Investigations, Shreveport Field Office
Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force
Louisiana Alcohol Tobacco Commission
Louisiana State Police
Office of Special Investigations, Barksdale Air Force Base
Sabine Parish Sherriff’s Office
Shreveport Police Department
United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General
United States Department of State
United States Marshal Service, Western District of Louisiana
Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office
Prosecutorial Members
United States Attorney’s Office (Western District of Louisiana)
Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office
Bossier/Webster Parish District Attorney’s Office
For further information regarding Project R.I.S.K., contact any of the members above or Assistant United States Attorney Earl Campbell at 318-676-3600.
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Possession of Firearm Leads to Time in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Kelvin Broadway, 26, of Shreveport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Broadway was sentenced to 57 months (4 years, 9 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Broadway pleaded guilty to the charge on April 24, 2020.
On January 6, 2019, Shreveport Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle in which Broadway was a front-seat passenger. Law enforcement officers found two loaded handguns inside a shopping bag that Broadway had possessed between his feet. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
Broadway has prior felony convictions in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, for felony theft (2011), possession of a controlled substance (2012), and illegally carrying of weapons while in possession of a controlled substance (2013).
The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Shannon and Tennille Gilreath prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Federal, State and Local Agencies Work Together to Curb Gun Violence in ShreveportRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook, along with Caddo Parish District Attorney James E. Stewart, Shreveport Police Chief Ben Raymond and Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator, and agents from the ATF, FBI and DEA, held a press conference today to discuss their efforts to increase the investigation and prosecution of cases against violent criminals in the City of Shreveport.
In November 2019, U.S. Attorney General William Barr announced the launch of Project Guardian, a nationwide strategic plan to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws across the country. Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws have always been among the Department’s highest priorities. Project Guardian emphasizes the importance of using all modern technologies available to law enforcement to promote gun crime intelligence.
Another federal partnership initiative with local law enforcement to address the rise in violent crimes in our nation has also been introduced and named, Operation Legend. This operation honors the memory of four-year old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while asleep in bed early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City, Missouri. Operation Legend began in the larger cities of our nation which have seen a spike in violent crime, including Kansas City, Missouri, St. Louis, Albuquerque, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Memphis, Milwaukee and Indianapolis. These gun crimes are not just a problem in our larger cities, but also here in the Western District of Louisiana.
The Project Guardian program, along with Operation Legend, encourages joint efforts between federal and local law enforcement agencies. Because of these programs and joint efforts of the agencies that are represented here today and other law enforcement partners, we have brought over 386 federal firearm prosecutions in the Western District of Louisiana since 2017 and our efforts are increasing. Below are some statistics:
- FY17 through FY19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted approximately 285 firearm related offenses, including felons and drug dealers in possession of firearms, in the entire Western District of Louisiana, with 113 defendants being in the Shreveport Division alone.
- These prosecutions represent approximately three times the number of such cases than have been brought in previous years.
- On average, that is 82 cases per year being prosecuted in our district.
These numbers show that we have been committed to prosecuting federal firearm cases and getting dangerous criminals off the streets of our city and pledge to work even harder to bring these offenders to justice. Cooperation with our state and local law enforcement partners in bringing these federal firearms indictments allows our state and local partners to concentrate on other crimes in our district.
Too many lives have been tragically lost and too many people have been senselessly injured due to gun violence in our city– including most recently this past weekend when a 2-year-old was shot in the abdomen during an exchange of gunfire between multiple people. This innocent toddler is now fighting for his life. Since May 2020, there have been shootings in Shreveport where at least ten innocent children have been shot and some killed. Our organized efforts are in honor of these and the many other victims who suffered at the hands of these dangerous criminals. Many Shreveport neighborhoods are filled with gun shots being fired randomly. Local community leaders and officials have held prayer vigils and rallies to try to bring awareness to this situation and encourage individuals in our community to stop the gun violence.
“The aim of Project Guardian and Operation Legend is to provide safe neighborhoods in Shreveport and surrounding areas where the people can safely live, work and raise their families by removing the most violent and dangerous offenders from our streets,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “This is a challenging situation for the Shreveport area but we are committed to working with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to address the crime surge in Shreveport. Individuals who take another’s life by pulling a trigger without a second thought must stop. We will not be deterred, and we will continue to step up the pressure on these bad actors. The message is clear, if you threaten the safety and security of innocent people in our communities, you will face the consequences.”
Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator also stated: “Sadly our community is experiencing a proliferation of gun violence. The common thread is the illegal possession of guns by gangsters, many of which are supplying illicit drugs to our young people. We MUST cut this thread by aggressive law enforcement and prosecution of these thugs.”
Shreveport Police Chief Ben Raymond stated: “The Shreveport Police Department values the relationships we have with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, and numerous other agencies in our combined efforts to decrease violent crime. It takes a unified effort to address violence in our community and working together toward that goal is key to our success.”
If you have any information related to individuals committing crimes of violence in Shreveport, please contact Shreveport Police at 318-673-7300 #3, 318-673-6955 or Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Shreveport Prosthetics, Inc. Agrees to Pay $1.6 Million to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Shreveport Prosthetics, Inc. (“SPI”) has agreed to pay $1.6 million, plus interest, to the federal government to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act for false supplier billings to the Medicare program.
SPI is a Louisiana corporation that provides upper and lower extremity prosthetics to patients in North Louisiana. The civil settlement resolves allegations that when SPI’s supplier number was deactivated, SPI funneled its claims to Medicare through a supplier in Texas for services that were rendered by SPI in Louisiana. SPI also routinely waived patient coinsurance amounts over a three year period, resulting in Medicare being overcharged for the billed services. This lawsuit was initiated by former office administrator/billing specialist Kimberly Throgmorton under the qui tam, or whistleblower provisions, of the False Claims Act. Under the False Claims Act, private citizens can bring suit on behalf of the United States and share in any recovery. Ms. Throgmorton will receive over a quarter of a million as her share of the government’s recovery.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and aggressively pursuing healthcare providers who seek public funds through unlawful means. This settlement should send a message to all healthcare providers and suppliers in the Western District of Louisiana that violations of the False Claims Act will continue to receive this office’s full attention and resources,” said Alexander C. Van Hook, Acting U.S. Attorney.
“We remain focused on investigating healthcare providers who seek to enrich themselves by engaging in illegal activities,” said Miranda L. Bennett, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of insidious schemes, which are designed to bypass important protections for Medicare beneficiaries.”
As part of the settlement, SPI agreed to a three-year Integrity Agreement (IA) with the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The IA promotes compliance with the statutes, regulations, program requirements, and written directives of Medicare and all other federal health care programs. Among other compliance obligations, the IA requires that SPI must establish and maintain a compliance program, engage an Independent Review Organization to perform quarterly claims reviews, and routinely report on these obligations to OIG.
This resolution is part of the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. The Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services work in partnership to reduce and prevent Medicare and Medicaid financial fraud through enhanced cooperation. One of the most powerful tools in that effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The case is docketed as United States ex rel. Throgmorton v. Shreveport Prosthetics, Inc., et al., No. 17-881 (W.D. La.).
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation of this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen J. King prosecuted the case.
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New Iberia Man Sentenced in Federal Court for Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Skyland Washington, 32, of New Iberia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Washington was sentenced to 36 months (3 years) in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release. Washington previously pled guilty to the charge in United States District Court on February 13, 2020.
An Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Deputy and Louisiana State Police Trooper were dispatched to the scene of a single vehicle traffic accident in New Iberia on June 12, 2017. When law enforcement officers arrived, they made contact with the driver of the vehicle, Skyland Washington. Officers noticed a handgun in the vehicle at Washington’s feet and after further investigation, learned that the handgun had been reported stolen. Officers learned that Washington had previously been convicted of a felony and an arrest warrant was obtained for his arrest.
Washington has previous felony convictions in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, for simple burglary and possession of cocaine (2009). Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF, Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Illegal Alien Sentenced for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Pedro Aguirre-Nunez, 39, a Duson, Louisiana resident, was sentenced in United States District Court for Production of Child Pornography, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Aguirre-Nunez to spend 224 months (18 years, 8 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On March 29, 2019, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of indecent behavior with a juvenile at a residence in Duson, Louisiana. Law enforcement officers learned that videos of Aguirre-Nunez molesting a minor girl had been discovered on the cloud account associated with his phone. Officers obtained a search warrant for the cloud account and found three videos. The videos were taken on a smart phone and synched with the cloud account associated with that phone.
A forensic review determined that the videos had been taken a few months prior to the discovery of them. All three of the videos were taken while the minor child was asleep. On October 17, 2019, Aguirre-Nunez admitted that he did in fact produce the visual depictions of conduct with the minor child by using his smart phone and pled guilty to Production of Child Pornography in federal court.
Aguirre-Nunez is a citizen and national of Mexico and did not have legal status in the United States on the dates these crimes were committed.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) also encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) 347-2423. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online by visiting their website at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp or through the Operation Predator smartphone application www.ice.gov/predator/smartphone-app. Tips may be submitted anonymously.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Possession of Cocaine and Firearm Sends Shreveport Man to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Kentrell Demarcia Turner, 28, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today in federal court, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. Turner was sentenced by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 87 months (7 years, 3 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On February 23, 2018, a Shreveport Police Department officer observed a vehicle in a parking lot with smoke plumes exiting an open window that resembled the smell of marijuana. When the officer approached the vehicle, the driver, Kentrell Demarcia Turner, exited and stood near the open driver side door. The law enforcement officer observed a large plastic baggie containing marijuana and a black semi-automatic handgun on the driver’s side floorboard. Turner was taken into custody and admitted that the marijuana belonged to him. While inventorying the vehicle, officers also located a bag containing 33.09 net grams of cocaine in the vehicle and found that the handgun on the driver’s side floorboard was loaded with 13 rounds of ammunition.
While at the Shreveport City Jail, law enforcement officers searched Turner and removed 200.8 gross grams of powder cocaine from a body cavity. The suspected cocaine was examined by the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory and tested positive as cocaine.
Turner has previous felony convictions for possession of Schedule II narcotics in 2011 and 2012. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
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Fraud Alert: Scammers Claiming to be with Department of Justice and Preying on ElderlyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – The Department of Justice (“DOJ”) has received multiple reports that individuals claiming to represent the Justice Department are calling members of the public as part of an imposter scam. Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook strongly encourages the public to remain vigilant and not to provide personal information during these calls, which appear to target the elderly.
Reports to the National Elder Fraud Hotline indicate that scammers falsely represent themselves as DOJ investigators or employees and attempt to obtain personal information from the call recipient, or they leave a voicemail with a return phone number. The return phone number directs users to a recorded menu that matches the recorded menu for the Department’s main phone number. Eventually, the user reaches an “operator” who steers the user to someone claiming to be an investigator. That “investigator” then attempts to gain the user’s personal information.
“Phone scams are an ugly and pervasive act of victimization. The scams being reported to our National Elder Fraud Hotline are especially heinous because they show the perpetrators are preying upon one of the most vulnerable segments of our society – the elderly,” said Jessica Hart, Director of the Office for Victims of Crime (“OVC”), which monitors reports to the National Elder Fraud Hotline. “As if this were not despicable enough, the scammers do so posing as employees of the Justice Department, usurping public trust in the agency that serves as a bastion of fairness and lawfulness while these scams exploit the elderly for financial gain. The first step to identifying these criminals is to have their crimes reported.”
Those who receive these calls are encouraged not to provide personal information and to report these scams to the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) via their website or by calling 877-FTC-HELP (877-38204357). Fraud can also be reported to the FBI for law enforcement action at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/report-fraud.
The National Elder Fraud Hotline is a resource created by OVC for people to report fraud against anyone age 60 or older. Reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible, and within the first 2-3 days, can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open 7 days a week. For more information about the hotline please visit: https://stopelderfraud.ovc.ojp.gov/.
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Ville Platte Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Rondrekus Soileau a/k/a “Drake,” aka “D,” 28, of Ville Platte, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Michael J. Juneau sentenced Soileau to 74 months (6 years, 2 months) in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Soileau pleaded guilty on December 12, 2019.
According to information presented to the court, between January and April of 2019, Rondrekus Soileau purchased methamphetamine from a co-defendant approximately every other week. Soileau arranged purchases of methamphetamine using his cell phone and the transactions involved quantities of one-half ounce of methamphetamine. After purchasing the methamphetamine, Soileau sold some of it for profit and kept some of it for his own personal use.
This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the DEA through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
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Investigation into Theft at Winnfield Firearms Store Leads to Guilty Plea in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a Winnfield man pleaded guilty today to stealing firearms from a local store.
Joe Louis Anderson, 53, of Winnfield, Louisiana, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to one count of theft of firearms from a federal firearms dealer. Evidence introduced at the hearing established that during the early morning hours of July 25, 2019, Anderson unlawfully entered the Governor’s Affair store and stole five firearms from the firearm display case. The store had surveillance video of Anderson stealing the firearms and leaving the store with them.
Anderson has a lengthy criminal history, with previous convictions for second degree burglary and possession of stolen vehicle (1991); possession of stolen vehicle and larceny (1992); second degree burglary and knowingly concealing stolen property (1995); larceny of an automobile (1997); and possession of contraband in penal institution (1998).
Anderson faces 10 years in prison, not more than three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The court set the sentencing date for December 4, 2020 at 11:00.
The ATF and Winnfield Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Flanagan is prosecuting the case.
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Youngsville Man Sentenced for Running a Million Dollar Investment Fraud and Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Donnie Laing, Jr., 40, of Youngsville, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Terry A. Doughty for wire fraud. Laing was sentenced to 36 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was also ordered to pay $918,531 in restitution to the victims of this scheme.
Laing pled guilty in March 2020 to wire fraud in connection with a million dollar Ponzi scheme that he orchestrated through his limited liability company, Capital Energy Investments, LLC (“Capital”). Evidence established that from April through November of 2018, Laing operated a Ponzi scheme through Capital. Laing used Capital to set up a business bank account and solicit money from the victims of his scheme. He represented himself to be the owner of Capital, a purportedly legitimate business that purchased and rented out oil and gas equipment. Investors were led to believe that Capital would use their money to invest in oil and gas equipment, and then lease such equipment to companies engaged in oil and gas exploration activities for a profit, promising investors high rates of return on their investments. Instead, Laing used the victims’ investments for his own personal use.
Throughout the scheme, Laing submitted false proposals and contracts to his victims to persuade them to invest their money with Capital. He also used funds from new investors to make payments to previous investors under the guise that the payments represented legitimate profits and returns on the victims’ investments. These payments allowed the defendant to avoid detection and obtain additional funds from his victims. Laing also used his relationship with a former business associate living in northeast Louisiana to solicit money from investors. Throughout the course of the scheme, Laing defrauded multiple investors and received nine investor payments during the period from April to October 2018.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cadesby B. Cooper prosecuted the case.
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Illegal Possession of Firearms Lands Two Men in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that two convicted felons have been sentenced in United States District Court for illegal possession of firearms. United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced both men today.
West Monroe Man Sentenced on Drug and Gun Charges
Jerry Dakota Johnston, 25, of West Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced to 115 months (9 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On September 2, 2019, Union Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies observed Johnston illegally dumping trash at a parish dumpsite on Highway 15 in Downsville, Louisiana. While speaking with Johnston, deputies observed in plain view a 9mm handgun, loaded with a 30-round extended magazine, stuffed between the driver’s seat and center console of the vehicle Johnston had been driving. Johnston claimed that it was only a “BB gun,” but then, unprovoked, Johnston fled on foot down the highway. After a brief chase, deputies apprehended Johnston and placed him into custody. During a search of the vehicle, deputies found approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine packaged for distribution. Before his arrest on September 2, 2019, Johnson, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior convictions for drug dealing and domestic violence. At the time of arrest, Johnston knew his status as a convicted felon.
The ATF and the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael T. Shannon prosecuted the case.
Monroe Man Sentenced on Federal Firearms Crimes
Cedric Dewayne Coleman, 36, of Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced to 54 months (4 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Coleman previously pleaded guilty to the charge on June 3, 2020.
In November 2019, detectives with the Monroe Police Department conducted a follow-up investigation of a domestic dispute. Detectives went to an apartment in Monroe, Louisiana and found Coleman lying in bed. After a search of the bedroom, officers found a pistol at the head of the bed Coleman was sleeping in and he admitted that the gun was his. Coleman has previous convictions for distribution of marijuana (2005); possession of cocaine (2006); and domestic abuse battery (2015). Under federal law, it is it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF and the Monroe Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy prosecuted the case.
Each case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Shreveport Man with Lengthy Criminal History Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Bobby Kirkendoll, 44, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced to 162 months (13 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote conducted the sentencing hearing. Kirkendoll previously pleaded guilty to the charges January 9, 2020.
According to information presented to the court, in April 2019, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies attempted to stop the vehicle Kirkendoll was driving for a traffic violation. Instead of stopping, Kirkendoll drove away and a car chase ensued. During the chase, deputies observed him throw a gun onto the roadway, as well as other items, from the car. Eventually, Kirkendoll stopped the vehicle and deputies arrested him. Deputies recovered the items that Kirkendoll threw from the car, which included a Ruger pistol, a Smith and Wesson revolver, and bags. Inside the bags were drug paraphernalia and a variety of narcotics including methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, synthetic marijuana, and Alprazolam. The narcotics were tested by the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory and it was confirmed that the substances included at least 5 grams of methamphetamine.
Kirkendoll was previously convicted in federal court for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and felon in possession of a firearm (2006). His state court convictions were for manslaughter and possession with intent to distribute cocaine (1994); second degree battery (1999); and aggravated incest (2008).
This case was investigated by the DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon H. Whitten.
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Benton Man Sentenced to 12+ Years in Federal Prison for Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Willie Player, 40, of Benton, Louisiana, was sentenced today on a charge of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote sentenced Player to spend 151 months (12 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
While conducting a narcotics investigation in 2018, law enforcement agents set up surveillance of Willie Player and others who were known to be distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. Phone conversations between Player and other co-conspirators were intercepted and they were found to be arranging transactions to sell methamphetamine in various quantities. Between April and June 2018, law enforcement agents observed Player travelling from the Western District of Louisiana to Waskom, Texas to purchase various amounts of methamphetamine.
On June 13, 2018, after purchasing methamphetamine in Waskom, Texas, Player was travelling back to the Shreveport area. Caddo Parish Sheriff’s deputies attempted to stop the vehicle Player was driving near West 70th and Pines Road but rather than stopping, Player continued travelling at a high rate of speed. Player ran a red light and his vehicle was grazed on the rear passenger side by a truck travelling through the intersection. Player then lost control of the vehicle and struck utility poles before crashing into a fence surrounding an apartment complex. Law enforcement officers found methamphetamine in the vehicle with Player and he was arrested. Player pleaded guilty to the charge on November 14, 2019.
The DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
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Shreveport Man Attempting to Sell Sexually Explicit Images Through Social Media Platform Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Ryan Joel Shilling, 27, of Shreveport, was sentenced today for Distribution of Child Pornography. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Shilling to spend 168 months (14 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Shilling was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution.
According to information presented in court, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations received information in July 2019 from an unnamed source that an individual sent him a message using Facebook Messenger offering to sell pictures of a nude girl and sent what appeared to be a selfie image of a nude girl. Law enforcement officers began their investigation into the allegations and learned that Ryan Joel Shilling was the individual who sent the message and sexually explicit image.
Shilling had been arrested by Shreveport Police Department officers on an unrelated matter in July 2019. Officers obtained a state search warrant for the defendant’s cell phone. During their investigation, officers found text messages between Shilling and a girl, who was later determined to be a minor, asking her to take sexually explicit images and send them to him. Shilling offered to pay her for them via CashApp. Federal and local law enforcement officers worked together and confirmed that the image Shilling had sent to the unnamed source through Facebook Messenger was in fact the image of the minor girl he was sending text messages. Shilling pled guilty to the charge in United States District Court on December 12, 2019.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) also encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) 347-2423. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online by visiting their website at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp or through the Operation Predator smartphone application www.ice.gov/predator/smartphone-app. Tips may be submitted anonymously.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Shreveport Man Sentenced for Stealing Items from Shreveport Police Department VehicleRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Kiandrew McFan, 23, of Shreveport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. for Illegal Possession of Stolen Explosives Material. McFan was sentenced to 24 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. McFan pled guilty to the charge in United States District Court on September 25, 2019.
According to evidence introduced in court, on February 17, 2019, a member of the Shreveport Police Department S.W.A.T. Unit reported that his unmarked vehicle was burglarized in front of his Shreveport residence. A flash bang, which is a small explosive device utilized by the S.W.A.T. during a dynamic entry of a dwelling to distract and disorient subjects in the dwelling, was stolen. The flash bang produces a loud audio explosion and an intense flash of light when detonated. On February 22, 2019, Shreveport Police Department officers obtained a warrant and discovered the flash bang at McFan’s residence. McFan admitted to the theft and possession of the explosive material.
The ATF and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced in Federal Court for Failing to RegisterRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Christopher D. Watson, 40, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. for failing to register as a convicted sex offender, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. Watson was sentenced to 37 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Watson previously pled guilty to the charge on February 3, 2020. According to evidence introduced in court, Watson was convicted of Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree in the State of Oregon in February 2008 and was required to register as a convicted sex offender in the State of Oregon for life. Watson moved to Utah and lived there from 2011 until 2018 and while there was arrested multiple times for failing to register as a sex offender.
In August 2018, Watson moved from Utah to Shreveport, Louisiana. In October 2018, Watson was arrested by law enforcement officers in Bossier City following a complaint. After learning he was a convicted sex offender, officers advised Watson to register as a sex offender in Louisiana. In December 2018 while responding to a complaint, Bossier City Police officers had another encounter with Watson and he was advised a second time to register as a registered sex offender as required by law and was cited to appear in Louisiana state court for failing to register as required.
On October 9, 2019, Shreveport Police officers encountered Watson and learned that he had not registered as a convicted sex offender. Watson was placed under arrest for failing to register as required. Under federal law, a convicted sex offender is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The United States Marshals Service, Bossier City Police Department, and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Flanagan prosecuted the case.
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Convicted Felon Sentenced in Federal Court for Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Marquis Moss, 31, of Shreveport, was sentenced today for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Moss to 115 months (9 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
Moss previously pleaded guilty on February 3, 2020. According to evidence introduced in court, after 9-1-1 dispatchers received a hang-up call on February 22, 2019, Shreveport Police officers were dispatched to Fullerton Street in Shreveport where the call originated. When officers arrived, they found Moss outside in the neighborhood armed with a pistol and ammunition.
Moss was previously convicted of carnal knowledge of a juvenile (2013) and attempted distribution of a false CDS. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary J. Mudrick prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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Two Bossier City Men Sentenced in Anabolic Steroid Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Former Bossier Parish School Board Member Mike Mosura, 44, and Brant R. Landry, 39, both of Bossier City, were sentenced by United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for their participation in a conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.
Brant R. Landry was sentenced to 87 months (7 years, 3 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Mike Mosura was sentenced to 3 years of supervised probation.
Mike Mosura and Brant R. Landry each pleaded guilty in August 2019. According to information presented to the court, from January 2016 to May 2018, Mosura and Landry were involved in a scheme to distribute anabolic steroids in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. United States Postal officials in Benton, Louisiana, identified large volumes of mail that contained suspected drugs, many of which came from other countries, including China. On one occasion, a postal official observed Landry using gloves and a towel to place parcels in a collection box. The parcels were examined and found to contain illegal drugs.
On May 22, 2018, Landry’s vehicle was stopped by a Bossier Parish deputy for driving erratically. Landry told the deputy that he had a .45-caliber pistol and medication inside the vehicle. After searching it, the deputy found a plastic baggie containing a white powdery substance that was later identified as a synthetic Cathinone, and 11 vials of yellow liquid, later determined to be anabolic steroids. Further investigation revealed that Landry distributed steroids to Mosura, who in turn consumed and distributed the steroids to third parties.
The DEA Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.
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Shreveport Man Convicted by Federal Jury Sentenced on Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that James Albert Mayo, III, 39, of Shreveport, was sentenced today for being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition. U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Foote sentenced Mayo to 51 months, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
A jury returned a guilty verdict against Mayo on November 13, 2019 after a two-day trial. According to evidence introduced at trial, law enforcement agents received a complaint of people smoking marijuana in a vehicle in a Shreveport neighborhood. When officers arrived, they found Mayo, along with others, in the vehicle. After further investigation, agents found that Mayo, a convicted felon, had a round of 9mm ammunition in his pocket that matched a round of ammunition recovered from a Smith & Wesson pistol that was in the vehicle where Mayo was sitting. Additionally, the firearm had been reported as stolen out of Killeen, Texas.
During the trial, the front seat passenger of the vehicle Mayo was riding in claimed possession of the Smith & Wesson and had previously pled guilty in Caddo District Court to possessing the stolen firearm. The trial jury did not find beyond a reasonable doubt that Mayo possessed the Smith & Wesson pistol and only convicted him of possessing the ammunition. However, at sentencing, the Court found the testimony of the front seat passenger not credible, finding that Mayo possessed the Smith & Wesson pistol and considered the possession of the firearm in handing down the sentence.
Mayo’s three prior felony convictions in Caddo Parish are for attempted distribution of narcotics (2005), possession of narcotics (2011), and possession of narcotics (2013). Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF and the Caddo-Shreveport Mid-Level Unit conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Former Fort Polk Soldier Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sexually Abusing a MinorRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Ronald W. Allen, Jr., 41, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to spend life in prison for sexual abuse of a minor. Allen was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $72,000.
After a two-day trial in August 2019, a federal jury handed down a guilty verdict on all counts against Ronald W. Allen, Jr., a former Fort Polk Army Soldier, for sexually abusing a minor under the age of 12 years old.
According to evidence presented during trial, from April 2012 until June 2016 the defendant sexually abused the minor on numerous occasions on the Fort Polk Military Base, where the defendant lived. The abuse was exposed when the minor gave details to an individual at a school she was attending in a community near Fort Polk. Local police were later notified, the victim was interviewed, and a warrant was executed on the defendant’s residence. Agents obtained DNA evidence from where abuse occurred and matched it to the defendant’s DNA.
“This sentence sends a clear message that those who abuse children will be brought to justice. These crimes are particularly heinous because children put their trust in adults and especially those who serve in the United States Military. This office will make it a priority to continue to prosecute these difficult cases to help provide safer communities for all of our children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook.
The FBI, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, and the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Luke Walker and Daniel J. Vermaelen prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Two Felons Sentenced for Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
TWO FELONS SENTENCED FOR POSSESSING FIREARMS
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that two felons have been sentenced in United States District Court for illegal possession of firearms.
Three-Time Convicted Felon Sentenced
Angelo Demario Young, 30, of Shreveport, was sentenced on a federal firearms charge by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. to 84 months (7 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, after being convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to documents filed with the court on June 11, 2019, Angelo Young recorded himself shooting a Glock .357 pistol at a shooting range in Shreveport and posted it to Facebook.com. Young has multiple prior felony convictions, including illegal possession of a stolen firearm (2009), possession with intent to distribute narcotics (2015), and possession of a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon by a convicted felon (2017). Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a felony to possess a firearm.
The ATF conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon H. Whitten prosecuted the case.
Shreveport Man Sentenced for Federal Firearms Crimes
Quinton Washington, 35, of Shreveport, was sentenced to 60 months (5 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. According to the guilty plea, on August 23, 2018, law enforcement agents executed an arrest warrant for Washington at a house in Caddo Parish. During the operation, law enforcement found Washington and a firearm inside the house. Washington has multiple prior felony convictions, both in Louisiana and Texas.
The ATF and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon H. Whitten prosecuted the case.
Each case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Opelousas Woman Sentenced to 5 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Opelousas Woman Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Federal Drug Charges
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Dinah Manuel, 31, of Opelousas, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Manuel to 60 months (5 years) in prison followed by four years of supervised release for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Manuel pleaded guilty on November 22, 2019.
According to information presented to the court on November 22, 2019, Manuel arranged purchases of methamphetamine from a co-defendant for eventual resale. Transactions between Manuel and the methamphetamine co-defendant occurred approximately once per week, and each transaction involved quantities of up to one ounce of methamphetamine. Manuel arranged the purchases so that another individual could resell the methamphetamine for profit. In exchange for facilitating the transactions, Manuel often received a portion of the methamphetamine purchased for her own personal use.
This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
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Monroe Man Sentenced to 24 years in PrisonRead the Press Release
24-Year Prison Sentence for Fentanyl and Heroin Trafficker
MONROE, La. – A 35-year old Monroe man who trafficked fentanyl and heroin in the Monroe area was sentenced on July 30, 2020, for his crimes, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
Anderson Curtel Duke was sentenced to 24 years in prison and 6 years supervised release by U.S. District Donald E. Walter after being convicted on two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin following a three-day trial in February 2020. There is no parole in the federal system.
The United States presented evidence during trial showing that Duke was a high volume heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone dealer in the Monroe/West Monroe areas. In May 2018, the Monroe Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Metro Narcotics Unit and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office began a joint investigation into the drug trafficking operation of Anderson Duke. During their investigation, law enforcement agents used physical and electronic surveillance, undercover purchases, and search warrants to confirm Duke’s drug activities. On June 19, 2018, agents decided to end their month-long investigation and arrested Duke.
Testimony at trial revealed that Duke knew the heroin he sold was stronger than normal and that he obtained the heroin and fentanyl from a source of supply in the Lafayette area. During a recorded interview, post-arrest, Duke stated when he touched the heroin with his bare hands, he would go to sleep and wake up without remembering what had happened. He also stated during the interview that on one occasion he had to perform what he described as "junkie tricks" on one of his customers to revive that customer after an overdose. At least five other people overdosed on the same batch of heroin.
The United States alleged that one of those customers suffered a lethal overdose. The jury found that the government did not prove this allegation beyond a reasonable doubt and acquitted Duke of this conduct. The jury also heard recordings that took place on multiple occasions between May and June 20189, related to Duke’s distribution of fentanyl and heroin. The government alleged that Duke sold these drugs to undercover sources on four occasions. The jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on these four counts of the indictment. However, the sentencing judge took this conduct into consideration at sentencing, which the law provides, by concluding that the government proved this conduct by a preponderance of the evidence.
When officers arrived to arrest Duke on June 19, 2018, he was entering a vehicle and attempted to flee from officers, eventually striking a police vehicle. At the time of his arrest, Duke was in possession of fentanyl, heroin, and $1,000 Duke received from a controlled fentanyl transaction performed earlier that morning that was organized by agents. Due to Duke’s prior serious felony drug convictions of distribution of OxyContin, possession of Alprazolam with intent to distribute, and attempted distribution of marijuana, the career offender provision of the United States Sentencing Guidelines allowed the court to sentence Duke to an enhanced sentence.
"This case has taken a dangerous drug dealer off the streets of Monroe and has stopped him from hurting more people," said Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook. "Fentanyl can be 50 times more potent than heroin - significantly increasing the risk for overdose - just a few grains can have deadly consequences. I want to thank the DEA, the Metro Narcotics Unit, and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office for their hard work investigating this case. I also want to thank the prosecutors and staff for their hard work conducting this trial professionally and effectively. We will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to disrupt drug traffickers and stop them in their tracks."
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Metro Narcotics Unit, Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Monroe Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Louisiana, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Anderson Thompson of Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry’s Office, Criminal Division.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
United States Attorney David C. Joseph Announces Departure from OfficeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, LAFAYETTE, MONROE, ALEXANDRIA, LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced today that he has resigned from the Department of Justice, effective August 3, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. CDT, at which time he assumed the duties of United States District Court Judge. Joseph was appointed by President Trump to the position of United States Attorney in March of 2018.
“Serving as United States Attorney for the citizens of the Western District of Louisiana has been a privilege,” said Joseph. “I have been honored to lead an office of dedicated and talented public servants and to work with so many professional and hardworking law enforcement officers throughout Louisiana, as well as my colleagues U.S. Attorneys Brandon Fremin and Peter Strasser. By hard work and collaboration, I believe that we have made progress in accomplishing our shared goal of making Louisiana a safer place to live, work, and raise a family.”
“I commend David Joseph for his service as United States Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana. Since taking his oath, David has faithfully led his office with integrity and unrelenting commitment to the rule of law. David’s leadership fostered a collaborative relationship between his office and federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. His efforts to combat violent crime showed a decline during his two-year tenure and built safer communities for the citizens of Louisiana. The Department looks forward to his future service as a principled jurist to our Nation’s courts, and welcomes First Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook to serve as the Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana,” said Attorney General William P. Barr.
During his tenure as U.S. Attorney, Joseph served as the chief federal law enforcement officer in the Western District of Louisiana, which includes 42 of the State’s 64 parishes and geographically encompasses two-thirds of the State of Louisiana. As U.S. Attorney, Joseph oversaw the investigation and prosecution of all federal criminal violations in the Western District of Louisiana and represented the United States in all civil litigation occurring in the Western District.
Under Joseph’s leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prioritized, among other initiatives, the fights against violent crime, the opioid epidemic, public corruption, and human trafficking. Immediately upon assuming office, Joseph began working collaboratively with police chiefs, sheriffs, district attorneys, and federal law enforcement agents in all 42 parishes of the Western District of Louisiana to engage in proactive efforts aimed at combatting violent crime and building safer communities. As a result of this renewed focus on violent crime, including tripling the number of firearm offenses prosecuted, the district saw significant declines in the violent crime rates in 2018 and 2019. During Joseph’s first year in office, violent crime rates dropped 38% in Monroe, 14% in Shreveport, 9% in Lake Charles, and 5% in Lafayette. This resulted in approximately 791 fewer victims of violent crime in the Western District of Louisiana in 2018 alone. 2019 saw an additional 6% drop in violent crime throughout the district, including an additional 13% reduction in Shreveport.
These results were achieved by working closely with state and local law enforcement to identify for federal prosecution the offenders most likely to commit acts of violence, including felons and narcotics traffickers in possession of firearms. Joseph’s office also worked with federal, state, and local law enforcement to identify and federally prosecute criminal street gangs, including the federal racketeering (RICO) prosecution of the “Block Boyz,” a notorious street gang that long terrorized Shreveport’s Queensborough neighborhood with firearm violence, armed robberies, drug peddling, and witness intimidation. Joseph also oversaw the prosecution of members of the Aryan Circle, a prison-based white supremacist gang responsible for acts of violence and lawlessness both inside and outside of correctional institutions.
In response to the growing opioid epidemic in the United States, Joseph targeted both illegal opioid traffickers as well as medical professionals contributing to addiction and overdose deaths. Among other prosecutions, U.S. v. Anderson Duke resulted in a 24-year sentence for a fentanyl and heroin drug trafficker in the Monroe area, and in U.S. v. Melissa Richardson, a former VA pharmacist was sentenced to serve time in federal prison for stealing hydrocodone from mail-out prescriptions intended for veterans. Joseph’s office also entered into a $22 million civil settlement with Morris and Dickson, the largest privately-owned wholesale pharmaceutical distributor in the United States, for failing to report suspicious orders of hydrocodone and oxycodone.
On the public corruption front, among other cases, Joseph’s office convicted Patrick Hale Dejean, a Jefferson Parish Justice of the Peace who stole wages from citizens appearing in his court, and former prison warden Nathan Burl Cain II, who used his position as warden to embezzle taxpayer money.
Other significant cases handled by Joseph’s office included the prosecution of an individual responsible for burning down three predominantly African American churches in St. Landry Parish; the conviction of the owners and managers of Explo Systems, Inc., a defense contracting company, for their roles in defrauding the government and turning Camp Minden, Louisiana, into the largest illegal dumping ground for military explosives and munitions in the history of the United States; the prosecution of a Fort Polk soldier for manufacturing and detonating a chemical weapon in the Kisatchie National Forest resulting in substantial injuries to other soldiers; and the prosecution of a mega-church pastor from Houston, Texas, and his co-defendant, a Shreveport investment advisor, for their roles in a multimillion-dollar investment scheme that involved elderly victims.
Joseph also launched the Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force in November of 2019, the first of its kind in Louisiana, with the goal of preventing human trafficking, rescuing victims of human trafficking, and prosecuting human traffickers criminally. The task force, formulated and led by the United States Attorney’s Office and Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, is a collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and prosecutors, along with local non-governmental victim services organizations, including civic, faith-based, and social services organizations.
During Joseph’s tenure the U.S. Attorney’s Office collected more than $116 million in civil and criminal actions and restitution for crime victims. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also provided many hours of training to federal, local and state law enforcement agencies throughout the District.
Today, after being sworn in by Chief U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr., Joseph began his service on the bench. Joseph, 43, was nominated by President Trump on December 2, 2019, to serve as a United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, Alexandria Division. The U.S. Senate confirmed his nomination on July 28, 2020.
“I thank Senators Kennedy and Cassidy for recommending me for this judgeship and for their service to the citizens of Louisiana in the United States Senate,” said Joseph. “I am also grateful to President Trump for giving me the opportunity to serve the Western District of Louisiana as U.S. Attorney and to continue my service to our community in the federal judiciary.”
Before becoming United States Attorney in 2018, Joseph served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana, where he prosecuted a wide variety of offenses, with a focus on fraud, public corruption, white-collar crime and crimes committed on the District’s military installations. Prior to his career as a federal prosecutor, Joseph served as a commissioned officer and prosecutor in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, as well as an attorney in the Professional Liability & Financial Crimes Section of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and in private practice as a commercial litigation attorney.
Joseph received his Bachelor’s Degree of Business Administration from the University of Oklahoma and his Juris Doctorate from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University, where he was a member of the Louisiana Law Review and was inducted into the Order of the Coif. After graduating law school, Joseph clerked for Justice Jeffrey P. Victory of the Louisiana Supreme Court and Judge John V. Parker of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook will serve as the Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana upon Joseph’s departure. Mr. Van Hook has served for 10 years as the First Assistant United States Attorney and began his career in the United States Attorney’s Office in 1999.
Law enforcement partners offered the following statements:
“David Joseph’s leadership in the U.S. Attorney community and in the Western District of Louisiana has been exemplary, and his commitment to the rule of law has been the cornerstone of a distinguished legal career,” said Brandon J. Fremin, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. “The Department of Justice and the United States of America benefited greatly by his appointment as United States Attorney. Our loss is the Judiciary’s gain.”
“U.S. Attorney Joseph has served the citizens of the Western District of Louisiana with integrity and distinction since 2018, said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana Peter G. Strasser. I congratulate Mr. Joseph on his confirmation as a member of the federal judiciary and I’m confident he will continue to serve the Western District with honor and exceptional acumen.”
“I have known David for several years, and he is a man of incredible integrity and a servant of the law. I congratulate him for his successful tenure as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana and for his faithful service as an Assistant U.S. Attorney there. I witnessed firsthand his distinguished service to the citizens of the Western District’s 42 parishes,” said Donald Washington, former United States Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana and now Director of the U.S. Marshals Service. “Judge Joseph will be an outstanding jurist, who will serve with energy and compassion. He will provide equal justice for all.”
“I would like to congratulate David on his appointment to this important position and thank him for supporting the FBI and our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners. Having a collaborative partnership with our U.S. Attorneys is paramount to the successes of all law enforcement agencies. I wish him great success in his new role,” stated FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran.
DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley said, “DEA would like to thank Mr. Joseph for his unrelenting partnership and congratulate him on his prestigious appointment to federal judge. With persistence and conviction, Mr. Joseph has done an excellent job leading the U.S. Attorney’s Office, all while combatting drug trafficking and the violent crimes associated with it, making communities in the Western District of Louisiana a safer place to live. Together, along with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, we have successfully put drug traffickers and violent criminals where they belong, behind bars.”
“David Joseph has been instrumental in assisting law enforcement in the Western District of Louisiana in bringing violent criminals to justice, helping combat violent crime rates, and improving cooperation with our federal partners,‘' said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “It’s been my honor to work with him to keep communities safe.”
“During his tenure representing the Western District of Louisiana, U.S. Attorney Joseph proved to be a dedicated partner working shoulder to shoulder with federal, state, and local law enforcement to ensure public safety and justice for victims,” said Colonel Kevin Reeves, Louisiana State Police Superintendent. “His support and guidance on the Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force led to the successful prosecution of numerous child exploitation and human trafficking offenders. On behalf of the entire Louisiana State Police, we wish Judge Joseph the best in his new appointment.”
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the histry of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Pineville Man Charged with Forced Labor and Transporting a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – A multiple-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Alexandria charging Darnell Fulton, 36, with forced labor, conspiracy, and transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, announced David C. Joseph, United States Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana, Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, and FBI’s New Orleans Field Office Special Agent in Charge Bryan A. Vorndran.
The defendant was arrested and taken into federal custody on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, and made his initial appearance in court on July 29, 2020. A detention hearing is scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2020.
According to the allegations set forth in the indictment, the defendant forced three victims, who were his step-children, to provide labor and services in his business by means of force and threats of force by causing the victims to believe that if they did not perform the labor and services, they would suffer serious physical harm.
As part of the conspiracy, the indictment alleges that the defendant subjected the victims to physical violence, sexual abuse, verbal abuse, withholding of food, degradation, intimidation, and psychological manipulation in order to obtain uncompensated labor and services from the victims. As the conspiracy progressed, the defendant took the victims out of school, water-boarded them, and set daily sale quotas. In addition, the indictment alleges that at three times between June 2016 and May 17, 2019, the defendant transported the minors in interstate commerce with the intent that they engage in criminal sexual activity.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Fulton faces a sentence of up to life in prison, as well as mandatory restitution.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Alexandria Resident Agency, with assistance from the Alexandria Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Luke Walker for the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Maryam Zhuravitsky for the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Pineville Man Charged with Forced Labor and Transporting a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Darnell Fulton, 36, was charged today in a multiple count indictment with charges including forced labor, conspiracy, and transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, announced Eric S. Dreiband, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, and David C. Joseph, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana.
The defendant was arrested and taken into federal custody on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, and made his initial appearance in court on July 29, 2020. A detention hearing is scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2020.
According to the allegations set forth in the indictment, the defendant forced three victims, who were his step-children, to provide labor and services in his business by means of force and threats of force to the victims and by means of a scheme, plan, and pattern intended to cause the victims to believe that if they did not perform the labor and services, that they and others would suffer serious harm.
According to the indictment, the defendant conspired to do so with others and the conspiracy included forcing the victims to bake and sell brownies to sustain the family. As part of the conspiracy, the indictment alleges that the defendant subjected the victims to physical violence, sexual abuse, verbal abuse, withholding of food, degradation, intimidation, and psychological manipulation in order to obtain uncompensated labor and services from the victims. As the conspiracy progressed, the defendant took the victims out of school, water-boarded them, and set daily sale quotas. In addition, the indictment alleges that at three times between June 2016 and May 17, 2019, the defendant transported, and conspired to transport, a minor, under the age of 18, in interstate commerce, with the intent that the minor engage in criminal sexual activity.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces a sentence of up to life in prison, as well as mandatory restitution.
The case is being investigated by the Alexandria office of the FBI, with assistance from the Alexandria Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Luke Walker for the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Maryam Zhuravitsky for the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.