District of Massachusetts
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Boston-Area Restaurant Manager Charged in Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A manager of two Boston-area restaurants was charged today in federal court in Boston with tax fraud.
Burhan Ud Din, 48, of Watertown, was indicted on one count of conspiring to defraud the Internal Revenue Service and 12 counts of failing to withhold and pay employee taxes to the IRS. Two of Din’s co-conspirators, Hazrat Khan, 57, of Middletown, NY, and Khurshed Iqbal, 57, both Pakistani nationals, were charged in an April 2017 18-count superseding indictment with conspiracy and willful failure to pay over taxes. Khan previously pleaded guilty and will be sentenced later this year. Iqbal’s whereabouts are unknown.
According to the indictment, Din and his co-conspirators defrauded the government and avoided paying payroll and income taxes owed by Crown Fried Chicken in Chelsea and Kennedy Fried Chicken in Boston. The indictment alleges that Din, Khan, and Iqbal took steps to conceal Khan’s ownership interests in one of the stores, and that Din provided the tax preparer for both stores with false information about the restaurants’ payroll and income, causing the tax preparer to file false tax returns.
Federal law requires employers to withhold payroll taxes and then pay them to the IRS. To avoid paying taxes, Din, Khan, and Iqbal are alleged to have falsely reported the number of employees—some of whom were undocumented workers—and wages paid to the IRS. They are also alleged to have paid employees under the table and filed income tax returns that falsely described the sales, total income, compensation of officers, salaries and wages, and taxable income for the Chelsea and Boston stores.
The charge of conspiracy to defraud the IRS provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and restitution. The tax charges against Din provide for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $10,000, restitution, and payment of the costs of prosecution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Boston; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Evans made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John A. Capin and Brian A. Pérez-Daple of Weinreb’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Accountant Sentenced for Stealing $3.5 Million from EmployerRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former accountant for an investment advising company was sentenced today in federal court in Boston in connection with a fraud scheme in which he stole more than $3.5 million from his employer.
Gary Tiffany II, 33, of Boston, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Mark L. Wolf to 51 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution of $3,450,304 . In October 2016, he pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and one count of monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity.
Tiffany was responsible for maintaining his employer’s checkbook and making electronic payments on the company’s account to vendors and for office expenses and reimbursements. He was also responsible for downloading monthly bank statements and emailing them to his supervisor to be used to reconcile his employer’s accounts. From about April 2011 through November 2015, Tiffany made wire transfers totaling more than $3 million from his employer’s accounts to his personal accounts, and he forged signatures on about 46 checks payable to himself totaling about $456,000. Tiffany concealed his scheme by making false entries in his employer’s electronic accounting system and altering bank statements he obtained online before forwarding them to his supervisor. Tiffany obtained a total of about $3,557,304 from his employer’s accounts, nearly all of which he used for his own benefit.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Office; Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Balthazard of Weinreb’s Economic Crimes Unit is prosecuted the case.
Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Noe Estuardo Castaneda Marroquin, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris, who sentenced Castaneda Marroquin to time served. Castaneda Marroquin will be subject to deportation proceedings.
On June 12, 2017, law enforcement encountered Castaneda Marroquin in Barnstable and determined him to be illegally present in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Sentenced for Passport Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for passport fraud and identity theft.
Alvaro Luis Soto-Martinez, 31, a Dominican national who was residing in Hyde Park, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to two years in prison, three years of supervised release, and will face deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. In May 2017, Soto-Martinez pleaded guilty to one count of passport fraud, one count of misuse of a social security number, and one count of aggravated identity theft.
On Oct. 15, 2014, Soto-Martinez used the name, date of birth, and social security number of a United States citizen from Puerto Rico to apply for a United States passport at a Post Office in Lowell.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, Boston Field Office, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Soivilien of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Julio Ernesto Gomez, 46, a Dominican national living in Boston, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien before U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr., who scheduled sentencing for Nov. 9, 2017.
Gomez was deported in 2004 after he was convicted by a jury in federal court in Boston of making false statements in a passport application and using a fraudulent Social Security number. He later reentered the United States.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised released and a fine of up to $250,000. Gomez will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Wichers of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Chelsea Gang Member Sentenced for Crack Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An East Side Money Gang member was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for trafficking crack cocaine.
Moises “Moi” Casado, 21, of Chelsea, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Richard G. Stearns to five years in prison and four years of supervised release. In April 2017, Casado pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and distribution of cocaine base.
In 2015 and 2016, a federal investigation identified a network of street gangs, which had created alliances to traffic weapons and drugs throughout Massachusetts and generate violence against rival gang members. Based on the investigation, 53 defendants were indicted in June 2016 on federal firearms and drug charges, including defendants who are allegedly leaders, members, and associates of the 18th Street Gang, the East Side Money Gang and the Boylston Street Gang. These gangs operated primarily in the East Boston, Boston, Chelsea, Brockton, Malden, Revere and Everett areas. During the course of the investigation, over 70 firearms, cocaine, cocaine base (crack), heroin and fentanyl were seized.
During the investigation, Casado, who was identified by investigators as an East Side Money Gang member, sold approximately 55 grams of cocaine base to a cooperating witness in Malden on Dec. 29, 2015.
Casado is one of 13 defendants to have pleaded guilty.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; John Gibbons, U.S. Marshal of the District of Massachusetts; Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledges the assistance of the Suffolk and Middlesex County Sheriff Departments and the Malden, Revere and Everett Police Departments.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shrewsbury Woman Pleads Guilty to Role in Counterfeit Steroid ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Shrewsbury woman pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to trafficking steroids to bodybuilders.
Kathryn Green, 29, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances before U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton, who scheduled sentencing for Nov. 9, 2017. In April 2017, Green and five others were charged for their roles in the conspiracy.
According to court documents, from approximately May 2015 until April 12, 2017, the conspirators manufactured steroid products made from raw materials that they purchased overseas and marketed as “Onyx” steroids using “Onyx” labels that were also ordered from overseas suppliers. Onyx, now owned by Amgen Inc., is a legitimate pharmaceutical company that does not manufacture steroids.
The defendants allegedly sold the steroids to customers across the United States using email and social media platforms, collected payment through money remitters, such as Western Union and MoneyGram, and used false identifications and multiple remitter locations to pick up the proceeds. Some of the defendants laundered proceeds from the steroid sales through Wicked Tan LLC, a tanning business in Beverly, which they owned and operated specifically to launder the proceeds of the steroid operation.
Green’s principal roles in the conspiracy were to pay another member of the conspiracy to ship steroids and to collect payments from customers.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss of the conspiracy. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Jeffrey Ebersole, Special Agent in Charge of the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy Harman Burkart and David J. D’Addio of Weinreb’s Cybercrime Unit are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rwandan Man Charged with Immigration Fraud and PerjuryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Rwandan man who fled Rwanda near the end of the 1994 genocide was arrested today and charged in federal court in Boston with immigration fraud and perjury in connection with his application for asylum.
Jean Leonard Teganya, 46, was charged with one count of immigration fraud and one count of perjury. Teganya will appear in federal court in Boston this afternoon.
As alleged in court documents, approximately 800,000 people were murdered during the Rwandan genocide in 1994. Prior to and during the Rwandan genocide, Teganya was a medical student and medical trainee at the Butare hospital in Butare, Rwanda. Several witnesses present in Butare during the genocide described Teganya as active in the political party of the genocidal regime, the MRND, and its militia, and stated that he actively participated in the persecution of Tutsis, the group that was largely targeted during the genocide.
According to court documents, Teganya left Rwanda in mid-July 1994 and traveled to Congo, India, and then Canada. In 1999, Teganya applied for refugee status and later asylum in Canada. Canadian authorities twice determined that Teganya was not entitled to asylum because he had been complicit in atrocities committed at the Butare hospital during the genocide. After 15 years of litigation, Teganya evaded the order of deportation and fled across the border into the United States. On Aug. 3, 2014, Teganya was encountered walking on foot after he had crossed from Canada into Houlton, Maine. Teganya was taken into custody and formally applied for asylum. On the application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal, Teganya made false statements by failing to disclose the extent of his affiliations and activities with the MRND and Hutu extremists.
The charge of immigration fraud provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of perjury provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William Weinreb and Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. State Department and the Revere Police Department provided valuable assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aloke Chakravarty and John Capin of Weinreb’s National Security Unit.
The details contained in the complaint are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Latin Kings Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the Latin Kings street gang pleaded guilty today to distributing drugs in the City of New Bedford.
Jonathan Garcia, a/k/a “Philly,” 28, of New Bedford, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine base, also known as crack cocaine. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for Oct. 25, 2017.
In March 2017, federal authorities charged Garcia along with Rafael Reyes, Virgilio Adorno, and Avimael Ortiz in a series of cases brought following a long-term investigation into drug trafficking in the New Bedford area. Among other things, the investigation revealed that the Bonneau Court area of New Bedford had been overwhelmed by drug dealing and violent crime. Latin Kings gang members and associates were observed regularly using a section of Bonneau Court known as “The Pit” as a site for drug trafficking and other illegal activity. As part of the investigation, Garcia was caught selling crack cocaine to a cooperating witness and undercover officer in the Bonneau Court area.
Reyes and Adorno have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial. Ortiz has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
The charge of distribution of cocaine base provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro; and Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Glenn A. MacKinlay and Kunal Pasricha of Weinreb’s Organized Crime & Gang Unit are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations and the remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Georgia Man Charged with Defrauding StaplesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Georgia man was charged today in federal court in Boston in connection with a scheme to defraud Framingham-based Staples, Inc. of more than $1.4 million.
Layne Michael Gosnell, 46, of Duluth, Georgia, was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud.
According to the charging documents, Gosnell, John Douglas, and other co-conspirators engaged in a complex scheme to defraud Staples of more than $1.4 million worth of customer loyalty rewards and product rebates by creating more than 1,100 Staples rewards accounts, often using fictitious names, addresses, and contact information. Douglas created a computer script to query a Staples website and seek unclaimed customer loyalty rewards for purchases that neither he nor Gosnell made. The computer script made thousands of queries a day, amassing more than $889,000 worth of rewards in small increments, often less than a dollar at a time. Gosnell and Douglas then used the rewards like cash to buy merchandise at Staples retail locations throughout the southern United States and along the eastern seaboard, as far north as Massachusetts. Gosnell sold his share of the fraudulently obtained Staples merchandise on eBay.
It is further alleged that Gosnell and Douglas used a similar method to claim more than $527,000 in cash rebates from Staples for products that they did not purchase.
Staples discovered the fraud and referred the matter to federal authorities.
In January 2017, Douglas pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 25, 2017.
The charge of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. D’Addio of Weinreb’s Cybercrime Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dominican National Sentenced for Fraud and Identity Theft OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for passport fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Carlos Morillo, 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to two years in prison. Morillo will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. In April 2016, Morillo pleaded guilty to three counts of passport fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
Between 2007 and 2012, Morillo submitted at least six United States passport applications under three different identities. The State Department denied all of the applications. Investigators identified Morillo as the person responsible after he was arrested on drug charges in 2012.
Morillo will serve the two-year sentence consecutively to a five-to-six-year state prison sentence he is currently serving as a result of the 2012 arrest.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg A. Friedholm of Weinreb’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to drug trafficking charges.
Luis Jose Mejia Arias, 24, pleaded guilty to eight counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl. On eight occasions between September 2015 and May 2016, Mejia Arias distributed heroin, cocaine, and/or fentanyl to an undercover officer in Waltham.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. Mejia Arias will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imported by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suburban Middlesex County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Miranda Hooker and Susan Winkler of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.
Colombian National Sentenced for Drug, Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Colombian national was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for drug and immigration offenses.
Leonardo Franco, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to 18 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. In May 2017, Franco pleaded guilty to one count of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and one count of illegal re-entry of a deported alien.
On Nov. 3, 2016, Franco was traveling to Oxford, Mass., with the intent of selling cocaine to a repeat customer. Law enforcement confronted Franco and found him in possession of more than a half-pound of cocaine contained in several clear baggies.
Franco has previously been removed from the United States on four occasions, including once in 2005, twice in 2010, and once in 2011 after being convicted of a federal immigration crime. Sometime after his removal in 2011, Franco illegally re-entered the United States again.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Michael Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney William F. Abely of Weinreb’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Chelsea Man Sentenced for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chelsea man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for distributing crack cocaine.
Jose Muniz, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Mark L. Wolf to five years in prison and four years of supervised release. In April 2017, Muniz pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and distribution of cocaine base and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and cocaine.
In 2015 and 2016, a federal investigation identified a network of street gangs, which had created alliances to traffic weapons and drugs throughout Massachusetts and generate violence against rival gang members. Based on the investigation, 53 defendants were indicted in June 2016 on federal firearms and drug charges, including defendants who are allegedly leaders, members, and associates of the 18th Street Gang, the East Side Money Gang and the Boylston Street Gang. These gangs operated primarily in the East Boston, Boston, Chelsea, Brockton, Malden, Revere and Everett areas. During the course of the investigation, over 70 firearms, cocaine, cocaine base (crack), heroin and fentanyl were seized.
During the investigation, Muniz sold cocaine base to a cooperating witness in Chelsea on two separate occasions in July and August of 2015. On Feb. 18, 2016, Muniz was stopped by law enforcement officers in Chelsea, who subsequently seized cocaine base, cocaine, other drugs, and a 9mm handgun from Muniz.
Muniz is one of 13 defendants to plead guilty.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; John Gibbons, U.S. Marshal for the District of Massachusetts; Maura Healey, Attorney General of Massachusetts; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledges the assistance of the Suffolk and Middlesex County Sheriff Departments and the Malden, Revere and Everett Police Departments.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations and the remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Honduran National Sentenced for Being an Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Honduran national residing in Revere was sentenced today in federal court in Boston in connection with illegally possessing a firearm.
Jamir Chicas-Hernandez, 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Mark L. Wolf to 14 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Chicas-Hernandez will face deportation proceedings upon the completion of his sentence. In May 2017, Hernandez pleaded guilty to one count of being an alien in possession of a firearm.
In 2015 and 2016, a federal investigation identified a network of street gangs which had created alliances to traffic firearms and drugs throughout Massachusetts and generate violence against rival gang members. Based on the investigation, 53 defendants were indicted in June 2016 on federal firearm and drug charges, including defendants who are allegedly leaders, members, and associates of the 18th Street Gang, the East Side Money Gang and the Boylston Street Gang. These gangs operated primarily in the East Boston, Boston, Chelsea, Brockton, Malden, Revere and Everett areas. During the course of the investigation, over 70 firearms, cocaine, cocaine base (crack), heroin and fentanyl were seized.
On April 29, 2015, Chicas-Hernandez was involved in the illegal sale of a Ruger Blackhawk .357 Magnum revolver to a cooperating witness working for law enforcement at an apartment on Endicott Street in Revere. The sale of the firearm was arranged through two individuals who were identified as members of the 18th Street Gang during the investigation.
Chicas-Hernandez is the 13th defendant to plead guilty in this case.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; John Gibbons, U.S. Marshal of the District of Massachusetts; Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledges the assistance of the Suffolk and Middlesex County Sheriff Departments and the Malden, Revere and Everett Police Departments.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brockton Man Sentenced for Dealing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for distributing heroin and fentanyl.
Angelo Pina, 26, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In April 2017, Pina pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of heroin and fentanyl and two counts of distribution of heroin.
From December 2015 to August 2016, law enforcement conducted an investigation into heroin and fentanyl suppliers in Holbrook and surrounding communities. An undercover officer was introduced to Pina, and on five dates between January and June 2016, the undercover officer made five controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Pina. In addition, the investigation revealed that the cellular telephone used by Pina had, on average, more than 500 calls and texts per day over an 11-month period, indicative of more extensive drug dealing, and that his cellular phone had the contact information of over a dozen people who suffered fatal or non-fatal overdoses in 2015 and 2016, reflecting the grave danger posed by heroin and fentanyl.
Acting U.S. Attorney William D. Weinreb; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement today. The investigation was led by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore Heinrich of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Six Indicted on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Six individuals were charged in an indictment unsealed today for their roles in a Worcester-based heroin and cocaine distribution operation.
Vito Nuzzolilo, 44, of Worcester; Kristin Little, 33, of Worcester; Thomas Walker, 43, of Pemaquid, Maine; Melissa Rock, 39, of Pemaquid, Maine; and Ricardo Ortega-Vasquez, 42, a Dominican national residing in New York City, were each charged on Thursday, July 27, in an indictment unsealed today with one count of conspiring to distribute, or to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin and cocaine. Nuzzolilo and Little were arrested on May 23, 2017, on a criminal complaint, and the three other defendants were already in custody on state charges.
Ryan Flynn, 35, of Leicester, was charged in a separate indictment with conspiring with Nuzzolilo to distribute cocaine and with possessing marijuana with intent to distribute. Flynn was arrested today and will be detained pending a hearing on Aug. 7, 2017.
According to court documents, Nuzzolilo and Little distributed heroin and cocaine from their apartment on Grafton Street in Worcester, where someone suffered a fatal heroin overdose. A federal wiretap revealed numerous communications in which Nuzzolilo directed various customers to the Grafton Street apartment, or to a separate space that Nuzzolilo maintained on Webster Street in Worcester, for the purpose of obtaining heroin or cocaine.
The wiretap further revealed that Nuzzolilo coordinated with a New York-based source of supply for the delivery of significant quantities of narcotics to Worcester, including an order of a kilogram of cocaine and 400 grams of heroin in April 2017. On May 7, 2017, law enforcement seized approximately 300 grams of cocaine from Ortega-Vasquez, who was riding in Nuzzolilo’s vehicle after Nuzzolilo ordered additional cocaine from his New York source. In addition, Walker and Rock arranged for the purchase of cocaine from Nuzzolilo and Little on credit, with Walker explaining that his “workers” had the cash to pay for it.
Flynn and Nuzzolilo also allegedly discussed a substantial drug debt owed by Nuzzolilo to Flynn, with Nuzzolilo explaining that he had given cocaine to Walker and was expecting cash in return, but that his timetable was disrupted when Walker was arrested. Nuzzolilo conveyed to Flynn that he had plenty or heroin but was out of cocaine, and then acquired additional cocaine from Flynn at Flynn’s residence in Leicester on May 1, 2017. Court records also show large cash deposits into Flynn’s bank account dating back to 2014. At least $8,110 was deposited in April 2017, at least $6,400 was deposited in March 2017, and at least $12,258 was deposited in February 2017.
Nuzzolilo faces a sentence of no greater than 40 years in prison, a minimum of four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $5 million. The remaining defendants face sentences of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. Flynn also faces a charge of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, which provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, a minimum of two years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Additional defendants involved with this drug trafficking organization are being prosecuted by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney William F. Abely of Weinreb’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. Each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Six Arrested in Registry of Motor Vehicles Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON –Six individuals, including four RMV clerks, were arrested today in connection with a scheme to produce false identification documents through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Some of the false identities and addresses were used to fraudulently register to vote in the City of Boston.
Evelyn Medina, 56, of Boston; Annette Gracia, 37, of Boston; Kimberly Jordan, 33, of Randolph; David Brimage, 46, of Boston; Bivian Yohanny Brea, 41, of Boston; and John Doe, a/k/a Flako, a/k/a Miguel, a/k/a Pablo D. Gonzalez Lopez, a/k/a Rafael R. Bonano, 32, whose identity and nationality has yet to be determined, were charged today in federal court in Boston with aggravated identity theft. The defendants are expected to appear in federal court this afternoon.
At the time of their arrest, Medina, Gracia, Jordan, and Brimage were employed as clerks at the Haymarket Registry of Motor Vehicles. Brea and Flako conspired with the RMV clerks to operate the scheme.
In October 2015, the Massachusetts State Police received an anonymous letter alleging that a corrupt RMV employee was providing stolen identifications and drivers’ licenses to individuals seeking false identifications. An investigation revealed that several Haymarket RMV clerks – Medina, Gracia, Jordan, and Brimage – were allegedly working with Brea, who acted as the document vendor, and Flako, who acted as the document dealer, to provide licenses and identification cards to illegal aliens for cash.
The scheme involved several steps. First, it is alleged that Flako, the document dealer, sold a Puerto Rican birth certificate and U.S. Social Security card to Brea, the document vendor, for approximately $900. Brea, in turn, sold the stolen identities for over $2,000 to clients seeking legitimate identities in Massachusetts. These clients included illegal aliens, individuals who were previously deported, and an individual who admitted to previously facing drug charges.
After Flako sold Brea the false identification papers, Brea typically used the counterfeit documents and false identities and addresses to fraudulently register the clients to vote in the City of Boston. Then, Brea and the client brought the stolen identities to the Haymarket RMV, where Medina, Gracia, Jordan, and/or Brimage would accept cash to illegally issue authentic RMV documents, including Massachusetts licenses and ID cards. The clerks also accepted cash to use the RMV’s system to run queries, including Social Security number audits, to confirm that the identities the clients were stealing actually belonged to verifiable individuals.
The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory minimum of two years in prison. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation into the corruption and identity theft scheme is ongoing.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, Boston Field Office; and Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia M. Carris of Weinreb’s Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MS-13 Member Sentenced for Assaulting 18th Street Gang MembersRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of MS-13’s Enfermos Criminales Salvatrucha clique in Chelsea was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for RICO conspiracy involving the assault of two rival gang members.
Kevin Ayala, a/k/a “Gallito,” 23, a Salvadoran national residing in Chelsea, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor to 42 months in prison and will be subject to deportation after completion of his sentence. In February 2017, Ayala pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as a RICO conspiracy.
Ayala was identified as a member of MS-13’s Enfermos Criminales Salvatrucha clique operating in Chelsea. Ayala admitted that in April 2014, he engaged in an aggravated assault upon two members of the rival 18th Street gang in Chelsea.
After a three-year, multi-agency investigation, Ayala was one of 61 individuals charged in a superseding indictment targeting the criminal activities of alleged leaders, members, and associates of MS-13 in Massachusetts. In documents previously filed with the Court, MS-13 was identified as a violent transnational criminal organization whose branches or “cliques” operate throughout the United States, including Massachusetts, as well as in Central America. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence to maintain membership and discipline within the group, such as attacking and murdering gang rivals and individuals believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Commissioner Thomas Truco of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections; Essex County Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Thompkins; Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley; Middlesex County District Attorney Marian T. Ryan; Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian A. Kyes; Everett Police Chief Steven A. Mazzie; Lynn Police Chief Michael Mageary; Revere Police Chief Joseph Cafarelli; and Somerville Police Chief David Fallon made the announcement.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Hedge Fund Manager ArrestedRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston-area hedge fund manager was arrested and charged today in federal court in Boston with running a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme.
Raymond K. Montoya, 69, of Allston, was charged with mail fraud and wire fraud. Montoya was released on conditions following an initial appearance in federal court this afternoon.
Between 2009 and June 2017, Montoya ran a pooled investment hedge fund in Boston called RMA Strategic Opportunity Fund, LLC. It is alleged that Montoya falsely told his investors—including his family, friends, and acquaintances who resided in Massachusetts, Ohio, and California—that the fund was earning substantial returns, when in fact, by 2014, the RMA Fund was sustaining substantial losses. According to court documents, the victims transferred millions of dollars of their personal savings and 401(k) retirement plans to Montoya and the RMA Fund. Montoya told his investors that he would invest their money in stocks and bonds, but he actually invested only a portion of their money, while diverting the rest—totaling millions of dollars—to business and personal bank accounts. Montoya allegedly used the diverted money for personal expenses such as luxury vehicles and the mortgage on his son’s residence.
Montoya was previously charged with securities fraud in a civil complaint by the Massachusetts Securities Division.
The charging statutes provide for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss from the offense, restitution and forfeiture. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Boston, made the announcement today. The Massachusetts Securities Division provided valuable assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil J. Gallagher Jr. of Weinreb’s Economic Crimes Unit.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Felon Sentenced for Possessing GunRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a federal firearm offense.
Mark Eisan, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris to one year in prison and one year of supervised release. In March 2017, Eisan pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On March 12, 2014, Eisan was found in possession of a .45 caliber pistol. Due to a prior gun conviction, Eisan was prohibited from owning a firearm.
Acting U.S. Attorney William D. Weinreb and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Boston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to federal firearms offenses.
Jeffrey Joseph, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of dealing in firearms without a license, one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin scheduled sentencing for Oct. 23, 2017.
After an investigation into drug and firearms trafficking in the Bunker Hill Housing Authority in Charlestown, Joseph and three others, Samuel Jean, 22, of Everett; Deon Young, 32, of Hyde Park; and Troy Armstrong, 28, of Boston, were arrested on Dec. 1, 2016. According to court documents, during the investigation, a cooperating witness made controlled buys of guns and drugs at the direction of law enforcement. During the controlled purchases, which were recorded on video, Jean and Joseph sold seven firearms to the cooperating witness over a one-month period, including at least one stolen firearm. It is alleged that Young and Armstrong sold the cooperating witness two firearms around the same period, including one firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Jean pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years in prison on March 2, 2017. Armstrong pleaded guilty in May 2017 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 6, 2017. Young pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.
The charge of dealing in firearms without a federal license provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and an otherwise prohibited person in possession of a firearm provide for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney William D. Weinreb; Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Evans made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Holik, Chief of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the cases.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Worcester Grocery Store Agrees to Permanent Injunction from Violations of Food Safety LawsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester grocery store and its owners – who were warned on five occasions by federal inspectors about food safety violations – have entered into a consent decree with the government that enjoins them from violating food safety laws.
Binh An Market LLC, a Worcester grocery store, and its owners, Hiep N. Ho and Dominic V. Ngo, have entered into a consent decree that permanently enjoins them from violating the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act and the Egg Products Inspection Act. The government alleged that the defendants purchased and sold meat, poultry and egg products that were not inspected by the Food Safety and Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and that they failed to maintain appropriate business records concerning their purchases of these products. The proposed consent decree has been filed with the court and is awaiting judicial approval.
“Selling uninspected meat, poultry and eggs risks significant harm to consumers,” said Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb. “This resolution is designed to prevent this business from further jeopardizing the well-being of its customers.”
“The Food Safety and Inspection Service is dedicated to protecting the public health by ensuring that meat, poultry, and processed egg products are safe, wholesome and accurately labeled,” said Paul Kiecker, Acting Administrator for Food Safety and Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The United States Attorney’s Office filed its complaint after a series of USDA inspections of Binh An Market showed that the defendants were selling uninspected meat, poultry, and egg products and did not maintain records reflecting their purchases of the products. Since February 2013, the USDA has issued five Notices of Warning to the defendants for violations of the USDA food inspection laws. Under the consent decree, USDA investigators will have broad access to Binh An Market’s premises to inspect inventory and records, and defendants will face significant monetary penalties for any further violations.
Acting U.S. Attorney Weinreb and Acting Administrator Kiecker made the announcement today. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Sharobem of Weinreb’s Civil Division.
Rhode Island Man Sentenced for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Cumberland, R.I., man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for participating in a bi-coastal conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine through the United States mail.
Steven Marszalkowski, 58, formerly of Provincetown, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 13 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On May 9, 2017, Marszalkowski pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine.
Marszalkowski and his co-conspirators used the United States mail to send packages containing methamphetamine from San Diego and Seattle to various locations in Massachusetts. Co-defendants Leonard Leseman of San Diego, Calif.; Robert Annette, of Somerville and Provincetown; Lawrence Ligocki, of Chelsea; and Scott Hill of Somerville have pleaded guilty to various charges in connection with the investigation.
Leseman was a San Diego-based supplier of methamphetamine and was responsible for sending more than 30 packages of methamphetamine to various addresses in Massachusetts that had been provided to him by Annette. Marszalkowski was one of several individuals recruited by Annette to receive the methamphetamine packages mailed by Leseman and deliver them to Annette.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Field Division; and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement. Assistance with the investigation was provided by Postal Inspectors in San Diego and Pennsylvania, the Provincetown and Truro Police Departments, the Massachusetts State Police Narcotics Task Force in Hyannis, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney James E. Arnold of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Taunton Man Sentenced for Heroin and Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Taunton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in a heroin and fentanyl trafficking operation in southeastern Massachusetts.
Philip Malaguti, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. to 51 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In March 2017, Malaguti pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl.
After a 15-month investigation, Malaguti and 24 others were arrested and charged in October 2015 in connection with a heroin trafficking ring led by Dedwin Cruz-Rivera operating primarily in southeastern Massachusetts. An April 2016 superseding indictment brought the total number of defendants charged to 26.
Malaguti purchased heroin from co-defendant Will Rodriguez for personal use, and at times, Malaguti shared the heroin he purchased with other users.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas E. Kanwit and Karen Beausey of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the cases.
Sex Offender Sentenced for Failure to RegisterRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A North Grafton man was sentenced in federal court in Worcester today for failing to register as a sex offender.
Richard Sease, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to four years in prison and 10 years of supervised release. On Jan. 30, 2017, Sease pleaded guilty to failure to register as a sex offender.
In 1993, Mr. Sease was convicted of multiple sex offenses, including two counts of assault with intent to rape and indecent assault and battery on a person over 16. These offenses involved multiple victims, and as a result of these offenses, the defendant was designated a Level III sex offender and required to register for life.
After his release from prison, Sease was again convicted of multiple violent crimes for which he served additional time in prison. In 2013, after his release from jail, Sease left Massachusetts and moved to Ohio, and then to Pennsylvania, where he lived until he was arrested in 2015. Sease failed to update his sex offender registration when he left Massachusetts, and he never registered in Ohio or Pennsylvania.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and John Gibbons, U.S. Marshal of the U.S. Marshals Service, District of Massachusetts, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karin M. Bell of Weinreb’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Sentenced for Heroin and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a heroin and fentanyl trafficking organization operating primarily in Southeastern Massachusetts.
Eric Matos, 37, a Dominican national residing in Lawrence, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. to 121 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Matos, who has previously been deported, will be deported again upon completion of his sentence. On March 8, 2017, Matos pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin.
In October 2015, Matos was arrested and charged along with 24 others in connection with a heroin trafficking ring operating in southeastern Massachusetts; an April 2016 superseding indictment brought the number of defendants charged in the case to 26. These charges are the result of a 15-month investigation into heroin and fentanyl trafficking in Taunton and surrounding communities.
Matos supplied at least 200 grams of heroin and at least 296 grams of fentanyl to the drug operation led by co-defendant Dedwin Cruz-Rivera and his brothers Francis Gonsalez-Romero and Manuel Romero-Gonsalez. Matos supplied other heroin and fentanyl dealers as well.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Michael Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Kanwit of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Charged with Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Brazilian national was charged yesterday in federal court in Boston with a federal immigration crime.
Josilei DeCastro, a/k/a Marcos Santos, a/k/a Marcos Augusto Dos Santos, 37, was charged with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers discovered DeCastro in Billerica on Dec. 9, 2016, and determined him to be illegally present in the United States. DeCastro was previously deported on July 17, 2000.
DeCastro faces a sentence of no greater than two years in prison, one year of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Weymouth Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Assault-Style Weapons and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Weymouth man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing assault-style weapons and ammunition.
Robert Nicholas Kurtzer, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to 84 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In April 2017, Kurtzer pleaded guilty to possession of assault-style firearms, ammunition, and silencers. According to court documents, Kurtzer was prohibited from possessing ammunition and/or firearms because of a prior state conviction for armed robbery.
On July 12, 2016, law enforcement officers stopped a pick-up truck, in which Kurtzer was a passenger, for a traffic violation. Kurtzer was carrying a large knife on his hip and a canister of pepper spray. Officers asked Kurtzer if there were any weapons in the vehicle, and Kurtzer replied, “Lots of them.” Kurtzer was searched and found in possession of a 10.5 inch Smith and Wesson fixed blade knife; a canister of Sabre Red O/C spray; one .300 AAC BLK caliber bullet; several .22 caliber long rifle ammunition; and seven .45 caliber Winchester ammunition.
Following Kurtzer’s arrest, officers searched Kurtzer’s Weymouth residence and a secondary storage locker where the following items were seized: two assault rifles (including a Midwest Industries AR15-style assault rifle with an optic scope attached to the top, and an AR15-style assault rifle with unknown manufacturer and a 37mm flare launcher attached to it); a Marlin bolt-action rifle with an obliterated serial number; two handguns (including a .45 caliber pistol; and a Colt MKIV Series 80 pistol, bearing an after-market Punisher logo); numerous weapons parts for use in the assembly of assault rifles and handguns; one firearm silencer; approximately six unfinished, partly assembled firearm silencers; milling machinery used to manufacture handguns and rifles; and approximately 671 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Cannon of Weinreb’s Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Taunton Man Pleads Guilty to Dealing HeroinRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Taunton man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to dealing heroin and fentanyl.
Xavier Ramos, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole scheduled sentencing for Nov. 2, 2017.
In October 2015, Ramos was arrested and charged along with 24 others in connection with a heroin trafficking ring led by Dedwin Cruz-Rivera in southeastern Massachusetts; an April 2016 superseding indictment brought the number of defendants charged in the case to 26. These charges are the result of a 15-month investigation into heroin and fentanyl trafficking in Taunton and surrounding communities.
Ramos assisted co-defendant Dedwin Cruz-Rivera by acting as a Spanish to English translator and brokered deals between Cruz-Rivera and another individual. Ramos also purchased small amounts of heroin, some of which he distributed to others to support his own heroin habit.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Michael Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Kanwit of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
MS-13 Member Sentenced for RICO Conspiracy Involving Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of MS-13’s Eastside Loco Salvatrucha (ESLS) clique in Chelsea was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
Efrain Yanes Vasquez, a/k/a “Caballo,” 35, a Salvadorian national residing in Chelsea and Pittsfield, was sentenced to 87 months in prison and will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. On April 27, 2017, Yanes Vasquez pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity and conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
After a three-year investigation, Yanes Vasquez was one of 61 defendants named in a superseding indictment targeting the criminal activities of alleged leaders, members, and associates of MS-13 in Massachusetts. According to court documents, MS-13 is a violent transnational criminal organization whose branches or “cliques” operate throughout the United States, including Massachusetts. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence against rival gang members to gain promotions and to maintain membership and discipline within the group. Specifically, MS-13 members are required to attack and murder rival gang members whenever possible.
During the investigation, several cooperating witnesses identified Yanes Vasquez as a widely-respected “homeboy,” or full member in MS-13’s ESLS clique. Federal agents recorded an ESLS clique meeting during which Yanes Vasquez urged his fellow clique members to assault a garage owner with a firearm. Yanes Vasquez also participated in “protection details” where, in exchange for cash, he “protected” what he believed to be multi-kilogram cocaine shipments. In fact, agents watched as Yanes Vasquez and other MS-13 members picked up cocaine from an undercover police officer and delivered it to another undercover police officer. When Yanes Vasquez was arrested in Pittsfield, on Sept. 15, 2016, agents seized a loaded .45 caliber handgun, a bag containing 28 loose rounds of .45 caliber ammunition, a box containing 50 packaged rounds of .45 caliber ammunition, and two altered social security cards from his residence.
Yanes Vasquez is the 10th defendant to be sentenced in this case.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Commissioner Thomas Truco of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections; Essex County Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Thompkins; Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley; Middlesex County District Attorney Marian T. Ryan; Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian A. Kyes; Everett Police Chief Steven A. Mazzie; Lynn Police Chief Michael Mageary; Revere Police Chief Joseph Cafarelli; and Somerville Police Chief David Fallon made the announcement.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Everett Man Sentenced for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An Everett man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for armed bank robbery and firearms offenses.
Joseph G. Rachal, 65, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 101 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On April 27, 2017, Rachal was convicted by a federal jury of armed bank robbery, using a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, and being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
On Nov. 19, 2015, Rachal entered a branch of the TD Bank in Brighton, removed a black semi-automatic handgun, pointed it at the tellers and ordered them to turn over cash from the drawers. Rachal exited the bank with $2,397. When law enforcement arrived minutes later, they observed Rachal hiding behind a parked SUV one block from the bank. When the officers approached the vehicle and identified themselves as police, Rachal ran away carrying a black nylon bag. When officers caught Rachal, they searched his bag and found an active scanner tuned to a Boston Police radio frequency, a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol with one chambered round and a magazine containing 14 additional rounds, an additional magazine containing 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and $2,397.
Bank surveillance cameras captured images of the robbery, and the items recovered from the bag Rachal was carrying were consistent with the items observed on the video.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Brookline Police Chief Daniel C. O’Leary; Sharon Police Chief Tilden S. Kaufman; and Barnstable Police Chief Paul MacDonald made the announcement today. The investigation was conducted with the assistance of the FBI’s Violent Crime Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Dominican national was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
Manuel Bienvenido Pimentel-Pimentel, 54, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. to time served, one year of supervised release, and will be subject to deportation. On June 21, 2017, Pimentel-Pimentel pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien.
In May 2017, federal agents discovered Pimentel-Pimentel in Billerica and determined that he was illegally present in the United States. He had been previously deported in August 2010.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to distributing heroin.
Luis Humberto Arias Lara, 41, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs scheduled sentencing for Aug. 9, 2017.
On two occasions in September 2016 and January 2017, Arias Lara distributed heroin to an undercover officer in Waltham.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years of supervised release, and a fine of $1 million. Arias Lara will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suburban Middlesex County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Miranda Hooker and Susan Winkler of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.
Chelsea Store Owner Sentenced for Trafficking Counterfeit MerchandiseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chelsea man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for trafficking counterfeit merchandise at three retail locations in the Boston area.
Arif Ali Shah, 66, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to 18 months in prison, two years of supervised release, a $5,000 fine, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $145,531. In May 2017, Shah pleaded guilty to one count of trafficking in counterfeit goods.
From approximately 2005 to February 2015, Shah knowingly sold counterfeit merchandise at three retail stores he owns: Nadia’s in Dorchester; East Boston Wireless in East Boston; and Todo Wireless in Chelsea. Shah sold counterfeit Apple, Samsung, and Speck components at all three retail locations. He also sold a variety of counterfeit apparel and accessories, including Chanel, Michael Kors, Nike, Prada, Timberland, and Uggs. Shah purchased the counterfeit merchandise from foreign and domestic sources and purchased a number of the counterfeit cell phone components from a domestic supplier, Flexqueen, the owner of which was prosecuted in California.
Acting United States Attorney William Weinreb and Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Harman Burkart of Weinreb’s Cybercrime Unit prosecuted the case.
Brockton Man Indicted on Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man was indicted yesterday in federal court in Boston on a federal firearms charge.
Dennis Afonso, 33, was indicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the indictment, on May 3, 2017, law enforcement officers in Brockton found Afonso in possession of a Cobra .380 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number and three rounds of .380 caliber ammunition.
Afonso was previously convicted in 2009 of distribution of cocaine base. He was sentenced to 60 months in prison and had recently completed his period of supervised release when he was found in possession of a firearm on May 3, 2017.
The 2009 conviction was the result of a federal investigation into drug trafficking and related gang activity in the Green Street area of Brockton. According to court documents, Afonso was a member of the Green Street gang, which operates on the north side of Brockton and rivals gangs from the south side of the city. During the course of the investigation, an undercover officer made dozens of controlled purchases of cocaine base from dealers, including Afonso. During that time, Green Street gang members made a verified threat to kill police officers in retaliation for the shooting and death of John Parks by Brockton Police Officers in November 2008.
The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenn A. MacKinlay of Weinreb’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brockton Man Charged with Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man with two prior federal firearm convictions was indicted today in federal court in Boston on a federal firearms charge.
Darnell Upshaw, 35, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
On May 10, 2017, Upshaw was found in Brockton in possession of a handgun, two rounds of 9mm ammunition, and three rounds of .38 caliber ammunition.
The charge of possessing a firearm and ammunition after being convicted of a felony provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Begg Lawrence of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Prison Inmate Sentenced for Threatening to Kill the President of the United StatesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former inmate at Old Colony Correctional Center in Bridgewater was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for threatening to kill the President of the United States.
Alex Hernandez, 32, of Worcester, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to 37 months in prison, to be served concurrently with a state sentence he is currently serving, and three years of supervised release. In May 2017, Hernandez pleaded guilty to one count of threatening to kill and inflict bodily harm upon the President of the United States. Hernandez is currently serving a five-to-eight-year sentence at Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center following a 2011 state conviction for drug and firearms offenses, including the illegal possession of a .22 caliber handgun, a Tec-9, a .22 caliber rifle - all of which were equipped with high capacity magazines, and ammunition.
In March 2015, federal agents obtained information alleging that Hernandez wanted to kill the President and had expressed an interest in obtaining false travel documents so he could flee the country after his attack. Law enforcement officers then set up a meeting between Hernandez and an undercover agent who posed as an embassy contact with the ability to assist Hernandez with obtaining false travel documents.
On Dec. 22, 2015, and Feb. 12, 2016, the undercover agent met with Hernandez at Old Colony Correctional Center. During the first meeting, Hernandez stated that he wanted to attack the White House and that he was studying how to make explosives that could be placed around government buildings to “create chaos.” During the second meeting with the undercover agent, Hernandez, a Muslim convert, discussed the motivation for his planned attacks, telling the agent that his “brothers are fighting to uphold the laws and structure of the caliphate in the Middle East” and that “this government . . . is painting it like they are the bad guys[.]” Hernandez also explained that he wanted to target the President because “he’s the one that gives the orders[.]”
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Stephen A. Marks, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Boston Field Office; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and Thomas Turco, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Correction, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordi de Llano of Weinreb’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
New Bedford Seafood Manager Indicted for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New Bedford seafood manager was charged today in federal court in Boston for failing to report $75,000 in earnings on his tax returns.
Orlando Cardoso, 44, of New Bedford, was indicted on two counts of filing a false income tax return.
It is alleged that Cardoso swore on his 2012 and 2013 tax returns that the only income he had received was from his employer. However, Cardoso had received over $75,000 in cash and checks from his employer’s supplier and failed to report the income on his tax returns.
The charge of filing a false income tax return provides for a sentence of no greater than three years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of $100,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States William D. Weinreb and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen P. Heymann of Weinreb’s Economic Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MS-13 Member Sentenced to Prison for RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of MS-13’s Enfermos Criminales Salvatrucha clique in Chelsea was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for RICO conspiracy involving the attempted murder of a rival gang member.
Angel Pineda, a/k/a “Bravo,” 21, a Honduran national who resided in Revere, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 93 months in prison and will be subject to deportation after completion of his sentence. In April 2017, Pineda pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. He also admitted responsibility for an attempted murder of a rival gang member.
Pineda was a member of the Enfermos Criminales Salvatrucha clique in Chelsea. On Sept. 8, 2014, Pineda and another MS-13 member, Jose Vasquez, a/k/a “Little Crazy,” attempted to murder an 18th Street gang member by stabbing him in Chelsea.
After a three-year investigation, Pineda was one of 61 defendants named in a January 2016 superseding indictment targeting the criminal activities of alleged leaders, members, and associates of MS-13 in Massachusetts. According to court documents, MS-13 is a violent transnational criminal organization whose branches or “cliques” operate throughout the United States, including Massachusetts. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence against rival gang members to gain promotions and to maintain membership and discipline within the group. Specifically, MS-13 members are required to attack and murder rival gang members whenever possible.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Commissioner Thomas Truco of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections; Essex County Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Thompkins; Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley; Middlesex County District Attorney Marian T. Ryan; Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian A. Kyes; Everett Police Chief Steven A. Mazzie; Lynn Police Chief Michael Mageary; Revere Police Chief Joseph Cafarelli; and Somerville Police Chief David Fallon made the announcement.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Honduran national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a federal immigration crime.
Ivan DeJesus Lopez-Lopez, 29, a Honduran national residing in Boston, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris, who immediately sentenced Lopez-Lopez to time served. Lopez-Lopez will be subject to deportation.
Lopez-Lopez was previously deported in November 2009. In May 2017, federal agents in Boston discovered Lopez-Lopez and found him to be illegally present in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Dominican National Sentenced for Passport FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for passport fraud.
Jose Matos Dasis, 51, a Dominican national formerly residing in Lawrence, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris to eight months in prison, three years of supervised release, and will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In April 2017, Dasis pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements on a passport application.
On Feb. 9, 2016, Dasis, using a false name, date of birth and social security number, applied for a United States passport at a U.S. Post Office in Massachusetts. The investigation revealed that the defendant knowingly assumed the identity of another individual when he applied for the passport.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Alleged Boston Gang Member Indicted on Drug Distribution ChargeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An alleged member of the Orchard Park Trailblazers was indicted today in federal court in Boston for distributing cocaine in a school zone.
Tyree Draughn, 25, was indicted on one count of distribution of a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. In June 2017, Draughn and 11 others were charged in a criminal complaint and arrested in connection with selling crack cocaine in and around Roxbury’s Orchard Gardens Housing Development. It is alleged that Draughn sold cocaine base in a school zone on May 10, 2017.
The charges are the result of a nearly two-year investigation into the high concentration of crime in and around the Orchard Park Development, the largest publically funded development in Roxbury, which is also adjacent to Orchard Gardens K-8 Pilot School. The crime stems, in part, from the illegal activities of the members and associates of the Orchard Park Trailblazers who allegedly have active feuds with rival gangs throughout the city, contributing to the area’s violence. It is alleged in court documents that the residents of the Development often expressed concerns to law enforcement about the violence in the area and the gang members who contributed to an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
The charging statute provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of one year and no greater than 40 years in prison, a minimum of six years and no more than a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $2 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Evans made the announcement today.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Springfield Men Indicted on Federal Firearms and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON - Two Springfield men were charged today in federal court in Springfield with federal drug and firearms offenses.
Alexis Ayala, 40, and Wilfredo Perez, 38, were each charged with one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin. Ayala was also charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, in April 2015, Perez and Ayala distributed heroin in Hampden County, and in December 2015 and August 2016, Ayala, a previously convicted felon, was found in possession of a firearm.
The charge of distributing heroin provides for a sentence of no greater than 30 years in prison, a minimum of three years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Springfield Police Commissioner John Barbieri; and Holyoke Police Chief James Neiswanger made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil L. Desroches of Weinreb’s Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Quincy Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Quincy man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to bank robbery.
Perry C. Learning, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of unarmed bank robbery before U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani, who scheduled sentencing for Oct. 27, 2017.
On Dec. 15, 2015, an individual entered a branch of Citizens Bank in Quincy and demanded money from a teller. The teller gave the individual $1,480 from her drawer, and the individual exited the bank. The bank’s surveillance cameras captured images of the individual, and surveillance cameras on neighboring businesses captured images of the robber walking away. Photographs of the individual were then disseminated to law enforcement who recognized the individual as Perry Learning. On Jan. 11, 2016, Learning was arrested.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Quincy Police Chief Paul Keenan made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Holyoke Man Indicted for Dealing CocaineRead the Press Release
BOSTON - Raul Ramos, 43, of Holyoke, was arrested today and charged in federal court in Springfield with one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
According to court documents, Ramos possessed and distributed cocaine on Nov. 8, 2016. The charges are a result of a federal, state, and local law enforcement investigation into drug trafficking in Springfield and Holyoke.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 30 years in prison, a minimum of six years of supervised release, and a fine of $2 million dollars. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Springfield Police Commissioner John Barbieri; and Holyoke Police Chief James M. Neiswanger made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd E. Newhouse of Weinreb’s Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Colombian National Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Colombian national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
Eliseo De Jesus Restrepo, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien before U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV, who immediately sentenced Restrepo to time served and one year of supervised release. Restrepo will be subject to deportation.
Restrepo was previously deported on March 30, 2011. On Dec. 15, 2016, law enforcement in Boston encountered Restrepo and determined him to be unlawfully present in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Cape Cod Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Heroin and Suboxone TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the Nauti-Bloc gang was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in trafficking heroin and suboxone.
Tyrone Gomes, 31, of Hyannis, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris to 20 years in prison and eight years of supervised release. On April 5, 2017, Gomes pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, possession of heroin with the intent to distribute, and conspiracy to distribute suboxone.
In October 2015, federal investigators determined that Gomes, Denzel Chisholm – the Nauti-Block leader, and other co-conspirators were responsible for a significant quantity of the heroin distributed on Cape Cod. Gomes received large quantities of heroin from Chisholm, which he sold to other drug dealers and individual users. On March 6, 2016, Chisholm arranged to sell Gomes 12 grams of heroin in exchange for cash and 10 suboxone strips. The suboxone was ultimately destined for Browning Mejia, an inmate at MCI-Norfolk and an associate of Chisholm. As a result of the investigation, agents were able to stop Gomes’ vehicle and recover 12 grams of heroin from Gomes.
In April 2016, 13 members and affiliates of the Nauti-Block gang were charged with federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
Both Gomes and Chisholm also face charges in Massachusetts state court related to the September 2015 murder of Christine Ferreira at a rest stop on Route 6 on Cape Cod.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Cape and Islands District Attorney Michael O’Keefe; and Barnstable Police Chief Paul MacDonald made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric S. Rosen and Miranda Hooker of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Southbridge Man Sentenced for Dealing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Southbridge man was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for distributing oxycodone.
Richard Gonzalez, 29, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to time served and three years of supervised release, six months of which is to be served in home detention. In February 2017, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and one count of distribution of oxycodone.
In June 2016, Gonzalez was arrested and charged along with three others for distributing oxycodone in Worcester County. Gonzalez distributed oxycodone pills on two occasions in Southbridge to co-defendant John Tautenhan III. On both occasions, Tautenhan resold the oxycodone to an undercover officer.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Michael Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Southbridge Police Chief Shane Woodson made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg A. Friedholm of Weinreb’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Greenfield Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Sexually Exploiting a 10-Year-Old BoyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Greenfield man was sentenced in federal court in Springfield today for sexually exploiting a 10-year-old boy.
Derek Lecompte, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 15 years in prison and 15 years of supervised release. In January 2017, Lecompte pleaded guilty to three counts of child exploitation.
Lecompte befriended a 10-year-old boy and his family and eventually spent time at their house and then alone with the boy. While alone with the child, Lecompte engaged in sex acts with the boy and took sexually explicit photos of the child, including photos of the two engaged in sex acts. Lecompte then distributed the photos on the internet. Lecompte faced state charges in connection with this case and has pleaded guilty in state court to aggravated rape and abuse of a child.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Northwestern District Attorney David E. Sullivan; and Greenfield Police Chief Robert H. Haigh Jr. made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex J. Grant of Weinreb’s Springfield Branch Office prosecuted the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.