Western District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Two Texas Men Indicted for Transporting 28 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a federal grand jury indicted two Texas men for conspiring to sell approximately 28 kilograms of powder cocaine.
Ricardo Garcia, 37, and Jesus Christian Martinez, 33, both of Brownsville, Texas, were indicted on one count of conspiracy with intent to distribute and one count of possession with intent to distribute powder cocaine. According to the indictment and testimony at a preliminary examination and detention hearing held on February 6, 2015, Louisiana State Police conducted a traffic stop on February 3, 2015 on a vehicle traveling eastbound on I-20 in Bossier Parish. The vehicle displayed North Carolina license plates but was not registered to either the driver or the passenger. After further investigation, a police dog was deployed, and the dog began to paw at the speaker box in the trunk. Inside the speaker box troopers found 28 kilogram size packages of powder cocaine.
The defendants face 10 years to life in prison, five years of supervised release, and a $10 million fine on each count.
The DEA-Shreveport Office and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison D. Bushnell is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Counterfeit Credit CardsRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a New Orleans man pleaded guilty to possessing counterfeit credit cards in order to make illegal purchases.
Izell Mayes, 24, of New Orleans, entered a conditional guilty plea for one count of possession of 15 or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices to U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen Kay. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter. According to the guilty plea, Mayes was riding in a car that was stopped for speeding on February 9, 2014 in Vinton, La. Upon further investigation, the car was searched and 50 counterfeit credit cards in Mayes’ name were found. Forty counterfeit cards under another name were also found in the car. Mayes later confessed to picking up the cards in Houston before traveling to Louisiana. He used the cards in department stores in Houston earlier that day. The last card used was in Baytown, Texas.
Mayes faces up to 10 years in prison, three years supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date of June 18, 2015 was set.
The U.S. Secret Service and the ATF investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard C. Parker is prosecuting the case.
Moss Bluff Man Warehoused and Sold Large Quantities of MarijuanaRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Moss Bluff man pleaded guilty Wednesday to operating a marijuana sales and transport conspiracy that stretched from Texas to Louisiana.
Daniel Cantu-Lopez, 42, of Moss Bluff, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Cantu-Lopez was warehousing large quantities of marijuana in Houston and distributing it out of his trailer in Moss Bluff. He directed the transport and sales of marijuana from June 2013 to September of 2013 from locations in Texas and Louisiana. During the course of the investigation, 4.9 kilograms of marijuana were seized from conspirator Juan Antonio Garcia on June 25, 2013 during a traffic stop in Vinton, La.; 453 grams of marijuana were seized on July 1, 2013 from conspirator Bertoldo Tolo Labra while being delivered to Moss Bluff; 380 kilograms of marijuana were seized on July 13, 2013 in George West, Texas, from conspirator Jamie Garza who was driving a truck and horse trailer; 4.5 kilograms of marijuana were purchased by an undercover agent on July 17, 2013 from Cantu-Lopez’s common-law wife Lisa Long in Moss Bluff; and 537 kilograms of marijuana were seized in Houston on September 13, 2013 from a pickup truck driven by conspirator Juan Garcia.
Cantu-Lopez faces up to 40 years in prison, five years supervised release, and a $5 million fine. A sentencing date was not set.
The defendant was arrested as part of Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation “Cajun Gallo.” The DEA, the George West Texas Police Department, and the Houston Police Department participated in this OCDETF investigation. The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard C. Parker is prosecuting the case.
Federal Jury Convicts Guatemalan for Cocaine and Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that, after a two-day trial, a federal jury found a Guatemalan guilty of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute more than $1.5 million worth of cocaine and $75,000 worth of methamphetamine.
Jose Gabriel Mendez, 35, a Guatemalan living in Texas, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Judge Donald E. Walter presided over the trial. The defendant’s trial started Tuesday and ended Wednesday afternoon with the jury returning the guilty verdict after deliberating for approximately two hours. Evidence admitted at trial showed that law enforcement agents conducted a traffic stop on October 15, 2014, of a 1996 Dodge Dakota pickup truck driven by Mendez. Further investigation by Corporal Kevin Hoover of the Calcasieu Parish Combined Anti-Drug Task Force (CAT) revealed 516 grams of methamphetamine and 15 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the four door panels and tire jack compartment of the truck.
Mendez faces 10 years to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a $10 million fine. Sentencing is set for June 29, 2015. Mendez’s co-conspirator in the indictment, Jack Edward Lane, 67, of Brownsville, Texas, previously pleaded guilty to the drug conspiracy on January 20, 2015. Sentencing is set for April 15, 2015.
The DEA and Calcasieu Parish Combined Anti-Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David C. Joseph and Howard C. Parker prosecuted the case.
Contract Worker Pleads Guilty to Using Fraudulent TWIC Card to Attempt to Gain Access to Sulphur FacilityRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a contract worker pleaded guilty to using a fraudulent facility access pass to attempt to gain entrance into a Sulphur, La., petrochemical facility.
Cristobal Vargas Zambrano, 32, a contract worker at a Sulphur facility, entered a conditional guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen Kay for one count of fraudulent use or possession of an official pass. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter. According to the guilty plea, Zambrano used a fraudulent transportation worker identification credential (TWIC) on August 14, 2014, to attempt to gain access to Westlake Petrochemicals in Sulphur. Westlake Petrochemicals is a Transportation Security Act regulated facility and workers must present a TWIC card to gain access.
Zambrano faces up to five years in prison, three years supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date of June 29, 2015 was set.
The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth is prosecuting the case.
Sex Offender Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison on Felony Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Shreveport man was sentenced to 72 months in prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition after being convicted of a felony.
Eric Dwayne Williams, 39, of Shreveport, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and was ordered to forfeit the firearm and ammunition seized during the investigation. According to the October 10, 2014 guilty plea, Williams was arrested by deputy U.S. Marshals and Shreveport Police officers with the U.S. Marshals Violent Offender Task Force in June of 2014 on a warrant from California for a sex offender registration violation. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that Williams had been in possession of a Glock, model 27, .40 caliber pistol and ammunition. Federal authorities located and recovered the firearm and ammunition. It was unlawful for Williams to possess the firearm and ammunition because Williams had previously been convicted of nine felony convictions in California. These felony convictions include his failure to register as a sex offender, second degree burglary, receiving stolen property and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The ATF; U.S. Marshals Service; the Louisiana Department of Corrections and Public Safety, Probation and Parole; and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gillespie Jr. prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide program designed to reduce violence by aggressively enforcing existing federal firearms laws.
Franklin Man Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Franklin man was sentenced to 78 months in prison on charges that he downloaded and stored images of child pornography onto a hard drive.
Tommie Joseph Beason, 37, of Franklin, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik on one count of possession of child pornography. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the October 27, 2014 guilty plea, law enforcement agents detected Beason downloading child pornography. Law enforcement agents then searched Beason’s residence on June 3, 2014, and found 230 images and 88 videos of hardcore child pornography on an external hard drive. The illegal files included prepubescent child pornography with very young children and sadistic material.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Luke Walker 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 marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations/Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) DHS-2ICE. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp. Tips may be submitted anonymously.
Many Resident Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Many resident was sentenced to 188 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine in Sabine Parish.
Cassius L. Medlock, 32, of Many, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base. He was also sentenced to four years of supervised release. According to the November 13, 2015 guilty plea, Medlock was stopped on August 14, 2014, for speeding, and after searching the vehicle, officers observed more than 193 grams of cocaine base and marijuana in the vehicle he was driving. Six children were also present in the vehicle.
The defendant was arrested as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation. The DEA and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg prosecuted the case.
Minnesota Professor Sentenced for Enticing a Louisiana Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Minnesota professor was sentenced on Monday, to 135 months in prison for contacting a minor in Union Parish in order to start a sexual relationship.
Woody Dale Branton, 63, of Minneapolis, Minn., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Robert G. James on one count of enticing a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the August 27, 2014 guilty plea, Branton, a professor at the University of Minnesota, and a 15-year-old girl exchanged thousands of messages on Facebook from October 2013 through December 1, 2013. Many of the messages were sexual in nature, and he also asked the young girl to send him explicit pictures of herself. From November 29, 2013 to December 1, 2013, Branton attempted to set up a meeting with the girl in Louisiana and purchased a plane ticket to meet in Shreveport.
“This case is yet another example why it is so important for parents to monitor the computer usage of their children and stay active in their lives,” Finley stated. “We also hope that this case deters the conduct of other sexual predators and spares other potential victims. Protecting children from these malicious predators is a top priority for my office, and we will continue to work closely with the federal, state and local law enforcement partners to bring them to justice.”
The FBI and the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg 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 marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Those concerned may also leave tips with the FBI at tips.fbi.gov. Tips may be submitted anonymously. The Monroe FBI office number is (318) 387-0773.
Bastrop Woman Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Bastrop woman pleaded guilty on Tuesday, to filing false tax returns.
Stella Marie Dunlap, 37, of Bastrop, La., entered a conditional guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen L. Hayes, to one count of aiding and subscribing a false tax return. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Dunlap filed fraudulent Forms 1040 during the 2010 and 2011 tax filing seasons while employed as a tax preparer at Faster Tax Services in Bastrop. The returns contained fraudulent W-2 income information from fictitious companies, and the information was used to file Earned Income Tax Credit withholdings. As a result of the fraud, the IRS issued $104,401 in refunds to which taxpayers where not entitled. Dunlap received kickbacks from some of customers as part of the scheme.
Dunlap faces up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and restitution. A sentencing date of June 15, 2015 was set.
Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg is prosecuting the case.
Prisoner Pleads Guilty to ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a prisoner at the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock, La., pleaded guilty to his role in the strangling death of a fellow inmate.
Refugio Sanchez, 36, a prisoner at Pollock Penitentiary, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell to one count of voluntary manslaughter. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Sanchez and fellow inmates, Benito Flores and the victim, were assigned to a Special Housing Unit (SHU) on March 12, 2008. Penitentiary guards found Sanchez and Flores with the victim who was lying unconscious on the floor of the SHU. The inmate was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy found that the victim died of strangulation. In conjunction with physical and forensic evidence that was presented at the guilty plea hearing, Sanchez issued a written statement wherein he admitted to unlawfully killing the victim during a heated argument.
The defendant faces up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date of June 11, 2015 was set.
The FBI and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.
Former Correctional Officer, Michigan Woman Sentenced in Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a former correctional officer at the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock, La., along with the daughter of an inmate were sentenced for their roles in a conspiracy to bribe a correctional officer to smuggle cell phones into the prison. Federal inmates are prohibited from possessing cell phones.
Maggie Kay Comeaux, 28, of Ball, La., was sentenced to 10 months in prison and two years of supervised release on one count of conspiracy. Paris Smith, 21, of Detroit, Mich., was sentenced to two years of probation (including community service hours) and ordered to pay a $500 fine on one count of providing contraband to a prisoner. United States District Judge Donald E. Walter presided over the hearings. According to the November 24, 2014 guilty pleas, from January 2013 to April 2013, Comeaux accepted a $400 bribe from Smith and two federal inmates to smuggle a cell phone and charging cords into the prison. At least one phone was subscribed in Smith’s name. The inmates also used GreenDot cards to provide thousands of dollars to Comeaux.
The U.S. Department of Justice-Office of the Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison D. Bushnell prosecuted the case.
Californian Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Failing to Update his Sex Offender RegistrationRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a California man was sentenced to 41 months in prison for failing to register as a sex offender after traveling to Alexandria.
Tyrone Bradshaw, 47, of Los Angeles, Calif., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell for one count of failure to register as a sex offender. He was also sentenced to 17 years of supervised release. He will begin serving the sentence after serving the remainder of a 32-month prison term in California for a previous failure to register charge. According to evidence presented at the November 25, 2014 guilty plea, Bradshaw traveled by bus to Alexandria on August 1, 2012. He obtained a state identification card on August 3, 2012 and listed his address as Lake Charles, La. He did not include his sex offender status on the identification as required by Louisiana state law. Alexandria police later arrested Bradshaw. The defendant previously pleaded guilty in November of 1985 to state charges in California for kidnapping, forcible rape, and robbery of a female. He was released in 1994.
The U.S. Marshals Service and the Alexandria Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney F. Michael O’Mara prosecuted the case.
United States Attorney Announces $650,000 Settlement with Acadiana Cardiology, Acadiana Cardiovascular Center, and Convicted Doctor, Mehmood Patel, for False Claims AllegationsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced a $650,000 settlement was reached with Acadiana Cardiology LLC, Acadiana Cardiovascular Center and convicted doctor, Mehmood Patel, M.D., concerning allegations that Patel performed unnecessary medical procedures and billed Medicare.
In the criminal proceedings, Patel was indicted on 94 counts of health care fraud on February 16, 2006, and a jury found him guilty on December 30, 2008 after a two-month trial of 51 counts of health care fraud. He was sentenced on June 4, 2009, to serve 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $387,511 in restitution and a $175,000 fine. In August of 2006, Our Lady of Lourdes agreed to pay a $3.8 million settlement, and in January of 2008, Lafayette General Medical Center agreed to pay a $1.9 million settlement to settle claims.
The United States intervened in the lawsuit Dr. Christopher Mallavarapu, a cardiologist who formerly practiced with Patel in Lafayette, brought against Acadiana Cardiology LLC, Acadiana Cardiovascular Center LLC, Mehmood Patel, a Professional Medical Corp., and Mehmood Patel, M.D., to recover damages under the False Claims Act. The False Claims Act, a federal civil fraud statute, allows individuals who have witnessed fraud to file suit on behalf of the United States under the statute’s qui tam provisions and, under appropriate circumstances, they are allowed to share in a portion of any monetary recovery that is made. The statute allows the government to recoup dollars obtained through fraud and misrepresentation.
From 2000 to 2003, the United States alleged that the defendants submitted 207 false claims for unnecessary cardiovascular, endovascular and related procedures that Patel performed at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Lafayette General Medical Center, Acadiana Cardiology and Acadiana Cardiovascular Center. Federal law allows coverage and payment for only those services that are considered to be medically reasonable and necessary.
“This is a significant recovery,” Finley said. “Health care providers should know they will be held accountable for the care that they provide and the claims they submit for care. We hope this settlement sends a message that those in the health care industry who overcharge federal programs and perform medically unnecessary treatments will be held accountable, both criminally and civilly.”
“Any time greed replaces medical necessity as the primary factor in performing invasive diagnostic procedures, our most vulnerable citizens, the nation's elderly, are imperiled,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Fields of the U.S. Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) Dallas Regional Office. “This was a most egregious example of a money hungry physician unnecessarily placing his own patients at risk to line his pockets.”
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen J. King and Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine W. Vincent handled the civil case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelley P. Uebinger prosecuted the criminal case.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Many Resident Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Many resident was sentenced last week to 188 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine in the Sabine Parish area.
Scottron Cordell Medlock, 33, of Many, La., was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of distribution of methamphetamine. The defendant was also sentenced to four years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the July 24, 2014 guilty plea, law enforcement agents recorded Medlock selling 24 grams of methamphetamine in Many on July 17, 2013. Video showed Medlock combining several small bags of methamphetamine into a larger one before selling the drug for $1,400.
“Methamphetamine is a dangerous narcotic,” Finley stated. “My office, along with our federal, state and local partners, will continue in their efforts to bring drug dealers to justice. These cases demonstrate the tremendous impact that collaborative investigations can have to combat methamphetamine distribution.”
The DEA and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation called “Crystal Bend.” OCDETF is a joint multi-agency group consisting of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies with a cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
Dallas Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Dallas man was sentenced Tuesday to 170 months in prison for transporting a minor to Bossier City, La., for prostitution.
Qualyn D. Mitchell, 31, of Dallas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of sex trafficking of a minor. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the September 16, 2014 guilty plea, law enforcement agents responded in an undercover capacity to an online advertisement for prostitution on November 21, 2013 and found a 16-year-old minor at a Bossier City hotel engaged in prostitution. Mitchell was found in an adjacent hotel room with another prostitute. Upon further investigation, it was learned that Mitchell met the minor a few days earlier and brought her from Dallas to Bossier City. He instructed the minor to give him the money she made from prostitution. Agents found $1,200 on Mitchell at the time of the arrest.
“Human trafficking, especially for the purpose of underage prostitution, is a heinous crime,” Finley stated. “This office is committed to prosecuting individuals who manipulate minors into committing sexual acts, often using the threat of violence, and who profit from this illegal and reprehensible conduct. I want to thank the Assistant U.S. Attorney, the FBI, and the other law enforcement agencies for their vigilance in investigating these crimes, which have resulted not only in criminal convictions, but in the rescue of numerous girls and young women from terrible environments.”
The FBI-Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, Bossier City Police Department, and the Bossier City Marshal’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg 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 marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Those concerned may leave tips with the FBI at tips.fbi.gov and may be submitted anonymously. The Shreveport FBI office number is (318) 861-1890.
Indian National Pleads Guilty to Using Altered Immigration DocumentsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that an Indian national pleaded guilty Tuesday to making and using altered immigration documents.
Ajay Jawahar, 49, of India, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to one count of fraud and misuse of visas, permits and other documents. According to the evidence presented at the guilty plea, while Jawahar was at the Louisiana Department of Public Safety’s Office of Motor Vehicles in Shreveport on August 3, 2012, he presented five I-29s (U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Services Notices of Action), which is a petition for a non-immigrant worker to stay in the United States. Three of the I-29s were altered by changing the dates on them to show Jawahar was lawfully in the United States. An Office of Motor Vehicles employee detected the fraudulent documents and notified federal authorities. When Homeland Security Investigations special agents questioned Jawahar about the documents, he admitted to altering them.
Jawahar faces not more than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. The court can also order him deported. Jawahar is on bond pending his sentencing date of June 25, 2015.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert W. Gillespie Jr. is prosecuting the case.
Oakdale Inmates Sentenced for Inflicting Severe Injuries on Fellow InmatesRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that three inmates were sentenced Thursday in two separate cases for severe beatings of other inmates. United States District Judge Patricia Minaldi presided over the hearings.
Virginia man sentenced to 41 months in prison for beatings
Douglas Darrell Harris, 32, of Petersburg, Va., was sentenced to 41 months in prison on one count of assault at a federal correctional institution. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release.
According to evidence presented at the November 6, 2014 guilty plea, Harris assaulted a fellow inmate twice on April 1, 2014 at the Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution. One of the beatings was caught on camera, and the other was witnessed by a guard. As a result of the beatings, the injured inmate suffered fractured fingers, a fractured humerus, blurred vision and head pain. He also suffered a seizure and was admitted into the intensive care unit. Additionally, his hands were so badly injured they required surgery.
Mexican nationals sentenced to 60 months in prison for assault
Martin Alfonso Olivas-Lopez, 40, and Pablo Palacios-Gomez, 36, both of Mexico, were sentenced to 60 months in prison on one count of assault at a federal correctional institution. They are to be transported back to Mexico upon completion of their prison terms.
According to evidence presented at the November 20, 2014 guilty pleas, Olivas-Lopez and Palacios-Gomez assaulted another inmate on May 7, 2014 outside of Olivas-Lopez’s cell at the Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution. The assault was captured on the prison’s camera system. They punched the inmate in the head repeatedly and continued the assault after he had fallen to the ground. They then meticulously cleaned the area. The inmate suffered lacerations on his head, a nasal bone fracture, and a swollen eye and jaw.
The FBI and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons investigated the cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the cases.
Carencro Officer Indicted on Extortion, Illegal Use of Government Database, and Lying to Federal Agents in Desperado's CaseRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a federal grand jury has indicted a former Carencro Police Officer for receiving cash payments from Desperado’s Gentlemen’s Cabaret.
Timothy “Timmy” Prejean, 42, of Carencro, was indicted on one count of interference with commerce by extortion under color of official right, one count of obtaining information by computer from government or protected computer, and two counts of false statements or representations made to a department or agency of the United States.
The indictment alleges that Prejean, in addition to his other law enforcement duties as a Carencro Police Officer, was designated to manage the issuance of exotic dancer permits for the Carencro Police Department and enforced related ordinances. According to the indictment, from January 1, 2007, until December 5, 2012, Prejean received regular cash payments and extra money for a vacation and personal expenses from Desperado’s owners James and Jennifer Panos. The indictment further alleges that Prejean ran a criminal history for James Panos on March 16, 2012, using government agency computers in excess of his authorization. The indictment also alleges that Prejean later lied to FBI and DEA agents on May 20, 2013, about the payments from James and Jennifer Panos, and Prejean also lied to FBI agents on August 16, 2013, about accessing the government database.
Desperado’s operated as an illegal enterprise for many years, and owners James and Jennifer Panos and eight other defendants were charged in a 10-count indictment on May 15, 2013, alleging racketeering conspiracy, drug conspiracy, and firearms charges for activity that took place inside the club from 2006 until December 5, 2012. All pleaded guilty and were sentenced last year as result of an investigation of drug trafficking, drug distribution, prostitution, and other illegal activity that took place at Desperado’s located on Northeast Evangeline Thruway. As part of the plea agreement, the owners agreed to forfeit illegal proceeds already seized and to forfeit the Desperado’s property.
Prejean faces up to 20 years in prison for the extortion count, 10 years in prison for the obtaining computer information count, and five years in prison for both false statement counts. He also faces up to three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine for each count.
The FBI, DEA, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Louisiana State Police, and Lafayette Metro Narcotics investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Myers P. Namie and Daniel J. McCoy prosecuted the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Lawn Care Business Owner Sentenced for Lying to Receive Workers' Compensation BenefitsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Breaux Bridge man was sentenced Monday to six months in prison and six months of home confinement for lying in order to continue receiving disability benefits to which he was not entitled.
Mervin J. Noel, 51, of Breaux Bridge, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for one count of making false statements to continue receiving workers’ compensation benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $138,247 restitution to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Louisiana Workers Compensation Corporation (LWCC).
According to evidence presented at the October 7, 2014 guilty plea, Noel began receiving workers’ compensation and Social Security disability benefits after sustaining an injury while working on an offshore oil platform in 1994. In 2007, Noel began operating a lawn care business without informing either the LWCC or SSA that he was employed and earning income. Instead, on four occasions Noel falsely reported on official documents mailed to LWCC officials that he had no earnings from employment. Noel also appeared in person before SSA officials on April 11, 2014 and falsely reported that he had not worked since becoming disabled. As a result, Noel received $20,776 in workers’ compensation benefits and $118,220 in Social Security benefits to which he was not entitled.
The SSA conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Joseph prosecuted the case.
Florida Women Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for LSU Health Sciences Center Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Florida woman was sentenced to 24 months in prison for mail fraud in connection with a bribery scheme involving a former staff member at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC).
Rita M. Myler, 53, of Miramar Beach, Fla., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. on one count of mail fraud. She was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $531,976.90 in restitution. According to the October 6, 2014, guilty plea, Myler paid kickbacks to LSUHSC’s Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Laboratory Assistant Director Anthony Roggero so that he would continue buying products from her company, Sangre Biologicals. The kickbacks were mailed to Roggero’s house from July 2001 to July 2008. Sangre Biologicals received more than $500,000 from LSUHSC during the course of the scheme. The HLA laboratory played a critical support role for solid organ and bone marrow transplants.
Roggero, of Shreveport, pleaded guilty on October 31, 2012, to one count of mail fraud for his role in the scheme. He was sentenced on November 10, 2014, to 18 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $200,000 restitution.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cytheria D. Jernigan prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney Finley Keynote Speaker at Grambling State University's Annual Luncheon Recognizing Louisiana's LeadersRead the Press Release
GRAMBLING, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley was the keynote speaker at Grambling State University’s Fourth Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Leadership Awards Luncheon held Thursday.
“I am honored that Dr. Warrick asked me to address this group of outstanding citizens,” Finley said. “Their stories are incredible, and their commitment to our state is unwavering. These award recipients are an inspiration to me and everyone who hears their stories encouraging us to work harder to make our communities better. That’s what leadership is all about. It is not always glamorous and often the work is not easy, but it is rewarding when you make a difference.”
“United States Attorney Stephanie Finley’s motivating speech challenged the audience to lead and serve,” stated Grambling State University Interim President Dr. Cynthia Warrick. “She reminded us that it was just 50 years ago when justice advocates led and served through resistance; if they had not protested, we would not have the civil rights we experience today. It was an important message that inspired all in attendance and validated our honorees’ recognition.”
Grambling State University honored 10 recipients at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Leadership Awards Luncheon. Winners of the Fannie Lou Hamer Community Service and Leadership Award included: Mr. David Aubrey, the North Louisiana regional director of external affairs for AT&T Inc.; Ms. Janet Durden, president of United Way of Northeast Louisiana; Mr. Clarence W. Hawkins, Louisiana state director for U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, Mrs. Hazel Hunter, a former manager with Louisiana Department of Social Services; Mr. Quentin Messer, assistant secretary for Louisiana Economic Development; Mr. Eldonta Osborne, chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Club of North Louisiana; and Mr. Willie Washington, federal programs director (No Child Left Behind) at the Lincoln Parish School Board in Ruston, La.
Artist Frank Kelly Jr. was the recipient of the Alvin Ailey Arts and Letters Award, and John Belton, newly elected district attorney for the 3rd Judicial District Court for Lincoln and Union parishes, and his wife, Alana Belton, a former prosecutor, received the Thurgood Marshall Justice Award.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Leadership Awards recognizes persons who, through their service to Grambling State University, the state, region and country, exemplify King’s character, leadership and selflessness. Each honoree must have been personally or corporately involved in making tangible, visible and meaningful contributions to the advancement of race relations and/or human rights causes in one or more of the following areas, including but not limited to, the arts, business, education, justice, politics, science and technology, religion and athletics. The awards are presented annually in February.
Grambling State University combines the academic strengths of a major university with the benefits of a small college, a combination that enables students to grow and learn in a serene and positive environment. It offers more than 800 courses and 68 degree programs in five colleges, including an honors college, two professional schools, a graduate school, and a Division of Continuing Education. To find out more about Grambling State University visit www.gram.edu.
Finley is the first female U.S. Attorney to serve in Louisiana. She was selected by President Barack Obama in January of 2010, after being recommended by U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in June of 2010. United States Attorney Finley was sworn into office on June 2, 2010 to serve the Western District of Louisiana as the chief law enforcement officer for 42 of the state’s 64 parishes. In addition to her duties as the U.S. Attorney, Finley is a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, and currently serves as Chair of Attorney General Eric Holder’s Advisory Committee’s Office of Management and Budget Committee.
From left to right are: Frank Kelley Jr., Hazel Hunter, Quentin Messer Jr., Janet Durden, Eldonta’ Osborne, U. S. Attorney Finley, Dr. Cynthia Warrick, Clarence Hawkins, David Aubrey, Alana Belton, Honorable John Belton, and Freddie Washington (representing her husband, Willie Washington).
Lake Charles Man, Mexican National Sentenced for Roles in Drug Distribution RingRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Lake Charles man and a Mexican national were sentenced to seven months (time served) and 44 months in prison respectively for transporting and possessing marijuana.
Bertoldo Tolo Labra, 31, of Lake Charles, La., and Juan Antonio Garcia, 58, of Mexico, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik on one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Labra was also sentenced to two years of supervised release, and Garcia was sentenced to three years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the guilty pleas, the defendants admitted to transporting multi-kilograms quantities of marijuana at the direction of co-defendant Rogelio Cantu-Lopez in June and July of 2013 from Houston to a trailer in Moss Bluff, La. The marijuana was then sold to a third party.
The defendants were arrested as part of Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation Cajun Gallo. The DEA, the George West Police Department in Texas, and the Houston Police Department participated in this OCDETF investigation. The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle targeted criminal organizations and seize their assets.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard C. Parker prosecuted the case.
Egyptian National Convicted of Resisting Deportation OrdersRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a federal jury found an Egyptian national guilty of refusing to leave the country twice after being ordered to depart.
Mohamed Admed Hassan Abdallah Omran, 38, of Egypt, was found guilty of two counts of failure to depart for resisting removal after final deportation orders. United States District Judge Dee D. Drell presided over the trial. The defendant’s trial started Wednesday and ended today with the jury returning the guilty verdict after deliberating for 10 minutes. Evidence admitted at trial revealed that on two occasions U.S. Immigration Enforcement Agents attempted to remove Omran from the country via the Alexandria International Airport by putting him on a commercial flight. The defendant hampered agents’ ability to remove him by verbally and physically resisting agents on June 12, 2013. The defendant also hampered attempts to put him on a commercial flight at the airport on July 24, 2013. This prevented him from boarding the flights because of airline and Transportation Security Administration safety policies.
Omran faces four years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine for each count. Sentencing has been set for May 11, 2015.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael O’Mara and Cytheria D. Jernigan are prosecuting the case.Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Possessing CocaineRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Mexican national pleaded guilty Monday to possessing cocaine with intent to distribute.
Gerson D. Guevara-Miranda, 34, of Mexico, entered a conditional guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen L. Hayes on one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Louisiana State Police conducted a traffic stop on Guevara-Miranda’s vehicle on May 23, 2014. After a search of the vehicle, more than one kilogram of powdered cocaine and 23 kilograms of marijuana were found.Guevara-Miranda faces 20 years in prison, three or more years supervised release, and a $1 million fine. A sentencing date of May 4, 2015 was set.
The DEA, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations, and the Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg is prosecuting the case
Shreveport Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Shreveport man was sentenced to 360 months in prison for receiving child pornography.
Aaron Wikkerink, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. on one count of receiving child pornography. He was also sentenced to serve five years of supervised release and is required to register as a sex offender. According to evidence presented at the October 1, 2014, guilty plea, Wikkerink admitted to downloading child pornography online from April 7, 2012 until April 24, 2012. Law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Wikkerink’s residence and found child pornography on several electronic storage devices depicting prepubescent children in sexually explicit situations. Wikkerink was previously convicted of child molestation.
“This office is dedicated to the protection of children,” Finley stated. “We have and will continue to make the prosecution of child exploitation and child pornography cases a priority. Those who hide behind technology to conduct these heinous acts should know that the internet is not a safe haven for their crimes. I want to thank our federal, state, and local partners who work so diligently to investigate and uncover these threats to children.”
United Stated Department of Homeland Security (Shreveport) and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office investigated the case. 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 marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations/Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) encourages the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) DHS-2ICE. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp.Shreveport Fire Department Dispatcher Sentenced to 25 Months in Prison for Child Pornography PossessionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a dispatcher with the Shreveport Fire Department was sentenced to 25 months in prison for possessing child pornography.
Shreveport Fire Department Dispatcher Stephen St. John, 46, of Shreveport, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of possession of child pornography. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the September 18, 2014, guilty plea, law enforcement agents discovered that St. John was a member of a secret internet file posting board that distributed child pornography. His home was searched on September 5, 2013 and several computers, external hard drives, memory cards, DVDs and diskettes were seized. An examination of the seized items revealed pubescent and prepubescent males engaged in explicit sexual activity.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service and the Louisiana State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cytheria D. Jernigan 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 marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations/Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) DHS-2ICE. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp. Tips may be reported anonymously
Many Resident Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Many resident was sentenced to 120 months in prison for possessing a shotgun and ammunition after being convicted of multiple felonies.
Jerry Kenneth Thompson Jr., 45, of Many, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition after a felony conviction. He was also sentenced to serve three years of supervised release after he completes his prison term.
According to evidence presented at the September 25, 2014, guilty plea, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) agents discovered Thompson on December 31, 2013, in possession of a 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition while hunting on private property without permission and using a stolen deer stand. Thompson admitted to LDWF agents that he had prior felony convictions and knew he could not possess a firearm. Further investigation confirmed that Thompson had 26 convictions. Seven of the felony convictions were in California and included two convictions for grand theft, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, second degree burglary of a vehicle, possession with intent to sell a controlled substance with a gang affiliation enhancement, transportation of a controlled substance, and possession for sale of cocaine base. Thompson also had a prior felony conviction in Sabine Parish for simple burglary.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, which is a Department of Justice initiative designed to reduce firearm crimes by removing dangerous and persistent felons from the community and promote firearm safety.
The ATF and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert W. Gillespie Jr. prosecuted the case.
Lake Charles Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Making False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that the owner of a Lake Charles tax preparation business pleaded guilty Thursday to underreporting income on his tax returns over a three-year period.
Randall Joseph Carrier Jr., 41, of Cypress, Texas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Patricia Minaldi on one count of making and subscribing a false tax return. According to the guilty plea, Carrier, who owns and operates Taxx Enterprises Inc. of Lake Charles, failed to report approximately $189,961 of income on his 2007, 2008 and 2009 tax returns, which resulted in an estimated loss of $66,366 to the IRS. The majority of missing income came from customer tax preparation fees that Carrier did not report.
“Tax preparers are not above the law,” Finley stated. “When they use their businesses to take advantage of the system and avoid paying taxes, they will be prosecuted and held accountable. “Preparing false tax returns is a serious crime. My office stands ready to assist the IRS in investigating these cases.”
“We are pleased with the guilty plea entered today by Mr. Carrier,” stated Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation Jerome R. McDuffie. “The tax system is built on the premise that taxpayers file accurate and timely tax returns. Mr. Carrier was in the business of preparing tax returns for others and willfully failed to report a significant amount of his own income. To ensure confidence in our tax system, special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation are committed to the aggressive pursuit and prosecution of individuals who intentionally violate the nation's laws.”
Carrier faces up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release, a $100,000 fine and restitution. A sentencing date of April 30, 2015 was set.The IRS investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Howard C. Parker and Robert E. Moore are prosecuting the case.
Bossier City Woman Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Bossier City woman pleaded guilty to filing false tax returns.
Susan Santoro, 40, of Bossier City, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to one count of making or subscribing a false tax return. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Santoro, who was the general manager of Top Dollar Pawn in Bossier City from 2009 to 2011, embezzled more than $300,000 from the company. She embezzled the money by falsifying records, which were under her sole authority to review and reconcile. A review of her personal bank accounts revealed numerous large, unexplained cash deposits that far exceeded her income from Top Dollar Pawn. The IRS considers the money, which Santoro did not report on her tax returns, as income. This resulted in Santoro owing additional taxes in excess of $88,000.
Santoro faces up to three years in prison, three years supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and restitution. A sentencing date of May 11, 2015 was set.
The FBI and IRS conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon B. Brown and Cytheria D. Jernigan are prosecuting the case.
Ville Platte Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Robbing St. Landry Parish Truck Stop CasinoRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Ville Platte man was sentenced to 46 months in prison for taking part in an armed robbery of a St. Landry Parish truck stop casino in which more than $11,000 was taken.
Arinskie Tryvon Orlandeze Jones, 25, of Ville Platte, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik for one count of interference with commerce by robbery. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $2,100 restitution.
Jones and two other Ville Platte men, Ronald James Doomes and Steven Dudley Nelson, were indicted on October 24, 2012, on charges that they took part in an armed robbery on April 8, 2011, at the Tiger Trax Truckstop #7 and Video Joker II Casino located in St. Landry Parish. A federal jury found Jones guilty on July 31, 2014 after a three-day trial. Doomes was found guilty of one count of armed robbery and one count of use and carrying of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence after a federal trial that ended August 1, 2014. Doomes was sentenced on November 14, 2014 to 102 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Nelson pleaded guilty to the same charges on October 28, 2013. He was sentenced on September 19, 2014 to 105 months in prison and five years of supervised release.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, which is a Department of Justice initiative designed to reduce firearm crimes by removing dangerous and persistent felons from the community and promoting firearm safety.
The FBI Safe Streets Task Force, ATF and the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph T. Mickel and David C. Joseph prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Sentenced to 28 Months in Prison for Reentering the United States IllegallyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Mexican national was sentenced to 28 months in prison for reentering the United States illegally after being removed.
Luis Garcia-Torres, 44, of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik for one count of aggravated reentry of a removed alien. According to evidence presented at the September 4, 2014 guilty plea, the defendant was driving a car that was pulled over on April 29, 2014 during a traffic stop. It was discovered that his identification belonged to another individual. He admitted to not being a U.S. citizen and returning to the United States multiple times illegally. He was deported in September of 1990 after being convicted of voluntary manslaughter in North Carolina. He also was deported in November of 2011 after serving a 10-year sentence for aggravated battery.
United States Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, Louisiana State Police, and Morgan City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard C. Parker prosecuted the case.
Honduran Sentenced to 12 Months in Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Honduran national was sentenced to 12 months in prison for possessing a firearm while being in the United States illegally.
Jose Marnin Perez-Perez, 24, of Honduras, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik for one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to evidence presented at the October 23, 2014 guilty plea, a Youngsville police officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle Perez was traveling in on August 6, 2014. Upon further investigation, the officer found a Hi-Point 9 mm pistol in a seat pocket where Perez was seated. It was later learned that Perez had been deported in 2012 after a U.S. Border Patrol arrest.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, which is a Department of Justice initiative designed to reduce firearm crimes by removing dangerous and persistent felons from the community and promoting firearm safety.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Youngsville Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
Monroe Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing more than $200,000 in Social Security PaymentsRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Monroe woman pleaded guilty to stealing more than $200,000 in Social Security benefit payments.
Cassandra D. Ellis, 53, of Monroe, entered a conditional guilty plea for one count of theft of government funds to U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen L. Hayes. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Court Judge Robert G. James. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, from February 1996 to April 2014, Ellis deposited and used her deceased grandmother’s Social Security benefit checks, to which she was not entitled. She also led Social Security officials to believe her grandmother was alive in order to continue receiving the checks. The total amount taken was $206,325.
Ellis faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine and restitution. A sentencing date of May 4, 2015 was set.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg is prosecuting the case.
Springhill Woman Found with 230 Grams of Methamphetamine and more than $5,000Read the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Webster Parish woman pleaded guilty Thursday to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
Reiny Ratliff, 21, of Springhill, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Springhill Police responded on March 12, 2014 to a complaint that someone was illegally parked in a handicapped spot at a local retail store. While questioning Ratliff, the officer saw drug paraphernalia in the car, arrested her, and impounded the vehicle. Upon search of her purse, 229.7 grams of methamphetamine and $5,347 were found.
Ratliff faces up to 20 years in prison, three years supervised release, a $1 million fine and forfeiture of the money found. A sentencing date of April 29, 2015 was set.
The DEA and Springhill Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney James G. Cowles is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant AnnouncementRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT/MONROE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley and the Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force announced today that the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is seeking applications for funding of grants under the Violent Gang and Gun Crime Reduction Program, also known as Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
This program furthers the Department of Justice=s mission and violent crime reduction strategy by providing support to state, local and tribal efforts to reduce gun and gang-related violent crime. Contingent upon the availability of funds, grant awards totaling $300,000 are possible in the Western District of Louisiana to fund new and current comprehensive gun crime reduction strategies and gang violence reduction strategies. Grant proposal submissions must be received by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Lafayette before 5 p.m. on February 6, 2015.
Various types of single or multi‑grantee grant applications 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 Reentry Programs; or
- Other innovative related projects.
The FY2015 PSN Competitive Grant Announcement and links to other grants available, and information on the PSN Program can be found at the U.S. Attorney’s website at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla and www.justice.gov/usao-wdla/programs/project-safe-neighborhoods or at www.psn.gov and www.bja.gov/programs/psn .
For more information, contact Western District of Louisiana Assistant U.S. Attorney and PSN and Anti-Gang Coordinator Robert W. Gillespie Jr. at (318) 676-3600.
Complete instructions on how to register and submit an application for this and other grants are available at www.Grants.gov. The FY2015 PSN Grant number is BJA-2014-3810. Applicants can also contact the www.Grants.gov Customer Support Hotline for technical assistance with submitting any application by calling (800) 518-4726, (606) 545-5035 and by e-mail to [email protected].
Shreveport Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing More Than $39,000 in Social Security PaymentsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Shreveport woman pleaded guilty to stealing more than $39,000 in Social Security benefit payments.
Stephanie D. Lynn, 49, of Shreveport, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. to one count of theft of government funds. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, from May 2009 to December 2013, Lynn cashed and used her deceased son’s Social Security benefit checks, to which she was not entitled. She also did not inform the Social Security Administration that her son had died and submitted paperwork stating that he was alive in order to continue receiving the checks. The total amount taken was $39,435.
Lynn faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine and restitution. A sentencing date of April 29, 2015 was set.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg is prosecuting the case.
Lafayette Attorney Sentenced to 121 Months in Prison for Drug Conspiracy, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that Lafayette attorney Daniel James Stanford, 57, was sentenced to 121 months in prison for conspiring to distribute synthetic drugs, conspiring to introduce misbranded drugs into interstate commerce, and money laundering.
Stanford, of Lafayette, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue, one count of conspiracy to introduce or cause to be introduced misbranded drugs into interstate commerce, one count of conspiracy to launder money, and five counts of money laundering. He was also ordered to serve six years of supervised release. The other defendants were sentenced on December 16, 2014. (*For a graphic listing the sentences of the other defendants refer to the end of this document.)
After eight days in trial, more than six hours of deliberation and testimony from 30-plus witnesses, a federal jury found Stanford guilty on August 29, 2014. Stanford was found not guilty on five counts of the indictment, which related to additional money laundering charges.In September of 2012, Curious Goods LLC and co-conspirators Alexander Derrick Reece, 42 of Gainesville, Fla.; Drew T. Green, 40 of Roswell, Ga.; Thomas William Malone Jr., 48 of Roswell, Ga.; Boyd Anthony Barrow, 46 of Canton, Ga.; Joshua Espinoza, 51 of Marietta, Ga.; Richard Joseph Buswell, 46 of Lafayette, La.; Daniel Paul Francis, 44 of Dawsonville, Ga.; and Stanford were charged in a 16-count indictment with conspiracy to distribute synthetic drugs, conspiracy to introduce misbranded drugs into interstate commerce, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and various money laundering charges.
At the time of the indictment, Curious Goods LLC was a business based in Lafayette that marketed smoking and other products in stores throughout Acadiana. The stores sold a product called “Mr. Miyagi” that was infused with synthetic cannabinoids. Although mislabeled as a potpourri, “Mr. Miyagi” was sold to be smoked for the sole purpose of getting the consumer “high.” The synthetic cannabinoids infused into “Mr. Miyagi” are considered Schedule I controlled dangerous substances under federal law. From March 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011, Curious Goods stores made approximately $5 million from the sale of “Mr. Miyagi.”
Barrow and Espinoza controlled and operated Pinnacle Products LLC/Pinnacle Products Group, based in Marietta, Ga. Pinnacle was the manufacturer of the “Mr. Miyagi” products and supplied the products to the local Curious Goods stores. Pinnacle obtained the synthetic cannabinoids used to manufacture “Mr. Miyagi” from NutraGenomics, which was located in Alpharetta, Ga., and was controlled by co-conspirators Green and Malone. NutraGenomics distributed synthetic cannabinoids throughout the United States.
Stanford, who is a criminal defense attorney, represented himself at trial. During opening statements, Stanford told the jury he was “absolutely not guilty of any of this.” However, at trial, the evidence showed that Stanford was actively involved with the Curious Goods enterprise, that he was well aware that the company sold a product called “Mr. Miyagi,” and that “Mr. Miyagi” was a substance that was infused with synthetic cannabinoids.
Exhibits introduced at trial exposed that “Mr. Miyagi” was specifically labelled “not for human consumption” but was sold as a product that would be smoked by users to get high. The evidence also demonstrated that the product was packaged to be intentionally false and misleading, marketed as potpourri. The exterior package label of “Mr. Miyagi” stated that it was to be used to refresh scents in drawers, closets, and cars. Evidence introduced at trial clearly demonstrated that Stanford knew the product was being consumed by humans, that it was harmful and not a scent refresher, and that the product was marketed to youthful customers. The intentional mislabeling and misbranding, spearheaded by Stanford, were part of a legal strategy and subterfuge to feign compliance with the law, to avoid law enforcement detection, and to avoid civil and criminal liability.
Among the many witnesses testifying at trial were local law enforcement and DEA Task Force agents who testified that during the execution of search warrants on December 8, 2011, they searched all Curious Goods store locations, including the company’s warehouse in Lafayette, and seized approximately 190 pounds of synthetic drugs worth approximately $517,000.
“The sentencing of this last defendant brings an end to this case, but not to our commitment to prosecute those who sell these illegal and dangerous drugs in our community,” Finley stated. “This case highlights how lucrative this industry is and the lengths that criminals are willing to go to profit while endangering the health and safety of citizens. Too many members of our community visited these shops that sold this poison, especially the youth. Stanford’s insatiable desire for money drove him to join this conspiracy and put many, many people in harm’s way. Today, his greed and criminal activity have consequences. Stanford misused his position as an attorney to facilitate the sales of a dangerous drug and to launder money. I want to thank the men and women of the federal, state and local law enforcement for bringing these defendants to justice. They are to be commended for years of hard work to get these illegal substances off the street and hold these criminals accountable. I hope that store owners, franchisees, investors and distributors who want to make a fast buck at the expense of others, think twice and understand that we will not hesitate to investigate and prosecute their criminal activity.”
Buswell was sentenced to 103 months in prison, Green was sentenced 117 months in prison, Malone was sentenced to 117 months in prison, Barrow was sentenced to 70 months in prison, Espinoza was sentenced to 61 months in prison, and Francis was sentenced to 42 months in prison. Green and Malone were also ordered to pay a $20,000 fine. Curious Goods LLC was ordered to pay a $40,000 fine. The company was also ordered to forfeit $859,989 in illegal proceeds derived from the scheme, as well as two cars and a speed boat.
The DEA, FBI, IRS, HSI, Louisiana State Police, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office, Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Lafayette Police Department conducted this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Luke Walker, J. Collin Sims, and Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.
*Defendants Prison Term Supervised Release Fine CountsDrew Green
117 months
3 years
$20,000
1
Tommy Malone
117 months
3 years
$20,000
1
Boyd Barrow
70 months
3 years
1
Joshua Espinoza
61 months
3 years
1
Daniel Francis
42 months
1 year
2
Richard Buswell
103 months
3 years
1
Curious Goods LLC
$40,000
1
Charenton Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Charenton man pleaded guilty to possessing marijuana with intent to distribute.
Steven Quinn Vilcan, 46 of Charenton, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard Haik for one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. According to the guilty plea, law enforcement agents learned that marijuana was present at Vilcan’s home, which is located on Chitimacha tribal lands in Charenton. The home was searched on July 7, 2014, and 3,232 grams of marijuana were found inside a duffle bag in the closet of a spare bedroom.
Vilcan faces up to five years in prison, two years supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date was not set.
Jurisdiction in Indian Country is based upon the unique sovereign relationship between the federal government and Indian tribes. Congress has criminalized certain acts that take place in Indian Country. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes all felony and misdemeanor cases arising in Indian Country that are within the jurisdiction of this office.
The FBI and the Chitimacha Tribal Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamilla A. Bynog and John Luke Walker are prosecuting the case.
Lincoln Parish Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Ruston man was sentenced to 57 months in prison for bringing methamphetamine into Louisiana for sale.
Gale Allen Schoonover, 55, of Ruston, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the August 19, 2014 guilty plea, Schoonover was arrested on March 14, 2014 after returning from Dallas, where he had obtained methamphetamine that he intended to sell in Lincoln Parish. Law enforcement agents received information that the defendant was transporting methamphetamine for sale and monitored his whereabouts until the arrest. Schoonover possessed a total of 105.62 grams of pure methamphetamine as well as 1.735 kilograms of marijuana.
The DEA and the Lincoln Parish Narcotics Enforcement Team conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison D. Bushnell prosecuted the case.
Beaumont, Texas, Attorney Sentenced to 12 Months in Prison for Tax ViolationRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Beaumont attorney was sentenced to 12 months in prison for failing to file his federal income tax return.
Craig J. Schexnaider, 63, of Beaumont, Texas, was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn for one count of failing to file an income tax return. He was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine and serve one year of supervised release. He must also pay his tax liability of $98,805.57 to the U.S. Treasury. The court set a surrender date of February 11, 2015. According to evidence presented at the April 14, 2014 guilty plea, Schexnaider, an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Texas, had gross income in calendar year 2008 of approximately $140,000, an amount in excess of the $3,500 minimum that triggered the requirement to file a federal income tax return. And, even after he requested a six-month extension for the filing of his 2008 federal individual income tax return and the Department of the Treasury approved his request and granted an extension until October 15, 2009, Schexnaider willfully failed to file his 2008 federal individual income return by October 15, 2009 as required by law.
The sentencing resulted from a Bill of Information that was filed in November 2013 charging Schexnaider with four counts of failing to file income tax returns when he had the following in gross income: $73,920 in 2007; $143,797 in 2008; $110,669 in 2009; and $43,740 in 2010. The government dismissed the remaining counts after sentencing.
The IRS conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Flanagan prosecuted this recusal case from the Eastern District of Texas.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Texan pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell methamphetamine in the Winn Parish area.
Instead of proceeding with a federal jury trial scheduled to start today, Alwyn Nord Stewart Jr., 35, of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Stewart; David Lamont Mangum, 36, of Winnfield, La.; Altomio Kente Phillips, 29, of Winnfield; and Demetrius Marie Jackson, 31, of Deridder, La., conspired to distribute methamphetamine transported from Houston to the Winnfield area from the beginning of 2011 until September 2012. Stewart was the supplier of methamphetamine to Mangum. Stewart and Mangum would arrange transport of the drugs to Louisiana, and other conspirators assisted with the delivery and distribution.
Stewart faces 20 years to life in prison, five years of supervised release, and a $10 million fine. He and the other conspirators also face forfeiture of the property seized during the case, which includes: $29,067, two plots of land in Winnfield, seven vehicles and other seized items. A sentencing date of April 2, 2015 was set. Mangum, Phillips and Jackson previously pleaded guilty and are set to be sentenced on January 22, 2015.
The defendants were arrested as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation named “Trend Setters.” The DEA conducted the investigation. The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys James G. Cowles Jr., Brandon B. Brown and Joseph G. Jarzabek are prosecuting the case.
Texan Sentenced to 84 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Dallas man was sentenced Thursday to 84 months in prison for a conspiracy to sell methamphetamine in the Shreveport area.
Leonardo A. Gonzalez, 36, of Dallas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 or more grams of methamphetamine. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to the February 26, 2014 guilty plea, the DEA conducted two controlled purchases of methamphetamine from codefendant Bruce A. Lee in the Shreveport area in September of 2013. Lee and Gonzalez were later questioned and searched. Agents found 3 ounces of methamphetamine in Lee’s vehicle and 5 ounces of methamphetamine in an apartment Lee was using in Shreveport. Gonzalez admitted to obtaining the drugs from a Texas source and selling them to Lee. Agents recovered $10,000 from Gonzalez’s vehicle.
Lee was sentenced to 60 months in prison and five years of supervised release on July 9, 2014 for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 or more grams of methamphetamine.
The DEA, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety took part in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison D. Bushnell prosecuted the case.
Texans Sentenced for Kidnapping Arkansas ManRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that two Texans were sentenced on Monday to 150 months in prison for kidnapping an Arkansas man and lying to FBI special agents.
Aldo Cantu, 21, and Anthony Segura, 22, both of Lufkin, Texas, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James for one count of kidnapping and one count of lying to an FBI special agent. They were also sentenced to five years of supervised release.
According to evidence presented at the guilty plea hearings, the victim was taken by the defendants with the intent to drive him to Texas at gunpoint from his home in Pine Bluff, Ark., on November 16, 2014. The defendants drove the victim to a motel room in Pine Bluff. Thereafter, Cantu and Segura placed the victim in a car. The victim escaped and reported his kidnapping when the car stopped at a service station in Lake Providence, La. East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s deputies responded. Cantu and Segura were arrested and two firearms used during the kidnapping were seized. Each defendant was interviewed by FBI special agents and lied by saying they had not traveled to Arkansas that night and did not participate in the kidnapping.
“These defendants put the life of the victim in danger and lied to federal agents about their involvement,” Finley stated. “Taking someone against their will at gunpoint is a crime that is prosecutable and has serious consequences. We will continue to prosecute those who ignore the rights of others and lie to agents who are trying to enforce the law. ”
The FBI conducted this investigation with the assistance from the East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert W. Gillespie Jr. prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative designed to reduce firearm crimes by removing dangerous and persistent felons from the community and promote firearm safety.
Sabine Parish Man, Lincoln Parish Man Sentenced for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Sabine Parish man and a Lincoln Parish man were sentenced Monday for one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
MANY RESIDENT SENTENCED TO 173 MONTHS IN PRISON
SHREVEPORT, La. – Jamal Holland, 28, of Many, La., was sentenced to 173 months by U.S. District Court Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. Holland was also sentenced to three years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the September 9, 2014 guilty plea, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Holland on September 18, 2013 and October 3, 2013. For both occasions, Holland was recorded selling a total of 39 grams of methamphetamine.
The DEA and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
CHOUDRANT MAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON
MONROE, La. – Christopher Takewell, 38, of Choudrant, La., was sentenced to 120 months by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James. Takewell was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the September 25, 2014 guilty plea, law enforcement agents conducted a controlled purchase of 104.65 grams of pure methamphetamine in January of 2014 from Takewell at his home. The residence was searched on January 24, 2014, and the $6,250 used in the controlled purchase was recovered.
The DEA-Monroe Field Office, the Lincoln Parish Narcotics Enforcement Team and the Metro Narcotics Unit based in Monroe conducted this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison D. Bushnell prosecuted the case.
“Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive drug that threatens our communities,” Finley stated. “These sentences show our resolve to fight this illegal and dangerous drug activity.”
Quitman Man Sentenced to 210 Months in Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a Quitman man was sentenced Monday to 210 months in prison for producing child pornography.
Christopher Nixon, 22, of Quitman, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James for one count of production of child pornography. He was also sentenced to serve 15 years of supervised release and is required to register as a sex offender. According to evidence presented at the September 5, 2014 guilty plea, between February 1, 2012 and March 30, 2012, Nixon produced child pornography using a male under the age of 18. Canadian law enforcement discovered the videos during an unrelated investigation in May of 2013. The videos depicted sex acts between Nixon and an underage male.
“This office will vigorously prosecute those who create, distribute and possess child pornography,” Finley stated. “Sexual abuse, including child pornography, is a growing problem and has devastating consequences for the victimized children. These children suffer additional physical and mental abuse as these images continue to circulate worldwide across the internet for many years, long after they were victims of the initial horrific acts. With this guilty plea, we have stopped the flow of these materials from one producer at the source. I would like to thank all who are involved and dedicated to halting the production of child pornography in this district.”
“This case shows anyone who produces child pornography can and will be held accountable for their criminal actions regardless of where in the world the investigation leads or how much time has passed,” said Raymond R. Parmer Jr., special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations-New Orleans. “Sexual abuse scars children for life, and HSI will continue to use all the tools in its arsenal, to include the HSI Operation Predator smartphone app that helped identify and locate Mr. Nixon in this case, to identify the perpetrators of these horrendous acts and seek justice on behalf of their victims.”
Homeland Security Investigations Shreveport, the Louisiana State Police, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office and Canadian law enforcement investigated the case. 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 marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations/Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) encourages the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) DHS-2ICE. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp.Armed Career Offender Sentenced to 192 Months in Prison for Possessing Multiple Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Bossier Parish man was sentenced to 192 months in prison for illegally possessing multiple firearms.
Donald W. “Duck” Reyenga, 49, of Bossier City, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. on one count of possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of a felony. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release after he completes his prison term. According to evidence presented at the August 6, 2014 guilty plea, members of the Bossier Combined Narcotics Task Force learned that Reyenga was attempting to sell stolen firearms. On April 17, 2014, agents scheduled a controlled purchase at a Bossier City hotel. There, Reyenga sold a Hi-Standard, model Double 9, .22 caliber revolver, a Savage model 93 .22LR caliber rifle, and ammunition. His sale of the stolen firearms was recorded and he was arrested. Agents later recovered another stolen rifle that Reyenga had sold that morning along with other items stolen from residences in Red River Parish.
During the guilty plea hearing, Reyenga admitted he was an Armed Career Offender as defined by the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA). The ACCA increases the mandatory minimum sentence to 15 years for a defendant if he has three previous convictions for either a violent felony or a serious drug offense. Reyenga has numerous previous felony convictions in Bossier and Caddo parishes including attempted manslaughter, burglary, attempted aggravated burglary, distribution of marijuana, possession of cocaine and illegal possession of stolen things.
“This sentence is a reminder that it is illegal for felons to sell or possess firearms,” Finley stated. “Those with felony records must comply with firearms laws. We will vigorously prosecute dangerous and persistent felons in order to protect the public”
The ATF and the Bossier Combined Narcotics Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert W. Gillespie Jr. prosecuted the case as part the Department of Justice Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. This initiative is designed to reduce firearm crimes by using federal statutes to remove dangerous and persistent felons from the community.
Bastrop Tax Preparer Sentenced to 39 Months in Prison for Preparing False Returns, Wire Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Bastrop tax preparer was sentenced to 39 months in prison for filing fraudulent income tax returns using stolen identities and false information.
Claudia Marie Mays, 41, of Bastrop, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James for one count of aiding and assisting in making and subscribing a false tax return, two counts of wire fraud, and two counts of identity theft. She was also ordered to pay $94,043.15 restitution and was sentenced to three years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the June 17, 2014 guilty plea, Mays prepared fraudulent income tax returns and filed 15 fraudulent tax returns using stolen identities and false information from January 2011 to April 2011. The IRS issued $94,043.15 in fraudulent refunds because of the scheme.
Co-conspirator Carla Inzina, 53, also of Bastrop, assisted Mays in filing one of the fraudulent returns by obtaining another person’s personal information and using it to file a false return without the person’s permission. Inzina was sentenced to three years of probation for one count of aiding and assisting in making and subscribing a false return.
The IRS Criminal Investigation-Shreveport Division conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg prosecuted the case.
Former Homer Police Officer Indicted for Civil Rights ViolationsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. –United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that a grand jury indicted a former Homer Police Officer Wednesday for depriving three people of their civil rights by attacking them and also for lying to FBI agents.
Former Homer Police Officer Willie Fred Knowles, 64, of Homer, was charged with three counts of deprivation of civil rights and one count of lying to a federal agency. According to the indictment, while acting as a police officer, Knowles violated a victim’s civil rights on October 29, 2012 by attacking the victim. He pushed the victim to the floor and struck the victim in the face and body causing bodily injury. He then lied to the FBI on March 1, 2013 about the incident. Knowles told agents that he was attacked and never struck the victim. In two other incidents on January 14, 2012 and July 5, 2012, Knowles deployed his TASER without justification on two victims, which caused physical injury and violated the victims’ civil rights.
Knowles faces 10 years in prison for each civil rights count and five years in prison for lying to a federal agency. He also faces three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary J. Mudrick and Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division 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.
Three Defendants Sentenced in Vehicle Insurance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that three defendants in an insurance fraud scheme were sentenced and one ordered to pay more than $190,000 for staging automobile accidents in order to collect insurance payments.
Oliver Lockett, 44, of Breaux Bridge, was sentenced to 60 months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $193,074.86 restitution; Aleric Johnson, 50, of New Iberia, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, two years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $62,492.30 restitution; and Buddy Estelle, 53, of New Iberia, was sentenced to 12 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Each was sentenced for one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. District Judge Richard T. Haik presided over the hearings.
According to evidence presented at the guilty pleas, the defendants admitted to roles in vehicle accidents between sometime in 2003 until March 10, 2010. Lockett admitted to planning accidents where members of the scheme served either as a driver causing the accident or a witness. As a result, Lockett made multiple claims to insurance companies for property damage and personal injury. The accidents were staged in Lafayette Parish and surrounding areas.
The Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly P. Uebinger prosecuted the case.