District of Minnesota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
“We are grateful for the extraordinary services our law enforcement professionals continue to perform to keep our communities safe during this difficult time in our nation,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “I am thankful for this influx of funding, which should relieve some potential financial hardships agencies may be facing as a result of this pandemic.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received.
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
U.S. Attorney Erica MacDonald Urges the Public to Report Suspected COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald of the District of Minnesota today urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected].
In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes. The NCDF Hotline can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes.
“In the face of the nationwide spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota remains on-duty and committed to meeting the critical mission of protecting individuals, families and communities throughout the State of Minnesota. I also want to thank our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners for standing firm in their shared mission to protect the public,” said U.S. Attorney MacDonald.
“Unfortunately, there are wrongdoers who are actively seeking to profit from this crisis by exploiting the fears and vulnerabilities of individuals. This type of criminal behavior is abhorrent and will not go unpunished. I have designated the Chief of our Economic Crimes section to serve as the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator for the District of Minnesota, with the primary duties of receiving all incoming reports of COVID-19 related fraud scams and oversight of any resulting prosecutions,” added MacDonald.
Some examples of these schemes include:
- Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
- Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
- Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
- Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
In a memorandum to U.S. Attorneys issued March 19, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities.
The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes. The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Pakistani Doctor Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald for the District of Minnesota today announced a federal criminal complaint against Muhammad Masood, 28, charging him with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Masood, who was arrested earlier today at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge David T. Schultz in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Masood was ordered to remain in custody pending a formal detention hearing, which is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2020.
According to the allegations in the complaint, Masood, a licensed medical doctor in Pakistan, was formerly employed as a Research Coordinator for a medical clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, under an H-1B Visa. Between January 2020 and March 2020, Masood made several statements to others, including pledging his allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham (ISIS) and its leader, and expressing his desire to travel to Syria to fight for ISIS. Masood also expressed his desire to conduct “lone wolf” terrorist attacks in the United States. On Feb. 21, 2020, Masood purchased a plane ticket from Chicago, Illinois to Amman, Jordan, and from there planned to travel to Syria. On March 16, 2020, Masood’s travel plans changed because Jordan closed its borders to incoming travel due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Masood made a new plan to fly from Minneapolis to Los Angeles to meet up with an individual who he believed would assist him with travel via cargo ship to deliver him to ISIS territory.
On March 19, 2020, Masood traveled from Rochester to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to board a flight bound for Los Angeles, California. Upon arrival at MSP, Masood checked in for his flight and was subsequently arrested by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Winter and Timothy C. Rank, with assistance from Trial Attorney Katie Sweeten of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Pakistani Doctor Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald for the District of Minnesota today announced a federal criminal complaint against MUHAMMAD MASOOD, 28, charging him with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. MASOOD, who was arrested earlier today at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge David T. Schultz in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. MASOOD was ordered to remain in custody pending a formal detention hearing, which is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2020.
According to the allegations in the complaint, MASOOD, a licensed medical doctor in Pakistan, was formerly employed as a Research Coordinator at a medical clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, under an H-1B Visa. Between January 2020 and March 2020, MASOOD made several statements to others, including pledging his allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham (ISIS) and its leader, and expressing his desire to travel to Syria to fight for ISIS. MASOOD also expressed his desire to conduct “lone wolf” terrorist attacks in the United States. On Feb. 21, 2020, MASOOD purchased a plane ticket from Chicago, Illinois to Amman, Jordan, and from there planned to travel to Syria. On March 16, 2020, MASOOD’s travel plans changed because Jordan closed its borders to incoming travel due to the Coronavirus pandemic. MASOOD made a new plan to fly from Minneapolis to Los Angeles to meet up with an individual who he believed would assist him with travel via cargo ship to deliver him to ISIS territory.
On March 19, 2020, MASOOD traveled from Rochester to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to board a flight bound for Los Angeles, California. Upon arrival at MSP, MASOOD checked in for his flight and was subsequently arrested by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Winter and Timothy C. Rank, with assistance from Trial Attorney Katie Sweeten of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Defendant Information:
MUHAMMAD MASOOD, 28
Rochester, Minn.
Charges:
- Attempt to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (ISIS), 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 262 Months in Prison for Illegal Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of NORRIS DESHON ANDREWS, 34, to 262 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. ANDREWS, who was convicted by a federal jury on October 4, 2019, was sentenced earlier today before Judge Susan Richard Nelson in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
As proven at trial, on May 15, 2018, police officers responded to a report of shots fired in the area of 25th and Girard Avenue North in Minneapolis. Witnesses described the shooter’s vehicle as an older model blue Chevrolet Tahoe. Officers recovered 13 discharged bullet casings from the scene. At trial, an eyewitness identified ANDREWS as the shooter.
As proven at trial, a little over an hour later, two individuals were shot and wounded in a parking lot near Plymouth Avenue North. Surveillance footage from a nearby security camera showed the shooter, who was later identified as ANDREWS, driving up to the scene in a blue Tahoe. ANDREWS and another individual got out of the vehicle and had a verbal altercation with several individuals standing on the sidewalk before ANDREWS pulled out a semi-automatic pistol and fired four shots, hitting two victims. ANDREWS then got back in the blue Tahoe and fired two more shots as he fled the scene. Hours later, officers located ANDREWS and took him into custody.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey S. Paulsen and Samantha H. Bates prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
NORRIS DESHON ANDREWS, 34
City of residence unknown
Convicted:
- Felon in possession of a firearm - armed career criminal, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 262 months in prison
- Five years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Saint Paul Felon Sentenced to 139 Months in Prison for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of PHELIXIS FITZGERALD MAR ROBINSON, a/k/a “Storm,” 45, to 139 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin. ROBINSON, who pleaded guilty on October 15, 2019, was sentenced yesterday before Judge Patrick J. Schiltz in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, on March 27, 2019, following the execution of multiple search warrants, law enforcement seized from ROBINSON’s possession more than four kilograms of heroin and more than $545,000 in cash. ROBINSON was also found to be in possession of six loaded firearms, including a Glock model 22 .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Taurus model Protector .38 caliber revolver, a Beretta model 96 .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Glock model 30 .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Bersa model Thunder .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a SCCY model CPX-2 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, an initiative that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Calhoun-Lopez prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
PHELIXIS FITZGERALD MAR ROBINSON, a/k/a “Storm,” 45
St. Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Possession with intent to distribute heroin, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 139 months in prison
- Five years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Former Operator of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinics Agrees to Pay $1.85 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Veterans’ Wait TimesRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Sterling Medical Associates Inc. (Sterling) will pay $1.85 million to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act that it failed to schedule veterans’ medical appointments timely at two outpatient clinics in Minnesota, resulting in the submission of false claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Sterling is a Cincinnati-based company that provides various services in the healthcare industry, including staffing, departmental operation, and outpatient clinic operation.
“We expect companies doing business with the government to comply with their contractual obligations, particularly when they relate to the health of our veterans,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “The Department is committed to ensuring that our veterans receive the timely medical care that they need and deserve.”
VA maintains community-based outpatient clinics across the country, including clinics in Minnesota. VA awarded Sterling a contract to operate its clinics in Hibbing and Ely, Minnesota, in March 2013. The contract incorporated VA requirements that routine appointments be scheduled within 14 calendar days of the veteran’s requested appointment date. Today’s settlement resolves allegations that, between July 2013 and April 2014, Sterling did not schedule patient appointments at the Hibbing clinic in compliance with these requirements and changed veterans’ requested appointment dates to make appointment wait times appear shorter.
“Today’s settlement exhibits the importance we place on the health and welfare of our veterans,” said U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald for the District of Minnesota. “The women and men who have bravely served our country deserve to receive timely care without exception.”
“We are pleased with the settlement and the willingness of the company to recognize the importance of timely scheduling medical appointments when veterans seek the healthcare treatment they earned,” said Gregg Hirstein, Special Agent in Charge, VA Office of Inspector General.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, and the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Former Operator of Minnesota VA Outpatient Clinics Agrees to Pay $1.85 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Veterans’ Wait TimesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that Sterling Medical Associates Inc. (Sterling) will pay $1.85 million to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act that it failed to schedule veterans’ medical appointments timely at two outpatient clinics in Minnesota, resulting in the submission of false claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Sterling is a Cincinnati-based company that provides various services in the healthcare industry, including staffing, departmental operation, and outpatient clinic operation.
“We expect companies doing business with the government to comply with their contractual obligations, particularly when they relate to the health of our veterans,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “The Department is committed to ensuring that our veterans receive the timely medical care that they need and deserve.”
VA maintains community-based outpatient clinics across the country, including clinics in Minnesota. VA awarded Sterling a contract to operate its clinics in Hibbing and Ely, Minnesota, in March 2013. The contract incorporated VA requirements that routine appointments be scheduled within 14 calendar days of the veteran’s requested appointment date. Today’s settlement resolves allegations that, between July 2013 and April 2014, Sterling did not schedule patient appointments at the Hibbing clinic in compliance with these requirements and changed veterans’ requested appointment dates to make appointment wait times appear shorter.
“Today’s settlement exhibits the importance we place on the health and welfare of our veterans,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “The women and men who have bravely served our country deserve to receive timely care without exception.”
“We are pleased with the settlement and the willingness of the company to recognize the importance of timely scheduling medical appointments when veterans seek the healthcare treatment they earned,” said Gregg Hirstein, Special Agent in Charge, VA Office of Inspector General.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, and the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Minneapolis Man Charged with Making Threatening Communications Through University’s Incident Reporting SystemRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal criminal complaint charging JEFFREY COLIN PURDY, 28, with making threatening communications. PURDY made his initial appearance yesterday before Magistrate Judge Hildy Bowbeer in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota. PURDY was ordered to remain in custody pending a formal detention hearing, which is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2020.
According to the allegations in the complaint, on September 15, 2017, the Mankato Department of Public Safety received a complaint from an individual stating that she had been receiving harassing emails from PURDY, a former classmate from Minnesota State University, Mankato (“Mankato State”). While attending Mankato State, the victim declined repeated romantic advances from PURDY and eventually blocked PURDY from her cellular telephone and social media accounts. From August 30, 2017, through February 21, 2020, PURDY used Mankato State’s Silent Witness Report, an anonymous incident reporting tool, to make frequent, violent threats against the victim. An IP address used to make one of the Silent Witness Reports was traced back to PURDY. On February 29, 2020, during an interview at the Mankato Department of Public Safety, PURDY admitted to sending all the Silent Witness Reports.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Mankato Department of Public Safety, with assistance from the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily A. Polachek is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
JEFFREY COLIN PURDY, 28
Minneapolis, Minn.
Charges:
- Threatening communications, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Brownsville Felon Charged with Illegal Manufacturing and Possession of Explosives, FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging KENNETH RAY MILLER, 58, with illegal manufacturing, dealing, transporting, and possession of explosives and illegal possession of firearms. MILLER made his initial appearance earlier today before Magistrate Judge Hildy Bowbeer in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the allegations in the indictment, from 2013 through June 25, 2019, MILLER knowingly engaged in the business of importing, manufacturing, dealing, and transporting explosive materials, including smoke generating devices containing electric igniters (also known as electric matches) and a chlorate explosive mixture. MILLER was also in possession of three firearms, including a Smith & Wesson Model 19-6 revolver, a Winchester Model 1200, 12-gauge shotgun, and a Norinco SKS Sporter rifle. Because MILLER has prior felony convictions, he is prohibited from possessing explosives or firearms.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Paul Police Department, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (State Fire Marshal).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily A. Polachek is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
KENNETH RAY MILLER, 58
Brownsville, Minn.
Charges:
- Manufacturing and dealing explosive materials, 1 count
- Transporting explosive materials, 1 count
- Felon in possession of explosives, 1 count
- Felon in possession of firearms, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Rochester Man and Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of STEVEN ALLEN LINDQUIST, 30, to 204 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. LINDQUIST, who pleaded guilty on October 31, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Patrick J. Schiltz in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. On February 18, 2020, LINDQUIST’s co-defendant, TIFFANY MARIE GAUTHIER, 24, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, on April 2, 2019, LINDQUIST was stopped by law enforcement for driving without a license. LINDQUIST was arrested with $10,000 in cash and approximately 6.5 grams of methamphetamine in his pocket. Law enforcement conducted a search of LINDQUIST’s vehicle and found another $7,920 in cash, approximately 13 grams of methamphetamine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, alprazolam, clonazepam, MDMA, and marijuana, which are all controlled substances under federal law.
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, between late April and early May 2019, law enforcement tracked a vehicle that was rented and driven by GAUTHIER from Arizona to Minnesota. On May 2, 2019, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and seized approximately 55 pounds of methamphetamine that was concealed in the fuel tank. GAUTHIER had assisted LINDQUIST in obtaining the drugs from a supplier in Arizona, and then intended to deliver the drug-laden vehicle to LINDQUIST who, in turn, intended to distribute the methamphetamine to customers throughout Minnesota. On May 29, 2019, law enforcement received a tip that LINDQUIST was selling drugs at the Black Bear Casino in Carlton County, Minnesota. Law enforcement conducted a search of the defendant's vehicle and seized approximately 615 grams of methamphetamine from a backpack which also contained mail addressed to LINDQUIST.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the DEA, the Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office, the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, and other members of the Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team (VCET).
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Hollenhorst.
Defendant Information:
STEVEN ALLEN LINDQUIST, 30
Rochester, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 204 months in prison
- 5 years of supervised release
TIFFANY MARIE GAUTHIER, 24
Rochester, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 60 months in prison
- Two years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Department of Justice Charges Unprecedented Number of Elder Fraud Defendants Nationwide and Launches HotlineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald joined Attorney General William P. Barr, FBI Director Christopher A. Wray, and Chief Postal Inspector Gary R. Barksdale today in announcing the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in history. This year, prosecutors charged more than 400 defendants, far surpassing the 260 defendants charged in cases as part of last year’s sweep. In each case, offenders allegedly engaged in financial schemes that targeted or largely affected seniors. In total, the charged elder fraud schemes caused alleged losses of over a billion dollars.
Attorney General Barr made the announcement at an event in Florida entitled “Keeping Seniors Safe,” which outlined his vision for protecting older Americans from financial harm. The event focused special attention on the threat posed by foreign-based fraud schemes that victimize seniors in large numbers. During the event, the Attorney General declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
“Americans are fed up with the constant barrage of scams that maliciously target the elderly and other vulnerable citizens,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “This year, the Department of Justice prosecuted more than 400 defendants, whose schemes totaled more than a billion dollars. I want to thank the men and women of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, which coordinated this effort, and all those in the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and Criminal Division who worked tirelessly to bring these cases. The Department is committed to stopping the full range of criminal activities that exploit America’s seniors.”
“The charges announced today demonstrate the great success of the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to identify and stop those who are targeting our senior communities from overseas,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “We’re committed to continuing our efforts to keep our elderly citizens safe, whether they’re being targeted door-to-door, over the phone, or online.”
“Every day, American consumers, particularly older Americans, receive offers that sound just too good to be true,” said Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. “Some come through the mail; others by telephone or the Internet. These offers have one objective – to rob you of your hard-earned money. Fraud costs Americans millions of dollars each year. The good news is most frauds can be prevented. It’s one of the few crimes in which potential victims can just say “No!” So hold on to your money and report scams to Postal Inspectors.”
“Aggressive phone-based marketing scams, phony investment opportunities, imposter schemes – every day, across the nation, seniors are being bombarded by these types of attacks,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “We are honing our resources and leveraging our law enforcement partnerships to root out these fraudsters who are preying upon vulnerable older Americans.”
This interactive map provides information on the elder fraud cases highlighted by today’s sweep announcement.
Elder Fraud Hotline
Attorney General Barr also announced the launch of a National Elder Fraud Hotline, which will provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. The Hotline will be staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers. Case managers will assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller. The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
For the second year, the Department of Justice and its law enforcement partners also took comprehensive action against the money mule network that facilitates foreign-based elder fraud. Generally, perpetrators use a “money mule” to transfer fraud proceeds from a victim to ringleaders of fraud schemes who often reside in other countries. Some of these money mules act unwittingly, and intervention can effectively end their involvement in the fraud. The FBI and the Postal Inspection Service took action against over 600 alleged money mules nationwide by conducting interviews, issuing warning letters, and bringing civil and criminal cases. Agents and prosecutors in more than 85 federal district participated in this effort to halt the money flow from victim to fraudster. These actions against money mules were in addition to the criminal and civil cases announced as part of this year’s elder fraud sweep.
In addition to announcing the sweep cases, Attorney General Barr and others at the Keeping Seniors Safe event also thanked department personnel — especially the Elder Justice Coordinators appointed in each U.S. Attorney’s Office — for conducting dozens of outreach events across the nation to warn seniors of fraud schemes and to engage with industry representatives and state and local authorities on fraud-prevention measures. These outreach efforts have helped to prevent seniors from falling prey to scams and have frustrated offenders’ efforts to obtain even more money from vulnerable elders.
The charges announced today are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Brooklyn Center Felon Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of Multiple Firearms and DrugsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of HURIAH KAREEM BLEDSOE, 40, to 120 months in prison for illegally possessing five firearms and quantities of marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. BLEDSOE, who pleaded guilty on October 15, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Susan Richard Nelson in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald said, “Mr. Bledsoe, a convicted felon with an extremely violent criminal history, was in possession of multiple firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and a variety of dangerous drugs – all in the presence of young children. His actions showed no regard for the safety of those children or the broader community.”
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, on January 2, 2019, and January 6, 2019, law enforcement received complaints from two separate callers stating that BLEDSOE was staying at the Extended Stay Hotel in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, and he had guns in the hotel room. The callers also stated that there were minors in the hotel room.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, law enforcement obtained search warrants for BLEDSOE’s hotel room and on January 17, 2019, law enforcement executed the warrants and seized five firearms, namely, a North American Arms, model NAA-.22LR, .22LR caliber revolver, a Stoeger, model M3500, 12-gauge short-barreled shotgun, a Ruger, model SR40, .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, an Imperial Metal Products, model 8, .22 caliber revolver, and a Ceska Zbrojsvka, model 50, 7.65 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Law enforcement also seized hundreds of rounds of ammunition, several high-capacity gun magazines, body armor, a digital scale, $2,320 in cash, and quantities of marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Brooklyn Center Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant United States Attorneys Emily A. Polachek and Thomas M. Hollenhorst prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
HURIAH KAREEM BLEDSOE, 40
Brooklyn Center, Minn.
Convicted:
- Possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, 1 count
- Felon in possession of firearms, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 120 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
West Saint Paul Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robberies of Several Twin Cities Restaurants and Gas StationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of DELFONZO DENELL WALLACE, 30, to eight counts of interference with commerce by robbery, known as the Hobbs Act. The Hobbs Act prohibits actual or attempted robbery affecting interstate or foreign commerce “in any way or degree.” WALLACE, who was charged by an Information on February 20, 2020, entered his guilty plea today before Senior U.S. District Judge Ann Montgomery in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, between June 14, 2019, and October 10, 2019, WALLACE, while armed with a dangerous weapon, robbed, in violation of the Hobbs Act, eight separate Twin Cities businesses that were engaged in interstate commerce, including Starbucks, Speedway, Wendy’s, Shuang Hur Supermarket, McDonald’s, and Spitz restaurant. During the robberies, WALLACE used actual and threatened force, violence, and fear of injury against victim employees to steal over $15,000 cash belonging to the businesses and employees. As part of the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, WALLACE agreed, under the Mandatory Victim Restitution Act, to make restitution to these businesses, as well as to three other business that were robbed between April and September 2019.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Minneapolis Police Department, the St. Paul Police Department, and other local police departments.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Bejar is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
DELFONZO DENELL WALLACE, 30
West St. Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), 8 counts
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Former Employee of Twin Cities Nonprofit Pleads Guilty to Charity Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of AISHIA RENEE BELL, 49, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. BELL, who was charged by felony information on January 29, 2020, entered her guilty plea today before Senior Judge David S. Doty in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A total of 12 defendants have pleaded guilty for their roles in the conspiracy.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, from November 2014 through February 2019, BELL, a former employee of a Twin Cities non-profit organization that provides housing and related services to the homeless, devised and participated in a scheme to defraud the organization of charitable funds intended to help the homeless. As part of the scheme, BELL recruited an individual to pose as a vendor providing services to fictitious homeless clients, and then directed the individual to submit to the organization fraudulent IRS Forms W-9, lease agreements, and check requests that falsely claimed to provide housing to homeless clients. BELL and a co-conspirator submitted the fraudulent check requests and supporting documentation to the organization’s accounts payable department in order to facilitate the issuance of checks. Between November 2014 and June 2017, BELL caused the transmission of approximately 69 fraudulent check requests from the organization to its bank for checks totaling approximately $166,785.
During the course of the investigation, BELL attempted to conceal the full scope of the conspiracy by making false statements to law enforcement and by attempting to dissuade a co-conspirator from cooperating with law enforcement.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General (HUD-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
Assistant United States Attorney Miranda E. Dugi is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
AISHIA RENEE BELL, 49
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 1 count
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Five South Minneapolis Gang Members Sentenced to Prison for Violent Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of five individuals connected with the 10z/20z south Minneapolis street gangs. ALKWAN KWAME LAWSON-HOLIDAY, 30, LE’KEITH ALI DU’JUAN RAYFORD, 28, KENNETH LAMONT THOMPSON, 34, MAURICE JERRY JOHNSON, 29, and LENARDO ALEXZANDER WOODARD, 32, were convicted and sentenced for crimes related to violent gang activity, including trafficking crack cocaine and illegal possession of firearms. The sentencing proceedings were held before Judge Joan N. Ericksen in United States District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald stated, “Violent groups who use guns to carry out their drug trafficking operations bring death and destruction to our communities. This type of criminal activity is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. All five of these individuals have faced justice and must account for the serious crimes they have committed.”
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, the defendants maintained active membership in or association with the 10z/20z south Minneapolis street gangs, with the purpose of making money for the gang through criminal acts, including distribution of crack cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. As part of their drug distribution schemes, members of the gangs possessed, carried and used firearms in order to protect their drug distribution network from rival gangs, and to protect drug distributors from being robbed of narcotics or money.
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, RAYFORD, THOMPSON, JOHNSON, and WOODARD were involved in a conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking crimes. Their criminal activities included, among other things, multiple crack cocaine and heroin sales, as well as repeated possession of illegal firearms.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of federal and local law enforcement agencies, including, but not limited to, the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the St. Paul Police Department. The Minnesota Department of Corrections also provided assistance in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Calhoun-Lopez prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
ALKWAN KWAME LAWSON-HOLIDAY, a/k/a “Lucky,” a/k/a “Kweezy,” 30
Brooklyn Park, Minn.
Convicted:
- Distributing a controlled substance, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 57 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
LE’KEITH ALI DU’JUAN RAYFORD, a/k/a “Fatty,” 28
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 78 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
KENNETH LAMONT THOMPSON, a/k/a “Kenny OG,” a/k/a “KG,” 34
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 100 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
MAURICE JERRY JOHNSON, a/k/a “Reese,” a/k/a “Loco,” 29
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 60 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
LENARDO ALEXZANDER WOODARD, a/k/a “Naughty,” 32
Brooklyn Park, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 51 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
###
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Two Men Plead Guilty to Selling Methamphetamine on the White Earth ReservationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty pleas of MICHAEL JACOB BLANDFORD, 28, and MATTHEW JON LEIGLAND, 26, to one count each of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. BLANDFORD and LEIGLAND, who were initially charged on April 26, 2019, entered their guilty pleas before Judge Nancy E. Brasel in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed with the court, BLANDFORD and LEIGLAND admitted to traveling from the White Earth Indian Reservation to the Twin Cities to purchase methamphetamine from a source and bring it back to the Reservation to distribute. On March 18, 2019, in Motley, Minnesota, a Minnesota State Trooper conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle for speeding and for having loud exhaust. BLANDFORD was identified as the driver and LEIGLAND was identified as the lone passenger. During the stop, the State Trooper observed drug paraphernalia and BLANDFORD showed signs of recent drug use. When asked to step out of the vehicle, BLANDFORD fled on foot and tossed an item out of his pocket, which was later found to be approximately 10 grams of methamphetamine. The State Trooper apprehended BLANDFORD and placed him in custody. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a methamphetamine smoking device, used razor blades, a small digital scale, two measuring cups, and a gallon Ziploc bag containing approximately 480 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the West Central Minnesota Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Motley Police Department, and the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina L. Allery prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
MICHAEL JACOB BLANDFORD, 28
Monticello, Minn.
Convicted:
- Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
MATTHEW JON LEIGLAND, 26
Ponsford, Minn.
Convicted:
- Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
###
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Maplewood Man Sentenced to 160 Months in Prison for Distribution of Child Pornography, Passport FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of GARY JAMES DOKULIL, 40, to 160 months in prison for distribution of child pornography and making false statements in an application for a passport. DOKULIL, who pleaded guilty on September 13, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Joan N. Ericksen in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, between December 2008 and November 2018, DOKULIL admitted to using file-sharing software to search for, acquire, and distribute images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. DOKULIL also admitted to traveling to the Philippines on multiple occasions and, while there in 2016, purchased several DVDs containing child pornography.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, in November 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at DOKULIL’s residence and seized several items, including electronics, electronic media, various travel documents, and DOKULIL’s passport. Law enforcement informed DOKULIL that he could not report his passport lost or stolen in order to obtain a new one because the location of his passport (i.e., in the custody of the FBI) was known to DOKULIL. Despite the warning, DOKULIL submitted an application to the State Department for a replacement passport and, under penalty of perjury, falsely reported that his passport was “lost” or “missing.” After fraudulently obtaining a replacement passport, DOKULIL traveled to the Philippines. On February 26, 2019, DOKULIL was located and arrested in the Philippines and was later deported to the United States.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Maplewood Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela M. Munoz and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Kayser prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
GARY JAMES DOKULIL, 40
Maplewood, Minn.
Convicted:
- Distribution of child pornography, 1 count
- False statement in application for passport, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 160 months in prison
- 15 years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Cass County Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of JARED ROSS BOSWELL, 33, to 145 months in prison for distributing child pornography. BOSWELL, who pleaded guilty on August 15, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Donovan W. Frank in U.S. District Court in Bemidji, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea, from April 2018 through September 2018, BOSWELL used the internet to send obscene materials and distribute sexually explicit images. Specifically, on September 7, 2018, BOSWELL sent an image depicting child sexual abuse to a minor, who he knew to be 10 years old.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Lake Department of Public Safety, the Mille Lacs Tribal Police Department, the Bemidji Police Department, the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the FBI.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Munoz.
Defendant Information:
JARED ROSS BOSWELL, 33
Cass County, Minn.
Convicted:
- Distribution of child pornography, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 145 months in prison
- 15 years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Illegal Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of MICHAEL MATTHEWS, 58, to 180 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. MATTHEWS, who was charged on January 4, 2019, was sentenced yesterday before Judge Eric C. Tostrud in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, on January 3, 2019, officers from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Violent Offender Task Force (“VOTF”) observed MATTHEWS place an object into the trunk of a Cadillac sedan that was parked in front of his residence before getting into the vehicle and driving away. Officers conducted a traffic stop and recovered 7.6 grams of cocaine from his person and a loaded Glock, model 26, 9 mm handgun from the trunk. Because he has prior felony convictions in Hennepin County, MATTHEWS is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms at any time.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Violent Offender Task Force. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samantha H. Bates and Amber M. Brennan prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
MICHAEL MATTHEWS, 58
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Felon in possession of a firearm - armed career criminal, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 180 months in prison
- Five years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Woman Orchestrated Scheme to Obtain U Visas, Charged with Visa FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging YURIDIA HERNANDEZ LINARES, 36, with conspiracy to commit visa fraud. LINARES made her initial appearance earlier today before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the allegations in the indictment, between August 20, 2019, and September 30, 2019, LINARES conspired with other individuals to defraud the United States by making false statements to fraudulently obtain U Nonimmigrant Visas (“U-Visas”), for four individuals. Victims of certain criminal activities that occur in the United States may be eligible to apply for and obtain a U Visa. A victim who obtains a U Visa may subsequently apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
According to the allegations in the indictment, LINARES devised and participated in a detailed scheme, whereby the four individuals each falsely reported to the Eden Prairie Police Department that they were victims of robberies committed in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. LINARES directed the individuals to file a police report stating that they were a victim of a fabricated assault, and to corroborate each other’s account of the assault. LINARES used a box cutter or other sharp object to cut the four individuals before they filed their false report with the Eden Prairie Police Department. In exchange, LINARES collected a $2,000 fee from each individual.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Eden Prairie Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela M. Munoz is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
YURIDIA HERNANDEZ LINARES, 36
City of residence unknown
Charges:
- Conspiracy to commit visa fraud, 1 count
###
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Winona Man Sentenced to 38 Years in Prison for Producing Images of Child Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of RYAN THOMAS FEINE, 35, to 456 months in prison for production and attempted production of child pornography, followed by 20 years of supervised release. FEINE, who pleaded guilty on October 7, 2019, was sentenced today before Chief Judge John R. Tunheim in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. During the sentencing hearing, Judge Tunheim described FEINE’s criminal conduct as “certainly horrendous,” and further noted that the case was, “among the worst I’ve ever seen.”
“This is one of the most egregious cases of child sexual abuse my office has prosecuted,” said U.S. Attorney Erica MacDonald. “We will never shy away from difficult cases such as this, we are committed to pursuing justice for innocent children.”
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, between February 10, 2013, and September 10, 2013, FEINE created multiple video recordings of his sexual abuse of Minor A, who was less than one year old at the time. During the same time period, FEINE also produced sexually explicit images of Minor B, who was approximately five years old at the time. FEINE came to the attention of law enforcement in August 2018, based on an allegation of ongoing sexual abuse.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, in August 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant on several of FEINE’s electronic devices, which revealed more than 1,000 images and 150 videos of child pornography. The National Center for Missing or Exploited Children subsequently identified the defendant as the creator of a multi-part child pornography series that has been distributed across the country.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
If you know of any child who may have been a victim of exploitation, please call the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or visit NCMEC’s web site at www.missingkids.com.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Winona Police Department, and the Winona County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan L. Sing and Melinda A. Williams prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
RYAN THOMAS FEINE, 35
Winona, Minn.
Convicted:
- Production and attempted production of child pornography, 2 counts
Sentenced:
- 456 months in prison
- 20 years of supervised release
- Restitution payable to each minor victim
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Minnetonka Personal Injury Attorney Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of WILLIAM KYLE SUTOR III, 37, to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. SUTOR, who was charged by felony Information on December 30, 2019, entered his plea today before Judge Nancy E. Brasel in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota. SUTOR will be sentenced at a later date.
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald stated, “This defendant, a personal injury attorney, participated in an all too common healthcare fraud scheme involving a network of chiropractors and runners. The #1 goal of the scheme was to steal money from insurance providers, resulting in higher premiums for Minnesota consumers. This is unacceptable. I applaud the diligent investigators and prosecutor who continue to pursue these cases.”
“The conduct perpetrated by Mr. Sutor makes it harder for the legitimate lawyers and health care providers to help Minnesotans who really are injured,” said Minnesota Department of Commerce Commissioner Steve Kelley. “The agents at the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau will continue to investigate individuals who think they are above the law.”
“As demand for health benefits goes up, so do the losses from health care fraud like this,” said FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge, Jill Sanborn. “Our special agents in partnership with Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau used every tool we have to dissect this scheme and stop this defendant before he could do more damage,” Sanborn said.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, between 2015 and 2016, SUTOR, a licensed personal injury attorney, engaged in a scheme to defraud providers of automobile insurance policies. SUTOR began working with chiropractors and patient recruiters, referred to as “runners.” As part of the scheme, the chiropractor would pay the runner a fee, typically between $1,000 and $1,500, for every individual that the runner brought to the chiropractor’s clinic to become a patient. In addition, SUTOR would pay the runner a fee, typically $300, for every individual that became a client of SUTOR’s. SUTOR, the chiropractors, and the runners took steps to conceal their scheme, including making kickback payments in cash or by checks written out to appear that they were payments for legitimate legal services.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau and the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. MacLaughlin is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
WILLIAM KYLE SUTOR III, 37
Minnetonka, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to commit health care fraud, 1 count
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Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry, False Representation of Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of OLGA MARINA FRANCO DEL-CID, 36, to one count of illegal re-entry after removal and one count of false representation of social security account number. FRANCO DEL-CID, who was charged on December 12, 2019, entered her guilty plea earlier today before Judge Susan Richard Nelson in U.S. District Court, in St. Paul, Minnesota. A sentencing date has been set for June 11, 2020.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, FRANCO DEL-CID was previously removed from the United States on May 4, 2016, following a felony conviction on August 8, 2008, in Lyon County, for criminal vehicular homicide. On November 26, 2019, FRANCO DEL-CID was found in the United States in violation of the previous removal. FRANCO DEL-CID also admitted to falsely representing a social security number on an Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura M. Provinzino is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
OLGA MARINA FRANCO DEL-CID, 36
Inver Grove Heights, Minn.
Charges:
- Illegal re-entry after removal, 1 count
- False representation of social security account number, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Illinois Man Indicted on Sex Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging DARNELL DESHAWN STENNIS, 28, with one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, and two counts of transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. STENNIS is scheduled to be arraigned on these charges on February 6, 2020, before Magistrate Judge Becky R. Thorson in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the allegations in the indictment and documents filed in court, from January 2019 through March 2019, STENNIS recruited, harbored, advertised, solicited, and transported from Minnesota to North Dakota, a victim to engage in commercial sex acts by means of force, fraud, and coercion. From March 21, 2019, through March 25, 2019, STENNIS also transported a second victim from Minnesota to North Dakota with the intent that the victim would engage in commercial sex acts.
According to the allegations in the indictment and documents filed in court, on March 25, 2019, officers with the Bloomington Police Department were dispatched to the La Quinta Inn in Bloomington, Minnesota, following a report that a hotel guest heard yelling and what sounded like someone being thrown against a wall. Upon arrival, officers encountered STENNIS and two other individuals, identified as Victim A and Victim B. Officers checked the hotel room and observed obvious signs of a disturbance, including a toilet seat that was broken into multiple pieces and a towel rack that was bent. Victim A reported to officers that STENNIS had violently assaulted her. Victim A reported that STENNIS choked her, bashed her head into the towel rack, and pushed her down onto the toilet seat. STENNIS, who also had outstanding warrants, was arrested and placed into custody.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Bloomington Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan B. Gilead and Manda M. Sertich are prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
DARNELL DESHAWN STENNIS, 28
Charges:
- Sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, 1 count
- Transporting individuals to engage in prostitution, 2 counts
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald Statement on Pending Expiration of Emergency Prohibition of Fentanyl AnaloguesRead the Press Release
“At midnight on February 6, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s temporary emergency prohibition of fentanyl analogues will expire, unless Congress acts to extend it. Fentanyl and its analogues are highly potent and extremely lethal. Fentanyl, which is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, poses a significant threat to public safety, even a very small quantity can cause a fatal overdose. The DEA’s temporary emergency prohibition has served as a critical tool for law enforcement, allowing us to more effectively combat the illegal trafficking of these deadly substances, but it is only temporary. If the temporary emergency prohibition expires on February 6, the criminals trafficking in fentanyl analogues will operate with impunity and the lives of Minnesotans will be put at risk. My job as United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota is to keep individuals, families and communities safe; therefore, I implore Congress to act now and pass permanent legislation. American lives depend on it.”
Background: In an effort to combat this deadly drug epidemic, DEA issued a temporary emergency two-year order in February 2018 that made all fentanyl-related substances illegal. Our country has seen a marked supply impact from DEA’s temporary scheduling of fentanyl-related substances during the past two years, with a 50 percent decrease in fentanyl-related substances encountered across the United States. However, DEA’s emergency authority expires at midnight on February 6, 2020, unless Congress acts to extend it.
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Minnesota Business Owner Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of RANDAL SCOT BRINKMAN, 61, to 46 months in prison. BRINKMAN, who was found guilty on July 25, 2019, following a four-day jury trial, was sentenced today by Judge Joan N. Ericksen in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
As proven at trial, BRINKMAN owned and operated a Roseville-based construction company. From 1999 through 2018, BRINKMAN took steps to hide his income and to actively evade the assessment of taxes, including using sham businesses, closing his personal bank accounts, using money orders and cash to pay for daily expenses, and creating a fake religious organization in order to hide his income and assets. Following a 2007 IRS audit, BRINKMAN filed personal income tax returns for the calendar years 2002 through 2007, admitting that he owed more than $145,000 in federal income taxes for those years. Nevertheless, despite filing the returns, BRINKMAN didn’t pay any of the taxes he admitted he owed to the IRS. BRINKMAN also failed to file tax returns or pay any of his federal incomes taxes from 2012 through 2018.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Criminal Investigation Division of the IRS and the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson and Alexander D. Chiquione.
Defendant Information:
RANDAL SCOT BRINKMAN, 61
Medina, Minn.
Convicted:
- Tax evasion, 6 counts
Sentenced:
- 46 months in prison
- 3 years supervised release
###
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Red Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Domestic AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of EDWARD LEE BELLANGER, 45, to three counts of assault of an intimate or dating partner. BELLANGER, who was initially charged on June 27, 2019, entered his plea today before Chief Judge John R. Tunheim in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. BELLANGER is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26, 2020.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, between October 2018 and January 2019, BELLANGER violently assaulted the victim on three separate occasions. During one of the assaults, BELLANGER, who was driving his car, reached over to the victim, who was seated in the front passenger seat, and slammed her head into the windshield, cracking the windshield. Following the assaults, the victim sought medical attention and was treated for substantial bodily injuries.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Lake Tribal Police Department and the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina L. Allery is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
EDWARD LEE BELLANGER, 45
Red Lake, Minn.
Convicted:
- Assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate or dating partner, 3 counts
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United States Attorney Erica H. Macdonald Appointed by United States Attorney General William P. Barr to the Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of JusticeRead the Press Release
During a ceremony today in Washington, D.C., United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald was appointed by Attorney General William P. Barr to the Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice. On October 28, 2019, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order No. 13896, authorizing and designating the Attorney General to create such a Commission that would explore modern issues affecting law enforcement that most impact the ability of American policing to reduce crime. The launch of the Commission was announced at today’s ceremony as well.
“There is no more noble and important profession than law enforcement. A free and safe society requires a trusted and capable police force to safeguard our rights to life and liberty,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “But as criminal threats and social conditions have changed the responsibilities and roles of police officers, there is a need for a modern study of how law enforcement can best protect and serve American communities. This is why the President instructed me to establish this critical Commission, whose members truly reflect the best there is in law enforcement. Together, we will examine, discuss, and debate how justice is administered in the United States and uncover opportunities for progress, improvement, and innovation.”
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald said, “I am honored to serve on this Commission alongside a group of incredible leaders who are dedicated to service and public safety. I undertake this responsibility fully cognizant that the Commission’s recommendations will impact our communities, law enforcement professionals and many components of the criminal justice system for decades into the future. My highest priority as United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota is keeping individuals, families and communities safe, which is the same priority I bring to this Commission.”
The Executive Order instructs the Commission to conduct its study by focusing on the law enforcement officers who are tasked with reducing crime on a daily basis. It also directs the Commission to research “important current issues facing law enforcement and the criminal justice system,” and recommends a variety of subjects for study, such as, but not limited to:
- The challenges to law enforcement associated with mental illness, homelessness, substance abuse, and other social factors that influence crime and strain criminal justice resources;
- The recruitment, hiring, training, and retention of law enforcement officers, including in rural and tribal communities;
- Refusals by State and local prosecutors to enforce laws or prosecute categories of crimes;
- The need to promote public confidence and respect for the law and law enforcement officers; and
- The effects of technological innovations on law enforcement and the criminal justice system, including the challenges and opportunities presented by such innovations.
The Commission will principally conduct its study through a series of hearings, panel presentations, field visits, and other public meetings. At these events, the Commission will hear from subject matter experts, public officials, private citizens, and other relevant stakeholders and institutions who can provide valuable insight into these issues.
The Commissioners, appointed by the Attorney General and announced today, are urban police chiefs, state prosecutors, county sheriffs, members of rural and tribal law enforcement, federal agents, a U.S. Attorney, and a state attorney general. In addition to their diverse experiences and backgrounds, each member brings to the Commission an expertise in formulating and shaping law enforcement policy and leading police departments and law enforcement organizations.
The Commission will meet monthly for the next year and then report its findings to the Attorney General, who will submit a final report to the President.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Red Lake Man Sentenced to 52 Months in Prison for Assaulting Three Individuals with A FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of DILLON GEORGE TAYLOR, 21, to 52 months in prison for assaulting three individuals with a firearm and violating his supervised release conditions. TAYLOR, who pleaded guilty on October 22, 2019, was sentenced today before Chief Judge John R. Tunheim in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, on November 22, 2018, during a confrontation with two individuals, TAYLOR pointed a firearm at one of the individuals and threatened his life. When the two individuals left the scene in a vehicle driven by a third individual, TAYLOR pursued them and shot at the vehicle multiple times. When the vehicle pulled into the parking lot of a casino located on the Red Lake Indian Reservation, TAYLOR continued his pursuit, firing a shot towards the entrance of the casino where the three individuals and casino personnel were standing.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Lake Tribal Police Department and the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Alexander D. Chiquoine prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
DILLON GEORGE TAYLOR, 21
Red Lake, Minn.
Convicted:
- Assault with a dangerous weapon, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 52 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
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Indiana Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Defrauding Former Owners of Duluth-Based Trucking CompanyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of DOUGLAS RAY THOMAS, 49, to 51 months in prison for perpetrating a fraud scheme against a Duluth-based trucking company. THOMAS, who pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of failing to account for and pay over employment taxes on May 17, 2019, was sentenced on January 17, 2020, before Joan N. Ericksen in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, from September 2013 through June 2014, THOMAS devised and executed a fraud scheme to gain control over the assets and revenue of Northwoods Trucking, Inc., a transportation company located in Duluth, Minnesota. On October 18, 2013, THOMAS and the former owners of Northwoods Trucking entered into a stock purchase agreement in which THOMAS agreed to purchase all outstanding shares of the company for $730,000. As part of the agreement, THOMAS agreed to make an initial payment within five days of closing. Despite failing to make the initial payment, as well as subsequent payments pursuant to the purchase agreement, THOMAS assumed control of the company in December of 2013 and, shortly thereafter, began transferring Northwoods Trucking’s business revenue into a bank account that THOMAS alone controlled.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, while he owned and operated the company, THOMAS repeatedly failed to pay many of the company’s liabilities, including fuel and insurance for the company’s trucks, payroll to employees and employment taxes due to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Instead, THOMAS used a significant portion of Northwoods Trucking’s business revenue to pay personal expenses and debts, including housing, furniture and a family vacation. The total loss caused by THOMAS’s fraud scheme is approximately $730,000, in addition to $57,792.13 in employment taxes that he failed to pay to the IRS.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle E. Jones and former Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kokkinen prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
DOUGLAS RAY THOMAS, 49
Bloomington, Ind.
Convicted:
- Wire fraud, 1 count
- Failure to account for and pay over employment taxes, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 51 months in prison
- Two years of supervised release
- $692,457.13 in restitution
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Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Robbing A North Minneapolis Convenience StoreRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of MARIO MARTELL SPENCER, 34, and AHMED OSMAN FARAH, 32, for the armed robbery of a Minneapolis convenience store. SPENCER and FARAH were convicted by a federal jury on June 17, 2019, and were sentenced to 156 months in prison and 120 months in prison, respectively. The sentences were handed down by Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
United States Attorney Erica MacDonald said, “Armed robbery of a small business, high-speed flight from police through residential areas, significant property damage – this is unwelcome criminal activity in our communities. My office and our law enforcement partners are laser focused on making our streets safer and we will not hesitate to go after those who oppose that mission.”
As proven at trial, on March 23, 2018, around 8:30 p.m., SPENCER and FARAH entered Penn-Wood Market, located on Glenwood Avenue in Minneapolis, wearing masks and gloves. SPENCER held two employees at gunpoint while FARAH took money from the cash registers and stole one employee’s cell phone. The two defendants fled the scene in a vehicle. A witness called 911 as the robbery was in progress and, shortly after, responding officers were able to locate the defendants’ unoccupied vehicle, which had crashed into a garage. Law enforcement set up a perimeter around the area of the crash site and, following a foot chase, were able to apprehend and arrest FARAH. With the assistance of a K9, law enforcement officers initiated a systematic search inside the perimeter and eventually found SPENCER hiding on top of the roof of a garage.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan H. Nelson and Justin A. Wesley prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
MARIO MARTELL SPENCER, 35
St. Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Interference with commerce by robbery, 1 count
- Using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 156 months in prison
- Four years of supervised release
- $2,800 in restitution
AHMED OSMAN FARAH, 33
Maplewood, Minn.
Convicted:
- Interference with commerce by robbery, 1 count
- Using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 120 months in prison
- Four years of supervised release
- $2,800 in restitution
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 98 Months in Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of RICHARD ALONZO WOODS, 36, to 98 months in prison for illegally possessing two firearms and for violating the terms of his supervised release. WOODS, who pleaded guilty on May 9, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota. On August 1, 2019, WOODS’s co-defendant, DAMON TYRELL LEE ACON, 23, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for illegal possession of firearms.
According to his guilty plea and documents filed in court, on May 18, 2018, WOODS and ACON knowingly possessed two firearms, namely, a Magnum Research, Desert Eagle 9mm pistol, and a Cobra CA380, .380 caliber pistol. Because WOODS and ACON have prior felony convictions, they are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms at any time.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Paul Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samantha H. Bates, W. Anders Folk, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Surya Saxena.
Defendant Information:
RICHARD ALONZO WOODS, 36
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Felon in possession of a firearm, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 98 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
DAMON TYRELL LEE ACON, 23,
St. Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Felon in possession of a firearm, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 60 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Chippewa County Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Producing Images of Child Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of MATTHEW ERIC DOLVEN, 31, to 360 months in prison for producing and distributing images and videos depicting his sexual abuse of a minor. DOLVEN, who pleaded guilty to a two-count felony information on February 26, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Susan R. Nelson in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
United States Attorney Erica MacDonald said, “Matthew Dolven’s egregious and despicable actions caused incalculable harm to the victim, harm that no child should ever have to endure. For his crimes, this child predator will spend the next 30 years in prison.”
According to the felony information and documents filed in court, between June 1, 2016, and June 27, 2018, DOLVEN sexually molested a minor victim and used a smartphone to record the abuse. DOLVEN used various social media platforms to distribute to others the child sexual abuse images and videos he produced.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
If you know of any child who may have been a victim of exploitation, please call the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or visit NCMEC’s web site at www.missingkids.com.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Montevideo Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura M. Provinzino and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Kayser prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
MATTHEW ERIC DOLVEN, a/k/a “VEECE07,” 31
Sherburne County Jail
Convicted:
- Production of child pornography, 1 count
- Distribution of child pornography, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 360 months in prison
- 20 years of supervised release
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Two Individuals Plead Guilty to the Robbery of A Red Lake RestaurantRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of ROBERT LEE JOURDAIN, SR., 26, to one count of robbery. JOURDAIN entered his plea today before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota. On December 19, 2019, JOURDAIN’s co-defendant COURTNEY JOHN BARRETT, JR., 30, also pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. The defendants will be sentenced at a later date.
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, on May 1, 2019, at approximately 9:30 pm, JOURDAIN and BARRETT entered the Snack Shack on the Red Lake Indian Reservation armed with weapons. BARRETT held his weapon to an employee’s head while JOURDAIN brandished his weapon. The defendants stole approximately $73 from the cash register and $83 from an employee’s purse.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Lake Tribal Police Department and the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina L. Allery is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
ROBERT LEE JOURDAIN, SR., 26
Red Lake, Minn.
Convicted:
- Robbery, 1 count
COURTNEY JOHN BARRETT, JR., 30
Red Lake, Minn.
Convicted:
- Robbery, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Minneapolis Sex Offender Found Guilty of Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced JOHN EDWIN KUHNEL, 40, was convicted on nine counts of receipt of child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography. KUHNEL was found guilty following a two-day bench trial before Chief Judge John R. Tunheim in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. KUHNEL will be sentenced at a later date.
“Mr. Kuhnel, a twice convicted child predator, must now face the consequences of his actions,” said U.S. Attorney Erica MacDonald. “Justice has prevailed in this case.”
As proven at trial, KUHNEL obtained and possessed child pornography images and videos while being supervised for a 2010 Hennepin County conviction for second-degree criminal sexual conduct. On November 29, 2016, following a meeting with his probation officer, KUHNEL admitted to unauthorized internet activity in violation of the terms of his supervision. Law enforcement’s forensic examination of KUHNEL’s two laptop computers revealed more than 33,000 child pornography images and videos. KUHNEL was instructed to return to the probation office the following day but, instead, KUHNEL fled the state and remained a fugitive until he was arrested in another state in 2017.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
If you know of any child who may have been a victim of exploitation, please call the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or visit NCMEC’s web site at www.missingkids.com.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department and the Hennepin County Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Manda M. Sertich and Emily A. Polachek.
Defendant Information:
JOHN EDWIN KUHNEL, 40
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Receipt of child pornography, 9 counts
- Possession of child pornography, 2 counts
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Two Child Predators Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced two unrelated sentencings under the Project Safe Childhood initiative. Both defendants were sentenced earlier this week in United States District Court.
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald said, “We have seen a dramatic uptick in the number of cases involving the sexual abuse of minors. I am committed to using every available resource to combat this disturbing trend. One such resource is the Project Safe Childhood initiative which brings together child protection experts nationwide that are laser focused on bringing these predators to justice.”
MICHAEL CARLOS MITCHELL, 43, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for two counts of production of child pornography on December 19, 2019, by United States District Court Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright, in St. Paul. MITCHELL, who pleaded guilty on December 19, 2018, created hundreds of videos and thousands of images of himself sexually abusing a child under the age of 10 years old. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension in conjunction with assistance from the Minnetonka, Minnesota, Police Department.
MARTY KEITH LARSON, 33, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for production of child pornography and distribution of child pornography. LARSON was sentenced on December 17, 2019, by United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz, in Minneapolis. LARSON, who pleaded guilty to one count each, on August 29, 2019, created sexual abuse images of a minor under the age of 10 and distributed them using Kik Messenger application. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations with the assistance of the Itasca County, Minnesota, Sheriff’s Office.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Manda M. Sertich.
These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
If you know of any child who may have been a victim of exploitation, please call the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or visit NCMEC’s web site at www.missingkids.com.
Defendant Information:
MICHAEL CARLOS MITCHELL, 43
Minnetonka, Minn.
Convicted:
- Production of Child Pornography, 2 counts
Sentenced:
- 40 years in prison
- 25 years supervised release
MARTY KEITH LARSON, 33
Keewatin, Minn.
Convicted:
- Production of Child Pornography, 1 count
- Distribution of Child Pornography, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 25 years in prison
- 10 years supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Justice Department Awards More Than $333 Million to Fight Opioid CrisisRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced awards of more than $333 million to help communities affected by the opioid crisis. More than $12.5 million will help public safety and public health professionals in the District of Minnesota combat substance abuse and respond effectively to overdoses. Funds were awarded by the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs.
“The opioid crisis has destroyed far too many lives and left too many Americans feeling helpless and hopeless,” said Principle Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan for the Office of Justice Programs. “This epidemic—the most deadly in our nation’s history—is introducing new dangers and loading public health responsibilities onto the public safety duties of our law enforcement officers. The Department of Justice is here to support them during this unprecedented and extremely challenging time.”
United States Attorney Erica MacDonald said, “Everyday, families and communities are torn apart because of the opioid crisis. This funding will directly support communities throughout Minnesota that are working to combat the crisis and heal from its devastating impact.”
Awards will support an array of activities designed to reduce the harm inflicted by these dangerous drugs. Grants will help law enforcement officers, emergency responders and treatment professionals coordinate their response to overdoses. Funds will also provide services for children and youth affected by the crisis and will support the nationwide network of drug and treatment courts. Other awards will address prescription drug abuse, expand the capacity of forensic labs and support opioid-related research.
The following awards were made to organizations in the District of Minnesota:
Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program: Category 1
Awardee:
Amount Awarded:
City of Minneapolis
$894,346
City of Duluth
$897,596
County of Itasca
$600,000
Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program: Category 2
Awardee:
Amount Awarded:
Department of Public Safety – Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
$6,449,990
Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims
Awardee:
Amount Awarded:
Native American Community Clinic
$750,000
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Courts Discretionary Grant Program: Category 1
Awardee:
Amount Awarded:
Carver County
$500,000
Judiciary Courts of the State of Minnesota
(Beltrami County Drug Court)
$499,979
Judiciary Courts of the State of Minnesota
(Mille Lacs County Drug Treatment Court)
$500,000
Judiciary Courts of the State of Minnesota
(Third Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court)
$500,000
Scott County
$500,000
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Courts Discretionary Grant Program: Category 2
Awardee:
Amount Awarded:
Anoka County Court Administration
$499,996
Information about these programs and awards is available here. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs awards, visit the OJP Awards Data webpage. The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training and technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Champlin Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for String of Twin Cities RobberiesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of MARTAVIS SHAWN DEMAR JAMES, 38, to 180 months in prison for the robbery and attempted robbery of 10 Twin Cities businesses. JAMES, who was convicted on May 17, 2019, was sentenced on December 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Susan Richard Nelson.
United States Attorney Erica MacDonald said, “The defendant committed a series of robberies at businesses across the Twin Cities, terrifying its employees and customers. The outstanding collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies to bring Mr. James to justice is another example of the work under our Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative.”
As proven at trial, between March and June of 2018, JAMES robbed or attempted to rob at least 10 businesses located across the Twin Cities metro area, including locations in Anoka, Hennepin, and Ramsey Counties. The robberies mostly involved CVS Pharmacy stores across the Twin Cities metropolitan area, as well as a Dollar Tree Store in Coon Rapids and a Blaine BigLots store. In each successful robbery instance, JAMES wore a black hooded coat, a black mask and black gloves. He would point a perceived firearm at the store employee(s), demand access to the business safe, order the employee(s) to put the cash into a duffel bag, and order them to the ground before fleeing.
Law enforcement identified JAMES and began conducting surveillance on him. On June 1, 2018, law enforcement agents followed JAMES as he drove to a CVS store in Eden Prairie. Law enforcement agents and officers, as well as CVS security personnel, were able to lock the front doors of the CVS store prior to JAMES’ arrival, preventing him from gaining entry when he approached. When JAMES returned to his vehicle he was apprehended by law enforcement.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minneapolis Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from multiple local agencies and departments that initially investigated the robberies that occurred in their jurisdictions.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen A. Slaughter prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
MARTAVIS SHAWN DEMAR JAMES, 38
Champlin, Minn.
Convicted:
- Hobbs Act Robbery, 8 counts
- Attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, 2 counts
Sentenced:
- 180 months in prison
- 3 years supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Saint Paul Armed Career Criminal Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald announced the unsealing of a federal indictment charging DEMETRICE DEVON MILLER, 29, with being a felon in possession of two firearms.[1] On December 12, 2019, MILLER made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Katherine M. Menendez in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the indictment, on November 23, 2019, MILLER was found to be in possession of two firearms, namely, a Hi-Point, model JHP, .45-caliber semiautomatic pistol, and a Taurus, model G2C, 9-millimeter semiautomatic pistol. Because MILLER has prior felony convictions, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. If convicted of the charge, MILLER faces a mandatory-minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison based on his prior convictions.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Paul Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bejar is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
DEMETRICE DEVON MILLER, 29
St. Paul, Minn.
Charges:
- Felon in possession of firearms- Armed career criminal, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Charges contained in an indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Convicted Felon Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging OLGA MARINA FRANCO DEL-CID, 35, with illegal re-entry, identification document fraud, and false representation of social security account number. FRANCO DEL-CID will appear on these charges on December 16, 2019, at 2:00 pm before Magistrate Judge Katherine M. Menendez in U.S. District Court, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to documents filed in court, FRANCO DEL-CID was previously removed from the United States on May 4, 2016, following a felony conviction on August 8, 2008, in Lyon County, for criminal vehicular homicide. On November 26, 2019, the defendant was found in the United States in violation of this previous removal. The defendant is further charged with identification fraud in the form of use of a false Permanent Resident Card (more commonly known as a “green card”) and social security fraud for falsely representing a social security number on an Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura M. Provinzino is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
OLGA MARINA FRANCO DEL-CID, 35
Inver Grove Heights, Minn.
Charges:
- Illegal re-entry after removal, 1 count
- Identification document fraud, 1 count
- False representation of social security account number, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Florida Man Arrested in St. Paul and Charged with Illegal Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging RAIVON TREYSHAN BALENGER, 28, with being a felon in possession of a firearm. BALENGER will be arraigned on this charge before Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Cowan Wright in U.S. District Court at a later date.
According to documents filed in court, on November 9, 2019, St. Paul police officers were dispatched to an apartment complex on Concordia Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota, following a 911 call reporting a man pacing back and forth holding a gun with a green laser sight. During the 911 call, the caller reported that the man had fired a shot. When officers arrived they saw a man, later identified as BALENGER, standing alone next to the apartment building. BALENGER, who appeared to be hiding, began to run when one officer turned on his spotlight. The officers pursued and were able to apprehend BALENGER, who had in his back pocket a Smith & Wesson model M&P Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol with a green laser sight attached to it. The firearm had been reported stolen from Oakdale, Minnesota. Because BALENGER has prior felony convictions in Ramsey County, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms at any time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Paul Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Calhoun-Lopez is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
RAIVON TREYSHAN BALENGER, 28
Clearwater, Fla.
Charges:
- Felon in possession of a firearm, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Saint Paul Felon Sentenced to 94 Months in Prison for Heroin Distribution Conspiracy, Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of DWIGHT CADARIUS LABON, 32, to 94 months in prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and illegally possessing firearms. LABON, who pleaded guilty on August 27, 2019, was sentenced on December 9, 2019, before Judge Eric C. Tostrud in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, from approximately December 1, 2017, through November 30, 2018, LABON conspired to buy and sell heroin to individuals throughout the Twin Cities. On August 27, 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant on a vehicle and recovered a loaded Ruger SR9 semi-automatic pistol, which was later determined to have been stolen. LABON acquired the Ruger from one of his heroin customers, with the assistance of his co-Defendant.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, on October 25, 2018, LABON entered the Chick N’ Chips restaurant in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a loaded Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number. LABON dropped the loaded Smith & Wesson in a trash can before exiting the restaurant. LABON then met with one of his heroin customers and arranged for the customer to retrieve the Smith & Wesson in exchange for heroin. Because he has prior felony convictions in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties, LABON is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms at any time.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Saint Paul Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samantha H. Bates and W. Anders Folk are prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
DWIGHT CADARIUS LABON, 32
St. Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, 1 count
- Felon in possession of firearms, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 94 months in prison
- Four years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Minneapolis Man Sentenced to 265 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of CARLOS MENDOZA SERRATO, 35, to 265 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. SERRATO, who pleaded guilty on July 9, 2019, was sentenced earlier today before Judge Joan N. Ericksen in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, from at least June 2015 through October 2018, SERRATO acted as the facilitator and organizer of a drug trafficking organization. SERRATO conspired with his co-defendants and others to traffic methamphetamine and other controlled substances into and throughout Minnesota. In support of the organization, SERRATO delivered and arranged for the delivery of methamphetamine to his sub-distributors, collected funds, vehicles, and various other items from the sale of methamphetamine and other controlled substances. Throughout the course of the investigation into SERRATO’s drug trafficking organization, which affected multiple states, law enforcement seized more than 85 pounds of methamphetamine as well as additional quantities of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen A. Slaughter is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
CARLOS MENDOZA SERRATO, a/k/a “Michoacan,” a/k/a “Micho,” 35
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 265 months in prison
- Five years of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Brainerd Man Charged with Shooting and Killing 700 Pound Black Bear on the Red Lake Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a misdemeanor information charging BRETT JAMES STIMAC, 40, with wildlife trafficking and trespassing on Indian lands after shooting and killing a bear on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. STIMAC will make his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois in U.S. District Court at a later date.
According to the allegations in the information, on the evening of September 1, 2019, STIMAC, who is not an enrolled member of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, willfully, knowingly and without authorization or permission, entered the Red Lake Indian Reservation for the purposes of hunting a bear. Using a compound bow, STIMAC shot and killed a large American black bear near the Reservation’s garbage dump.
According to the allegations in the information, on September 2, 2019, STIMAC posed for photographs with the bear’s carcass and later shared the photographs on Facebook. Because of the bear’s large size, STIMAC was unable to move the bear from the Reservation, and instead removed the bear’s head and paws, and harvested a small portion of the meat. STIMAC left the remainder of the carcass on the Reservation.
The Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians does not permit non-Indians to hunt bear, a clan animal, within the boundaries of the Red Lake Indian Reservation, due to the bear’s spiritual importance to the Band.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Red Lake Department of Public Safety, the Red Lake Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with assistance from the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Gina L. Allery and Emily A. Polachek are prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
BRETT JAMES STIMAC, 40
Brainerd, Minn.
Charges:
- Lacey Act wildlife trafficking, 1 count
- Trespass on Indian lands, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Former President of Little Falls Credit Union Sentenced to 96 Months in Prison for $2.5 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of MARGURITE MARY COFELL, 62, to 96 months in prison for orchestrating a multimillion dollar credit union fraud scheme. COFELL, who pleaded guilty on April 3, 2019, to one count of credit union fraud, was sentenced on December 3, 2019, before Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, from at least June 2006 through January 2014, COFELL was the Manager, Chief Operating Officer and/or President of the St. Francis Campus Credit Union located in Little Falls, Minnesota. In that capacity, COFELL was responsible for the oversight of the daily operations of the credit union, and ensuring proper documentation of the credit union transactions. COFELL used her access and position to fraudulently divert credit union funds to herself and other members of the credit union, including family members, friends and businesses in the Little Falls and Flensburg area. COFELL did so by authorizing fictitious loans or increasing the balances on existing, legitimate loans without the knowledge or authorization of the borrowers, issuing checks from the credit union despite the absence of any corresponding deposits into the credit union, making fictitious electronic deposits into the accounts of credit union members that they did not contribute but later withdrew from the credit union, including an account held in her name, and accounts in the names of various family members and friends, taking cash from the tellers’ cash drawers and the credit union’s vault, and recording fictitious cash payments on loans held by family members. In total, COFELL caused a loss amount of $2,513,360.77 to the St. Francis Campus Credit Union. As a result of COFELL’s fraud, the St. Francis Campus Credit Union, which had served the Little Falls community for more than 50 years, was placed into liquidation due to insolvency.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant United States Attorney Michelle E. Jones prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
MARGURITE MARY COFELL, 62
Little Falls, Minn.
Convicted:
- Credit union fraud, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 96 months in prison
- Five years of supervised release
- $2,513,360.77 in restitution
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Justice Department Announces More Than $376 Million in AwardsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced that it has awarded more than $376 million in grant funding to enhance state, local and tribal law enforcement operations and reinforce public safety efforts in jurisdictions across the United States. More than $77 million will support public safety activities in the District of Minnesota. The awards were made by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
“Crime and violence hold families, friends and neighborhoods hostage. They also rip those communities apart,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan for the Office of Justice Programs. “These programs simultaneously play a role in mending communities through preventing crime, apprehending and prosecuting perpetrators, facilitating appropriate sentencing and adjudication, and restoring communities and their residents.”
United States Attorney Erica MacDonald said, “My number one priority as U.S. Attorney is to keep individuals, families and communities safe. The Department of Justice has awarded more than $77 million in federal public safety grants to organizations dedicated to doing just that. These grants, awarded to public sector entities and nonprofits throughout the state of Minnesota, will support holistic efforts to fortify our communities and enhance public safety.”
The awards announced today support an array of crime-fighting initiatives, including the quarter-billion dollar Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grants Program, which funds public safety efforts in 929 state, local and tribal jurisdictions. Funding also supports sex offender registration and notification, law enforcement-based victim services, the testing of sexual assault kits, and programs designed to address youth with sexual behavioral problems. Other awards will focus on wrongful convictions, intellectual property enforcement, innovative prosecution strategies and the safety and effectiveness of corrections systems.
Information about the programs and awards announced today is available here. For more information about OJP awards, visit the OJP Awards Data webpage.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training and technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Wabasha County Brothers Sentenced to Prison for Violent Home Invasion Robberies, One Resulting in Victim’s DeathRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of LENNIE DWAYNE BROOKS, 34, RANDY LORENZO BROOKS, 24, and AUTUMN MARIE NICHOLS, 21, to prison for their roles in a string of violent home invasion robberies. Senior Judge David S. Doty sentenced LENNIE BROOKS to 365 months in prison, RANDY BROOKS to 240 months in prison, and NICHOLS to 120 months in prison. On November 5, 2019, co-defendant ESPERANZA CARDENAS, 30, was sentenced to 50 months in prison.
United States Attorney Erica MacDonald stated, “Lennie and Randy Brooks carefully planned and carried out multiple violent home invasion robberies, one resulting in the death of a victim. Although nothing can replace the lost sense of safety and security of one’s home or the loss of a loved one, today’s sentencings offer some measure of justice for the victims.”
“After more than a year of investigation and court proceedings, the Brooks brothers’ victims have justice,” said Special Agent in Charge William Terry Henderson, of the ATF Saint Paul Field Division. “ATF has worked closely with the victims in this case to provide status updates, resources, and support to help recover from the traumatic experiences resulting from the brothers’ violent crime spree. No one deserves what these people went through, and our hope is that peace can be found in the finality of this sentencing. We are grateful to our many law enforcement partners whose efforts led to the apprehension of those responsible for these crimes and ultimately for the success of this case.”
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, LENNIE and RANDY BROOKS, on three separate occasions that are chargeable under the Hobbs Act, committed violent home invasion robberies and, in one incident, caused the death of a robbery victim. On October 6, 2018, LENNIE and RANDY BROOKS broke into a private residence located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota while NICHOLS waited in the getaway car. RANDY BROOKS held two victims at gunpoint while LENNIE BROOKS searched the house for money and valuables. During that time, one of the victims went into cardiac arrest, however neither defendant called for medical help nor did they allow the second victim to call for help. The defendants stole approximately $50,000 in cash, which was the business proceeds of the Shuang Hur Asian Markets located in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. The defendants admitted that the victim who went into cardiac arrest died as a direct result of the home invasion.
On September 23, 2018, LENNIE and RANDY BROOKS broke into a private residence located in Ellendale, Minnesota while CARDENAS waited in the getaway car. RANDY BROOKS held two victims at gunpoint while LENNIE BROOKS searched the house for money and valuables. The defendants stole approximately $40,000 in cash, which was the business proceeds of the Holland Auction Company located in Ellendale, Minnesota.
On August 16, 2018, LENNIE and RANDY BROOKS broke into a private residence located in Waite Park, Minnesota. RANDY BROOKS held two victims at gunpoint while LENNIE BROOKS searched the house for money and valuables. The defendants stole approximately $180,000 in jewelry and gemstones, which belonged to Trisko Jewelry located in Waite Park, Minnesota.
The Hobbs Act, passed by Congress in 1946, prohibits actual or attempted robbery affecting interstate or foreign commerce “in any way or degree.”
This case was the result of a multi-jurisdictional investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”), Eden Prairie Police Department, Steele County Sheriff’s Office, Woodbury Police Department, Cottage Grove Police Department, St. Paul Police Department, Minneapolis Police Department, Winona Police Department, Wabasha Police Department, Prior Lake Police Department, Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team, St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office, Wabasha County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Olmstead County Sheriff’s Office, Winona County Sheriff’s Office, Waite Park Police Department, Owatonna Police Department, Nisswa Police Department, Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office, Red Wing Police Department, Mason City Police Department, Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office, and the Albert Lea Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), an initiative that brings together federal, state and local law enforcement to combat violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey S. Paulsen prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
LENNIE DWAYNE BROOKS, 34
Zumbro Falls, Minn.
Convicted:
- Aiding and abetting interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), 3 counts
Sentenced:
- 365 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
- $288,483.72 in restitution to victims
RANDY LORENZO BROOKS, 24
Wabasha, Minn.
Convicted:
- Aiding and abetting interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), 3 counts
Sentenced:
- 240 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
- $288,483.72 in restitution to victims
AUTUMN MARIE NICHOLS, 21
St. Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Aiding and abetting interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), 1 count
Sentenced:
- 120 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
- $50,000 in restitution to victims
ESPERANZA CARDENAS, 30
Conger, Minn.
Convicted:
- Aiding and abetting interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), 1 count
Sentenced:
- 50 months in prison
- Three years of supervised release
- $238,483.72 in restitution to victims
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Federal and Local Officials to Host Community Meeting in Duluth to Discuss SextortionRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office, the Minneapolis Division of the FBI, the Duluth Police Department, and the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office will convene a community meeting on December 3, 2019, to talk about the issue of sextortion and the alarming increase that law enforcement is seeing in these types of cases. Sextortion is a type of online sexual exploitation where victims are coerced into providing sexually explicit images or videos often in compliance with a threat being made against them or their loved ones.
Join us for a panel discussion highlighting the issue of sextortion, trends in victimization, recent cases, prevention tips, and what to do if you or a loved one becomes a target. Parents, teachers, students, law enforcement, and community leaders are encouraged to attend.
This event is free and open to the public, however registration is strongly encouraged. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, December 3, 2019, from 5:30-7:45 p.m. at the Hermantown Police Department in Hermantown, Minnesota. For more information or to register, please email [email protected]
NOTE: This event is open press. All media must RSVP to [email protected] and present valid media credentials at the event.
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Registered Nurse Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Stealing Opioids from Elderly PatientRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of LA VANG, 27, to 18 months in prison for stealing prescription pain medication from his patient. VANG, who pleaded guilty on May 28, 2019, was sentenced on November 26, 2019, before Judge Nancy E. Brasel in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
“As a registered nurse, Mr. Vang abused his position of trust and caused harm to a vulnerable victim only to feed his own addiction. This sentence, which is an upward departure from the sentencing guideline range, is appropriate for this defendant’s conduct,” said United States Attorney Erica MacDonald.
“Patients and their families rely on the knowledge that they will receive FDA-approved medications to manage their pain,” said Special Agent in Charge William P. Conway, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice healthcare professionals who put their patients’ health at risk by tampering with their pain medications.”
“Temptation and addiction plague all professions,” U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Diversion Program Manager William Stockmann said. “A nurse taking advantage of those in need of home healthcare and medication is unbecoming and does significant harm to our communities. DEA continues to work with partners to identify individuals diverting medication and will prosecute them to the full extent of the law.”
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, in April 2018, VANG, who was a registered nurse employed with Lifesprk Home Care, was assigned to work as a home healthcare nurse for an elderly woman in her 80’s who was recovering from multiple surgeries and prescribed controlled substance medication for her pain. Between April 2018 and August 2018, VANG fraudulently obtained from the patient oxycodone and hydrocodone by replacing her pain medication with similar-looking loratadine and acetaminophen tablets. During this time period the victim’s health declined precipitously. In July 2018, when the victim’s husband contacted Lifesprk to raise concerns, he learned that the period of care provided by the company ended on May 1, 2018, and that VANG was no longer employed by LifeSprk even though he had continued to visit the victim under the auspices of being a LifeSprk employee.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, following a report made by the victim’s family, law enforcement opened an investigation. On August 2, 2018, following VANG’s visit to the victim’s home, police conducted a traffic stop on VANG’s vehicle and found several empty prescription bottles for oxycodone in the victim’s name dated between April and June of 2018, as well as empty bottles of acetaminophen and Walgreen’s brand allergy medication (loratadine).
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Office of Criminal Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Columbia Heights Police Department, with assistance from the Anoka County Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan H. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
LA VANG, 27
Newport, Minn.
Convicted:
- Obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 18 months in prison
- One year of supervised release
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600