Western District of Michigan
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Kalamazoo Man, Charged with Murder, Sentenced for Escaping Halfway HouseRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Carlos Watts, 38, of Kalamazoo, was sentenced to 14 months’ incarceration for escaping from a halfway house, where he was living in accordance with a court order for a previous federal drug conviction.
On January 10, 2024, Kalamazoo County Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Getting also charged Watts with the murder of Heather Kelley. Upon completion of his federal sentence, Watts will be transferred to state custody to face that charge.
“Carlos Watts poses a tremendous threat to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “While finishing his sentence at a halfway house for drug trafficking and possessing a firearm, Mr. Watts cut his tether, fled the facility, and has since been charged with the murder of his former girlfriend. My office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe and hold criminals accountable.”
In 2013, Watts was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison for distribution of cocaine, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Near the end of his term, Watts was transferred to the Kalamazoo Probation Enhancement Program (KPEP) halfway house.
At his federal sentencing today and in filings with the court, prosecutors argued that Watts fled KPEP because he was involved in the murder of Heather Kelley. Kelley left her home on December 10, 2022, to pick up Watts from a restaurant where he worked. She was never seen again. Police went to KPEP and questioned Watts about her disappearance on December 11, 2022.
In the early morning hours of December 12, 2022, Watts took a pair of scissors from a desk at KPEP and used them to cut off his ankle monitor.
KPEP notified law enforcement of Watts’ escape. Two days later, police learned that Watts was at a house in Battle Creek and attempted to arrest him. Watts barricaded himself in the house for several hours before eventually surrendering to police. He has remained in custody.
"The FBI remains committed to bringing justice for Heather Kelley and her family,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. “We thank all the dedicated prosecutorial and law enforcement teams for their relentless support throughout this case. We continue to request the help of the public by reporting any tips that may bring resolution to this case to the Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345 or www.silentobserver.org, or to the FBI at 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or www.tips.fbi.gov.”
This case was investigated by the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Department, Portage Police Department, Battle Creek Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Michigan State Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Lane.
As to the state murder charge filed on January 10, 2024, a criminal charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Thief Ordered to Pay Back Gun Lake Casino over $80,000 in Stolen FundsRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Jordan Lewis Cook, 26, of Hopkins, Michigan, was sentenced to four months in prison and two years of supervised release for theft from a tribal organization. He was also ordered to pay $84,564 in restitution.
“This case reflects my office’s strong commitment to working in partnership with tribal leadership and law enforcement to prosecute crimes that occur on tribal lands, including theft from tribal businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Together we will hold criminals accountable for their wrongdoing.”
Between September 2021 and November 2022, Cook stole over $100,000 from the Gun Lake Casino, which is owned and operated by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake Tribe). During his theft scheme, Cook was employed at the Gun Lake Casino. Shortly after being hired, Cook began stealing cash from the cash-out kiosks located around the casino gaming floor. An internal casino audit and security surveillance video footage showed Cook pocketing large amounts of cash when he was supposed to be clearing jammed cash-out machines. Cook’s bank records also revealed a large influx of cash deposits around the same time that the money was being stolen from the casino kiosk machines.
“The Gun Lake Tribe is committed to the safety and well-being of all persons within its jurisdiction and welcomes and appreciates the strong commitment and partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan and local law enforcement,” said Gun Lake Tribe Interim Director of Public Safety Seth Carter. “The Gun Lake Tribe is committed to building a safe community and supports comprehensive law enforcement, prevention, intervention, and support services.”
"The defendant's alleged theft and fraud actions against the tribal community is disturbing," said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. "Through our local partnerships, the FBI is uniquely poised to investigate cases like those documented in this case. We continue to request the help of the public by reporting violations to 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov."
This case was investigated by the Gun Lake Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). The FBI and tribal police across the Western District of Michigan work closely together to prevent, investigate, and refer for prosecution certain crimes that occur on tribal lands.
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Two Men Indicted for Theft of 123 Guns from Dunham’s Sports Store in Benton HarborRead the Press Release
The men are charged with kidnapping, robbery, and stealing guns from a federally licensed firearm dealer.
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that the Grand Jury returned an indictment charging Darnell Bishop and Dontrell Nance, both from Benton Harbor, with kidnapping, interference with commerce by robbery, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee. Nance is also charged with being a felon in possession of firearms. If convicted, both men face up to life in prison. The previous press release, complaint, and press conference can be viewed here.
“We are experiencing a gun violence epidemic across our country,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “Incidents like what happened at Dunham’s Sports are stunning illustrations of crimes that are dumping guns into our neighborhoods and fueling the gun crisis. We are grateful to law enforcement for recovering nearly all the guns, and my office fully intends to satisfy our burden and prove this case in court.”
Bishop and Nance were previously charged by complaint. The complaint alleged that late on November 16, 2023, Darnell Bishop and Dontrell Nance approached the Dunham’s store manager outside his home and held him at gunpoint. Bishop and Nance then handcuffed and blindfolded the manager and took him to another location; there, they forced him to provide security access information for the Dunham’s store. Bishop took the manager’s keys, entered the Dunham’s store, and left with more than 120 handguns packed into two large coolers. Police later recovered all but one gun.
Investigators searched residences and vehicles associated with Bishop and Nance on November 17, 2023, and found firearms stolen from Dunham’s as well as an additional pistol. Both men were taken into custody that same day.
“The holidays just got merrier. Robberies and burglaries of gun dealers represent the biggest threat to our community’s public safety,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent James Deir. “With the indictment of Dontrelle Nance and Darnell Bishop, and swift investigation from ATF’s law enforcement partners, the holidays can be celebrated without the fear of over 120 firearms finding their way into the wrong hands.”
“The FBI is incredibly proud of the Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force’s swift action in apprehending the defendants and ensuring the stolen weapons did not make their way into our community,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. “All too often, weapons like these are used to perpetrate violence and cause irreparable damage to Michigan families. The FBI, along with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, remain committed to working collectively to ensure the safety of our residents.”
This case was investigated by the Benton Charter Township Police Department, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, ATF, and FBI.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and both defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Portage Man Charged with International Telemarketing Fraud That Targeted Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
The scheme operated for years and victimized seniors across the United States
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced an indictment charging Irfan Gill, 62, of Portage, Michigan, with 7 counts of mail fraud and 11 counts of money laundering. The indictment alleges that beginning as early as June 2018, and continuing through at least March 2022, Gill worked with a call center in Pakistan as part of a telemarketing fraud scheme that targeted elderly victims across the United States.
“As we have alleged, defendant Irfan Gill ran an international network to exploit America’s seniors,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “These scams are not going away and so we need to remain vigilant. Be cautious when you receive an unsolicited contact or offer. Resist the pressure to act quickly. Never send personally identifiable information or anything of value to unverified people or businesses. Combatting elder fraud and abuse is a top priority for my Office and we will continue to hold perpetrators accountable, whether at home or abroad.”
VIDEO: U.S. Attorney Totten’s remarks concerning the case can be viewed here.
Gill faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted of a telemarketing fraud that targeted or victimized 10 or more people over the age of 55. He faces up to 20 years in prison for the money laundering charges in the indictment.
According to allegations in the indictment, Gill claimed to operate several businesses: Cable Upgrade; D Network; D Tech; Direct Network; Dish; Dish Upgrade; and Sky Satellite. Telephone solicitors at a call center in Pakistan cold-called victims with offers of equipment upgrades, software upgrades, and subscription discounts for their cable television, satellite television, and internet services. While the businesses did not actually provide any of those services, callers instructed victims to send payments to Gill’s post office boxes in Portage. Gill deposited victims’ payments in his bank accounts. Gill tracked victims’ payments and used money transfer services like Remitly and Western Union to pay a portion of the proceeds to the telephone solicitors in Pakistan. The U.S. Attorney’s Office presently believes that the scheme victimized over 1,400 people nationwide.
“Postal Inspectors are dedicated to safeguarding the well-being and security of the American public, with a particular focus on protecting the elderly and vulnerable individuals, from fraudulent schemes,” said Inspector in Charge Rodney M. Hopkins of the Detroit Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “Today’s indictment serves as a stark reminder of the exploitation tactics employed by criminals who prey on the elderly and other susceptible individuals through deceptive telemarketing schemes, with the sole intention of extracting as much money as possible and, in some cases, causing irreversible financial damage to their victims. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains resolute in its mission to vigorously investigate and apprehend those responsible for perpetrating these telemarketing scams, thereby putting an end to their illicit activities.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are working to identify other individuals, nationwide, who may have been victimized by sending payments to the post office boxes listed below for any of the listed businesses:
Post Office Boxes
P.O. Box 122, Portage, Michigan 49024
P.O. Box 404, Portage, Michigan 49024
P.O. Box 421, Portage, Michigan 49024
P.O. Box 482, Portage, Michigan 49024
P.O. Box 1164, Portage, Michigan 49024
P.O. Box 1562, Portage, Michigan 49024
Businesses
Cable Upgrade
D Network
D Tech
Direct Network
Dish
Dish Upgrade
Sky Satellite
If you believe you are a victim in this case, please visit this page or contact Kathy Schuette, Victim Coordinator, at (616) 808-2034.
Federal law enforcement provides a number of tips on how to protect yourself from telemarketing scams, including:
- Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, e-mails, and mailings.
- Never give or send any sensitive information (including your date of birth, account numbers, or passwords), credit or debit card numbers, or money to unverified people or businesses.
- Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a false sense of urgency to lure people to immediate action.
- If you recognize a scam attempt, immediately end all communication with the perpetrator.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Townshend is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law
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Grand Rapids Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking of A ChildRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Torey Franklin, 29, of Grand Rapids, pleaded guilty to sex trafficking of a child.
“Trafficking in any form is intolerable, but the sex trafficking of a minor is especially cruel,” remarked U.S. Attorney Totten. “My office is committed to holding traffickers legally accountable for the lasting harm they cause to children within our district.”
Franklin admitted that in the spring and summer of 2022, he used online advertisements to offer the sexual services of a minor to prospective customers. After posting the ads, Franklin would negotiate prices and sexual acts with prospective customers before transporting the minor to multiple locations for the “sex dates” he had arranged. Afterwards, he would receive payment, often through a popular money-sharing application. Franklin now faces a term of at least ten years and up to life in prison as a result of his guilty plea and conviction.
Franklin was captured due to Operation Cross Country, a coordinated operation among the FBI, other federal agencies, state and local police, and social services agencies across the country to find and assist victims of human trafficking, particularly child victims. The previous press release and indictment can be viewed here.
“Today’s plea is a testament to the progress made during Operation Cross Country (OCC), the FBI’s annual nationwide enforcement campaign focused on identifying and locating victims of sex trafficking and investigating and arresting individuals involved in child sex and human trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. “We would like to extend our appreciation to our wide network of law enforcement partners for their critical support in investigating sexual predators who commit crimes against children. The FBI encourages continued vigilance, cooperation, and reporting from the public to help identify and recover victims and bring perpetrators to justice. If you believe you may have any information, please contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST or online at report.cybertip.org.”
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has more information about the reality of child sex trafficking on its website at https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/trafficking. If you suspect that someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, information about how to make a report to law enforcement can be found at the website for the national human trafficking hotline: https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/get-help.
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Four Individuals Face Federal Indictment for International Mail and Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The scheme operated for years in West Michigan and throughout the United States
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Fatai Okunola, 37, of Kalamazoo, Michigan; Oluwaseyi Adeola, 33, and Ijeoma Adeola, 35, of Dallas, Texas; and Cory McDougal, 32, of Romeoville, Illinois, with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Oluwaseyi Adeola and Okunola also face charges related to their naturalization or attempt to naturalize as United States’ citizens.
“These fraud schemes can financially devastate victims, especially the elderly and other vulnerable people,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Some of the victims in this case lost their retirement savings, took loans against their homes, or suffered other financial distress because of the defendants’ alleged lies. My office will vigorously investigate these cases to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.”
If convicted of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, defendants face a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison. Okunola also faces up to 5 years in prison if convicted of making a false statement on his application for naturalization as a United States citizen, and Oluwaseyi Adeola faces up to an additional 10 years in prison if convicted of obtaining his naturalization as a United States citizen through false or fraudulent representations.
According to allegations in the indictment, the defendants conspired with individuals primarily in Nigeria to defraud individuals in the United States, many that were elderly or particularly vulnerable, through a variety of fraud schemes using interstate wire transmissions or the mail system. The conspirators in Nigeria created false online personas to develop relationships with their victims over the internet, through social media, by text messages or by telephone. These relationships centered around romantic interests, offers to buy or sell goods or services, apartment rentals, or offers to make loans or provide grant funding, among other schemes. The conspirators sent pictures or provided other information to the victims to make their schemes appear genuine. When the conspirators used telephone calls, they utilized voice-over-internet-protocol numbers to make it appear as if the calls were originating within the United States near the victims. After developing the relationships, the conspirators asked for money for a variety of reasons related to the scheme.
Once the victim agreed, the conspirators directed the victims to send the money to the defendants, who opened numerous bank accounts in the Western District of Michigan and other places to receive the victims’ money. On some occasions, the defendants received the victims’ money in post office boxes maintained under alias names or through payments made payable to “shell” businesses that the defendants created to receive fraud proceeds. The victims sent the money to the defendants through the mail, bank-to-bank transfers, or through peer-to-peer money transfer services like Zelle or PayPal. After the defendants received the money in their accounts, they transferred the money to each other, to the conspirators overseas, and to their own accounts in Nigeria. According to the indictment, defendants received more than $2 million dollars in their accounts from the scheme between 2017 and 2022.
“Postal Inspectors are committed to protecting Americans from scams that prey on the elderly and vulnerable," said Inspector in Charge Rodney M. Hopkins of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service's Detroit Division. “These individuals manipulated victims into giving away their hard-earned money, and in some instances, their life savings, which caused devastating financial impacts to the victims. Today's indictment is a testament to the dedication of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and our law enforcement partners in protecting our citizens and working to seek prosecution of the scammers who seek to exploit them.”
“Our Homeland Security Investigations special agents are committed to protecting the citizens of Michigan from this type of fraud,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “Cooperation between our law enforcement agencies is essential to conducting these investigations. I’d like to commend the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety for their work in dismantling this operation.”
The Homeland Security Investigations, and United States Postal Inspection Service, Grand Rapids offices, are investigating this case. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety also provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ron Stella is prosecuting the case.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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New Charges in Case Related to Two-Year-Old Child in Lansing Who Died After Accidental Discharge of GunRead the Press Release
Child’s death reflects larger crisis: gun violence has now become the #1 cause of death among children and teenagers
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a grand jury has returned an indictment charging Avis Damone Coward with being a felon in possession of a firearm, conspiracy to tamper with evidence, and tampering with evidence. Coward was previously charged in a complaint that alleged that an accidental discharge of Coward’s gun led to a two-year-old child’s death.
Two other Lansing residents were also charged in the indictment. Emma Huver, 26, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Gina Schieberl, 26, is charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence and tampering with evidence. A copy of the indictment is attached.
“For the first time ever, gun violence is the leading cause of death for kids in America,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Nothing more horribly illustrates this crisis than the death of an innocent two-year-old child. The cure demands an all-hands approach and my office will play its part by ensuring accountability for those who put children in harm’s way.”
As alleged, on October 24, 2023, Avis Coward got out of a car at a Lansing gas station and went inside, leaving a two-year-old child and his mother, Ms. Huver, in the car. Surveillance video showed that a minute later, a bullet hole appeared in the car window. The mother got out of the car holding her child, who had blood on his face from a gunshot wound. As she did so, Coward’s gun fell out of the car. Huver handed the child to Coward, who then passed the child to a third person who took the victim into the gas station and attempted to control the bleeding until medical personnel arrived. Coward returned to the car, picked up the gun off the ground, and put it back in the car. The surveillance video also showed Coward use his hand to break out the front passenger window, which had the bullet hole. Coward then drove away. The child later died from his injuries.
The tampering charges concern attempts by Defendant Coward and Schieberl to hide or destroy evidence in this case, including the car, which was later found burned-out and abandoned in a field in Lansing, and a .45 caliber Springfield Armory semiautomatic pistol, the barrel of which was found disassembled and hidden in the wall of a house in Lansing.
“The allegations in this case represent the most horrific side of gun ownership and the tragic unintended consequences associated with poor choices. Avis Coward is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm. He chose to possess an illegal firearm and to leave a loaded firearm unsecured in a vehicle with a toddler in it,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “In the aftermath, as alleged, Avis Coward chose to tamper with evidence in an attempt to avoid blame in this dreadful situation.”
“We are thankful for the support of U.S. Attorney Mark Totten and his office against the gun crime that has had a grip on the Lansing area for too long,” said Lansing Police Chief Ellery Sosebee. “Our community deserves better, and with partnerships like this, we are moving in the right direction to combat the gun issues faced every day in this city, state, and country.”
“Gun violence is a national crisis and the leading cause of death of our children so it’s best to have strong law enforcement partnerships to address this crisis and protect our children,” said Ingham County Prosecuting Attorney John J. Dewane. “Locally and nationally, we have far too many senseless, preventable deaths because of children having access to firearms. No child should ever have access to a loaded firearm. No child should ever be in danger of being shot under any circumstances. My office, in collaboration with U. S. Attorney’s Office, will hold offenders accountable when children are victims of gun violence.”
“Gun violence is a public health concern,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, State of Michigan Chief Medical Executive. “Many of the strategies that have been used to impact motor vehicle accidents and tobacco use—including education and community outreach—can be applied to community violence prevention. Let’s work together to keep Michigan children and families safe.”
Gun violence is an acute problem across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. firearm homicide rate in 2021 was the highest documented since 1993. While the numbers have slightly declined since 2021, they remain high.
In 2021, for the first time ever, firearm-related injuries became the leading cause of death for American children, ages 1-19, according to the New England Journal of Medicine (see also here).
While gun violence has the potential to impact everyone, recent studies show that gun violence has a disparate impact on people of color. For example, a recent study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, shows that the disparity in shooting injuries among children before and after the pandemic in four major cities approximately tripled as between white children and children of color (Black, Hispanic, Asian).This week, in conjunction with the Justice Department’s Violent Crime Reduction Summit, the Department released a Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap, which outlines ten actionable steps to help reduce gun violence and identifies federal resources to support these efforts.
This case was investigated by the Lansing Police Department, Michigan State Police, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Muskegon Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing A Firearm Linked to A HomicideRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten announced that Ricky Jaimal Meeks, 41, of Lansing, Michigan, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm that was used in a Muskegon-area homicide. U.S. District Judge Paul L. Maloney also ordered Meeks to spend 3 years on supervised release after his confinement.
“Armed domestic abusers are far more likely to inflict serious bodily harm on partners, and potentially create dangerous situations for innocent bystanders and responding law enforcement officers,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “The serious sentence imposed here shows that violent and illegally armed criminals will face serious consequences in federal court.”
Meeks was previously convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm at a jury trial in May 2023. At trial, evidence showed Meeks possessed the firearm on September 11, 2022, in connection with a domestic assault that occurred at a residence in Lansing. When police responded to the scene, Meeks fled in a vehicle, leading officers in a high-speed pursuit until he lost control, crashed into a residence, and attempted to flee on foot before he was apprehended. Judge Maloney increased Meeks’ sentence because Meeks obstructed justice when he fled from police.
At sentencing, the United States presented additional incriminating evidence about the firearm Meeks illegally possessed. Investigators compared ballistics evidence from the firearm that Meeks possessed in Lansing to shell casings located at the scene of the October 5, 2021, homicide of Earnest Hardy, which occurred in the City of Muskegon. Mr. Hardy was pronounced dead at the scene after being shot 10 times. Further analysis and ballistics testing confirmed the shell casings recovered at the homicide scene were fired from the firearm Meeks illegally possessed as a previously convicted felon.
"The FBI is relentless in our pursuit of ensuring safety for families and communities from gun violence," said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "We are thankful to our large network of law enforcement partners for their support in combatting violent crimes. The FBI continues to request the public's assistance by calling 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov if anyone believes they may have information that could help save a life from gun violence."
“Ricky Meeks chose to illegally possess an illegal crime gun to commit domestic abuse. Everyone deserves to live in peace without the threat of gun and or domestic violence,” said Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Meeks will have significant time to reflect about his poor life choices in federal prison. The message should be clear to everyone: If you choose to carry an illegal firearm, you need to pack your bags for prison.”
Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Federal Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Lansing Police Department (LPD), and the City of Muskegon Police Department (MPD). Assistant United States Attorneys Erin K. Lane and Lauren F. Biksacky prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) played a pivotal role in the evaluation of the firearm and shell casing evidence. NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin.
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Roshell Beaty Sentenced to 124 Months in Prison for over $1 Million in COVID FraudRead the Press Release
Beaty enlisted the help of five family members who have been convicted alongside her
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Roshell Beaty, 46, of Benton Harbor, was sentenced to 124 months in prison for her role related to pandemic fraud schemes used to obtain over $1 million in COVID-19 relief. Beaty previously pled guilty to two counts of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and one count of Aggravated Identity Theft.
“Federal pandemic dollars were meant to protect people who had fallen on hard times,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Beaty and her co-defendants deliberately devised a multi-state plan to commit fraud and steal over a million dollars. My office will continue to aggressively hold accountable scam artists and cheats who steal hard-earned taxpayer dollars.”
Beaty and her family stole $1,036,870 in money intended to help people during the COVID pandemic. During COVID, the federal government provided money to states to distribute to people who could not work. Beaty and her co-defendants stole $749,086 of unemployment insurance money to which they were not entitled from Michigan, California, Indiana, Illinois, and Arizona. They did this by filing unemployment insurance claims in their own names in multiple states, often states where they did not live or work. Beaty also filed unemployment insurance claims in the names of other people by using fake identification documents. Beaty and her co-defendants also stole $287,784 in loans intended for businesses suffering decreased business due to the COVID pandemic. Beaty was the leader of the group, and she enlisted the help of five family members to file fraudulent claims. Those family members have all been convicted for their role in the conspiracy. The previous press release can be viewed by visiting the following link Six Defendants Charged In $1 Million Covid Fraud Schemes.
“The blatant disregard by the defendant to defraud unemployment insurance and loan programs during the COVID-19 pandemic while many individuals and families were struggling was staggering,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. “Providing false information to fraudulently gain access to relief funds is a theft of taxpayer money. The FBI remains committed to working with our partners to investigate and hold those accountable who seek to defraud government assistance programs.”
"Roshel Beaty defrauded multiple state workforce agencies by filing false unemployment insurance (UI) claims in the names of identity theft victims,” said Irene Lindow, Special Agent in Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “Beaty stole benefits intended to assist those who became unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of the UI system from those who exploit these benefit programs.”
“This sentencing wraps up yet another successful anti-fraud case for UIA’s investigators who work closely with our law enforcement partners at the state and federal levels to stop fraudsters,” said Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency Director Julia Dale. “Our agency has increased its staffing in the Fraud and Investigations Division to allocate even more resources to catching bad actors who steal from Michigan taxpayers and bringing them to justice.”
This case was investigated by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Michigan Department of Labor, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Labor - Office of the Inspector General.
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Man Sentenced for Series of Firearm Thefts from Grand Haven Pawn ShopRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Casey Johnson, 29, of Muskegon, was sentenced to seven and a half years in federal prison after being convicted of three counts of Theft of Firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee and three counts of Felon in Possession of Firearms.
“My office is committed to being part of the solution to keep illegal guns off our streets and out of the hands of felons,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Today’s sentence reflects the joint commitment of law enforcement to hold Mr. Johnson accountable for the theft of guns from Michigan Pawn Brokers and to keep our communities safe from gun violence.”
Police were investigating a series of thefts from multiple businesses, including three break-ins at Michigan Pawn Brokers, when their investigation led them to Casey Johnson. Investigators executed a search warrant at a motel room at which Johnson was staying and recovered two of the 11 firearms that Johnson stole.
“In the end, the moral of this case is simple: Crime does not pay. Casey Johnson decided to steal firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer, because as a prior convicted felon it was easier than passing a background check,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Casey will have a lot of free time to reflect on his poor choices while serving time in a federal prison. If you choose to illegally possess an illegal firearm, you should pack your bags for prison.”
This case was investigated by the Grand Haven Department of Public Safety, the Muskegon Police Department, the Norton Shores Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Roosevelt Park Police Department, and the Michigan State Police.
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Muskegon Man Sentenced to 188 Months in Federal Prison for Repeatedly Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Dareese Devon Hewlett, 41, of Muskegon, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison after being convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“Mr. Hewlett is a serial offender who had demonstrated blatant disrespect for the law,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office is committed to ridding our streets of guns in the hands of felons and illegal “switches” that pose grave danger to our communities by converting a firearm into a fully automatic machinegun.”
Police caught Hewlett, a felon, with guns on three occasions. During the first incident, he shot at a man at a Muskegon memorial celebration. Police subsequently recovered the gun from Hewlett’s hotel room. There was a conversion device, or switch, attached, making the gun a fully automatic machinegun. Police found a second gun at defendant’s house. Two months later, police found another gun and a bulletproof vest at Hewlett’s home.
Hewlett’s sentence was increased pursuant to the Armed Career Criminal Act because he is a repeat offender. The Act provides for enhanced penalties for those who possess a firearm after being convicted of three or more serious drug offenses. Hewlett had previously been convicted of offenses involving the trafficking of narcotics; those offenses occurred in September 2010, June 2016, and April 2017.
“Fostering cooperation by local, state, and federal agencies is paramount to develop and implement strategic approaches to reduce violent crime, particularly gun crimes,” said Muskegon Police Chief Timothy Kozal. “The City of Muskegon Police Department will continue to diligently investigate every violent crime, taking every opportunity to collaborate with our partner agencies to prosecute violent, serial offenders like Mr. Hewlett.”
This case was investigated by the Muskegon Police Department, the Muskegon Heights Police Department, Michigan State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Lansing Man Charged with Felon in PossessionRead the Press Release
Two-year-old child died after accidental discharge of gun
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Avis Damone Coward has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that an accidental discharge of Coward’s gun led to a two-year-old child’s death.
“Death of child by gunfire is a story that should never be written,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Yet beginning in 2022, and for the first time ever, gun violence has become the number one cause of death for kids in America. As this swelling epidemic reaches our most innocent, my office will use every resource available to secure full accountability and prevent future harm.”
When Coward returned to the car, he picked up the gun and put it back in the car. A copy of the complaint is attached.
“This case is a parent’s worst nightmare. It’s heartbreaking and reinforces the importance of responsible gun ownership and safety storage,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. "A child should never be left alone with a gun. Leaving the gun at home in a secure gun safe or using a safety device, such as a gun lock, prevent tragedies like this. If you need a free gun lock or want additional information on secure firearm storage, contact the ATF Detroit Field Division.”
“I would like to thank U.S. Attorney Mark Totten and his team for standing firm on gun crime by charging Avis Coward for his role in the shooting death of a two-year-old in Lansing at a gas station in October,” said Lansing Police Chief Ellery Sosebee. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan, Ingham County Prosecutor John Dewane, and the Lansing Police Department stand united in the effort to hold accountable those who commit gun crimes.”
This case was investigated by the Lansing Police Department, Michigan State Police, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The charges in a complaint are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Complaint###
Two Men Charged in Theft of Firearms from Dunham’s Sports Store in Benton HarborRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that two Benton Harbor men were charged with several crimes related to the theft of firearms from Dunham’s Sports in Benton Harbor.
“It is no secret that we are experiencing an epidemic of gun violence across the nation, across the State of Michigan, and right here in Benton Harbor,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Fueling this epidemic is a massive influx of illegal guns into our communities. What happened at Dunham Sport’s on the evening of November 16th is a striking example of what is driving this crisis and we fully intend to satisfy our burden and prove this case.”
The charging documents allege that late on November 16, 2023, Darnell Bishop and Dontrell Nance approached the Dunham’s store manager outside his home and held him at gunpoint. Bishop and Nance then handcuffed and blindfolded the manager and took him to another location; there, they forced him to provide security access information for the Dunham’s store. Bishop took the manager’s keys, entered the Dunham’s store, and left with more than 120 handguns packed into two large coolers. Police later recovered all but one gun. If convicted, both men face up to life in prison.
Investigators searched residences and vehicles associated with Bishop and Nance on November 17, 2023, and found firearms stolen from Dunham’s as well as an additional pistol. Both men were taken into custody that same day.
“Dontrelle Nance and Darnell Bishop are getting coal in their stockings this year rather than the 120 plus firearms they tried to steal during an armed robbery attempt of the Dunham’s Sporting Goods store in Benton Harbor,” said ATF Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. Robberies and burglaries of gun dealers represent one of the biggest threats to our community’s public safety. As such, ATF partnered with our state and local law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate this incident and thus, prevented over 120 firearms from making it into the hands of violent criminals on the streets and keeping our communities safer.”
“The use of stolen guns in violent crimes is a common occurrence in our communities, causing immense harm to families,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. “Arresting and charging individuals allegedly involved in such crimes can save countless Michiganders from being victimized by these weapons. I want to thank the FBI's Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force for quickly resolving this case. The FBI and our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners are committed to working together to ensure the safety of Michigan's residents.”
“The Michigan State Police is proud to be a part of law enforcement in Southwest Michigan, and work alongside all of these dedicated, hard-working professionals,” said MSP Inspector Ryan Schoonveld. “Officers from local, state, and federal agencies came together last Thursday, working through the night, to bring a very dangerous situation to a safe and successful conclusion.”
This case was investigated by the Benton Charter Township Police Department, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, ATF, and FBI.
The charges in a complaint are merely accusations, and both defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. A copy of the criminal complaint, with further details and photos, is attached to this release.
Complaint###
Leader of Machine Gun Switch Distribution Conspiracy Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Mark Totten commits to prioritize cases involving the distribution of switches, which are fueling the national gun violence epidemic
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Torez Burnett, 21, of Benton Harbor, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison. Burnett imported machine gun conversion devices, or “switches,” from China and distributed them to members of his street gang, My Brother’s Keeper (MBK), and others in Benton Harbor and Grand Rapids. When installed, switches convert semiautomatic handguns into fully automatic machine guns that can fire a thousand rounds of ammunition per minute.
“Switches pose an extremely dangerous risk to our communities, our children, our law enforcement officers, and anyone who stands in the way of their indiscriminate spray,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “A year ago, switches were seldom seen. Now they’re everywhere. My office will use every resource we have to disrupt the gun trafficking rings bringing these lethal devices into our communities.”
On December 15, 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan announced charges against 10 defendants, including Burnett. On May 11, 2023, Burnett pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to possess and transfer machine guns and the charge of possession and transfer of a machine gun. Burnett distributed switches to buyers in at least Benton Harbor and Grand Rapids. Some of his buyers included fellow members of MBK. The previous press release can be viewed by visiting the following link: Eleven Men Face Drug And Firearm Charges, Including For Sale Of “Switches” That Turn Semi-Automatic Pistols Into Fully Automatic Machineguns.
The nine other defendants have also pleaded guilty. The court has sentenced six of them:
Defendant
Sentence
Jayvon Anthony
84 months
Demarcus Greely
38 months
Nicholas Hallo
46 months
Demitrius Seuell
33 months
Omarion Branch
38 months
Eric Williams
24 months
Sentencing hearings for Timothy Thomas and Quincy Bowman are scheduled for November 29, 2023. The Court has not yet scheduled sentencing for Armando Villanueva.
“Holding those accountable who flood our streets with illegal weapons is a huge step forward in curtailing the violence in our community,” said Benton Harbor Director of Public Safety Daniel McGinnis. “We thank our local, state, and federal partners for their dedication and commitment to working together to ensure the safety of Benton Harbor residents."
“Mr. Burnett and other defendants from the My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) gang are rightfully facing appropriate consequences for their violent and reckless behavior in importing machine gun conversion devices into our community,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Thanks to the efforts of the Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force and our law enforcement partners, a dangerous criminal enterprise that directly threatened Michigan residents was disrupted. The FBI is committed to removing dangerous criminals from our communities and will continue to work with our partners to achieve the goal of a safer Michigan."
“Machine gun conversion devices are a threat to our community and public safety. They are not toys and cannot be imported illegally from China,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Mr. Burnett chose to illegally import these devices from China and through his excessive greed, he chose to arm known gang members with fully automatic machine guns. In the end, Mr. Burnett will have a considerable amount of time in prison to reflect on his poor decision making.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Sherriff’s Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Michigan State Police, Benton Charter Township Police Department, Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department, Grand Rapids Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Michigan Department of Corrections and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
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Man Extradited from Spain to Face Child Sex Abuse ChargesRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Kristian Ignacio Feliz, age 24, of Danbury, Connecticut, has been extradited from Spain to face prosecution in the United States after being indicted in March 2023 for committing child sex crimes. The indictment specifically charges Feliz with three counts of sexually exploiting a minor in Kalamazoo County in January 2023, and one count of coercing and enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity.
“I am grateful to the FBI and our Spanish law enforcement partners for their persistent and successful efforts to find and arrest the defendant in Spain, and to facilitate his swift extradition to the United States to face these very serious charges,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “We are prepared to make our case as part of our ongoing efforts to protect children.”
"The FBI prioritizes the protection of children from dangerous predators and is fully committed to investigating criminals, regardless of their location in the world,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Those who make the unconscionable decision to victimize innocent children will be brought to justice. The FBI works with our domestic and international law enforcement partners to hold those criminals accountable, and I would like to extend my appreciation to the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety for initiating this case and the Spanish National Police for their support in extraditing the defendant to the United States. We continue to urge the public to report alleged crimes of child sexual and physical abuse by calling 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324), contacting your Legal Attaché Office, or submitting tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov."
“Investigating sex crimes that involve children are extremely difficult to pursue because they cross jurisdictional lines and involve sophisticated computer activity,” said Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division Captain Rafael Diaz.“However, the Task Force Officer program that allows Kalamazoo Public Safety Detective Stolsonburg to coordinate with the Federal Bureau of Investigation means that sexual predators will be found and held accountable. This commitment does not waiver.”
The government expects the defendant’s initial appearance will take place on November 16, 2023, at the federal courthouse in Grand Rapids at a time to be determined by the court. Spanish Civil arrested Feliz in June 2023, in Barcelona, at the request of the United States. The extradition proceedings took place in the Spanish judiciary system, through which Feliz consented to be extradited to the United States in August 2023.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office worked with the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) to prepare and submit a request for Kristian Ignacio Feliz’s provisional arrest, with a plan to seek his extradition soon after. U.S. Attorney Totten and Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Michigan Cheyvoryea Gibson extend their appreciation and thanks to Spain’s Ministry of Justice, Spanish National Police, and Guardia Civil.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following website: www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Castle, and investigated by the FBI, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Department of State provided critical assistance in securing Feliz’s arrest and extradition.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Man Accused of Kidnapping Resulting in Death Dies Awaiting TrialRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Gerald Bennett, 63, from Detroit, Michigan, died in the hospital on November 13 due to medical complications while awaiting trial. Bennett was charged with (1) conspiracy to commit murder for hire resulting in death, (2) kidnapping resulting in death, (3) kidnapping of a minor victim, and (4) solicitation to commit a crime of violence. If convicted of count one or two, Bennett could have been sentenced to a mandatory sentence of life in prison. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dismissing the pending case now that the defendant is deceased.
“The allegations in this case were heinous and I deeply regret we will never present the evidence against Mr. Bennett in open court,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “At best, our efforts can secure only a measure of justice. We can’t bring Mujey back. But the truth-telling role of a conviction matters. I am grateful for the investigators who worked for years to secure justice and my heart remains with her family as they mourn the loss of one they dearly loved.”
"I commend the dedicated men and women of the investigative and prosecutorial teams for their continued pursuance of justice for the victims and their families in this case," stated Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "While the defendant's case will not be brought before the court due to his untimely passing, the FBI, alongside our local and state law enforcement partners remain committed in using our collective resources to hold those individuals responsible who conspire or commit violent acts in our communities."
In 2017, a high-school student named Mujey Dumbuya accused Grand Rapids resident Quinn James of sexually assaulting her when she was 15 years old. Upon learning of the criminal complaint, James hired Bennett to help him kidnap and murder Dumbuya, who was then 16 years old. James and Bennett communicated for several weeks before abducting Dumbuya from a bus stop on January 24, 2018. Her body was found days later in a wooded area in Kalamazoo. James and Bennett were both charged in state court for her murder. James was convicted after trial and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Bennett, however, convinced the state court he was not competent to stand trial. In March 2022, Bennett’s state case was dismissed.
Federal and state investigators remained convinced that Bennett was competent and presented the case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. In June 2022, Bennett was arrested on a federal criminal complaint that alleged Bennett worked with James to kidnap the 16-year-old girl who had accused James of sexually assaulting her. A federal grand jury reviewed evidence against Bennett in August of 2022 and returned an indictment formalizing the charge of kidnapping a minor.
Bennett was then transported to a special Federal Bureau of Prisons facility for a competency evaluation by a forensic psychologist. The evaluation report concluded that Bennett was not only competent but malingering, that is, faking his incompetency. While Bennett was in custody awaiting his competency hearing, he allegedly solicited another murder for hire in an effort to silence a key witness. Bennett also allegedly admitted to inmates in the jail that he was faking his incompetency. On April 18 of this year, U.S. Magistrate Judge Ray Kent reviewed the evaluation and ruled that Bennett was competent to stand trial.
Afterwards, a grand jury considered additional evidence and added charges accusing Bennett of conspiracy to commit murder for hire resulting in death and kidnapping resulting in death. The grand jury also included a fourth charge for solicitation to commit a crime of violence for Bennett’s efforts to hire someone to murder a witness in his case. Jury selection for trial was scheduled to begin on February 26, 2024.
On November 7, Bennett was admitted to the hospital for cancer treatment. The next day his health declined substantially and he was placed on life support. On November 13, Bennett died. Bennett was the sole defendant in the federal case and with his death, prosecution is no longer possible.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Mekaru and Austin Hakes. The investigation of Bennett was an inter-agency effort led by the Grand Rapids Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, and the Michigan State Police, with the assistance and cooperation of the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office.
Click here to view the Motion to Dismiss# # #
MEDIA NOTE: Previous press releases concerning this case are included below.
Further Charges Added Against Detroit Man Held in Murder-For-Hire PlanAmong Additional Charges, Defendant Allegedly Plotted to Kill a Witness Against Him
Alleged Kidnapper Competent to Stand Trial
Evidence Shows Defendant Faking Incompetency
Seann Pietila Pleads Guilty for Making Violent, Antisemitic ThreatsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Mark Totten renews commitment to prevent, disrupt, and prosecute illegal acts of hate fueled by antisemitism, Islamophobia, or anti-Arab bias
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Seann Pietila, 19, of Pickford, Michigan, pleaded guilty to a federal charge for violent threats he made online. Pietila admitted sending multiple messages on Instagram about planning to commit a mass shooting targeting Jewish people. Sentencing will occur at 10 a.m. on March 4, 2024.
“No one should face violent threats because of their race, ethnicity, religion, or any other status” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “At this moment of increased threats across the nation, we renew our commitment to prevent, disrupt, and prosecute illegal acts of hate fueled by antisemitism, Islamophobia, or anti-Arab bias.”
U.S. Attorney Totten and the FBI provided brief comments after today’s plea hearing, available on the U.S. Attorney’s Facebook Page.
Pietila pleaded guilty to transmitting threatening communications in interstate commerce. The maximum penalty under that statute is five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Additionally, as a convicted felon, he may no longer possess any firearms.
As outlined in the initial criminal complaint, Pietila is alleged to have communicated with others on Instagram where he discussed his plans to commit acts of violence to kill other people and specifically referenced Jewish people. His communications demonstrated sympathy with neo-Nazi ideology, antisemitism, and past mass shooters. Law enforcement searched Pietila’s residence and seized various items, including ammunition, magazines, a shotgun, a rifle, a pistol, various knives, firearms accessories, tactical vests, mask, a Nazi flag, a ghillie suit, gas masks, and military sniper/survival manuals. A note found on Pietila’s phone identified a particular synagogue in East Lansing, a date, and a list of equipment. A copy of the indictment can be viewed here. The criminal complaint and plea agreement are attached.
“When free speech crosses a line and becomes a threat of violence against another, the full investigative resources of the FBI will be deployed,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Thanks to the coordinated efforts of our state and local law enforcement partners, we were able to disrupt the defendant before he could put his plans into action. The FBI continues to urge the public to report suspicious or threatening behavior to their local law enforcement or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or submitting a tip online at https://tips.fbi.gov.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris O’Connor and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The FBI was assisted by the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office, TRI-County Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT), Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team (UPSET), and Michigan State Police Emergency Services Team.
Given the heightened threat environment, over the past several weeks U.S. Attorney Totten has met with leaders of the Jewish and Muslim communities throughout the Western District of Michigan. The purpose of these meetings is to better understand what is happening on the ground and how the U.S. Attorney’s Office, working with its law enforcement partners, can better support the affected communities. This outreach is ongoing.
In addition, to help combat hate-fueled violence, U.S. Attorney Mark Totten recently announced the formation of a Civil Rights Team focused on enforcing federal civil rights laws across the Western District of Michigan, as well as conducting regular community outreach regarding civil rights and hate crimes.
The Civil Rights Team includes federal prosecutors and staff from the Office’s Criminal and Civil Divisions who will focus on criminal matters such as hate crimes and unlawful threats, as well as civil matters such as enforcing federal civil rights laws regarding discrimination, disability access, environmental justice, sexual harassment, voting rights, and other matters. The team will work closely with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and coordinate with other Department components and local, state, federal, and tribal agencies as needed.
U.S. Attorney Totten also announced the Department’s United Against Hate Initiative, part of a nationwide effort by the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at combatting unlawful acts of hate. The program consists of ongoing local forums that connect community groups to federal, state, and local law enforcement to increase community understanding and reporting of hate crimes; build trust between law enforcement and communities; and create and strengthen alliances between law enforcement and other government partners and community groups to combat unlawful acts of hate.
Anyone wishing to report a civil rights violation related to voting, housing, employment, education, the workplace, business, healthcare, or other public spaces can call the Office’s Civil Rights Hotline at 616-808-2195 or email [email protected]. Individuals reporting a hate crime or criminal threat can call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Anyone facing imminent harm should call 911.
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seann_pietila_-_complaint.pdf seann_pietila_indictment.pdf seann_pietila_-_plea_agreement.pdfMEDIA NOTE: Previous releases concerning this case are listed below.
Man Who Threatened Violent, Anti-Semitic Action Indicted by Grand Jury
Defendant Threatened Violent, Antisemitic Action
Firearms Trafficker Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Trevell Walker, 23, of Kentwood, Michigan, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for illegally purchasing and trafficking at least six firearms. U.S. District Court Judge Robert J. Jonker also imposed three years of supervised release following his term of incarceration.
“Straw purchasing and gun trafficking drive a dangerous black market for firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “These crimes feed the violence that plague communities across Michigan. My office will hold straw purchasers and illegal gun traffickers accountable for creating these supply lines of violence.”
Walker ran an illegal gun trafficking business, charging customers $20 to $50 per firearm to lie on the purchase forms, saying he was buying the guns for himself when he was really purchasing them for other people. This tactic is sometimes referred to as “straw purchasing.” Walker knew that his customers, who were convicted felons, were prohibited from buying guns for themselves. Walker capitalized on his lack of criminal history and ability to purchase guns, by purchasing guns in his name and then selling those firearms to prohibited persons for a profit.
“There are serious consequences that come from illegally purchasing firearms for prohibited individuals. Holding Trevell Walker accountable for his criminal conduct is paramount in ensuring public safety in the community,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “The woman and men of ATF work side by side with our U.S. Attorney’s, federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to make our communities safer.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Metro Pattern Crime Team consisting of detectives from the Kentwood Police Department, Kent County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wyoming Police Department as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide initiative to reduce violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, and federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement work closely together to identify and prosecute individuals responsible for driving violent crime in our communities to make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Individuals with information or concerns about violent crime or firearms offenses should contact local law enforcement. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, visit: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
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Battle Creek Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Khilon Shaquille Samuel, 29, of Battle Creek, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after being convicted of Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute.
“My office is working closely with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to disrupt illegal drug trafficking rings that are pushing poison onto our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “We are committed to holding traffickers fully accountable to help keep our neighborhoods safe.”
Police intercepted Samuel as he returned from Detroit to the Battle Creek area on April 30, 2022, and recovered more than 17 pounds of methamphetamine in his car. Investigators executed a search warrant at Samuel’s home later that day and found an additional 183 grams of methamphetamine, approximately one-quarter kilogram of fentanyl, as well as 29 rounds of ammunition.
“Methamphetamine is an addictive and destructive substance. The amount of fentanyl seized in this case could potentially kill 125,000 people,” Orville O. Greene, Special Agent in Charge of Detroit Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold those who distribute illicit drugs accountable for their actions.”
“The Battle Creek Police Department takes great pride in maintaining productive relationships with our federal partners,” said Shannon Bagley, BCPD Police Chief. “This is an outstanding example of how these partnerships lead to successful prosecutions which help make the City of Battle Creek a safer place to live.”
“HSI is made exponentially stronger due to the valuable partnerships we maintain,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “The success of this investigation and many others is a direct reflection of the professionalism and dedication of HSI, and our law enforcement partners who refuse to allow criminals, like Samuel, to continue to funnel narcotics into our communities. Those partnerships and the mission to remove drug traffickers are vital to ridding neighborhoods of dangerous narcotics and improving public safety.”
This case was investigated by the Battle Creek Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Michigan State Police.
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Nurse Impostor Pleads Guilty to Identity Theft and Making False Medical RecordsRead the Press Release
Leticia Gallarzo used the identity of a real nurse to obtain employment as a licensed registered nurse, faces up to 7 years in prison
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Leticia Gallarzo, 49, of Allegan County, pleaded guilty to using the identity of another person to obtain employment as a licensed registered nurse and to making false statements relating to health care matters.
“The allegations that Ms. Gallarzo faked being a licensed nurse and created false medical records are extremely alarming,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “By allegedly posing as a certified medical professional, she risked patient care and put unsuspecting individuals in harm’s way. My office takes this threat to public safety very seriously and appreciates the work of our law enforcement partners in this investigation.”
Gallarzo pleaded guilty to two federal crimes: making a false statement in a medical record affecting a health care benefit program and aggravated identity theft. The health care fraud charge is punishable by up to five years in prison. The aggravated identity theft charge carries a mandatory two years in prison, which must be served consecutively (after) any prison sentence imposed for the health care fraud charge The Court has not yet scheduled Gallarzo’s sentencing date.
According to court documents, Gallarzo falsely represented that she was a licensed registered nurse and had completed a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Davenport University when applying for a job at a local nursing facility. When transmitting her application to the prospective employer over the internet through Indeed.com, Gallarzo used the means of identification of someone that she knew to be an actual licensed registered nurse in the state of Michigan. After obtaining employment as a nurse, Gallarzo evaluated and assessed elderly nursing home patients and falsely signed electronic medical records as a licensed registered nurse. These false statements were related to Medicare, a health care benefit program, because the nursing home relied on Gallarzo’s status as a licensed registered nurse to meet certain Medicare regulations for participation in and billing of Medicare.
"The FBI is dedicated to ensuring that cases of identity theft, such as this one, are thoroughly investigated and the public can trust qualified medical providers," stated Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "The scale of Ms. Gallarzo's alleged fraud, which endangered innocent patients, is staggering. As law enforcement works together to combat fraud in our healthcare system, I would like to especially thank the Michigan State Police for their assistance in this investigation."
“Today’s guilty plea underscores the significance and severity of the defendant’s conduct, particularly as it relates to her involvement in the submission of false documentation related to her purported nursing training and state licensure, as well as further false statements connected to her employment as a nurse in a skilled nursing facility,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to working together with our law enforcement partners to protect beneficiaries of our federal health care programs.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Grand Rapids Field Office and U.S. Health and Human Service Office of Inspector General are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ron Stella is prosecuting the case.
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DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Removes Almost 600,000 Pounds of Unneeded Prescription Medications Across the CountryRead the Press Release
DETROIT – On Oct. 28, 2023, the community once again emptied their medicine cabinets to help dispose of old, unwanted, and expired medications. Nationwide, DEA and its law enforcement partners collected 599,897 pounds of unneeded medications at 4,675 collection sites nationwide.
Locally, the Detroit Field Division collected 62,771 pounds between 498 sites in Michigan, Ohio and northern Kentucky. For more than a decade, DEA’s National Prescription Take Back Day has removed almost 17.9 million pounds of unneeded medications from communities across the country.
“We are in a fight to save lives,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District Mark Totten. “Drug Take Back Days are an important preventative measure in the United States’ efforts to combat drug abuse and the opioid crisis. I commend our law enforcement partners, community partners, residents, and everyone who supported DEA Take Back Day to keep unwanted medications from getting into the wrong hands.”
“Too often we see a friend or family member’s medicine cabinet unknowingly becoming the source of an accidental poisoning, an overdose, or abuse,” said DEA Detroit Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene. “A big thank you to our many partners who continue to show their commitment to ridding our communities of these unwanted medications.”
According to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a majority of people who use prescription medication for a nonmedical purpose obtained that medication from a family member or friend. Removing unnecessary medications from the home can help prevent situations involving; not taking medication as intended or dosed; taking someone else’s prescription; and taking the medicine for euphoric effects rather than medicinal purposes.
DEA continues to expand opportunities to make safe disposal of medications more accessible nationwide. We encourage people to remove unnecessary medications from their home regularly and dispose of it at one of the nearly 17,000 permanent drug-drop boxes located in communities across the country. Those locations can be found here. Safe medication disposal receptacles along with DEA Take Back events provide families easy, no-cost opportunities to get rid of unnecessary medicines stored in the home.
Complete results for DEA’s fall National Prescription Drug Take Back Day are available at Take Back Day (dea.gov).
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U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten Announces Funding for Law Enforcement Agencies, Investments in Public SafetyRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that The Justice Department has awarded several grants as part of its Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime. Instituted by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in May 2021, the strategy focuses on harnessing federal resources, intelligence, and expertise as a force-multiplier with state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.
“Fighting violent crime is one of our top priorities, especially at this moment when gunfire has become the #1 killer of our young people,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “We’re thrilled to see these grants given to multiple agencies across Michigan to help prevent and prosecute violent crime.”
Through this funding, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan is pleased to announce that the Department’s COPS Office awarded funding to the below agencies to address violent crime and maintain public safety.
2023 COPS Office Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) Awards
Officers Funded
Amount for Hiring
Amount for Equipment & Training
Total Amount of Awards
Bay Mills Indian Community
-
-
$558,895
$558,895
Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians
1
$545,529
$117,375
$662,904
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
1
$395,978
$140,902
$536,880
Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi
1
$521,675
$166,836
$688,511
2023 COPS Hiring Program (CHP) Awards
Officers Funded
Award Amount
Portage, City of
8
$1,000,000
White Cloud, City of
1
$125,000
2023 COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) Awards
Recipient
Award Amount
Godfrey Lee Public Schools
$500,000
2023 Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Implementation Projects
Agency
Estimated Award Amount
Michigan Department of State Police
$200,000
Complete lists of all program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here.
“Law enforcement officers across the country are showing up every day to protect their communities in the face of unprecedented challenges,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “These grants, which support the hiring of more than 1,700 new officers and make critical investments in school safety and crisis intervention efforts, will help provide local law enforcement agencies with the resources they need to keep their communities safe, support officers, and build public trust.”
Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco and Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta highlighted the more than $334 million in critical grant funding to law enforcement agencies and stakeholders awarded yesterday by the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office).The COPS grants announced include funding to help law enforcement agencies hire over 1,730 new law enforcement officers across the country while also providing critical funding to support school safety and continue to advance community policing nationwide.
Lastly, the Deputy Attorney General and Associate Attorney General announced that this December 11-13, in Indianapolis, the Justice Department’s will bring together 1,500 local and federal partners from across the country, including representatives from the more than 50 PSP jurisdictions and from Project Safe Neighborhoods for a Violent Crime Reduction Summit, to be hosted by OJP BJA.
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Rashad Trice Trial Date Set for April 16 in Wynter Cole-Smith CaseRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a trial date for Rashad Maleek Trice, 26, has been set for April 16, 2024. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker scheduled the trial date following today’s status conference.
“My office is ready and fully prepared to make our case against Mr. Trice at a fair trial as we seek a measure of justice for Wynter Cole-Smith and her family,” said U.S. Attorney Totten.
Trice has been indicted and arraigned for kidnapping two-year-old Wynter Cole-Smith, resulting in her death and kidnapping a minor. Trice was charged by criminal complaint on July 7, 2023, to secure his immediate detention, and indicted on July 26 to satisfy his constitutional right to federal indictment by a grand jury. On August 7, 2023, he pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and remains in custody.
Trice is charged with two counts. The first count is kidnapping resulting in death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1201(a)(1). If convicted, the statutory mandatory minimum sentence is life in prison. The second count is kidnapping of a minor, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1201(a)(1) and (g)(1). If convicted, the statutory mandatory minimum sentence is 20 years in prison with a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Trice Pleads Not Guilty During Arraignment In Wynter Cole-Smith Case
Trice was Previously Indicted for Kidnapping Resulting in Death and Kidnapping a Minor
Monday, August 7, 2023
Trice Indicted For Kidnapping Resulting In Death And Kidnapping A Minor In Wynter Cole-Smith Case
Wednesday, July 26, 2023
U.S. Attorney Totten Announces Federal Charges In The Kidnapping Of 2-Year-Old Wynter Cole-Smith
Friday, July 7, 2023
Repeat Sex Offender Pleads Guilty, Sentenced to 27.5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that repeat sex offender Justin Lee Sloothaak, of Holland, Michigan, age 32, was sentenced to 27 years and 6 months in federal prison following Sloothaak’s guilty plea to sexually exploiting a child.
“The sexual exploitation of children is inexcusable and intolerable,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “Sexual predators who commit heinous crimes against children inflict lifelong damage in the lives of their young victims. My office is committed to working with law enforcement partners to ensure that sex offenders who assault our children are held fully accountable.”
Investigators from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation uncovered evidence that Sloothaak sexually assaulted a child from West Michigan in 2022. Sloothaak filmed the assault using his smartphone and included the video in his collection of other pornographic videos featuring children. At the time Sloothaak committed the offense, he was on parole following his 2015 sexual assault of another child.
While explaining the reasons for Sloothaak’s lengthy sentence, United States District Judge Jane M. Beckering remarked on the seriousness of Sloothaak’s crime, observing, “This is, absent murder, probably the most traumatizing thing you can do to a human being, especially a minor.”
“The FBI is deeply committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society, particularly our children, and bringing predators like the defendant to justice,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The sentence in this case reflects the gravity of the crimes committed, which are particularly distressing given the defendant’s repeated attempts to harm and exploit minors. I want to express my gratitude to the dedicated law enforcement partners of the West Michigan Based Child Exploitation Task Force (WEBCHEX) for their invaluable assistance in securing some measure of justice for the victim.”
This case arose from Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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National Prescription Drug Take Back Day to Remove Unneeded Prescriptions, Prevent AddictionRead the Press Release
DETROIT – The Drug Enforcement Administration will host its 25th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday, Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event offers anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide.
For more than a decade, Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired. These medications can be a gateway to addiction, and have helped fuel the opioid epidemic. According to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a majority of people who use a prescription medication for a nonmedical purpose obtained that medication from a family member or friend.
“I encourage everyone to dispose of unneeded medications to help keep our communities safe and healthy,” said DEA Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene. “The Take Back campaign is part of DEA’s continued efforts to combat the drug poisoning epidemic and protect the safety and health of communities.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that in the U.S., more than 110,000 American lives were lost to drug poisonings and overdose in 2022.
DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription drugs. Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. The event will also continue to accept vaping devices and cartridges provided lithium batteries are removed.
A location finder and partner toolbox are available at www.DEATakeBack.com for easy reference to nearby collection sites. Beyond DEA’s Take Back Day, there are also opportunities to regularly and safely dispose of unneeded medications at close to 15,000 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses working to help clean out medicine cabinets throughout the year. In addition, many police departments provide year-round drop boxes.
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U.S. Attorney Mark Totten Announces Civil Rights Team, United Against Hate InitiativeRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Mark Totten today announced the formation of a Civil Rights Team in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan. This team will focus on enforcing federal civil rights laws across the Western District of Michigan, as well as conducting regular community outreach regarding civil rights and hate crimes.
“Protecting civil rights is central to our mission and we’re prepared to take on hate and discrimination wherever we have the power to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Every person and every community deserve equal protection under the law. It’s part of the American promise and we’re committed to making sure it’s a reality here in Michigan.”
U.S. Attorney Totten previewed this announcement during his remarks at the Greater Grand Rapids Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s (NAACP) Freedom Fund Program last Friday.
VIEW VIDEO OF U.S. ATTORNEY TOTTEN’S REMARKS HERE.
The Civil Rights Team includes federal prosecutors and staff from the Office’s Criminal and Civil Divisions. Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Nils Kessler and AUSA Stephanie Carowan will serve as the lead prosecutors on criminal matters, including hate crimes and unlawful threats. AUSA Laura Babinsky and AUSA Kalen Pruss will serve as lead on civil matters, enforcing federal civil rights laws regarding discrimination, disability access, environmental justice, sexual harassment, voting rights, and other matters. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten has appointed AUSA Kessler as the Civil Rights Coordinator on Criminal Matters and AUSA Babinsky as the Civil Rights Coordinator on Civil Matters. The team will work closely with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and coordinate with other Department components and local, state, federal, and tribal agencies as needed.
In addition, U.S. Attorney Totten also announced the launch of the Office’s United Against Hate Initiative. This program, part of a nationwide effort by the U.S. Department of Justice, aims to combat unlawful acts of hate. The program will consist of ongoing local forums that connect community groups to federal, state, and local law enforcement to increase community understanding and reporting of hate crimes; build trust between law enforcement and communities; and create and strengthen alliances between law enforcement and other government partners and community groups to combat unlawful acts of hate.
“Combatting hate requires close relationships between law enforcement and civil rights, faith, and other community groups,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Our United Against Hate Initiative is designed to educate the public about civil rights, the work we are doing to protect civil rights, and how to report violations. At the same time, we will also listen to people’s experiences, so we better understand what people are facing.”
Program topics include defining hate crimes versus hate incidents; the importance of reporting unlawful acts of hate; providing options for responding to hate incidents when situations do not constitute a federal or state crime; and distinguishing unlawful conduct from protected First Amendment activity, including identifying protected speech versus speech that advocates violence or encourages people to commit hate crimes.
In addition to his work in the Western District of Michigan, U.S. Attorney Mark Totten also serves as a member of the Attorney General Advisory Committee’s Civil Rights Subcommittee since taking office in May 2022. In March 2023 he traveled to the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama to join more than 30 other U.S. Attorneys from across the county as part of a delegation to commemorate the 58th Anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” and the subsequent passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Anyone wishing to report a civil rights violation related to voting, housing, employment, education, the workplace, business, healthcare, or other public spaces can call the Office’s Civil Rights Hotline at 616-808-2195 or email [email protected]. Individuals reporting a hate crime or criminal threat can call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Anyone facing imminent harm should call 911.
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Kalamazoo Man Charged with Possessing Machine Gun, Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Mark Totten announced the unsealing of an indictment charging 31-year-old Juwara Jawan Compton, Jr., of Kalamazoo, with possessing a machine gun and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
"A fully automatic firearm in the hands of a convicted felon is a dangerous and potentially deadly combination,” stated U.S. Attorney Mark A. Totten. “My office is committed to getting these weapons off of our streets and prosecuting those who possess them illegally.”
The indictment alleges that, on September 2, 2023, Compton, a previously convicted felon, possessed a Glock .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine. A separate count charges that the same firearm also had a conversion device that made the weapon into a machine gun.
Compton made his initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Sally J. Berens on October 19, 2023. He is next due in court for a detention hearing on October 24, 2023 before United States Magistrate Phillip J. Green.
This case was investigated by the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). AUSA Stephanie Carowan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Brian Pierce Sentenced to 24 Months and Vince Brown Sentenced to 20 Months in Federal Prison for Paying Bribes to Rick JohnsonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Brian Pierce and Vincent Brown were sentenced before U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering for paying bribes to Rick Vernon Johnson, the former Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Licensing Board.
Pierce, 45, of Midland, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison, fined $25,000 and will serve two years on supervised release following his release from prison. Brown, 33, of Royal Oak, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 20 months in prison, fined $25,000 and will serve two years on supervised release following his release from prison.
“Mr. Pierce and Mr. Brown deliberately bribed Rick Johnson for their own personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “As I’ve said before, public corruption is a poison to our democracy and shatters the people’s trust in public officials. My office will hold offenders accountable – whomever, whenever, and wherever we find corruption and blatant disregard for the rule of law.”
Rick Johnson was a member and the Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Licensing Board (MMLB) between May 2017 and April 2019. Prior to his appointment to that Board, Johnson worked as a lobbyist in Lansing, Michigan, and served as Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives.
Pierce and Brown worked as lobbyists in Lansing, Michigan, who did business together as Philip Alan Brown Consulting, LLC and Michigan Grower’s Consultants, LLC. Pierce and Brown lobbied on behalf of various businesses seeking operating licenses from the Medical Marijuana Licensing Board. Pierce and Brown admitted paying Johnson a total of $40,000 between June 2017 to November 2018 when Johnson was Chairperson of the licensing board, and at Johnson’s request, Pierce paid a total of $2,000 to a Detroit stripper who was having commercial sex with Johnson. The payments were made to influence and reward Johnson in connection with his official duties on the Board, including receiving his assistance for their clients who applied for licenses to operate in the newly developing marijuana industry.
"Public corruption is the top criminal investigative priority for the FBI,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “I am thankful for the outstanding FBI personnel for their daily commitment to following the investigative facts wherever they lead, particularly in this case. My office continues to urge concerned citizens to report public corruption information they believe they may have by calling FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov."
Assistant United States Attorneys Chris O’Connor and Clay Stiffler are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
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MEDIA NOTE: U.S. Attorney Totten’s remarks following today’s sentencings can be viewed at @usao.wdmi on the U.S. Attorney’s Facebook Page.
Previous press releases concerning this case can be viewed by visiting the below links.
- Former Chair of Marijuana Board, Rick Johnson, Sentenced to 55 Months in Federal Prison for Bribery
Johnson Obtained More Than $110,000 in Bribe Payments; U.S. Attorney Mark Totten Affirms Commitment to Fight Public Corruption
- Oakland County Businessman Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison for Paying Bribes to Rick Johnson
- Four Charged in State Bribery Scheme
Rick Johnson, former Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Licensing Board, and three others have agreed to plead guilty and cooperate in ongoing investigation
Paw Paw Man Charged with Two Counts of Felon in PossessionRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a grand jury returned a superseding indictment against Eric Nathan Deryke, 34, of Paw Paw, Michigan, for possessing firearms as a convicted felon.
“Gun violence is an epidemic across America and here in Michigan that inflicts immense trauma on communities when guns end up in the wrong hands,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “That’s why my office is committed to getting illegal guns off of the streets and out of the hands of felons.”
The original indictment charged Deryke with one count for Felon in Possession of a Firearm on April 16, 2022. The superseding indictment adds a Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge after Deryke possessed a different firearm on July 25, 2023. The maximum statutory penalty for count one is 10 years in prison and 15 years imprisonment for count two.
“The FBI is committed to leveraging its assets in collaboration with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe from gun violence,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “We are proud to work cooperatively to stop felons from illegally possessing firearms. We also need the public’s assistance to help us in this mission. Please come forward if you believe you have any information related to violent crimes as outlined in this case by contacting 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov.”
“Unfortunately, small town America is not immune to the violence that plagues some of our big cities. That violence came to the town of Paw Paw on April 16, 2022, when a shooting took place where Deryke has been charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm and a second individual has also been charged with their involvement,” said Paw Paw Police Department Interim Police Chief Eric Rottman. “With our strong working relationship with neighboring agencies, we will continue to combat violent crime in our area that effects the way of life of our citizens. It is our utmost goal to ensure the safety and well-being of our community."
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaToyia T. Carpenter and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Michigan State Police, the Paw Paw Police Department, and the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office.
A copy of the superseding indictment is attached. The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Multiple Corporate Defendants Sentenced for Clean Air Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Court Orders Millions of Dollars in Fines for Disabling Emissions Controls on Semi-Trucks
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that two companies and several individuals have been sentenced for violating the Clean Air Act by engaging in an aftermarket scheme to disable the emissions control systems of semi-trucks. U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney confirmed the felony convictions of corporate defendants Accurate Truck Service, LLC, and Griffin Transportation, Inc., both of Grand Rapids, and ordered the businesses to pay a combined maximum fine of $1 million ($500,000 each) and serve a year of probation. Judge Maloney also sentenced the owners of these businesses. Craig Scholten and Ryan Bos were each fined $6,000 and sentenced to a four-month term of home detention as a portion of their one-year probation sentence. Douglas Larsen was fined $7,500 and sentenced to two-month home detention as part of a one-year probation sentence. Scott DeKock was fined $10,000 and received one year of probation. In imposing the sentences, Judge Maloney commented on the “systematic violations” of the Clean Air Act that occurred in this case.
“This case is one of the largest of its kind ever charged in the United States and today’s sentences send a loud and clear message that polluters who break environmental laws will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “Environmental rules safeguard the water we drink, the lakes we fish, and the air we breathe. It’s critical that we protect our people and our planet from harmful pollutants.”
The two companies, Douglas Larsen, Craig Scholten, Ryan Bos, and Scott DeKock all pleaded guilty to charges of conspiring to violate the Clean Air Act. According to public records filed in the case, Accurate Truck Service, LLC, is owned by Larsen, Scholten, and Bos. Griffin Transportation, Inc., is owned by Scholten and Bos. DeKock used to own a shipping company involved in the scheme.
Accurate Truck Service, LLC, removed or altered the hardware components of trucks with heavy-duty diesel engines; these components controlled the vehicles’ emissions. A separate company, Diesel Freak LLC, reprogrammed the engine computers of the trucks so that they would continue to function even after the hardware was removed or altered. This process is sometimes referred to as a “deletion,” that is, “deleting” the emissions controls from the vehicles. “Deleting” emissions controls from the vehicles can improve performance and fuel economy and save maintenance costs, but also causes significant detrimental environmental impacts. Tampering with or removing emissions controls can drastically increase the emissions of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and non-methane hydrocarbons found in vehicle exhaust. Exposure to and inhalation of these chemicals at greater levels is associated with serious health risks.
Griffin Transportation, Inc., and the company DeKock formerly owned engaged Accurate Truck Service, LLC, and Diesel Freak LLC to “delete” trucks owned, operated, or leased by the companies. During the conspiracy, Diesel Freak LLC was involved in at least 362 deletions; Accurate Truck Service, LLC, in at least 83 deletions; Griffin Transportation, Inc., in at least 12 deletions; and DeKock’s former company in at least 4 deletions. Diesel Freak LLC, Diesel Freak LLC’s owner, Ryan Lalone, and Diesel Freak employee Wade Lalone are scheduled for sentencing before Judge Maloney on December 11, 2023.
“Exposure to diesel exhaust can lead to serious health conditions, such as asthma and respiratory illness, and contributes greatly to poor air quality -- concerns the defendants in this case ignored in favor of financial profit,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Lisa Matovic of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division (“EPA-CID”). “The sentencings in this case show that EPA and our law enforcement partners will hold accountable individuals who disregard health and environmental laws designed to protect our communities from dangerous air pollution.”
The purpose of the Clean Air Act is, among other things, “to protect and enhance the quality of the Nation’s air resources so as to promote the public health and welfare and the productive capacity of its population.” In passing the Act, Congress found that “the increasing use of motor vehicles[] has resulted in mounting dangers to the public health and welfare.”
U.S. Attorney Totten also noted that those with information about other companies and individuals involved in tampering with emissions controls in connection with this investigation can contact EPA-CID at (734) 214-4913. General environmental violations can be reported to EPA through the website https://echo.epa.gov/report-environmental-violations.
EPA-CID investigated the matters with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Investigation Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin M. Presant and Meagan Johnson prosecuted the cases.
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Benton Harbor Man Indicted for Possessing Firearms as A FelonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Terrence Terrial Izear Turner, 28, of Benton Harbor, with two counts of being a convicted felon in possession of firearms. The indictment alleges that Turner possessed a Taurus Spectrum pistol in July and a loaded Glock handgun in August 2023. The maximum possible penalty for each count is 15 years in prison.
“We are serious about stopping the proliferation of illegal firearms, especially in West Michigan communities combatting high rates of violent crime, such as Benton Harbor, said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “We will use all the tools at our disposal to hold the offenders disrupting local communities accountable for their illegal gun possession.”
“I am extremely proud of the outstanding work by the Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force for successfully investigating the alleged crimes committed by Mr. Turner,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI is committed to leveraging our law enforcement partnerships to ensure Michigan residents are safe in our communities.”
“The MSP is proud to work with our local and federal partners to target the most violent offenders in and around Benton Harbor,” said Michigan State Police Spl/Lt. DuWayne Robinson. “We work diligently to combat violence and these indictments prove we are dedicated to making our streets safer for all Michiganders.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force, which is a joint local and federal investigative team that includes the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Michigan State Police, Benton Charter Township Police Department, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department, and the FBI.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren F. Biksacky as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide initiative to reduce violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, and federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement work closely together to identify and prosecute individuals responsible for driving violent crime in our communities in order to make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Individuals with information or concerns about violent crime or firearms offenses should contact local law enforcement. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, visit: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
A copy of the indictment is attached. The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Turner Indictment###
Benton Harbor Man Indicted for Possessing A Firearm as A FelonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Shamonte Demorquez Buchanan, 25, of Benton Harbor, with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Buchanan had a loaded Glock handgun. The maximum possible penalty for felon in possession of a firearm is 15 years in prison.
“Felons illegally possessing firearms pose a great danger to our communities in West Michigan, especially in areas where gun violence is inflicted on community members at the highest rates,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Our office and our law enforcement partners are vigilant, and we will continue these efforts to ensure that the community can feel safe.”
“The gun crimes alleged to have been committed by Mr. Buchanan have no place in our community,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “I would like to thank the Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force for their outstanding work disrupting violent criminal activities and ensuring a safer Michigan."
“The MSP is proud to work with our local and federal partners to target the most violent offenders in and around Benton Harbor,” said Michigan State Police Spl/Lt. DuWayne Robinson. “We work diligently to combat violence and these indictments prove we are dedicated to making our streets safer for all Michiganders.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force, which is a joint local and federal investigative team that includes the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Michigan State Police, Benton Charter Township Police Department, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department, and the FBI.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren F. Biksacky as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide initiative to reduce violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, and federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement work closely together to identify and prosecute individuals responsible for driving violent crime in our communities in order to make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Individuals with information or concerns about violent crime or firearms offenses should contact local law enforcement. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, visit: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
A copy of the indictment is attached. The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Buchanan Indictment
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Bomb Maker Sentenced to 52 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Terrance Wayne VanOchten, 57, of Mancelona, was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison. VanOchten pled guilty in June to possessing three pipe bombs, which were found as part of a large cache of military-style firearms and equipment. Other evidence in the case demonstrated that VanOchten made threatening statements about elected public officials at the same time he possessed the bombs. U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney imposed the sentence.
“In urban centers and rural spaces, Michiganders deserve to live in peace and safety without the menace of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Mr. VanOchten possessed unlawful pipe bombs, posed a threat to others, and is now being held to account.”
Kalkaska County Sheriff’s deputies responded to VanOchten’s home in August 2022, after neighbors reported he was shooting what sounded like a machine gun. He answered the door with a loaded pistol, and later admitted he had been shooting a modified AR-15 style assault rifle into his backyard. Deputies executed a search warrant and found three assembled metal pipe bombs in VanOchten’s house. They also found highlighted explosives guides, a “Militia Battle Manual,” and more than a dozen weapons, including semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and a 40mm projectile launcher. VanOchten received an enhanced sentence because he was using drugs at the time of the shooting incident. The Court also considered that his bond was revoked for keeping undisclosed weapons and ammunition.
“VanOchten’s illegal possession of explosives have found him a pathway to prison,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Illegal explosives and weapons are a threat to public safety and have no place in our community. Those who threaten public safety will be held accountable by ATF.”
The case was investigated by ATF’s Grand Rapids Resident Agency and the Kalkaska County Sheriff’s Office.
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Former Chair of Marijuana Board, Rick Johnson, Sentenced to 55 Months in Federal Prison for BriberyRead the Press Release
Johnson Obtained More Than $110,000 In Bribe Payments; U.S. Attorney Mark Totten Affirms Commitment to Fight Public Corruption
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Rick Vernon Johnson, 70, of LeRoy, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 55 months in federal prison and fined $50,000 for soliciting and accepting bribes in his role as the former Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Licensing Board (MMLB). Johnson was also ordered to forfeit an additional $110,200. Following his release from prison, Johnson will serve two years on supervised release. U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering imposed the sentence.
“Rick Johnson’s brazen corruption tainted an emerging industry, squandered the public’s trust, and scorned a democracy that depends on the rule of law,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office stands ready to fight public corruption whenever and wherever we find it, without fear or favor, following the evidence wherever it leads, with independence and impartiality.”
Rick Johnson was a member and the Chairperson of the MMLB between May 2017 and April 2019. Prior to his appointment to that Board, Johnson worked as a lobbyist in Lansing, Michigan, and served as Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives between 2001 and 2004.
Johnson received at least $110,200 in bribes while he was MMLB Chair, including cash payments, flights to Canada on private aircraft, and commercial sex paid for by others. Co-defendant John Dalaly, who was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison by Judge Beckering on September 14, 2023, paid Johnson $68,200 in bribes. Co-defendants Brian Pierce and Vincent Brown, who will be sentenced on October 18, 2023, paid $42,000 to or for the benefit of Johnson.
Johnson took several steps to conceal the bribes, such as using a second “burner” phone and laundering bribes through various limited liability companies he controlled to hide their purpose. In addition, several bribe payers referred to Johnson using the alias “Batman.”
In return for those payments, Johnson provided an unfair advantage to bribe payers in the form of his favorable vote on license applications, his help and support throughout the licensing process, and confidential inside information pertaining to the MMLB’s work and other applicants.
The remaining defendants, Brian Pierce and Vincent Brown, will be sentenced for conspiracy to commit bribery on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., respectively, in Grand Rapids. Judge Beckering will also impose those sentences.
“Public corruption is the top criminal investigative priority for the FBI,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “I am thankful for the outstanding FBI personnel for their daily commitment to following the facts, not politics, wherever they lead, particularly in this case. The FBI continues to urge concerned citizens to report public corruption information they believe they may have by calling FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.”
Assistant United States Attorneys Chris O’Connor and Clay Stiffler are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
Filed Governments Sentencing Memorandum Johnson###
MEDIA NOTE: U.S. Attorney Totten’s remarks following today’s sentencing can be viewed on the U.S. Attorney’s Facebook Page at streamed live @usao.wdmi on the U.S. Attorney’s Facebook Page.
Previous press releases concerning this case can be viewed by visiting the below links.
- Oakland County Businessman Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison for Paying Bribes to Rick Johnson
- Four Charged in State Bribery Scheme
- Rick Johnson, former Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Licensing Board, and three others have agreed to plead guilty and cooperate in ongoing investigation
Nurse Impostor Charged in Multi-Count Federal IndictmentRead the Press Release
Leticia Gallarzo used the identity of a real nurse to obtain employment as a registered nurse
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Leticia Gallarzo, 48, of Allegan County, with wire fraud, two counts of aggravated identity theft, two counts of making false statements in medical records affecting health care benefit programs, and production of a false identification document, all charges relating to her scheme to defraud employers by posing as a registered nurse.
“These allegations that Ms. Gallarzo faked her qualifications as a licensed medical professional are highly concerning and potentially put innocent patients at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office takes this threat to the public very seriously and thanks our law enforcement partners for their investigative work in this case.”
If convicted, Gallarzo faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud and two years mandatory imprisonment for aggravated identity theft, to be served consecutively to the underlying sentence.
According to allegations in the indictment and a previously filed criminal complaint, Gallarzo used the Michigan licensing number and the name of a person licensed as a nurse to obtain employment as a registered nurse at two different locations: an area nursing home and a hospice facility. Gallarzo did not possess a valid nursing license and represented that she earned a master’s degree in nursing from The George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Davenport University, despite not having a degree of any kind in nursing. Gallarzo produced a counterfeit Michigan nursing license that was also used to obtain employment with the hospice facility. The hospice facility learned that Gallarzo was a nurse impostor when her fingerprints matched the fingerprints on record due to her previous state and federal convictions for practicing nursing without a license in Texas in 2015 and 2016. The Michigan State Police arrested Gallarzo shortly thereafter.
“As alleged in this case, the defendant recklessly and willingly put the lives of innocent patients at risk,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI remains committed to ensuring identity theft cases like this one are thoroughly investigated. I would like to extend a special thank you to the Michigan State Police for their outstanding work and support throughout this case.”
“The defendant’s alleged actions demonstrate blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of those under her purported care,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “To ensure that patients receive appropriately qualified services, HHS-OIG will steadfastly pursue those who misrepresent their medical qualifications.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Grand Rapids Field Office and U.S. Health and Human Service Office of Inspector General are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ron Stella is prosecuting the case.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Serial Domestic Abuser Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Dominic Nathaniel Alexander, age 36, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The government had asked the Court to impose an increased sentence due to Alexander’s “striking pattern of violence,” which included “beating and choking multiple domestic partners.” In imposing the sentence at the top of the advisory range, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Hala Y. Jarbou remarked on “the seriousness of this offense” and Alexander’s history of “assaultive” conduct.
“Today’s sentence sends a message to both perpetrators and victims of domestic violence,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “To perpetrators: if you illegally possess a firearm, federal agents and prosecutors stand ready to investigate and prosecute you to the fullest extent permitted by law. To victims: we see you, and we hear your silent cries for help. Please know there is hope, and that you are not alone.”
According to sentencing materials filed by the government, Alexander’s history of violence stretches back for nearly a decade, and includes multiple occasions on which he beat, choked, and strangled multiple domestic partners. In addition, in 2018, Alexander was convicted of stabbing an unarmed man in the back and throat, reportedly causing permanent damage. In this case, Alexander pled guilty to illegally possessing a pistol and 117 rounds of ammunition.
“Dominic Alexander is a convicted felon and a serial domestic violence abuser who illegally possessed and sold an illegal firearm. Above all else, accountability matters,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Mr. Alexander is going to have a lot of free time to reflect on his consistent track record of illegal activity. Our community is a safer place today with Mr. Alexander off the streets.”
Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Across the nation and in Michigan domestic violence is a serious threat. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. Moreover, studies have shown that domestic violence perpetrators often use firearms to abuse and control their victims, who are five times as likely to be killed if their abuser has access to a firearm.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan has brought other cases to address the threat of domestic violence, as well. This past June, for example, the Office announced a 15-year sentence for Mitchell Pierce, 45, of Muskegon after he pleaded guilty to stalking and being a felon in possession of firearms. Pierce had threatened to torture and kill his ex-wife, as well as kill her children, other family members, and friends.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Castle.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, resources are available. To contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline, call 1-800-799-SAFE or text “START” to 88788. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
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Hudsonville Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years for Sexually Exploiting ChildrenRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Austin Thomas Noel, 27, of Hudsonville, Michigan, was sentenced to 210 months in prison for sexually exploiting children. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker also imposed seven years of supervised release following Noel’s custodial sentence.
“My office takes child exploitation cases very seriously,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “Mr. Noel used social media to cast a wide net in search of girls and young women to sexually exploit. Now, he will serve over 17 years in prison for his predatory behavior. Our foot is on the gas and others who commit these crimes against children will face a similar fate.”
“This sentence should serve as a deterrent to anyone considering preying on our most innocent and vulnerable members of society,” said Devin J. Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting violent predators who commit crimes against our children. Successful work like this is made possible thanks to the wide network of law enforcement partners and we appreciate their critical support throughout this investigation.”
In January 2022, a mother reported to the FBI that she discovered her daughter had been engaging in sexually explicit chats with a man using the account name, “official_anoel.” The conversations started when the child was 13 years old and continued for around two years. The FBI identified Austin Noel as the man behind the “official_anoel” account and uncovered more than 700 chat logs and communications between Noel and girls and young women. Approximately 37 of these individuals identified themselves as minors, more than 20 of which were between the ages of 12 and 15 years old. Throughout the chats, Noel made numerous efforts to meet with the minors for sex. In March 2023, Noel pleaded guilty to a Felony Information charging him with sexually exploiting the victim and using her to create child pornography for him.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following web site: https://www.justice.gov/psc. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Mekaru and investigated by FBI Grand Rapids, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Norton Shores Police Department, and the West Michigan Based Child Exploitation Trafficking Task Force (WEBCHEX), which is a partnership of FBI, Michigan State Police, and local agencies dedicated to investigating offenses against children.
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Oakland County Businessman Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison for Paying Bribes to Rick JohnsonRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that John Dawood Dalaly, 71, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 28 months in federal prison and fined $25,000 for paying bribes to Rick Vernon Johnson, the former Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Licensing Board. Following his release from prison, Dalaly will serve two years on supervised release. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering.
“John Dalaly bribed a public official. He corrupted a process designed to give people a fair shot at entering this promising new market,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten “Now, he’ll serve time in a federal prison. Public corruption is a poison to our democracy, and we will hold offenders accountable whenever and wherever we find them.”
Rick Johnson was a member and the Chairperson of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Licensing Board (MMLB) between May 2017 and April 2019. Prior to his appointment to that Board, Johnson worked as a lobbyist in Lansing, Michigan, and served as Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives.
John Dalaly operated two companies that were formed with the purpose of obtaining various operating licenses from the MMLB or exploring the licensing of a digital currency platform for medical marijuana financial transactions. Dalaly admitted paying at least $68,200 in cash and other benefits (including private charter flights) to Johnson while he served as the Chair of the MMLB. In return, Johnson voted in favor of approving the prequalification status for one of Dalaly’s companies and voted in favor of granting medical marijuana licenses to that company. Johnson also provided valuable non-public information about the anticipated rules and operation of the MMLB and assistance with license application matters to Dalaly and others who paid him money.
“The corrupt activities uncovered in this case were facilitated by men whose desire for favorable treatment outweighed notions of integrity and fair play,” said Devin J. Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Public corruption is the FBI's top criminal investigative priority and anyone who seeks to influence public officials through bribery will be thoroughly investigated.”
Rick Johnson’s sentencing for accepting bribes is scheduled for Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. in Grand Rapids before U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten is scheduled to attend Johnson’s sentencing hearing and provide comments outside immediately following.
On Wednesday, October 18, 2023, sentencing hearings have been scheduled for Brian Pierce at 11 a.m. and Vince Brown at 1:30 p.m. in Grand Rapids before U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering.
Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher O’Connor and Clay Stiffler are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Celebrates Funding Awarded for Legal Services and Improved Court Responses to Domestic and Sexual ViolenceRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The need for specialized legal services is both urgent and essential for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. These services provide interventions, such as securing restraining or protective orders, that are crucial for survivor safety. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan is proud to announce that the Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $1.783 million to statewide and local agencies in the district to provide legal services and improve the effective coordination of justice systems impacting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
- OVW awarded $600,000 under the Legal Assistance for Victims (LAV) Program to the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence. The LAV Program addresses the legal needs of survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
- OVW awarded $1.183 million under the Justice for Families (JFF) Program, which includes $583,000 to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and $600,000 to the Child and Family Services of Northwest Michigan. The JFF Program aims to improve the capacity of communities and courts to respond to families impacted by violence.
“I am pleased to announce that these two organizations in the Western District of Michigan have been awarded funding from the Office on Violence Against Women,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Protecting the victims of gender-based violence and discrimination is a critical part of our mission. This funding will help our statewide and local partners and the justice system continue to support survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.”
“The Legal Assistance for Victims Grant, in conjunction with the Justice for Families Program and the Domestic Violence Mentor Court Technical Assistance Initiative, serve as a powerful multi-pronged strategy to transform the justice system's approach to supporting families affected by violence," stated OVW Director Rosemarie Hidalgo. "These grants enhance court-related programs, trauma-informed training, and resources, while also providing victims with specialized legal support. This includes assistance with securing protective orders and navigating complex family law matters. Collectively, these grants advance a more comprehensive approach, aimed at ensuring that survivors and their families don't merely navigate our legal system, but genuinely find a path to justice and safety.”
Following are several cases prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District concerning gender-based discrimination Muskegon Man Sentenced To 15 Years In Prison For Stalking His Ex-Wife And Possessing Firearms and U.S. Attorney Announced Justice Department Settlement In Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Michigan Landlord.
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OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
Niles Man Indicted for Possessing A Firearm as A Felon and Possessing A MachinegunRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Lawrence Edward Slaughter II, 19, of Niles, with possessing a loaded Glock handgun when he was ineligible to possess firearms because of a prior felony conviction. The indictment also alleges that the handgun had been modified to a fully automatic firearm using a conversion device. A conversion device meets the federal definition of a “machinegun.”
“Gun violence is an epidemic across America and here in Michigan that inflicts immense trauma on communities,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “The prevalence of machinegun conversion devices in the Western District is a particularly troubling trend that my office takes seriously. Criminals who traffic or possess these devices face the prospect of federal prosecution.” At the conclusion of the press conference, U.S. Attorney Totten affirmed his Office’s commitment to protect communities in every corner of the state: “Rest assured that whether you live in a big city or a small town, whether you work in a major metropolitan center or make your living working the land in the rural parts of the state: we are here to protect you and we will go anywhere to do so.”
The indictment charges Slaughter with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a machinegun. The maximum possible penalty for felon in possession of a firearm is 15 years in prison; the maximum penalty for possession of a machinegun is 10 years.
“Removing violent offenders from our communities is one of the highest priorities of the FBI and our law enforcement partners,” said Devin J. Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “We are proud of our partnership with the Niles Police Department and of our combined efforts to remove the most violent offenders from this community.”
“The Niles Police Department reaffirms its commitment to combatting illegal gun violence and possession within our community,” said Niles Police Department Captain Chad Mitchell. “By joining forces with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Niles Police Department aims to bolster its resources, intelligence-sharing capabilities, and prosecutorial strength to target and apprehend those involved in illegal gun activities.”
The indictment was announced during a press conference at Niles Police Department with U.S. Attorney Totten, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan Devin Kowalski, Niles Department of Public Safety Director Mike Dawson, Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey, and the Michigan State Police. Video of today’s press conference can be viewed on the U.S. Attorney’s Facebook Page.
The case was investigated by the Niles Police Department, the Michigan State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) in Saint Joseph, Michigan. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaToyia Carpenter.
A copy of the indictment is attached. The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
slaughter_lawrence_indictment.pdf###
Colorado Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Drug Smuggling and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN —U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten announced that Colorado resident Brendon Gagne, 27, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison for conspiring to smuggle unapproved, misbranded prescription drugs into the United States and conspiring to launder the proceeds of that smuggling.
U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker also ordered Gagne to pay a money judgment of $219,793.98, representing the monies traceable to the smuggling conspiracy, and a fine of $2,000. Upon release from prison, Gagne will be on supervised release for a period of three years.
“Smuggling illegal prescription drugs into the United States and distributing them to customers without a prescription is dangerous and potentially deadly,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “There is a reason these drugs should only be prescribed by a licensed medical professional. Here, the conspirators operated a vast network distributing these drugs throughout the country, including here in West Michigan. My office is committed to bringing the people who peddle drugs to justice. Today’s sentence of Mr. Gagne is a vital step in ensuring the continued safety of the communities we serve.”
The facts presented to the court during the case were that, in 2018, Gagne established www.ExpressPCT.com, a public website that sold unapproved, misbranded prescription drugs and controlled substances to customers without a prescription. The drugs, marketed largely to individuals in the body-building community, were targeted to counteract the side effect of anabolic steroid use. For years, Gagne recruited and worked with others to import the drugs into the United States illegally. The drug packages did not declare their illicit contents and instead took steps to conceal their true nature. For example, conspirators frequently concealed the drugs inside cosmetic boxes and declared on customs forms that the drugs were, instead, “cosmetics” or “gifts.” Customers paid for the drugs either in cryptocurrency or, later, through a payment processing system designed to conceal the amount of money generated by the website and the amount of income earned by Gagne and others. Gagne and the website’s other owners ultimately earned millions of dollars from the scheme, most of which they received in cryptocurrency and then shipped to accounts overseas to avoid law enforcement detection.
“Today’s sentencing of Mr. Gagne is another example of the commitment the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and our law enforcement partners have to identifying, disrupting, and arresting those individuals who attempt to distribute illicit drugs, and in this case foreign unapproved drugs, through the U.S. Mail,” said Rodney Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Detroit Division. “We will continue to pursue those drug traffickers who distribute potentially dangerous, foreign unapproved prescription drugs and attempt to exploit the distribution channels of the United States Postal Service. I’d like to thank the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, the Michigan State Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for their persistence and dedication in this investigation.”
"Prescription drugs that are smuggled from overseas and are outside the secure supply chain can present a serious health risk to those who use them. The drugs may contain unknown or dangerous ingredients and are manufactured under unknown or unregulated conditions,” said Special Agent in Charge Ronne G. Malham, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Chicago Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who traffic in illegal prescription drugs.”
In sentencing Gagne, Judge Jonker noted the serious nature of the crime and the sophisticated nature of the smuggling conspiracy, commenting that he had no doubt that Gagne was a driving force behind the website.
Gagne is one of ten defendants who were involved in the scheme to import illegal drugs into the United States. As the creator of the website, Gagne served as a leader in the conspiracy, which Judge Jonker cited as a basis to increase Gagne’s prison sentence. Other defendants sentenced in the scheme include the following:
Name
Hometown
Sentence
James Funaro
Atlanta, GA
15 months in prison
Jeremy Walenty
Tampa, FL
3 years of probation
Taylor McLaren
Colorado Springs, CO
2 years of probation
Joshua Ford
Troy, MI
2 years of probation
Phillip Leonowens
Boulder, CO
2 years of probation
Ross Lucien
Longmont, CO
2 years of probation
Taylor McLaughlin
Muskegon, MI
2 years of probation
Mikaela Hall
Muskegon, MI
2 years of probation
The final defendant in the scheme, Jennifer Garrett of Miami, Florida, is scheduled to plead guilty in the coming weeks.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Michigan State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie M. Carowan prosecuted the case for the government.
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Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Nationwide Sextortion CaseRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Brandon Huu Le, 22, of Maitland, Florida, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for receipt of child pornography in connection with a sextortion scheme using the popular social media app Snapchat. In sentencing Le, U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker said the conduct was “heinous” and Le’s threats were “serious, graphic, coercive, and manipulative.” Judge Jonker also commented on the increasing frequency of sextortion schemes and the fact that these schemes cause “harsh results and pain” and “sometimes much worse.”
“Mr. Le’s actions were nothing short of vile,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “They had a devastating impact upon his victims. Sextortion is a growing threat in Michigan and across the nation, and my office will continue to hold these perpetrators accountable. With our law enforcement partners, we stand ready to protect anyone who finds themselves a victim of this crime.”
Video message from U.S. Attorney Totten concerning the Le case.
“Protecting our young people from predators like Brandon Le is a top priority for the FBI and law enforcement agencies across Michigan,” said Devin J. Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Today’s sentence should bring some measure of peace to Le’s survivors who very courageously reported his behavior to law enforcement. The community is considerably safer with Le behind bars.
According to court records, Le used social media accounts associated with the alias “Ty Addison” to contact at least 270 girls on Snapchat between August 2019 and December 2019. If a girl responded, Le turned the conversation to sexual topics. Le then began an escalating series of threats. His threats targeted his adolescent victims’ fears and insecurities about their futures, their relationships, their reputations, their bodies and bodily autonomy, and their safety. Le used publicly available information about the girls (for example, their schools and online contacts) to bolster his threats. In some cases, Le threatened girls into turning on their Snapchat location sharing to identify where they lived. He typically threatened to publicly disclose the sexually charged conversation unless the girl sent him an explicit picture, threatened to release the picture unless the girl sent him an explicit video, and threatened to release the video unless the girl engaged in a live video call in which the girl followed sexual commands as Le directed in the chat. His threats included messages such as ““Either f-----g send the pic now or I’m not gonna give your [sic] anymore chances . . . I think you want me to mail to your house now . . . I think you want your parents to see those nudes you sent me . . . Maybe your sisters want to see what a good slut you are” and “[D]o you want me to post your nudes? Do you want to ruin your chances of ever going to a good college? Do you want to ruin your chances of getting a good job?”
Many of Le’s victims were minors and, as they told Le, the images and videos he solicited were child pornography. One of Le’s victims was a 13-year-old girl living in the Western District of Michigan. Some victims begged him to stop; other times parents intervened and told Le to stop, but he persisted—if victims blocked him, he contacted them on other platforms, messaged their friends and family, or followed through on his threats, including in one case sending explicit pictures of a victim to her college’s admissions department.
Copies of the indictment, the government’s sentencing memorandum, and the government’s sentencing exhibits are attached below.
The FBI provides the following tips on how people can protect themselves from sextortion schemes:
- Be selective about what you share online. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you.
- Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online. Block or ignore messages from strangers.
- Be aware that people can pretend to be anything or anyone online. Videos and photos are not proof that people are who they claim to be. Images can be altered or stolen. In some cases, predators have even taken over the social media accounts of their victims.
- Be suspicious if you meet someone on one game or app and this person asks you to start talking on a different platform.
- Be in the know. Any content you create online—whether it is a text message, photo, or video—can be made public. And nothing actually “disappears” online. Once you send something, you don’t have any control over where it goes next.
- Be willing to ask for help. If you are getting messages or requests online that don’t seem right, block the sender, report the behavior to the site administrator, or go to an adult. If you have been victimized online, tell someone.
If you have information about or believe you are a victim of sextortion, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at http://tips.fbi.gov. More information is available at https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/safety-resources/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/sextortion .
The case was investigated by the FBI, the Coplay (Pennsylvania) Police Department, and the Maitland (Florida) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Townshend represented the United States.
Le Indictment
Government Sentencing Memo
Exhibit 1 to Government Sentencing Memo
Exhibit 2 to Government Sentencing Memo
Exhibit 3 to Government Sentencing Memo###
Kalamazoo Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Federal Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
Case Represented the Largest Seizure of Fentanyl in the Kalamazoo Area
GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that U.S. District Judge Paul L. Maloney sentenced Tyrone Henderson, 51, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, to 27 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine and for being a felon in possession of firearms. After release from prison, Henderson will spend five years on federal supervised release. The Court also ordered Henderson to forfeit firearms and drug proceeds seized from his residence.
“We’re in a fight to save lives against illegal firearms and fentanyl, which pose an extreme danger to our communities,” said U.S Attorney Totten. “Disrupting the supply lines of illegal drugs and unlawful guns is a top priority for my office. I applaud our local, state, federal, and multi-jurisdictional task force partners for their investigative work to protect our communities and hold Mr. Henderson accountable.”
The Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team (KVET), a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force, had an ongoing investigation of Henderson for his involvement with fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution in Kalamazoo. KVET obtained a warrant to search Henderson’s residence and executed it on November 10, 2022. A search of the residence yielded 2.3 kilograms of pure fentanyl, 1.3 kilograms of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, 516 grams of heroin, and 489 grams of methamphetamine. Much of the methamphetamine seized from Henderson’s residence was in pill form, disguised to look like the party drug ecstasy. Henderson’s residence also contained four assault rifles; ten magazines, nine of which were loaded and fit the assault rifles; ammunition; a handgun; digital scales; presses; and other implements used for processing narcotics. Two of the seized firearms were reported stolen to the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety. Henderson has multiple prior felony convictions, including a prior federal drug trafficking conviction, and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Maloney observed that fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine are a “scourge” not only in the Western District of Michigan, but across the United States and that fentanyl is the primary catalyst for the spike in drug overdoses in the past five years. Judge Maloney noted that Henderson did not learn his lesson after spending nearly 10 years in prison on his prior federal drug trafficking conviction. He characterized Henderson as a “threat to the public” given the lethal nature of fentanyl, the quantity of drugs Henderson possessed, and the nature and number of firearms involved in the case. In handing down the 27-year sentence, Judge Maloney recognized the need to “incapacitate” Henderson from committing further crimes of this nature.
“Today’s sentence of Tyrone Henderson is a testament to the hard work DEA and our outstanding law enforcement partners put into this investigation," said Orville O. Greene, Special Agent in Charge of Detroit Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration. "We will continue to aggressively pursue those who deal drugs and cause death in our community.”
“The Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team is proud of the work accomplished to seize these lethal drugs and dangerous weapons off the street and successfully prosecute Mr. Henderson with our federal partners,” said KVET Sgt Brian Cake. “Our hope is that this lengthy prison sentence sends a clear message to deter anyone else who is currently involved in similar illegal crimes in our city.”
The investigation of Henderson was handled by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel S. Fauson and Austin J. Hakes prosecuted the case.
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Lansing Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Davion Shymarri Shaltry, 19, of Lansing, Michigan, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon. Shaltry will be on supervised release for three years after he is released from prison.
“Mr. Shaltry was caught with a gun three days after his sentencing in Ingham County for illegally possessing a different gun,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “As this sentence reflects, we’re serious about stopping the flow of illegal firearms, which is fueling a gun violence epidemic across Michigan and the United States. Ending gun violence is a top priority of my office. No parent, no child, no person should have to live with the threat of violence this crisis has created.”
“Davion Shaltry, only 19-years-old, with a felony record blatantly thumbed his nose at the criminal justice system when he possessed an illegal firearm three days after being sentenced in a separate gun case,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Mr. Shaltry is now heading to prison rather than trying to obtain another illegal firearm. Our community is much safer with Mr. Shaltry off the streets.”
Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Michigan State Police, and the Lansing Police Department. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Pulda.
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Missaukee County Man Sentenced to 90 Years for Sexual Exploitation of Multiple ChildrenRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced the sentencing of Nathan Gary Christensen, 45, of Manton, Michigan, to 1,080 months in custody with the Bureau of Prisons. If released, Christensen must spend the rest of his life on supervised release.
“Mr. Christensen’s sexual abuse of innocent children is horrific," said U.S. Attorney Totten. “This 90-year sentence does not begin to undo the harm he’s inflicted on our most vulnerable. No sexual predator who learns of Mr. Christensen’s fate should experience a moment of ease: we will find you and we will hold you accountable.”
“These crimes are nothing less than monstrous,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “My thoughts are with the victims in this case, and it is my hope that today’s sentencing will bring some measure of peace as they heal from these horrific crimes. I would like to thank the Australian Federal Police and the HSI office in Canberra, whose vigilance helped bring this predator to justice.”
At sentencing today, Chief U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou denounced Christensen’s conduct as horrific. Judge Jarbou stated that in her 25-years of experience as a lawyer and judge she had not seen anything like this before. He “abused trust in the worse possible way and did it for years and did it to multiple victims” with children as young as “3-days old and 3-months old.” Judge Jarbou observed that the “exploitation will last forever” and that the children and their families will be impacted the rest of their lives. “The damage inflicted is life-long.” Judge Jarbou announced that “a life sentence is appropriate,” and sentenced Christensen to 90 years to protect the community, punish him for his conduct, and to send a message of deterrence to others who might contemplate sexually abusing children.
In September 2022, Christensen was identified by Australian Federal Police as a collector of child pornography and a potential producer and contacted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). In October, HSI and the Michigan State Police (MSP) located Christensen and executed search warrants on his home and another associated residence. HSI and MSP then identified Christensen and recognized rooms in the home as the background of some of the images and videos. Christensen was immediately arrested on state charges of criminal sexual assault.
Computer forensic examination disclosed hundreds of thousands of images and videos of child pornography. Christensen was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2023, and transferred to federal custody. In total, eight children were identified as victims and located. The victims were as young as 3-days-old and 3-months-old. Two of the victims had special needs. In March 2023, Christensen pleaded guilty to three counts stemming from his production of child pornography. Each charge had a mandatory minimum of 15 years and a statutory maximum of 30 years. By law, the court was permitted to run the sentences consecutively for a combined maximum of 90 years. In June 2023, Christensen pleaded guilty in Missaukee County to criminal sexual conduct charges and will be sentenced next month with the agreement that his state sentence will run concurrent with the federal sentence.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following web site: www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Mekaru and investigated by HSI Grand Rapids, Michigan State Police, MSP Internet Crimes Against Children taskforce in Traverse City, and the Missaukee County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the Missaukee County Prosecutor’s Office.
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Florida Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Federal Prison for Using Counterfeit U.S. Passport Cards in Check-Cashing SchemeRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten announced that Robert Allen Naber of Melbourne, Florida, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for fraudulent use of U.S. passport cards in the execution of bank check fraud. Naber could potentially serve a much longer time in prison because U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker ordered his federal sentence to run consecutively to two Iowa state prison sentences for similar conduct.
"Counterfeiters target the U.S. passport card because it is a lesser-known identity document and cheaper than other identifying documents to produce,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “I applaud the investigative work that went into this case to hold Mr. Naber accountable as a fraudster, to prevent further financial losses to banks, and to protect unsuspecting individuals from becoming victims of identity theft.”
According to court records, beginning in January 2022, Naber obtained counterfeit U.S. passport cards with the names and other details of victims whose personal identifying information had been stolen and posted on the Dark Web. He also obtained their bank account information and created forged checks in their names. The counterfeit cards contained the victims’ personal information but had Naber’s photograph on them. Naber then used the cards to cash forged checks from bank accounts in Iowa, North Carolina, and Kent County, Michigan. He was briefly arrested after cashing checks in Iowa, but absconded from bond and continued his criminal activity.
The scheme ended in August 2022, when Naber was arrested in Locust, North Carolina while he was attempting to cash a check there. He was transferred to the Western District of Michigan for federal prosecution based on checks he passed in Kent County.
“Individuals and organized criminal groups are using counterfeit U.S. passport cards with increasing frequency in identity theft and related fraud schemes targeting financial institutions and retailers,” said U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service Detroit Resident Agent-in-Charge Matt Kupec. “The Diplomatic Security Service is committed to working with our partners to stop crimes that have the potential to result in millions of dollars in losses throughout the Midwest Region.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service, with assistance from the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, the Grand Rapids Police Department, the Greenfield, Wisconsin Police Department, the Des Moines, Iowa Police Department, and the Locust, North Carolina Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Clay Stiffler and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Clay West prosecuted the case.
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Ogoshi Brothers Plead Not Guilty During ArraignmentRead the Press Release
Nigerian defendants extradited to United States after being indicted for being part of an international sexual extortion ring, causing death of Marquette teen
MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Samuel Ogoshi, 22, and Samson Ogoshi, 20, of Lagos, Nigeria, were arraigned on charges accusing them of sexually extorting numerous young men and teenage boys in the Western District of Michigan and across the United States. Samuel Ogoshi was also arraigned on a charge alleging that this sexual exploitation resulted in the suicide of 17-year-old Jordan DeMay, of Marquette, Michigan. The Ogoshis pleaded not guilty after being formally advised of the charges against them during today’s arraignment. A detention hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 23, 2023.
“Today’s hearing is another step forward in the judicial process following the successful extradition of the Ogoshi brothers from Nigeria to the United States on last Sunday,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office is fully prepared to present the facts of the case during a fair trial.”
On August 13, 2023, the Ogoshis were extradited to the United States from Nigeria to face prosecution after being indicted in November 2022 for sexual extortion.
In November 2022, Samuel Ogoshi and Samson Ogoshi were charged in a four-count indictment: Count 1 charges Samuel Ogoshi with Sexual Exploitation and Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Resulting in Death in association with the death of Jordan DeMay. The charge carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and a statutory mandatory minimum of 30 years in prison. Count 2 charges both men with Conspiracy to Sexually Exploit Minors by causing the minors to produce child pornographic images that the defendants then used to blackmail the minors. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison. Count 3 charges both men with Conspiracy to Distribute Child Pornography for sending the child pornography images to the minors, as well as their families and friends. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison. Count 4 charges both men with Conspiracy to Commit Stalking Through the Internet for engaging in this sextortion scheme as it relates to both minors and young adults. The charge has a maximum penalty of five years in prison. All charges have provisions for fines, restitution, and supervised release after their release from prison.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Mekaru and Davin Reust, and investigated by the FBI, the Marquette Sheriff’s Department, and the Michigan State Police Cybercrimes Unit in Marquette with the cooperation and assistance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of Nigeria. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Department of State provided critical assistance in seeking the extradition of the defendants.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
For more information, below are the previous press releases and indictment.
Two Nigerian Men Extradited to The United States After Being Indicted for International Sexual Extortion Ring
Three Nigerian Men Awaiting Extradition for Committing Sexual Extortion
Indictment
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Muskegon Man Sentenced to 100 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker sentenced Jemarion Trevon Flowers to 100 months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl.
“Disrupting drug trafficking rings and ridding our streets of illegal drugs is a priority for my office,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “I applaud our federal, state, local, and multi-jurisdictional teams for their work investigating these types of crimes and helping keep our communities safe.”
Flowers sold half-pound to pound quantities of methamphetamine and lesser quantities of fentanyl to an undercover police officer on four separate occasions between November 2022 and January 2023. The undercover officer posed as a downstream dealer that was sourcing the Traverse City and surrounding areas. In the midst of the investigation, on December 6, 2022, the Muskegon Police Department arrested Flowers while responding to a shots-fired incident. Police found Flowers in a vehicle near the shots-fired incident in possession of a loaded, stolen Glock pistol with an extended magazine and quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine. The court held Flowers responsible for possessing the firearm during drug trafficking when sentencing him.
“The Traverse Narcotics Team (TNT) focuses on those individuals who travel to our area and deal drugs to members of our communities. These dealers prey on addicts in our community,” said TNT D/Sgt. Olivia Whetstone. “We make it a mission to seek prosecution on the dealers to keep our residents safe and to thwart the fentanyl epidemic that is ongoing in our country. This case is an excellent example of state, federal, and local agencies working together to present a case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and getting successful prosecution. TNT will continue to target dealers who come to our area and this sentencing sends a message to others who plan to do the same as Mr. Flowers did.”
“Drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine have devastated communities in Michigan,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “This case demonstrates our steadfast commitment to work with our partners at every level to keep these drugs off our streets and hold drug traffickers accountable for the damage they have done.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Michigan State Police (MSP), and Muskegon Police Department participated in the investigation with critical contributions from the Strike Team Investigative Narcotics Group (STING), Traverse Narcotics Team (TNT) and the West Michigan Enforcement Team (WEMET). Assistant United States Attorney Joel S. Fauson prosecuted the case.
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Jenison Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Michael John Batt, age 36, of Jenison, Michigan, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for creating and distributing pornographic images of a three-year-old child he abused. In imposing the maximum permitted sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Janet T. Neff emphasized the “abhorrent” nature of Batt’s offense, as well as his “extensive collection” of child sexual abuse material. Batt will be on supervised release for 10 years when he gets out of prison, and was also ordered to pay $19,000 in restitution to victims depicted in his child pornography stockpile and over $15,000 in special assessments.
“It is difficult to imagine a crime more heinous than the sexual abuse of a child,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “These are among the most sensitive and serious cases my office takes, and we will continue to prioritize finding and prosecuting child sexual predators.”
Batt was caught after creating child pornography and sending five pornographic images to an undercover police officer. Leading up to his sentencing, Batt admitted the “egregious” nature of his conduct and that his victims would “never fully heal.” Batt also acknowledged his role in “increas[ing] the demand for child pornography with further and future victimization of children.”
“Our community is safer with this predator behind bars,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “We will continue to prioritize the safety and security of children by investigating online sexual offenses involving minors and working with our partners to hold offenders accountable for the severe harm they cause.”
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan; county prosecutor’s offices; HSI; ICAC; the West Michigan Based Child Exploitation Task Force (WEBCHEX); and federal, state, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. Anyone with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement. For more information about Project Safe Childhood in West Michigan, including resources for children and parents, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmi/project-safe-childhood.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Castle.
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Hillsdale County Man Sentenced to 50 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Tye Stiger, 35, from Jonesville, Michigan, was sentenced to 50 years in prison for sexually exploiting four girls between approximately 2007 and 2022. After being caught, Stiger fled to the Philippines before being arrested and returned to the United States to face criminal prosecution. When Stiger is released from prison, he will spend 10 years on supervised release.
“The sexual exploitation of our children will not be tolerated by my office,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “While we can never erase the trauma these young girls experienced at the hands of Mr. Stiger, today’s sentence shows that we are committed to protecting our most vulnerable and holding offenders accountable.”
In February 2022, after two women reported that Stiger groomed and molested them years earlier, police executed a search warrant at Stiger’s home and seized his cell phones and computers. Investigators found voluminous child pornography on the electronics. There was a series of videos from between 2007 and 2009, in which Stiger set up a hidden video camera in a bathroom to record young girls changing their clothes. There were also nude pictures of young girls that Stiger took in 2022. After the search, Stiger flew to Asia with no return trip scheduled. In August 2022, investigators found and arrested Stiger in the Philippines, where he was working at a children’s ministry.
“I commend the victims in this case for their bravery in coming forward to expose the crimes committed by this now convicted felon,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “HSI will continue to work with our partners across the country and around the world to ensure that justice is served for those who would prey on children in our communities.”
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force, federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following web site: www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
This case was investigated by the Michigan State Police, U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.
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