District of Minnesota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Minneapolis Man Sentenced to 12.5 Years in Prison for Violent Carjacking Outside Northeast Minneapolis RestaurantRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minneapolis man has been sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for violently carjacking a woman outside her place of work in northeast Minneapolis as well as his involvement in two additional armed carjackings, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on June 9, 2022, Shamir Nathann Black, 19, and an unidentified accomplice approached a woman outside of her place of work and demanded her car keys. Black proceeded to push the victim to the ground and hit her on the head with a firearm. A bystander attempted to assist the victim but was also assaulted by Black. During the struggle, Black discharged the firearm in the bystander’s direction. Black and an accomplice then got into the victim’s vehicle, but surrounding witnesses pulled Black from the driver’s seat and put him on the ground. Black and his accomplice fled the scene on foot.
After arriving at the scene, officers with the Minneapolis Police Department located a Shadow Systems 9mm semiautomatic pistol wrapped in a gray sweatshirt. The firearm had been reported stolen in Prior Lake in April 2022. Investigators reviewed a social media video that showed Black waving around a handgun that matched the firearm recovered at the crime scene. Further investigation revealed that a Volkswagen Jetta had been taken in a Prior Lake home burglary on the same night the firearm was stolen. Law enforcement later recovered the stolen Jetta from Black’s Minneapolis residence. On June 24, 2022, Black was taken into custody.
Black pleaded guilty on September 20, 2022, to one count of carjacking and admitted to being involved in two additional armed carjackings in Golden Valley in the spring of 2022. Black was sentenced today before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Golden Valley Police Department, and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren O. Roso prosecuted the case.
Cass County Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of an Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Cass County man has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a short-barreled shotgun, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on July 8, 2021, John Jarrod Jones, 44, illegally possessed a 12-gauge short-barreled shotgun. Jones took the firearm into a restroom at the Cedar Lakes Casino and Hotel on the Leech Lake Indian Reservation and hid it behind a garbage can along with a plastic bag containing shotgun shells and a knife. Jones left the restroom and was later arrested in the Casino on unrelated charges.
Because Jones has several prior felony convictions in Hennepin and Cass County, he is prohibited from lawfully possessing any firearms or ammunition. Jones pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Eric C. Tostrud to one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. A sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leech Lake Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily A. Polachek and LeeAnn K. Bell are prosecuting the case.
Former Middle School Paraprofessional Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Child Sextortion SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Coon Rapids man has been sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by 12 years of supervised release for a sextortion scheme that targeted minors through social media and an online gaming forum, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, Glen Robert Anderson, 24, previously worked as a middle school paraprofessional in special education. Anderson used multiple internet applications and social media accounts for email, file sharing, and chatting with minors, including Snapchat and Grindr. Anderson also owned and administered an online gaming forum. To participate in the forum, users were required to submit an application, which included the age of the user. As Anderson knew, many of the users were minors. Between April 1, 2016, through August 20, 2021, Anderson used his position as the forum administrator to groom minors to produce child pornography and engage in sexual activity with him, including by providing minors with in-game perks, privileges, and other gifts. For example, Anderson coerced a 13-year-old victim to engage in sexually explicit acts for the purpose of producing images and videos. Anderson later threatened to release those sexually explicit images if the victim did not respond to Anderson’s demands.
Anderson pleaded guilty on June 28, 2022, to two counts of production of child pornography, one count of enticement of a minor, and one count of interstate communications with intent to extort. He was sentenced on March 15, 2023, before Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Anoka County Sheriff's Office, the Erie County (Ohio) Sheriff's Office, with assistance from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and Waterloo Regional Police Service in Ontario, Canada.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela M. Munoz and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Miranda E. Dugi prosecuted the case.
Anoka Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Machine Gun, MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – An Anoka man has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a machinegun and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, in April 2022, the FBI began investigating Darrian Mitchell Nguyen, 50, based on a tip from a Confidential Human Source (CHS) that Nguyen was in possession of explosive devices, firearms, and methamphetamine, and had expressed a desire to join the Three Percenter militia group, a loosely organized anti-government extremist movement. The CHS told law enforcement that Nguyen kept weapons, including rifles, shotguns, handguns, a grenade launcher, and pipe bombs in “secret” rooms built within the walls of his residence.
According to court documents, to correct a debt owed to the defendant, Nguyen asked the CHS to provide him with firearms, specifically a short-barreled rifle equipped with an auto sear. Through text messages, Nguyen arranged to meet with the CHS to receive four auto sears and a short-barreled rifle equipped with an auto sear. During conversations with the CHS about obtaining firearms, Nguyen discussed interest in a revolution or coup-d’état. At the arranged meeting on October 4, 2022, after Nguyen took possession of the machine gun and the auto sears, law enforcement arrested Nguyen and executed a search warrant at his residence. Law enforcement recovered several firearms from a hidden room and elsewhere inside the residence, including an additional short-barreled rifle and a short-barreled shotgun that Nguyen was not registered to possess.
Nguyen pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Donovan W. Frank to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of unlawful possession of a machinegun.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Manda M. Sertich and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Justin Sher are prosecuting the case.
Federal Jury Convicts Northern Minnesota Felon for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal jury found an Onamia man guilty of illegally possessing a firearm following a domestic assault, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
Following a four-day trial before Senior Judge Michael J. Davis, Justin Lyle Cutbank, 36, was convicted on one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, on November 19, 2020, Leech Lake Tribal Police were dispatched to a residence following a report that Cutbank had physically assaulted a woman, held her at gunpoint, threatened to kill her, and then fled the residence into the woods. Shortly after officers arrived at the residence and took the victim’s statement, a neighbor reported that Cutbank was in their garage and refused to leave. Officers from multiple agencies responded to the location and found Cutbank barricaded in the garage. Several hours of negotiations followed with Cutbank retreating into the attic of the garage and refusing to surrender. Ultimately, officers were able to apprehend Cutbank, who continued to actively resist arrest. The following day, officers searched the wooded area where Cutbank had fled and found a Marlin Model 100 .22 caliber rifle with no serial number, a knife, and the victim’s cell phone.
Because Cutbank has multiple prior felony convictions, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Leech Lake Tribal Police Department, the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, and the Cass County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley M. Endicott and Ruth S. Shnider are prosecuting the case.
St. Paul Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A St. Paul man was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as an Armed Career Criminal, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on March 17, 2022, Geraldo Jay Dilworth, 35, was in possession of a Springfield Armory .45 caliber pistol while waiting to board a train at the Union Depot Station in St. Paul. Because he has multiple prior felony convictions in Ramsey and Washington Counties, including domestic assault and terroristic threats, Dilworth is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
Dilworth pleaded guilty on November 1, 2022, to one count of felon in possession of a firearm as an Armed Career Criminal. He was sentenced on March 14, 2023, by Senior Judge Susan Richard Nelson.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Paul Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren O. Roso prosecuted the case.
St. Louis Park Man Pleads Guilty to CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A St. Louis Park man has pleaded guilty to two counts of cyberstalking involving two victims, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, between September 2020 through December 2021, Julyen Alonzo Martin, 30, cyberstalked and threatened to kill, injure, and harass the victims. In violation of orders of protection issued against him, Martin sent numerous threats and unwanted messages via text message and social media applications to a victim. As a part of his cyberstalking scheme, Martin created social media accounts posing as one of the victims online and posted harmful allegations about the victims. According to court documents, Martin also contacted the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”), falsely alleging that one of the victims was using their work computer to view child pornography. Martin emailed and called the victim’s employer several times claiming the victim was a pedophile being investigated for child endangerment. Also, Martin posed as a federal agent in furtherance of his cyberstalking scheme and claimed to be an FBI Special Agent intending to search the victim’s place of work for evidence.
Martin pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Susan Richard Nelson to two counts of cyberstalking. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 8, 2023.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hillary A. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
Two Individuals Charged in Federal Criminal Complaint for Violent CarjackingRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Two individuals have been charged in a federal criminal complaint for carjacking involving a robbery and holding a victim at gunpoint, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on February 14, 2023, in Anoka County, Jamel Timothy Funchess, 18, and T’Shawn Teon Palton, 21, took a motor vehicle from the vehicle’s owner, by force, violence, and intimidation, with the intent to cause death and serious bodily harm.
According to a law enforcement affidavit, the victim had made arrangements over Facebook Marketplace to buy a cell phone. The victim and the purported seller arranged to meet at a location in Columbia Heights. When the victim arrived at the location and was still in the car, two men approached and one pointed a firearm at the victim. The men ordered the victim to the backseat of the car. The men then got into the victim’s car, drove a few blocks, and picked up a third male. The three individuals held the victim at gunpoint for the next several hours. During this time, the men demanded that the victim surrender their cell phone, wallet, and credit cards, and provide banking information. They drove to several gas stations around the Twin Cities in an attempt to use the victim’s cards to withdraw money. Each of the three men held the firearm during this time and pointed it at the victim. At one point, one of the men struck the victim in the face with the firearm. Toward the end of the ordeal, the three men discussed what to do with the victim and openly talked about murdering the victim. Eventually, they dropped the victim on a road in St. Paul and drove away in the victim’s car. The victim ran to a nearby gas station and borrowed an employee’s cell phone to call 911.
Officers were able to use the victim’s cell phone location to find Palton, Funchess, and the third kidnapper, along with the victim’s stolen car and items.
Both defendants are charged with one count of carjacking. They made their initial appearances today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Bloomington Police Department, and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Calhoun-Lopez and Sarah Hudleston are prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Minneapolis Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a firearm after engaging in a shootout in North Minneapolis, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on December 20, 2021, Dominique Marquise McCaskel, 25, was in possession of a loaded Sig Sauer, model P365, 9mm semiautomatic pistol. According to the defendant’s plea agreement, surveillance footage from a nearby business showed a vehicle drive slowly past McCaskel, stopping momentarily in an alleyway. Upon seeing the vehicle, McCaskel pulled his Sig Sauer firearm from his pocket, ran towards the vehicle, and exchanged gunfire with individuals in the vehicle. McCaskel was shot and fell to the sidewalk, and the vehicle fled the area. Officers with the Minneapolis Police Department responded to the scene and recovered two 9mm discharged cartridge casings near McCaskel on the ground, and later recovered McCaskel’s firearm. The Minneapolis Police Forensics Division determined that the two recovered discharged cartridge casings were shot from McCaskel’s Sig Sauer firearm. The Forensics Division also found McCaskel’s thumbprint on the loaded magazine that was inserted into the firearm.
Because McCaskel has several prior felony convictions, he is prohibited from lawfully possessing any firearms or ammunition. McCaskel pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Ann D. Montgomery to one count of possession of a firearm as an armed career criminal felon. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for July 19, 2023.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Bejar and Hillary A. Taylor are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney Announces Federal Charges Against 10 Additional Defendants in $250 Million Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota today announced federal criminal charges against 10 additional defendants for their alleged roles in the fraud scheme that exploited a federally-funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 10 defendants are charged across four separate indictments and two criminal informations with charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, and bribery.
As outlined in the charging documents, the defendants participated in a massive scheme to defraud the Federal Child Nutrition Program by obtaining, misappropriating, and laundering millions of dollars in program funds that were intended as reimbursements for the cost of serving meals to children. The defendants exploited changes in the program intended to ensure underserved children received adequate nutrition during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than feed children, the defendants enriched themselves by fraudulently misappropriating millions of dollars in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds.
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The following defendants are named in the four indictments:
- Kawsar Jama, 41, of Eagan, was the principal of Gedo Community Services and Ahlan Childcare Center, Inc., both of which Jama enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future and Sponsor A. As alleged, between September 2020 through February 2022, Jama falsely claimed to have served approximately 1.46 million meals to needy children at sites in Pelican Rapids, Burnsville, and Minneapolis. In total, Jama submitted $3.7 million in fraudulent claims for Federal Child Nutrition Program funds, some of which she spent on living expenses, real estate, and vehicles, including a Tesla Model X and an Infiniti QX56 SUV. Jama is charged with five counts of wire fraud and four counts of money laundering. 22-CR-226 (NEB/TNL)
- Abdikadir Kadiye, 51, of Minneapolis, was the president of Hobyo Health Care Foundation, which he enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Sponsor A. As alleged, throughout 2021, Kadiye falsely claimed to have served at least 445,000 meals to needy children at his sites in Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, and Minneapolis. In total, Kadiye submitted more than $1.1 million in fraudulent claims for Federal Child Nutrition Program funds, some of which he spent on vehicles (including a $105,000 2022 BMW sport utility vehicle), airline tickets, real estate, and $20,000 towards the purchase of a laundromat. Kadiye is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and three counts of wire fraud. 22-CR-226 (NEB/TNL)
- Abdulkadir Awale, 50, of Bloomington, was the principal of Karmel Coffee, LLC and Sambusa King, Inc., and the CEO of Nawal Restaurant. All three of Awale’s businesses were enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future and Sponsor A. As alleged, between April 2020 through January 2022, Awale falsely claimed that through his businesses he provided food for more than 3.6 million meals to various sites in Minnesota, totaling approximately $11.8 million in fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. As part of the scheme, Awale also paid at least $83,000 in kickbacks to a Feeding Our Future employee. Awale used some of funds to make mortgage payments, cash withdrawals, and purchase vehicles, including a Freightliner Cascadia truck. Awale is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, five counts of money laundering, three counts of wire fraud, and four counts of federal programs bribery. 22-CR-226 (NEB/TNL)
- Khadra Abdi, 41, of Minneapolis, was the principal of Shafi’I Tutoring & Homework Help Center, which she enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future. As alleged, between April 2020 through December 2021, Abdi falsely claimed to serve 1.1 million meals to needy children at her site in Hopkins. In total, Abdi submitted more than $3.4 million in fraudulent claims for Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. As part of the scheme, Abdi also paid at least $17,000 in kickbacks to a Feeding Our Future employee. Abdi used some of funds to make credit card payments, cash withdrawals, and purchase clothing. Abdi is charged with two counts of wire fraud and three counts of federal programs bribery. 22-CR-226 (NEB/TNL)
- Ayan Farah Abukar, 41, of Savage, was the founder and executive director of Action for East African People, a non-profit which she enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future and Sponsor A. As alleged, between October 2020 through 2022, Abukar falsely claimed to be serving as many as 5,000 children a day at her various sites in Bloomington, Minneapolis, Savage, and St. Paul. In total, Abukar fraudulently received approximately $5.7 million in fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. As part of the scheme, Abukar also paid more than $330,000 in kickbacks to a Feeding Our Future employee. Abukar spent millions on real estate, including a 37-acre commercial property in Lakeville and spent hundreds of thousands of dollars towards the purchase of an aircraft to be delivered to Nairobi, Kenya. Abukar is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, three counts of federal programs bribery, and three counts of money laundering. 23-CR-80
- Sade Osman Hashi, 45, of Minneapolis, was the principal of Great Lakes Inc. and Safari Express, entities which he enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future and Sponsor A. As alleged, between September 2020 through 2022, Hashi falsely claimed to be serving as many as 2,500 meals each day to needy children at his site in the Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis. In total, Hashi fraudulently received approximately $5.7 million in fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. As part of the scheme, Hashi also paid more than $150,000 in kickbacks to a Feeding Our Future employee. Hashi used some of the funds to make cash withdrawals and converted approximately $133,000 to cryptocurrency. Hashi is charged with four counts of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, three counts of federal programs bribery, and one count of money laundering. 23-CR-81
- Sharon Denise Ross, 52, of Big Lake, was the executive director of House of Refuge Twin Cities, a non-profit which she enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future and Sponsor A. As alleged, between October 2021 and January 2022, Ross falsely claimed to be serving thousands of children each day at her House of Refuge sites. In total, Ross fraudulently received approximately $2.8 million in fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program funds, some of which she spent on real estate, vehicles, and payments to family members. Ross is charged with ten counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering. 23-CR-82
Criminal informations:
- Mohamed Ali Hussein, 53, and Lul Bashir Ali, 57, both of Faribault, enrolled their entities Somali American Faribault Education (SAFE) and Lido Restaurant in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future. As alleged, Hussein falsely claimed that the SAFE site in Faribault was serving as many as 2,500 children a day, seven days a week. Lul Ali falsely claimed that the Lido Restaurant site in Faribault was serving as many as 1,600 children a day, seven days a week. In total, Hussein and Lul Ali received more than $5 million in fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. As part of the scheme, Hussein also paid more than $100,000 in kickbacks to a Feeding Our Future employee. Hussein and Lul Ali are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. 23-CR-91
- Mulata Yusuf Ali, 38, of Minneapolis, is charged with theft of government funds involving the Federal Child Nutrition Program from December 2020 through January 2022. 23-CR-92
United States Attorney Andrew Luger thanks the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their collaboration and skilled investigative work in bringing these indictments.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Minnesota Matthew S. Ebert, Harry M. Jacobs, Chelsea A. Walcker, and Joseph H. Thompson are prosecuting the cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Chicago Felon Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Chicago man has been sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for illegal possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on June 21, 2022, a St. Paul police officer responded to an apartment after receiving a 911 call reporting a domestic incident. The officer encountered Allen Denzel Oliver-Hall, 28, who attempted to get the officer to turn his back to him so that he could hide a gun, a stolen American Tactical 92 9mm pistol with an extended magazine. The officer saw the gun and tried to remove it from Oliver-Hall’s possession. During the struggle, the firearm was pointed towards the officer. Eventually, the officer was able to disarm Oliver-Hall.
Because Oliver-Hall has multiple prior felony convictions in Cook County, Illinois, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
On October 25, 2022, Oliver-Hall pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. Oliver-Hall was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Paul Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura M. Provinzino prosecuted the case.
California Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling More Than $1 Million from Her EmployerRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A California woman has pleaded guilty to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and filing a false tax return after embezzling more than $1 million from her employer, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the guilty plea and court documents, Mai Houa Xiong, 47, of Fresno, California, was employed as a financial manager for a Minneapolis-based property management company that provided financial services to homeowners’ associations (HOAs) throughout the Twin Cities metro area. Xiong’s duties included bookkeeping, and as a manager she had access to the victim associations’ financials, bank accounts, vendor and contractor payments, and bookkeeping systems. Between February 2015 and February 2022, Xiong devised and executed a fraud scheme to embezzle funds directly from the accounts to which she had access. These funds were HOA fees collected from residents intended to pay for maintenance, construction, and other costs incurred by the victim associations.
As part of the scheme, Xiong repeatedly accessed bank accounts and conducted electronic transfers of funds directly into her personal bank accounts. Xiong disguised these transfers by mislabeling them to make it appear as if they were legitimate homeowner association expenses. Xiong also used her authority as a signatory to make cash withdrawals directly from the HOAs’ accounts, including making withdrawals after she was fired from her position in July 2021. After her termination, Xiong began collecting Unemployment Insurance (UI) funds. However, even after Xiong found new employment, she continued to wrongfully obtain public UI benefits.
Xiong pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz to one count of wire fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of making and subscribing a false tax return. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the IRS – Criminal Investigations, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison K. Ethen is prosecuting the case.
Cottage Grove Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Cottage Grove man has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of firearms, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on November 14, 2022, law enforcement encountered Jason Steven Kearns, 38, in the driver’s seat of a truck outside of a restaurant in Woodbury. Kearns was known to law enforcement and had previously identified himself as a member of the Aryan Brotherhood gang. The officers called for backup and two Woodbury Police squad vehicles arrived and attempted to stop Kearns by activating their lights. One squad vehicle stopped in front of Kearns’s truck and the other approached from the side. Kearns accelerated his truck forward, ramming the police vehicle head-on. Kearns reversed his truck and drove into a curb and was pinned by the two police vehicles. Kearns exited his vehicle and ran from officers on foot to a parking lot across the street. Officers saw that Kearns had his right hand on what appeared to be a semiautomatic pistol. Officers drew their firearms and issued multiple commands to Kearns to drop his firearm. Kearns continued walking through the parking lot and then stopped and knelt down, still refusing to drop the firearm. Kearns stated to officers that he had a firearm in his hand. Eventually, Kearns dropped the firearm and surrendered and was taken into custody. The firearm, a Smith & Wesson 9mm semiautomatic pistol, was loaded with a round chambered and 11 rounds in the magazine. Kearns was also carrying a large knife on his person. Kearns later expressed regret that he had not fired at the arresting officers.
Because Kearns has previous felony convictions in Chisago, St. Croix, and Pierce Counties, including assault and armed robbery, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition at any time.
Kearns pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Michael J. Davis to one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Woodbury Police Department, and the Cottage Grove Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily A Polachek is prosecuting the case.
Bemidji Felon Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Illegal Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Bemidji man has been indicted for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on December 23, 2022, Kenneth Darnell Triplett, 35, possessed a distribution amount of methamphetamine and two firearms, a Taurus model G3 9mm pistol and a H&R model 732 .32 caliber revolver. Because Triplett has multiple prior felony convictions in Michigan and Illinois, including armed robbery and controlled substance delivery, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Triplett with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. He made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Jon T. Huseby. He was ordered to remain in custody pending further proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force, the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, the Bemidji Police Department, and the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren O. Roso is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Individuals Indicted for Violent Robberies, Kidnapping an Uber DriverRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man and woman have been indicted for violent Hobbs Act robberies, one of which involved the kidnapping of an Uber driver on Christmas Day, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on December 25, 2022, Antwon Demondray Townsend-Davis, 23, and Kevena Takhyra Terry-Ford, 20, used force, violence, and fear of injury to carry out a Hobbs Act robbery by stealing a Nissan Rogue from an Uber driver who was using the vehicle for commercial business purposes. The two defendants also kidnapped the Uber driver for the purpose of accessing the victim’s ATM account.
On December 28, 2022, the defendants used force, violence, and fear of injury to carry out a Hobbs Act robbery at a Speedway gas station in Minneapolis.
Townsend-Davis and Terry-Ford are each charged with two counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of kidnapping. Both defendants made their initial appearances today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Dulce J. Foster.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Anoka Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth S. Shnider is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Men Charged with Carjacking, Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Two men have been indicted for carjacking and firearms violations, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on January 3, 2022, Jordan James Smith, 26, of Ramsey, used force, violence, and intimidation to steal a Nissan Juke. On February 3, 2022, Smith and his co-defendant Carson Thomas McCoy, 21, of Blaine, used force, violence, and intimidation to steal a Honda Accord. During the carjacking, Smith brandished a Glock 21, .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol with a red and black camouflage slide.
In November 2022, McCoy was charged in a federal criminal complaint after stealing a BMW sedan, breaking into a residence in Ham Lake, Minnesota, and stealing various items—including a firearm. McCoy was subsequently involved in a road rage incident and apprehended after fleeing law enforcement. A search of the vehicle revealed the firearm McCoy stole from the residential burglary and numerous other items of contraband.
Because Smith and McCoy both have prior felony convictions, they are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Smith with two counts of carjacking, one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. McCoy is charged with one count of carjacking and one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. Smith had his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Dulce J. Foster and was ordered to remain in detention pending further court proceedings. McCoy has been detained since the November 2022 federal complaint.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Blaine Police Department, the Hennepin County Violent Offender Task Force (VOTF), and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Minneapolis Felon Charged in Federal Complaint for Violent CarjackingRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been charged in a criminal complaint for an armed carjacking spree and illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
“Let this be a lesson that we will not tolerate violent felons that prey on our community, especially those who endanger the police officers who courageously place their lives on the line in the protection of others,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “I am thankful for the dozens of officers from multiple agencies who responded to swiftly bring this person to justice before he could cause any more harm in our community.”
United States Attorney Luger stated, “This is a snapshot of the violent acts we are seeing in the Twin Cities on a regular basis. The full force of the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focused on reducing the levels of violent crime and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring swift and certain accountability to violent criminals.”
“Callously putting multiple lives at risk while brandishing firearms, including at a responding law enforcement officer, it is completely unacceptable,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge William McCrary, of the St. Paul Field Division. “I appreciate the swift and decisive action of the brave agents and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to take this man into custody and prevent further danger to the public.”
According to court documents, on January 30, 2023, in Little Canada, a Ramsey County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a Ford F150, which was later revealed to be stolen. The driver, Donovan Goodman, 33, fled the deputy, driving in the wrong lanes of traffic, above posted speed limits, and evading stop sticks. Law enforcement officers ultimately disabled the vehicle using a PIT maneuver. The driver of the vehicle—believed to be Goodman—fled the vehicle and jumped over a barrier separating the east and west lanes on Interstate 694. He approached an uninvolved vehicle, which had stopped in the westbound lanes of Interstate 694, pointed a firearm at the vehicle and yelled, “Get the [expletive] out of the car.” He then fled in the vehicle. The carjacked vehicle―which was subsequently recovered―had an installed dash camera that captured the entire incident.
On February 25, 2023, at approximately 4:23 a.m., officers with the Minneapolis Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a stolen vehicle parked in a parking lot. Goodman and another male, who were standing near the vehicle, immediately fled on foot and officers pursued. One officer deployed a taser to subdue Goodman, who initially fell to the ground, rolled over and then pointed a handgun with a red laser sight in the direction of the officer. The officer immediately took cover and Goodman escaped on foot.
Shortly thereafter, a carjacking victim flagged down responding law enforcement officers and reported that he was an Uber driver and had just picked up two passengers in downtown Minneapolis when a man approached the vehicle and offered the occupants $100 to let him join the Uber ride. One of the occupants agreed and opened the door. Once inside the vehicle, the man (later identified as Goodman) pulled out a firearm with a red laser and pointed it at the back of the driver’s head and ordered everyone out of the vehicle. The driver and the two occupants complied, and Goodman fled in the vehicle.
Later that day, after obtaining a search warrant for Goodman’s cell phone, law enforcement tracked Goodman to a residence in St. Paul. The St. Paul Police Department’s SWAT team executed a search warrant at the residence and, after law enforcement provided numerous loud commands for over an hour, Goodman exited the residence and was taken into custody.
Because Goodman has prior felony convictions, including burglary, assault, and drug sales, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The complaint charges Goodman with possession of a firearm as a felon and carjacking. Goodman made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Dulce J. Foster. Goodman was ordered to remain in detention pending further court proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the St. Paul Police Department, the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Maplewood Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Illegal Possession of an Unregistered Pipe BombRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Maplewood man has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison followed by three years supervised release for illegal possession of a pipe bomb, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, on April 28, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the Maplewood residence of Dylan Raymond Orr, 27, after discovering photos of two pipe bombs sent from Orr’s phone to a third-party. The images showed small BBs affixed to the exterior casing of the pipe bombs. During the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement discovered two six-inch pipes —one with BBs affixed, four end caps, and explosive powder, components which could be readily converted to a destructive device. Orr did not have a registration to possess these devices from the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required by law.
Orr pleaded guilty on November 9, 2022, to one count of possession of an unregistered destructive device. Orr was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Savage Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney LeeAnn K. Bell prosecuted the case.
Robbinsdale Felon Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Robbinsdale man has been sentenced to 120 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm, to be served consecutively to a prior sentence of 70 months for illegal possession of a firearm, followed by three years of supervised release, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on December 15, 2021, Travon Lavelle Blackman, 26, was sentenced to 70 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright, for a felon in possession conviction. Blackman failed to surrender himself to begin his sentence, and a federal warrant for his arrest was issued by the Court.
According to court documents, on April 5, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at a Robbinsdale apartment associated with Blackman and arrested him on the federal arrest warrant. During the search of the apartment, investigators discovered a Glock, model 21 Gen 4, .45-caliber pistol, with an attached high-capacity magazine, loaded with 18 rounds, on the floor of the bedroom closet. The firearm had an attached auto-sear or “switch,” enabling the firearm to fire as a fully automatic weapon, and the slide lock appeared to be glued into place. The firearm had been reported stolen out of Eden Prairie in May 2019. The defendant’s fingerprints were found on the firearm. Because Blackman has prior felony convictions, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition at any time.
On August 29, 2022, Blackman pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. Blackman was sentenced February 24, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Robbinsdale Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bejar prosecuted the case.
Federal Jury Finds Precision Lens and Owner Paul Ehlen Liable for Paying Kickbacks in Violation of the False Claims ActRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A federal civil jury has returned a verdict in favor of the United States for more than $43 million for violations of the False Claims Act and Anti-Kickback Statute. During the six-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright, the United States proved that the Defendants the Cameron-Ehlen Group, Inc., which does business as Precision Lens, and its owner Paul Ehlen paid kickbacks to ophthalmic surgeons to induce their use of Defendants’ products in cataract surgeries reimbursed by Medicare. The jury found that Defendants’ kickbacks caused the submission of 64,575 false claims to the Medicare program between 2006-2015.
As proven at trial, Precision Lens and Ehlen provided kickbacks to physicians in various forms, including travel and entertainment. The United States identified multiple examples of trips, including high-end skiing, fishing, golfing, hunting, sporting, and entertainment vacations, often at exclusive destinations. For many of the trips, Precision Lens and Ehlen transported physicians to luxury vacation destinations on private jets. These included trips to New York City to see a Broadway musical, the College Football National Championship Game in Miami, Florida, and the Masters golf tournament in Augusta, Georgia. Precision Lens and Ehlen also sold frequent flyer miles to their physician customers at a significant discount, enabling the physicians to take personal and business trips at well below fair market value.
The United States also proved that Precision Lens maintained a fund, referred to internally at Precision Lens as a secret fund or slush fund, in furtherance of its kickback scheme. Precision Lens used money from the secret fund to finance multiple physician trips.
“The False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Statute provide assurance to the United States and Medicare beneficiaries that healthcare decisions are made based on the best interest of the patient and nothing else,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad Blumenfield. “The jury’s verdict protects the integrity of the Medicare system for patients and those healthcare providers who operate fairly and legally. Companies may not use expensive trips and other items of value to persuade physicians to use their products, and physicians may not accept that remuneration. We thank the jury for its service throughout this lengthy trial.”
The United States previously announced a $12 million settlement of related allegations with Sightpath Medical, Inc. and TLC Vision Corporation (collectively “Sightpath”) and their former CEO, James Tiffany. Dr. Jitendra Swarup also resolved claims that he had accepted kickbacks in a settlement agreement of more than $2.9 million.
This civil lawsuit was originally brought by a Relator, or whistleblower, under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, which allow private parties to bring suit on behalf of the government for false claims and to share in any recovery. The government often relies on whistleblowers to bring fraud schemes to light that might otherwise go undetected. The whistleblower in this matter, Kipp Fesenmaier, will receive a percentage of the amounts awarded at trial.
The case was handled by the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, including AUSAs Chad Blumenfield, Bahram Samie, and Andy Tweeten and paralegals Darcie Boschee and Laura Kolars. The case was investigated with assistance from the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Bemidji Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Bemidji man has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on May 2, 2022, law enforcement observed Levi Adams Westbrook, 30, meet with a suspected drug trafficker in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. As Westbrook was traveling back toward northern Minnesota, officers stopped the vehicle in which Westbrook was a passenger. After Westbrook exited the vehicle, officers saw a plastic bag with approximately one pound of methamphetamine on the front passenger floorboard where Westbrook was sitting. Officers also seized a .22 caliber “pen” gun from the passenger compartment. The “pen” gun discharged as the police were securing the gun into evidence.
Westbrook pleaded guilty on February 24, 2023, in U.S. District Court before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team, and the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley M. Endicott is prosecuting the case.
Three Individuals Charged for Trafficking Fentanyl and Methamphetamine on and Around the Red Lake ReservationRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Three individuals from northern Minnesota have been charged in a drug trafficking conspiracy that brought fentanyl and methamphetamine to the Red Lake Reservation and surrounding area, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, Derek Jon Paddy, 27, of Bemidji, Erika Dawn Bellanger, 25, of Bemidji, and Raymond Allen Drouillard, 44, of Trail, knowingly and intentionally conspired with each other and others to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
All three defendants are charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Paddy and Bellanger are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, while Drouillard is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Paddy and Bellanger made their initial appearances late last week in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Jon T. Huseby. Drouillard made his initial appearance on January 5, 2023.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force, the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Bemidji Police Department, the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, and the Red Lake Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren O. Roso is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Paul Felon Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A South St. Paul felon has been charged in a federal indictment for illegal possession of ammunition, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on December 5, 2022, Nicholas Neil Nikiforakis, 33, was carrying a loaded, unserialized ghost gun while in possession of a distribution amount of fentanyl. Because Nikiforakis has multiple prior felony convictions in Dakota, Hennepin, and Anoka Counties, including domestic assault, first degree drug sales, and vehicle theft, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Nikiforakis with one count of felon in possession of ammunition, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and one count carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. He made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court on February 15, 2023, before Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Cowan Wright. He was ordered to remain in custody pending further proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Duluth Men Indicted for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DULUTH, Minn. – A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment against two Duluth men for a methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, from the spring of 2020, through July 2022, Tisco Rondell Cooks, 35, and Cole Alexander Heyn, 25, both from Duluth, conspired with each other to distribute quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Cooks is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Heyn is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, one count of distribution of fentanyl and one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Cooks and Heyn are currently in custody and will make their initial appearances in U.S. District Court at a later date.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Lake Superior Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and the Duluth Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Hollenhorst is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Paul Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A St. Paul man has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of firearms, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on May 28, 2019, Travis Malik Galtney, 38, possessed two semiautomatic pistols and an extended magazine. He also possessed a semiautomatic pistol, with an attached high-capacity magazine, at the time of his arrest on January 8, 2020. Because Galtney has previous felony convictions in Ramsey and Olmsted Counties, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition at any time.
Galtney pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Michael J. Davis to two counts of possessing a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Paul Police Department and the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Bejar and Chelsea A. Walcker are prosecuting the case.
Federal Prison Inmate Sentenced to 24 Months After Pleading Guilty to Attempting to Obtain ContrabandRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (“FCI”) in Sandstone has been sentenced to an additional 24 months in prison for attempting to obtain contraband in prison, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on two separate dates in February and March 2022, Nickolas William Mihelic, 39, an inmate at FCI Sandstone, attempted to obtain methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. In order to bypass security protocols, Mihelic conspired with another individual to mail pieces of paper to him at FCI Sandstone that were saturated with liquid methamphetamine. When the methamphetamine-saturated papers arrived at FCI Sandstone, Bureau of Prisons officials seized the contraband.
Mihelic was sentenced today before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel. Mihelic pleaded guilty on September 26, 2022, to two counts of attempting to obtain contraband in prison.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Federal Bureau of Prisons and the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hillary A. Taylor prosecuted the case.
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Federal Jury Finds Minneapolis Felon Guilty of Possession of a Machinegun and Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minneapolis man has been found guilty by a federal jury of possession of a machinegun and illegal possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
Following a four-day trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank, Marques Dwell Armstrong Jr, 28, was convicted on one count of possession of a machinegun and one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, on October 12, 2021, Armstrong was found in possession of a 9mm-caliber Glock pistol, with an attached loaded high-capacity magazine and equipped with a device commonly known as a “switch” or “auto sear,” enabling it to be fired as a fully automatic machinegun. Because Armstrong has previous federal and state felony convictions, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition at any time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Bejar and Albania Concepcion tried the case.
Duluth Nail Salon Proprietors Charged with Tax Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Duluth couple has been charged with conspiracy and tax fraud after failing to pay taxes on their nail salon business income, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, An Ngoc “Ritchie” Nguyen, 44, was the operator and sole proprietor of Q Nails salon located in Duluth. Tram Anh “Ann” Nguyen, 41, was the operator and sole proprietor of Crystal Nails salon located in Superior, Wisconsin. From at least 2016 through at least October 2020, the defendants unlawfully conspired with each other and others to defraud the Internal Revenue Service by reporting on their individual income tax returns only the credit card sales, or including a false, nominal amount of cash sales, from their Q Nails and Crystal Nails salons. The defendants also falsely claimed to reside at two different addresses and agreed to divide their three children—with whom they jointly resided—as dependents in order to fraudulently claim head of household status on both of their individual income tax returns.
Ritchie Nguyen is charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and four counts of making and subscribing a false tax return. Ann Nguyen is charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and three counts of making and subscribing a false tax return. The defendants are scheduled to make their initial appearances in U.S. District Court on March 7, 2023, before Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois in Duluth.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by IRS – Criminal Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Svendsen is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Red Lake Man Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Red Lake man has pleaded guilty to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on March 10, 2022, Devin Anthony Sumner, 20, and the victim had been involved in a relationship. In the early morning, and while in his car, Sumner became angry at the victim and began to physically assault the victim by slapping and punching. During the assault, Sumner grabbed a 12-gauge G-Force Arms shotgun and repeatedly hit the victim on the hands and body with the shotgun. As a result of being hit with the shotgun, the victim sustained serious bodily injuries including a broken and fractured hand, multiple lacerations, and bruises, all of which necessitated emergency hospital treatment and eventual surgery.
Sumner pleaded guilty on February 9, 2023, before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Sentencing is scheduled for June 13, 2023.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Lake Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Evan B. Gilead and Emily A. Polachek.
Two Men Indicted for Online Romance Fraud Schemes Targeting Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Two men have been charged in separate indictments by a federal grand jury for their roles in online romance fraud schemes, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to separate indictments, Solomon Eghosa Wilfred, 42, of Coon Rapids, and Dodzi Kwame Kordorwu, 36, of Brooklyn Park, knowingly and intentionally participated in and facilitated online romance fraud schemes that targeted primarily elderly victims. As part of the schemes, the perpetrators contacted victims through e-mail and other online social media applications, using false personas to obtain victims’ trust. The scheme participants typically sought a romantic connection with the victims including suggestions of marriage. For example, according to the indictment, Wilfred mailed cards and rings on numerous occasions to victims located in other states. Once a relationship was established, the scheme participants would introduce the victims to others, such as a purported assistant, diplomat, government official, or even supposed law enforcement officers. The intermediaries furthered the scheme by helping with purported logistical issues and lulling the victims. It was further part of the scheme that the participants of the fraud scheme would request money from victims consistent with the supposed needs of the false personas. Scheme participants routinely increased the size of the requests over time and would direct victims to send money and other items of value to specific addresses.
According to court documents, Wilfred and Kordorwu used numerous addresses and/or bank accounts to receive and process packages and funds sent by victims under false and fraudulent pretenses. Between May 2018 and June 2022, Kordorwu received more than $2.3 million in fraud proceeds from electronic fund transfers and approximately 90 separate victim mailings. Kordorwu used some of the proceeds for his personal benefit and shared proceeds with other scheme participants. Between June 2020 and March 2021, Wilfred received over 400 victim packages containing more than $1.2 million in fraud proceeds and used some of the proceeds for his personal benefit and shared proceeds with other scheme participants.
Wilfred is charged with seven counts of mail fraud. In a separate indictment, Kordorwu is charged with eight counts of mail fraud. Both defendants made their initial appearances in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge David T. Schultz.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and a Digital Forensic Investor with Hennepin County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan L. Sing and Robert M. Lewis are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Minneapolis Felon Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been charged in a federal indictment for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on November 17, 2022, officers with the Minneapolis Police Department observed Muhnee Jaleel Bailey, 23, step out of his vehicle and enter an Auto Zone store in Minneapolis. Officers could see, in plain view, an extended magazine of a firearm sticking out from under the driver’s seat of Bailey’s vehicle. Officers approached Bailey when he came out of the Auto Zone store and Bailey began to flee on foot. Bailey eventually stopped running and officers apprehended him. Officers later searched Bailey’s vehicle and recovered a Glock, Model 30, .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol. Because Bailey has prior felony convictions in Ramsey County, including drive-by shooting and possession of a machinegun, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Bailey with one count of possession of a firearm as felon.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David P. Steinkamp is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Men Sentenced for Shipping Methamphetamine from Los Angeles to Greater MinnesotaRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Two men have been sentenced to prison for trafficking methamphetamine that was shipped through mail from Los Angeles to Bemidji, Minnesota, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on July 20, 2021, Molandas Johnson, 26, brought five pounds of methamphetamine to a Post Office in Los Angeles and shipped it to an address in Bemidji, Minnesota. After federal agents from Minnesota observed Johnson ship the package, the agents obtained a search warrant to seize the packaged methamphetamine. Days later, U.S. Postal Investigators and other officers conducted a controlled delivery of the package in Bemidji, and observed co-conspirator Luis Francisco Hernandez, 24, picking up the package.
Johnson pleaded guilty on July 6, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. He was sentenced on January 25, 2023, in U.S. District Court by Judge Nancy E. Brasel to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised released.
Hernandez also pleaded guilty on July 6, 2022, to distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on February 9, 2023, by Judge Nancy E. Brasel to nine years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley M. Endicott and Drew R. Winter prosecuted the case.
Robbinsdale Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Robbinsdale man has pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on June 22, 2022, Tavaris Michael Dixon, 32, possessed a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol, with a Streamlight TLR-6 laser/light attachment. Dixon is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of prior felony convictions in Hennepin County, including a 2008 conviction of aggravated robbery and kidnapping.
Dixon pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Eric C. Tostrud to one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey E. Middlecamp and Justin A. Wesley are prosecuting the case.
Federal Jury Finds Maple Grove Felon Guilty of Fentanyl Trafficking, Possession of a MachinegunRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Maple Grove man has been found guilty by a federal jury of trafficking fentanyl pills, possessing a machinegun, and other federal firearms violations, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
Following a two-day trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Joan N. Ericksen, Derrick Maurice Scott 34, was convicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of carrying a machinegun during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, one count of possession of a machinegun, and one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. Under the federal sentencing guidelines, Scott is subject to a 30-year mandatory minimum prison sentence. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
“Mr. Scott has a long and violent criminal history, including possessing a machine gun, domestic assaults, and fentanyl dealing,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger. “When Mr. Scott was arrested on federal charges, he told law enforcement that when he gets released from prison, he will ‘still be the king and he will get another switch,’ but Mr. Scott’s bravado was badly misplaced, as he is now subject to a mandatory 30-year prison sentence.”
“Derrick Scott’s bad acts caused significant harm in our communities. His disregard for human life required swift and significant consequences. I am thankful for all our law enforcement partners who aided in this investigation,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.
“Today Derrick Scott was found guilty not only for selling highly-lethal drugs but also protecting his illegal trade with a machine gun,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge William McCrary, of the St. Paul Field Division. “Drug dealers utilizing auto-sears are doing severe damage to the people in our communities, and it must stop. Today’s conviction is a case where a criminal who is clearly willing to do violence using these devices has been held accountable and will be removed from society for a very long time. I am grateful for the jury’s decision, and deeply appreciate the hard work of our agents, our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for this successful prosecution.”
As proven at trial, on June 4, 2022, officers with the Minneapolis Police Department received a complaint that Scott had threatened a man at a convenience store while brandishing a firearm. Two days later, officers located Scott and conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Scott was a passenger. Following a search of the vehicle, officers recovered 355 fentanyl pills and a Glock 41, .45 caliber pistol equipped with an auto-sear or “switch” (a device that makes a firearm function as a fully automatic machinegun) and a high-capacity magazine.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas M. Hollenhorst and Chelsea A. Walcker tried the case.
Minneapolis Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and court documents, on July 18, 2022, Javier Juan Valtierra, 31, possessed a Smith & Wesson, M&P Bodyguard 380, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol. Officers of the Minneapolis Police Department were called to the scene of the vehicle following calls that Valtierra and another individual were unconscious inside the vehicle. Officers found the firearm in Valtierra’s pocket. Officers also found baggies of cocaine and methamphetamine on Valtierra and in the car.
Valtierra pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Michael J. Davis to one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Svendsen is prosecuting the case.
Five Individuals Indicted for Child Abuse on the Red Lake ReservationRead the Press Release
BEMIDJI, Minn. – Five members of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians have been indicted for multiple child abuse charges including child torture and child neglect on the Red Lake Indian Reservation, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, between January 1, 2021, and April 29, 2022, Trina Mae Johnson, 49, directed the torture, endangerment, neglect, and abuse of a child who was in Johnson’s legal custody through a foster care placement. Johnson was aided and abetted by Bertram Calvin Lussier, Jr., 42, and Johnson’s three sisters, Bobbi Jo Johnson (a/k/a Bobbi Jo Kingbird), 44, Ellie Mae Johnson, 47, and Patricia Ann Johnson, 39, who all regularly assumed responsibility for all or a portion of the care and supervision of the minor victim. The abuse included withholding food from the victim to the point of starvation, forcing the victim to stand in uncomfortable positions for long periods of time, and assaulting the victim in various ways. As a result of Johnson’s and her accomplices’ abuse, the victim suffered serious and substantial physical, mental and emotional harm.
Trina Johnson is charged with one count of child torture, one count of child neglect—deprivation of food and health care, one count of child endangerment and one count of assault on a minor with a dangerous weapon. Bobbi Johnson, Ellie Johnson, Patricia Johnson and Lussier, were each charged with one count of child neglect—deprivation of food and health care and one count of child endangerment.
Trina Johnson, Bobbi Johnson, Patricia Johnson, and Lussier all made their initial appearances Friday, January 27, in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Jon T. Huseby.
Ellie Johnson will make her initial appearance in U.S. District Court before a Magistrate Judge at a later date.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Red Lake Tribal Police Department, with support from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Beltrami County Sherriff’s Office, the Bemidji Police Department, and the Blackduck Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ruth S. Shnider and Angela M. Munoz are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Coon Rapids Felon Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Coon Rapids man has been charged in a criminal complaint for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on December 29, 2022, officers with the Coon Rapids Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Lewis Edward Byrd III, 45. Byrd, a felon with a prior sexual assault conviction, was arrested for violations related to his status as a predatory offender. After the arrest, officers searched Byrd’s vehicle and found a Smith and Wesson 9mm handgun in a pillowcase behind the driver’s seat. Further investigation revealed that Byrd purchased the firearm from a private seller earlier in December 2022. Law enforcement contacted the seller who confirmed the sale of the firearm and said that Byrd stated he was not a felon.
Because Byrd has prior felony convictions, including first degree criminal sexual conduct, stalking, and false imprisonment, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The complaint charges Byrd with one count of possession of a firearm as a felon. On January 26, 2023, Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty ordered Byrd to remain in detention pending further court proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Coon Rapids Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Middlecamp is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brooklyn Park Man Pleads Guilty to His Role in $250 Million Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Liban Yasin Alishire has pleaded guilty to his role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally-funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, Alishire, 43, of Brooklyn Park, enrolled Community Enhancement Services and Lake Street Kitchen, organizations he helped operate, in the Federal Child Nutrition Program as purported sites providing meals to underprivileged children under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future.
Alishire admits that after enrolling in the Federal Child Nutrition Program, he began submitting fraudulent claims for reimbursement for serving meals to hundreds or thousands of children a day. Alishire falsified invoices to document the purchase of food, and the preparation and submitting of falsified attendance rosters purporting to document the names of children who received meals. Alishire also operated a distribution company, Ace Distribution Services, that purported to provide meals to be served to children at the Community Enhancement Services site.
In total, Community Enhancement Services claimed to have served over 800,000 meals between February and October 2021, and Lake Street Kitchen claimed to have served over 70,000 meals between December 2020 and April 2021. In reality, Community Enhancement Services and Lake Street Kitchen served a fraction of the meal amounts claimed.
Based on the fraudulent claims, Community Enhancement Services and Lake Street Kitchen received more than a million dollars in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds from their sponsor entity, Feeding Our Future. Alishire caused the transfer of much of this money to himself and others via shell companies used to receive and launder the proceeds of the fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Hoodo Properties was one such shell company Alishire controlled and used to launder proceeds from the fraud scheme. On or about November 22, 2021, Alishire conducted a wire transfer of $216,300 from Hoodo Properties to Jaafar Jelle & Co. towards the purchase of the Karibu Palms Resort in Diani Beach, Kenya.
In total, Alishire fraudulently claimed approximately $2,427,576.17 in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds, of which Feeding Our Future paid out $1,783,786.45 to the defendant and his co-conspirators. In all, Alishire obtained $712,084.00 in fraud proceeds for himself and entities he controlled.
Alishire pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel to one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. As part of his plea agreement, Alishire will forfeit a boat and trailer, a Ford F150 pickup truck, an apartment unit in Nairobi, Kenya, and the Karibu Palms Resort on the Indian Ocean in Kenya. Alishire also agreed to a $712,084.00 forfeiture money judgment. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph S. Teirab, Joseph H. Thompson, Harry M. Jacobs, Matthew S. Ebert, and Chelsea A. Walcker. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Armed Carjacking in Mall Parking LotRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Two men have been sentenced to prison for the armed carjacking of a woman in a mall parking lot, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
Leon Kismit Bell, 49, and Jack Mitchell Piche, 23, both pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting carjacking and were sentenced January 20, 2023, in U.S. District Court before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright. Bell received 120 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Piche was sentenced to 40 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, On February 16, 2022, Piche and Bell intentionally took a car by means of force from a victim in the parking lot of the Rosedale Mall in Roseville. As the victim drove around the parking lot looking for a place to park, Piche and Bell followed the victim’s car. Piche and Bell waited for the victim to get out of the car and then approached. As Piche was watching out, Bell went up to the victim, brandished a gun, and demanded her car keys. After the victim said that her car keys were in her purse, Bell took her purse, which also contained her cell phone and wallet. Piche and Bell then fled from the mall parking lot before law enforcement arrived. Further investigation led law enforcement to a location in south Minneapolis where Piche was taken into custody. The stolen vehicle was found a few blocks away from where Piche was arrested. On May 3, 2022, law enforcement located and arrested Bell.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Roseville Police Department, and the Minneapolis Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Harry M. Jacobs.
Rochester Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 16.5 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Rochester man has been sentenced to 198 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, Erick Fontain Thomas, 41, was a large-scale heroin and methamphetamine dealer in the Rochester area, and he used numerous guns to protect his drug operation. On August 25, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Thomas’s Rochester residence. During the search, officers found 4.135 grams of heroin, 1.467 kilograms of methamphetamine, four loaded handguns, a loaded AR-15 style rifle, assorted ammunition and firearms accessories, drug cutting agents, digital scales, and a brick press. Officers also went to a local FedEx Office in Rochester and seized a package that Thomas had directed another individual to send to him at a California address. The package contained $68,740 in cash drug proceeds. On November 12, 2020, officers arrested Thomas in Rochester.
Thomas was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright. On August 23, 2022, Thomas pleaded guilty to one count of possession with the intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the DEA and the Rochester Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph S. Teirab prosecuted the case.
Superseding Indictment Charges Two Cottonwood County Farmers in $46 Million Organic Grain Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Two Cottonwood County men have been charged in a superseding indictment with conspiring to defraud grain purchasers out of more than $46,000,000 by selling non-GMO grains falsely labeled as organic, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, between 2014 and 2021, James Clayton Wolf, 65, a certified organic farmer, engaged in a scheme to defraud grain purchasers by selling them non-GMO grains falsely represented as organic. The charges allege that as part of his scheme, Wolf also grew conventionally farmed crops using chemical fertilizers and pesticides, in violation of organic farming standards, and provided grain purchasers with copies of his National Organics Program certification but withheld that the grains were not organically farmed. The superseding indictment charges that after Wolf’s organic farming certification was revoked in 2020, Adam Clifford Olson, 45, also a certified organic farmer, helped Wolf sell non-GMO crops falsely described as organic.
The superseding indictment charges Wolf and Olson with three counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy. Wolf, who was charged in the first indictment, made his initial appearance on July 22, 2022, in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge David T. Schultz. Olson is scheduled to make his initial appearance on January 26, 2023, before Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General (USDA-OIG), the FBI, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with assistance from the Cottonwood County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Lewis, Craig Baune, and Quinn Askew are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Duluth Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
DULUTH, Minn. – A federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment against a Duluth felon for methamphetamine trafficking and firearms violations, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on May 7, 2022, John Robert Rieck, 66, was caught with more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and a Bersa .380 caliber pistol. Months later, Rieck was found with more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and an unregistered short-barreled shotgun bearing no serial number.
Because Rieck has multiple prior felony convictions dating back to 1975, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
Rieck is charged with two counts of possessing a firearm as a felon, two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and one count of possession of an unregistered short-barreled shotgun. He made his initial appearance on January 11, 2023, in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Duluth Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Roso is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Waseca Travel Agency Owner Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Waseca man has been sentenced to 24 months in prison for wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, from August 2016 to January 2019, Matthew Harold Schumacher, 46, owned and operated Travel Troops, LLC. Schumacher misappropriated commission payments meant for travel agents for his own personal use. After customers booked their travel arrangements with travel agents, the travel suppliers provided Schumacher with the commission payments due to respective independent travel agents who booked the travel. However, as part of Schumacher’s scheme to obtain and retain travel agents’ money for himself without their knowledge or consent, Schumacher routinely provided his travel agents with materially false and fraudulent information. Schumacher lied to travel agents that their commission money would be paid to them, when, in fact, he kept all of the victims’ money or, in other instances, despite refund requests, he provided some victims with commission payments that were late, incomplete, or both.
According to court documents, Schumacher defrauded at least 36 travel agents nationwide of their primary income source. Schumacher deposited at least $160,000 in victims’ funds to his personal account which he used for personal travel expenses, cash withdrawals, retail purchases, car payments, credit card bills, entertainment tickets, and loan payments. He also withdrew thousands of dollars in cash and spent at least $150,000 in victims’ money on his own travel expenses.
On June 30, 2021, Schumacher pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Schumacher was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Senior Judge Ann D. Montgomery.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew S. Ebert.
Two Detroit Men Sentenced to Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy on the Red Lake ReservationRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Two Detroit men have been sentenced to prison for their roles in a fentanyl trafficking operation targeting the Red Lake Reservation, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, in March 2021, Douglas Edward McClendon, 32, and Christopher Douglas Richard, 41, conspired with others to distribute fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, and cocaine to individuals from the Red Lake Reservation. McClendon, Richard, and a third co-defendant Scot Lamont Watkins, 34, would obtain fentanyl and other drugs from suppliers in Detroit and then travel to Bemidji, Minnesota, to sell the drugs. In text messages between the defendants, Richard told his co-conspirators to come to Red Lake because there was “Hella money to be made” by selling fentanyl and emphasized that the reservation was “dry.”
According to court documents, the defendants conducted their drug distribution operation out of various Bemidji-area hotels. On March 2, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a hotel where the defendants were selling drugs. As a result of the search, law enforcement agents recovered more than 174 grams of fentanyl, 37 grams of methamphetamine, and other controlled substances. As law enforcement made entry into the hotel room, McClendon and Watkins fled while Richard flushed a significant amount of fentanyl down the toilet.
McClendon and Richard pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and other controlled substances. On September 7, 2022, Richard was sentenced to 60 months in prison and McClendon was sentenced yesterday to 63 months in prison. Both defendants were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel. Watkins remains a fugitive from law enforcement.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force, the Red Lake Tribal Police Department, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura M. Provinzino and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Angelica Ramirez.
St. Louis County Man Charged with Illegally Dealing FirearmsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – An Aurora man has been charged with two counts of dealing firearms without a license, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, from at least May 2019 through September 2022, Wayne Robert Danielson, 59, engaged in a regular pattern and practice of purchasing and reselling firearms predominantly to earn a profit. During this period, Danielson purchased dozens of firearms from three different Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) within Minnesota, including multiple purchases of identical firearms. For example, Danielson purchased five Taurus G2C 9mm pistols between March 2021 and January 2022.
On May 8, 2022, a 17-year-old was shot and killed in South St. Paul. A subsequent investigation revealed that the handgun used in the shooting had been purchased by Danielson on December 1, 2021.
Danielson is charged with two counts of dealing in firearms without a license. He previously made his initial appearance on a related complaint in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Dakota County Drug Task Force, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the South St. Paul Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Hudleston is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Paul Felon Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A St. Paul man has been charged in a federal indictment for illegal possession of a firearm as an armed career criminal, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on October 4, 2022, Torrence Ricardo Finley, 33, was found in possession of a Taurus, G3X, 9mm semi-automatic handgun. Because Finley has prior felony convictions, including multiple domestic assault convictions, in Chisago, Dakota, and Ramsey Counties, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Finley with one count of possession of a firearm as an armed career criminal. He was arraigned yesterday in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung. Finley was ordered to remain in detention pending further court proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Minneapolis Police Department, and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily A. Polachek is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Red Lake Man Sentenced to 37 Years in Prison for the Murder of a Red Lake Tribal Police OfficerRead the Press Release
BEMIDJI, Minn. – A Red Lake man has been sentenced to 37 years in prison for fatally shooting a Red Lake Tribal Police Officer, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
“The tragic and violent events of July 27, 2021, that claimed the life of Officer Ryan Bialke brought an incalculable loss to his family and to his community,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger. “Although the 37-year sentence handed down today represents justice under the law, the harm can never be undone. We honor the memory of Officer Bialke and commend the officers of the Red Lake Tribal Police Department for their continued courage and commitment in serving their community.”
“When David Brian Donnell opened fire at officers on July 27, 2021, our community lost a husband, a father, a son, and a hero,” said Alvin M. Winston, FBI Special Agent in Charge, Minneapolis Division. Officer Bialke paid the ultimate price for his dedication to public safety, and today's sentence is a testament to the tireless efforts of our state and local partners and the Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force to ensure that violent criminals are held accountable for their heinous crimes. We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding our indigenous communities with our tribal partners, and our thoughts are with Officer Bialke's family and colleagues as they heal from this tragedy.”
According to court documents, on July 27, 2021, officers with the Red Lake Tribal Police Department (“RLTPD”) responded to a call to conduct a welfare check on David Brian Donnell, Jr., 30, at his residence in Redby, Minnesota. Five RLTPD officers responded to Donnell’s residence. Upon arrival, the officers found Donnell standing outside on the porch and attempted to have him walk towards the officers, but Donnell instead went inside the residence. Because Donnell had an active tribal warrant and was refusing to comply, the officers made the decision to breach the door. As soon as the door was breached, Donnell opened fire on the officers. Officer Ryan Bialke was immediately struck by gunfire and fell. Donnell continued shooting, firing several rounds from an Izhmash Saiga 7.62 caliber rifle at the four other officers on the scene. One RLTPD officer returned fire to allow the officers to escape into the woods. Donnell continued firing at the officers as they fled into the woods. Donnell fired at least 22 shots at Officer Bialke and the four other RLTPD officers. Officer Bialke succumbed to his injuries and died on the scene. Donnell then fled the scene, taking the rifle with him. Shortly thereafter, officers arrested Donnell at a nearby residence.
Donnell, who pleaded guilty on April 1, 2022, to one count of murder in the second degree, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge John R. Tunheim. During the hearing, Judge Tunheim stated that the 37-year sentence was “justified by a senseless crime,” and extended condolences to the family of Officer Bialke, who gave his life in the line of duty, “he was a fine man, I wish I had known him.”
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Lake Tribal Police Department, the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melinda A. Williams and Joseph S. Teirab prosecuted the case.
Minneapolis Woman Pleads Guilty to Her Role in a Drug Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – A Minneapolis woman has pleaded guilty to running a drug money laundering operation on behalf of a large-scale fentanyl and marijuana dealer, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, between December 2018 and August 2019, Phouvanh Keokaythinh, 37, laundered cash drug proceeds to conceal the drug trafficking activities of a group of gang members who operated as a drug trafficking organization that distributed heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana in and around the Twin Cities. Keokaythinh kept large amounts of cash drug proceeds for Lyndon Swarn, a large-scale fentanyl and marijuana dealer, at her family residence in Bloomington. Swarn’s drug income was generated from the production and sale of illegal fentanyl-laced Oxycodone pills, as well as the production and sale of large amounts of marijuana.
According to court documents, Keokaythinh used cash from Swarn’s drug proceeds to purchase a farm property in Ironwood, Michigan. Swarn and his associates used this property to illegally grow large amounts of marijuana. Keokaythinh and others laundered drug proceeds into a bank account owned by L&S Management LLC, a shell company used for the purchase, maintenance, and upkeep of the property in Ironwood. Keokaythinh also directed others to maintain a credit card that was used for Swarn’s personal spending and other expenses related to the drug trafficking conspiracy. Between January 2017 and March 2019, Keokaythinh and others used drug proceeds to make approximately $117,782.72 in payments on the credit card.
Keokaythinh pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge Susan Richard Nelson to one count of concealment money laundering. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.
On June 2, 2022, Swarn was convicted in Hennepin County of aiding and abetting first-degree murder in relation to the New Year’s Eve 2019 kidnapping and murder of a local real estate agent. On May 17, 2021, Swarn was convicted in U.S. District Court for possession with intent to distribute more than 33,000 fentanyl-laced Oxycodone pills.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Hopkins Police Department, with assistance from the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Harry M. Jacobs is prosecuting the case.
Minneapolis Man Sentenced to 12.5 Years in Prison Child Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minneapolis man was sentenced to 150 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release for sex trafficking a minor, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, in August 2020, Charles William Dexter III, 42, recruited a 14-year-old minor to engage in commercial sex acts for his benefit. Dexter arranged for these commercial sex acts using online advertisements, including ads posted on Megapersonals.com, to take place at hotels. He collected half of the proceeds from each of the appointments for commercial sex from the minor victim.
“January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and cases such as this represent our ongoing commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who exploit human beings, and in this case minor victims, for financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger.
“Combatting sex trafficking is a top priority for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul,” said Jamie Holt, HSI St. Paul Special Agent in Charge. “Our agents will continue to focus on fostering safer communities by protecting and supporting sex-trafficking victims and bringing people like Dexter to justice.”
“The FBI is fully committed to combating human trafficking with our federal, state and local partners. Today’s sentence highlights the importance of this work in bringing justice to the victims and preventing human trafficking both in Minnesota and throughout the country,” said Alvin M. Winston, FBI Special Agent in Charge, Minneapolis Division.
Dexter, who pleaded guilty on September 6, 2022, to one count of sex trafficking of a minor, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Senior Judge Susan Richard Nelson.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bloomington Police Department, and the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Manda M. Sertich and Chelsea A. Walcker prosecuted the case.
Maple Grove Man Indicted for Violent Carjacking at Blaine Grocery Store Parking LotRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal grand jury returned an indictment against a Maple Grove man for an armed carjacking at a Blaine grocery store, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on September 24, 2022, Justin Michael Kittleson, 20, targeted two victims as they left the Cub Foods grocery store in Blaine and loaded groceries into their car. Kittleson approached one of the victims at the trunk of the car and pointed a gun at them. The second victim attempted to intervene, and a struggle ensued. The gun discharged, and the shot is believed to have grazed the second victim’s ear. Kittleson took control of the car and drove away. A 9MM shell casing was recovered at the scene by officers with the Blaine Police Department. After reviewing surveillance video footage and with the assistance from other members of the public, officers were able to identify and locate Kittleson. On September 29, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence associated with Kittleson and recovered two 9MM firearms (the same caliber as the casing found at the scene of the carjacking) and a hooded sweatshirt that matched the sweatshirt Kittleson was seen wearing in the surveillance footage.
Kittleson is charged with one count of carjacking and one count of using, carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Kittleson was initially charged by complaint and, yesterday, was indicted by a federal grand jury. Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung ordered Kittleson to remain in detention pending further court proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Blaine Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Middlecamp is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.