Northern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Caledonia man sentenced for COVID loan fraudRead the Press Release
OXFORD – A Caledonia man was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for receiving $800,000 in fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loans related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to court documents, Herman Nash, 63, applied for three separate loans and received a total of $800,000. Nash claimed the loans for a business that did not exist. Nash’s loan applications claimed that his business generated $455,000 in gross revenue and $90,000 in cost of goods sold when, in reality, Nash did not have a business at all.
U.S. Senior District Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Nash to serve 18 months imprisonment followed by 5 years supervised release and $738,000 in restitution. As a part of the investigation, the IRS seized two vehicles from Nash worth over $60,000.
“This defendant stole money that was intended to help legitimate businesses survive during the COVID pandemic, and now he is paying the price for that conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We hope that this sentence will provide notice to all of those who defrauded their fellow taxpayers in similar fashion that they will be held to account for their actions.”
“The sentencing today is an example of the accountability people who fraudulently obtained COVID-19 relief funds can expect,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents have not stopped pursing those who committed fraud on programs that financially helped Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clay Dabbs prosecuted the case.
Starkville man sentenced to prison for illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A Starkville man was sentenced today to more than three years in prison following his conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Nicholas Monroe, 31, pled guilty in April to a charge of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. Monroe was arrested in September of 2022 after law enforcement officers responded to reports of someone firing a gun in downtown Starkville during a confrontation and encountered Monroe, who was in possession of a Glock 9mm handgun. Today, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Monroe to 41 months in prison for his illegal possession of that firearm. Upon release from prison, Monroe will serve a three-year term of supervised release. Monroe was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following sentencing.
Following the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner and federal law enforcement officials noted that this investigation and the sentence imposed was significant in ongoing efforts to fight violent crime. “When felons illegally possess and use guns to commit crimes or disrupt the community, we will respond,” remarked Joyner. “This office will continue to work alongside our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to hold accountable individuals who choose to illegally possess and use firearms in our District.”
“Mr. Monroe’s sentencing should serve as a warning to those bad actors who unlawfully possess firearms,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners, through impactful programs such as Project Safe Neighborhoods, will continue to identify, investigate, and deliver justice to anyone violating federal laws designed to protect our communities.”
“In our effort to disrupt violent gun crime in our community, ATF will continue to focus efforts on prohibited individuals who unlawfully possess firearms,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to convicted felons who are prohibited from possessing firearms that we will continue to work to keep our neighborhoods safe as the top priority for ATF.”
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the FBI, and the Starkville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Engineer charged with obstructing a criminal investigation into the cause of the Yanky 72 plane crashRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – A former Robins Air Force Base employee has been arrested for making false statements and obstructing justice during a federal criminal investigation into a 2017 military plane crash that claimed the lives of 16 service members.
On July 10, 2017, a United States Marine Corps KC-130 transport aircraft known as “Yanky 72” crashed near Itta Bena, Mississippi, resulting in the death of fifteen Marines and one Navy Corpsman. On Tuesday morning, JAMES MICHAEL FISHER, formerly of Warner Robins, Georgia and currently residing in Portugal, was arrested on an indictment issued by a federal grand jury in the Northern District of Mississippi charging him with obstruction of justice and false statements during a criminal investigation into the cause of that crash.
According to the indictment, FISHER, 67, a former propulsion engineer with the C-130 program office at Robins Air Force Base, engaged in a pattern of conduct intended to avoid scrutiny for his past engineering decisions related to why the crash may have occurred. Specifically, the indictment alleges that FISHER knowingly concealed key engineering documents from criminal investigators and made materially false statements to criminal investigators about his past engineering decisions.
FISHER is charged with two false statements and two obstruction of justice charges. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge would determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi; and Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), and Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) made the announcement.
AFOSI, DCIS, and NCIS are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Leary and Philip Levy are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Arizona men sentenced for methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking in the Northern District of MississippiRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – Two Arizona men have been sentenced for trafficking drugs from California into the Northern District of Mississippi.
According to court records, Enrique Rivera, 45, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute approximately 110 pounds of methamphetamine. Omar Villacorta was convicted at trial of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute approximately 110 pounds of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting in the possession with intent to distribute approximately three kilograms of fentanyl.
Rivera was previously sentenced to 200 months incarceration with a five-year term of supervised release. At a sentencing hearing on Wednesday, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Villacorta to 235 months incarceration with five years of supervised release.
“This prosecution resulted from one of the largest drug seizures in the Northern District of Mississippi in recent history,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “It was the result of a significant undercover operation involving state and federal law enforcement officers. Due to their diligence and professionalism, we were able to keep this methamphetamine and fentanyl off the streets of Mississippi.”
“This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantling drug trafficking organizations and holding those responsible accountable, regardless of where they come from. The significant sentences handed down send a clear message that trafficking dangerous narcotics like methamphetamine and fentanyl into Mississippi will not be tolerated,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw.
The Panola County Sheriff’s Office, Batesville Police Department, Desoto County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Bureau of Investigations and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Leary and Chad Doleac.
Memphis Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Memphis man was sentenced today to ten years in prison for distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl.
According to court records, Christopher Brittenum, 39, previously pled guilty to participating in a drug conspiracy. The Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating Brittenum after Brittenum sold fentanyl resulting in the overdose death of an Olive Branch man. In addition, DEA gathered evidence showing Brittenum distributed narcotics to two individuals, who subsequently overdosed but survived. DEA ultimately determined that Brittenum was responsible for distributing 1.5 to 5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the conspiracy.
At a sentencing hearing on Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Brittenum to 120 months imprisonment followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
“Fentanyl has impacted every community in Mississippi and our nation, and those who distribute this poison in our communities need to expect to go to prison without exception,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We will continue to work with our partners at DEA and outstanding local partners like the Olive Branch Police Department to remove both fentanyl and those who distribute it from our streets.”
“This sentence sends a clear message to those who deal fentanyl and methamphetamine – you will be held accountable for the devastation you cause. One life lost is one too many, and this defendant is responsible for the death of a resident in Olive Branch,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge, Steven Hofer of the New Orleans Division. “The DEA will continue to pursue those who bring these dangerous drugs into our neighborhoods.”
“Our department is grateful for the partnership we have with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the US Attorney’s Office,” said Olive Branch Police Chief William Cox. “This sentencing is the culmination of many hours of dedicated service by the detectives and agents of each department and our community is safer as a result. The Olive Branch Police Department will continue to work with these agencies and the US Attorney’s Office to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community.”
The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case in partnership with the Olive Branch Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow prosecuted the case.
Starkville Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Starkville man was sentenced today to over seven years in federal prison for drug trafficking.
According to court documents, Lashadus Harris, 33, previously pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Senior U.S. District Court Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Harris to 87 months in prison following his drug trafficking conviction. Upon release from prison, Harris will serve a three-year term of supervised release. Harris was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals after sentencing.
“This defendant is a repeat offender who continued to sell dangerous narcotics in his community,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Thanks to the hard work of FBI, the Starkville Police Department and AUSA Robert Mims, he will no longer be retailing illegal drugs in Starkville.”
“The FBI is committed to ensuring that our communities remain safe,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff. “When individuals, like Mr. Harris, continuously introduce illegal narcotics into the community, this becomes a danger to society. It is imperative the FBI, DOJ and our Starkville partners fully prosecute these offenders to the extent allowed.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Starkville Police Department.
Postal employee ordered to pay restitution for COVID payroll protection loan fraudRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Southaven woman was ordered to pay more than $80,000 in restitution following her conviction for making a false application for and receiving COVID-19 Payroll Protection loans.
According to court records, LaSonja Jones, 42, previously pled guilty to applying for PPP COVID-19 loans with false information about eligibility of two personal businesses she owned to obtain Federal moneys from the Small Business Administration. Jones was an administrative employee of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at the time she made the false applications.
At a sentencing hearing on Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Jones to time served in prison with five years of supervised release and ordered her to pay $80,433 in restitution.
“The federal government made billions of dollars available to businesses that needed help to stay afloat during the pandemic, and people like this defendant stole that money,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “To add insult to injury, the defendant worked for the government at the same time that she was actively stealing from the government, and I appreciate the efforts of the Postal Service to bring her to justice.”
“This case is an example of our unwillingness to tolerate payroll protection fraud, especially by individuals who are placed in positions of authority to protect and investigate this very fraud,” said U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Michael Ray. “I thank Special Agent Jonathan Sawant and AUSA Paul Roberts for their commitment to bringing this case to resolution.”
The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General’s Office of Professional Responsibility investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Roberts prosecuted the case.
Columbus Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Illegal Possession of Guns at the Links at Oxford ApartmentsRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Columbus man was sentenced today to eight years in prison for possessing firearms as a prior convicted felon.
According to court records, Tyson Jamal Hairston, 34, previously pled guilty to possessing two pistols after having been convicted of a felony offense. Officers located one firearm while serving Hairston with a state warrant for kidnapping at the Links at Oxford Apartments. During a search of Hairston’s Links apartment, officers located a second firearm and narcotics.
At a sentencing hearing on Thursday, U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Hairston to 96 months imprisonment followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
“Citizens have every right to expect that individuals who commit violent crimes and who use guns to commit those crimes will be removed from the streets and sentenced to prison,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This office will continue to work with all of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute those individuals who choose to illegally possess and use guns in our communities.”
“Getting guns out of the hands of criminals is an essential element of the fight against violent crime and securing our neighborhoods,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that convicted felons illegally possessing firearms will be held accountable as we work to keep our neighborhoods safe as a top priority for ATF.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case in partnership with the Oxford Police Department and the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Howell Addison prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Final Defendant Sentenced in Large Scale Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Crowder woman was sentenced on Tuesday to 23 years in prison for selling methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Linda Hunt, 49, of Crowder, Mississippi pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District to Mississippi to distribution of methamphetamine. Hunt was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock on Tuesday afternoon to 276 months in prison for the drug trafficking. She was further sentenced to 5 years supervised release following her release from prison. Hunt agreed to a final order of forfeiture in the amount of $20,000.00 and is currently in custody.
Hunt oversaw the drug trafficking organization of other defendants who were charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs and drug distribution. The investigation of this drug trafficking organization and its participants spanned multiple years.
“Criminal actions have consequences, and the sentences handed down to this trafficking organization demonstrate that the full force of the law will be employed to bring those consequences to drug dealers who introduce poison into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Our federal and state law enforcement partners worked together seamlessly to bring down this organization, and the efforts of AUSA Clyde McGee to lead the prosecution of these defendants were exceptional as well.”
“I am proud to see the success of the partnership between the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Drug Enforcement Agency, and all other assisting agencies who worked together to ensure these criminals were held accountable for their actions,” said Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. “Thank you to everyone involved for playing a part in keeping our state and communities safe.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration, alongside the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and dedicated local partners, applaud the sentencing of the final defendant in a multi-year investigation targeting a major drug trafficking ring,” said DEA New Orleans Division Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer. “This individual, who oversaw the illicit activities of others, has been held accountable thanks to a collaborative effort under Project Safe Neighborhoods and OCDETF. This case exemplifies the power of combined forces in dismantling drug trafficking organizations and keeping our communities safe.”
Below are the traffickers’ charges and sentences, made possible by OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhood initiatives:
- Lucas Smith pleaded guilty on October 17, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit money laundering. U.S. District Judge Neal B. Biggers, Jr. sentenced Smith to 240 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Smith agreed to a final order of forfeiture in the amount of $100,000.00.
- Preston Cross pleaded guilty on October 17, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Neal B. Biggers, Jr. sentenced Cross to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
- Terence Lomax pleaded guilty on November 9, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Lomax to 150 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
- Domonique Cross pleaded guilty on October 17, 2022, to conspiracy to commit money laundering. U.S. District Judge Neal B. Biggers, Jr. sentenced Cross to 30 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Cross agreed to a final order of forfeiture in the amount of $30,000.00.
- James Taylor pleaded guilty on June 7, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Taylor to 219 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
- Genise Cox pleaded guilty on November 29, 2022, to distribution of methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Cox to 26 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
- Alvin Johnson pleaded guilty on November 29, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Johnson to 130 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
- Brenda Hunt pleaded guilty on November 29, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Hunt to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
- Dexter Ray pleaded guilty on December 2, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Ray to 78 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
- Demandrick Hayes pleaded guilty on March 8, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Hayes to 46 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
- Aaron Prince pleaded guilty on March 29, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Prince to 46 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
- Dana Smith pleaded guilty on June 7, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Smith to 125 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
- Anterion Wiley pleaded guilty on June 15, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Debra Brown sentenced to time served, followed by 5 years supervised release.
- Antonio Wiley pleaded guilty on March 29, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Debra Brown sentenced Wiley to 70 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
- William Garner pleaded guilty on October 4, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Garner to 78 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
- Contreal Bolden pleaded guilty on October 11, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Bolden to 43 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
- Damion Jones pleaded guilty on September 22, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Jones to 36 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
- Tommie Peoples pleaded guilty on August 1, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Neal B. Biggers, Jr. sentenced Peoples to 18 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
- Markell Crossgrove pleaded guilty on January 5, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Debra Brown sentenced Crossgrove to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
- James Woods pleaded guilty on December 16, 2022, to distributing methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Woods to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program in partnership with state and local law enforcement. Agencies assisting with the investigation included the United States Marshal’s Service, the United States Postal Inspector’s Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Mississippi Highway Patrol, the Panola County Sheriff’s Office, Desoto County Sheriff’s Office, Tallahatchie County Sheriff’s Department, the Batesville Police Department, Charleston Police Department, and the Leflore County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
This investigation and resulting case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is also a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Former Amory School Teacher Sentenced to 192 Years for Sexual Abuse of Former StudentsRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, Miss. – Toshemie Wilson, a former educator in the Amory School District, was sentenced today to 192 years in prison following his conviction for multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a child. Wilson was ordered to pay $123,353.34 in restitution to victims of the offense and a $5,000 trafficking assessment.
In December of 2023, a jury in Greenville found Wilson guilty of eight counts of sexual exploitation of children based on his conduct while he was a teacher employed by the Amory School District. Testimony at the trial revealed that Wilson used his position as a teacher and advisor for the student group Technology Students of America (TSA) to groom students to eventually produce child sexual abuse videos and pictures in exchange for money and drugs.
At the trial in this matter, seven witnesses testified that Toshemie Wilson approached them while they were students and solicited them to make masturbation videos in exchange for pay between 2005 and 2014. The witnesses identified multiple places Wilson had them make the videos including the school bathroom, an office space rented specifically for this purpose, and the Amory Wal-Mart bathroom. Several of the witnesses stated they were induced to make videos while on out-of-town school trips with TSA.
An investigation in this case initially began when one former student reported the abuse to a counselor. That counselor then reported the statement to law enforcement.
Following a sentencing hearing in Greenville today, Chief U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Wilson to 192 years in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release.
“Parents and children should be able to trust teachers, and Toshemie Wilson profoundly betrayed that trust and deserves every hour of every day that he spends in prison,” opined U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “I cannot say enough about the courage of the victims who came forward, and I commend AUSA Parker King for leading the prosecution and the efforts of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, the FBI, and our local law enforcement partners. Wilson is now exactly where he belongs.”
“Protecting the innocence of society’s youth is one of the many noble missions of the FBI. Toshemie Wilson’s heinous actions of preying on children will not be tolerated. Today’s sentencing reflects the unyielding dedication of the FBI, DOJ and our local law enforcement partners in assuring offenders like Mr. Wilson, are held accountable and brought to justice,” said FBI SAC Robert Eikhoff.
“Predators who seek to exploit the children that they are trusted to care for will not go unpunished,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “Today’s sentencing serves as a reminder that those who abuse positions of power will be prosecuted to the fullest extent. I am thankful for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the state and local law enforcement agencies for their partnership on this case. My hope is that these victims and their families find justice and healing.”
The investigation of this case was a joint effort by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, and multiple state and local law enforcement agencies.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Parker S. King and Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. 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. The goal of Project Safe Childhood is to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children.
Starkville man sentenced to 15 years in prison for distributing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Starkville man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for drug trafficking.
According to court documents, Chad Boyd, aka Chadrick Robinson, 41, previously pled guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), also known as “ice,” a Schedule II controlled substance. Boyd was sentenced Thursday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. Boyd was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following his sentencing hearing.
“Individuals who chose to spend their time selling meth and other illegal drugs in the Northern District of Mississippi should know that this office and our law enforcement partners will do all we can to see that they are removed from the community and sent to prison,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We hope that today’s sentence will serve as another reminder that the sale of illegal narcotics has detrimental and life-changing consequences for those who peddle the illicit substances and those who use them.”
“The sentencing of Mr. Chad Boyd, for the distribution of methamphetamine, underscores the positive impacts law enforcement has on the communities affected by the drug crisis,” said FBI SAC Robert A. Eikhoff. “Criminals like Mr. Boyd can expect the FBI and our federal, state, and local partners to remain steadfast in our resolve to remove offenders from the communities where they would otherwise bring the violence and the criminal activity inextricably linked to illegal drugs.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Starkville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
North Mississippi man sentenced to 20 years for threatening a mail carrierRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Sledge man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison following his conviction for threatening a postal employee with a dangerous weapon.
According to court documents, Henry Weaver, 47, was convicted in federal court on February 13, 2024, of one count of threatening a mail carrier with a dangerous weapon. The threat occurred in Marks, Mississippi, on April 23, 2022.
Weaver was sentenced today by United States District Judge Sharion Aycock to 240 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Weaver, who has been in custody since his arrest in April, 2022, was remanded to the U.S. Marshals to begin serving his sentence.
“We will not tolerate threats of violence against mail carriers while they are simply doing their jobs,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We commend the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their work on this investigation and for helping to protect the community from this defendant.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Quitman County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
Sardis man sentenced to more than fifteen years in prison for illegal gun possessionRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Sardis man was sentenced today to more than 15 years in prison for illegal possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, Jamaal Ellison, age 40, was stopped by an Oxford Police Department officer for speeding in January of 2022, but fled the scene in his car. Ellison crashed the car into a pole and attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended by the officer. Officers found a Glock.40 caliber pistol and ammunition in Ellison’s vehicle along with illegal narcotics, and Ellison admitted possessing the gun. Ellison, who had previously been convicted of multiple felonies involving the sale of narcotics, was sentenced pursuant to the Armed Career Criminal Act, which provides for a minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life imprisonment.
During a sentencing hearing on Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Ellison to 188 months in prison and five years of supervised release.
“Our communities should be able to expect that repeat felony offenders will face real consequences, and that those consequences will be heightened when that offender illegally possesses a firearm,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This office will continue to work with partners like the Oxford Police Department, the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit, and ATF to ensure that those consequences exist for criminals in the Northern District of Mississippi.”
“The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that career criminals will be held accountable as we work to keep our neighborhoods safe as a top priority for ATF,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “Sending a violent individual like this to prison is another example of our commitment to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case in partnership with the Oxford Police Department and Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Hampton prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney recognizes outstanding agents for work with victimsRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Two FBI agents were recognized on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Oxford, Mississippi for their outstanding work and service on behalf of crime victims.
FBI Special Agents Molly Blythe and Ryan Berthay were recipients of the inaugural Carolyn Clayton Victims’ Service Award given by U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner in observance of Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Both agents Blythe and Berthay were specifically recognized for their work on behalf of child exploitation and human trafficking victims.
The award, which is named in memory of long-time victims’ rights advocate Carolyn Clayton, will be given annually by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to recognize agents or individuals who have demonstrated tremendous efforts and service to crime victims. Clayton, who founded Survival Incorporated after a tragedy in her own personal life, championed victims’ rights in Mississippi and worked tirelessly to bring about changes to laws affecting those touched by violent crime.
“I can think of no more fitting name for this award given in observance of Victims’ Rights Week than the Carolyn Clayton Victims’ Service Award, and no more deserving agents to receive it this year than Molly Blythe and Ryan Berthay,” remarked U.S. Attorney Joyner. “Ms. Clayton and Special Agents Blythe and Berthay have devoted themselves to ensuring that crime victims are heard and protected and that justice is served on their behalf. For all the work that Carolyn Clayton did on behalf of victims during her lifetime and for all of the work that Agents Blythe and Berthay are currently doing, we are immensely grateful.”
Indianola Man Sentenced for Armed Robbery of Backyard BurgersRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – An Indianola man was sentenced today to more than six years in prison for his role in the armed robbery of a Backyard Burgers restaurant in Cleveland, Mississippi.
According to court documents, Leequinn McCloud, 25, previously pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi to one count of Hobbs Act robbery pertaining to the armed robbery of the Backyard Burgers restaurant in Cleveland. McCloud was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown to 77 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Following sentencing, McCloud was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals.
McCloud’s co-defendant, Ladarius Snipes was previously sentenced in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, where he was facing additional charges. Snipes was sentenced to 120 months in prison for his role in the armed robbery of the Backyard Burgers, in addition to 35 months in prison for his Minnesota charges.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office will do everything in its power to ensure that those who choose to commit violent gun crimes are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We thank ATF and the Cleveland, Mississippi Police Department for their work on this case and will continue to work alongside our federal, state and local partners to help keep our communities and citizens safer by aggressively investigating and prosecuting violent criminals.”
“ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are dedicated to pursuing and combating those career criminals whose violent criminal activities threaten and severely detract from the welfare of our communities,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “This is another example of our commitment to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Cleveland Police Department investigated the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Thirty-Seven Gang Members and Associates Sentenced in Large-Scale Racketeering and Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
The 37th and final defendant was sentenced today in a Northern District of Mississippi case that targeted the violent activities, drug trafficking, and money laundering of the Simon City Royals prison gang.
Joshua Miller, 33, of Jackson, Mississippi, was sentenced to 16 years and eight months in prison for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) conspiracy, including conspiracy to murder, related to his participation in the Simon City Royals.
“The Simon City Royals gang engaged in murder and torture and smuggled drugs and other contraband into prisons,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s sentencing of 37 gang members ends the gang’s reign of terror in the communities and prisons of Mississippi. This prosecution demonstrates the Justice Department’s resolve, along with our law enforcement partners, in holding violent criminal gang members to account.”
“Society simply cannot function if criminals and gangs are allowed to inflict violence on individuals and communities without consequences, and this years-long investigation and prosecution demonstrates that such criminality will not go unchecked,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “I want to express extreme gratitude to our law enforcement partners for their tremendous efforts in putting an end to the reign of terror perpetrated by the Simon City Royals members and affiliates convicted in this case.”
According to court documents, the Simon City Royals were a violent prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prison throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, and elsewhere. Through their sophisticated structure and an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud.
“This investigation shows the dedication of the ATF and its law enforcement partners to making our neighborhoods safer by disrupting and dismantling these violent gangs wherever they exist,” said Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) New Orleans. “We will continue to be aggressive in stopping their criminal activities, bringing them to justice, and making an impact on reducing violent crime in our communities.”
“This final sentencing shatters the myth of the Simon City Royals’ invincibility,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Hofer of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Orleans Field Division. “Keeping our communities safe is the DEA’s unshakeable mission. This message goes out to all who peddle drugs and unleash gun violence: law enforcement is relentless. We will never stop, not on the streets, not behind bars. We will dismantle these violent gangs, bringing the full force of the federal government to bear, and ensure they no longer terrorize our communities.”
The Simon City Royals were responsible for the brutal murder of a prison inmate in 2018, when a Simon City Royals leader issued a “kill on sight” order, directing any gang member who encountered the targeted inmate to murder him. In January 2018, Dillon Heffker and Robert Williams acted on the order, stabbing the victim dozens of times with improvised prison knives. Leaders of the Simon City Royals rewarded Heffker and Williams for the murder by arranging for hundreds of dollars to be directed to their prison commissary accounts.
“In over 40 years of working with law enforcement and the State and federal courts in Mississippi, this case took as many serious offenders off the street as any I can remember,” said U.S. Marshal Daniel R. McKittrick. “Thanks to all the agencies that work together to try and keep our communities safe.”
“The U.S. Secret Service is committed to investigating and pursuing those who aim to exploit our nation’s financial systems in order to further a criminal enterprise,” said Resident Agent in Charge Kyle Smith of the U.S. Secret Service’s Jackson Resident Office. “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, a violent gang was dismantled and the individuals involved can now be held responsible for their crimes.”
The Simon City Royals were also responsible for the savage kidnapping and torture of a former gang member for perceived violations of the gang’s code of conduct. In 2015, a member of the Simon City Royals kidnapped the victim at knifepoint and forced him into a hotel room. There, Simon City Royals members and associates tied the victim to a chair, interrogated him, tortured him, and burned off his Simon City Royals tattoo.
In addition, the Simon City Royals engaged in widespread drug trafficking, including smuggling large quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, heroin, and benzodiazepines into dozens of Mississippi state prison facilities. The gang distributed these dangerous substances, including nearly 100% pure crystal methamphetamine, to inmates throughout the prison system.
Prior to Miller’s sentencing, his co-conspirators were sentenced to the following terms of imprisonment:
- Allen Posey, 48, of Jackson, 20 years;
- Jonathan Davis, 39, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, 30 years and five months;
- Jeremy Holcombe, 43, of Meridian, Mississippi, 20 years;
- Jonathan Burnett, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama, 22 years and six months;
- Hank Chapman, 38, of Riply, Mississippi, three years;
- Jason Hayden, 42, of Picayune, Mississippi, five years;
- Gavin Pierson, 33, of San Diego, 21 years and 10 months;
- Justin Shaw, 36, of Holly Springs, Mississippi, 25 years;
- Bobby Brumfield, 44, of New Orleans, 15 years and eight months;
- Jordan Deakles, 31, of Gulfport, Mississippi, two years and six months;
- Bryce Francis, 43, of Columbus, Ohio, 15 years;
- Anthony Murphy, 30, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 10 years;
- Chancy Bilbo, 31, of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, 20 years;
- Dillon Heffker, 32, of Bay St. Louis, 35 years;
- Douglas Jones, 34, of Jackson, 19 years and seven months;
- Cody Woodall, 31, of Gulfport, five years;
- Michael Muscolino, 43, of Phoenix, five years;
- Valerie Madden, 54, of Chicago, two years;
- Samuel Conwill, 45, of Tupelo, Mississippi, time served of 20 months;
- Jason Collins, 40, of Loraine, Ohio, five years;
- Justin Leake, 43, of Meridian, 25 years;
- Michael Dossett, 42, of Carriere, Mississippi, six years and six months;
- Angel Labauve, 43, of Picayune, Mississippi, nine months;
- Bruce Floyd, 42, of Senatobia, Mississippi, 10 years and five months;
- Jacquelyn Harmon, 33, of Senatobia, one year and months;
- Cody Myrick, 33, of Grenada, Mississippi, one year and eight months;
- Craig Thomas, 36, of Grenada, two years and three months;
- Arvis Tolbert, 43, of Hurley, Mississippi, three years;
- Preston Edwards, 36, of Jackson, 21 years and 10 months;
- Catherine Perry, 41, of Tupelo, five years;
- John Brooks, 37, of Greenwood, Mississippi, 10 years;
- Alana Dickey, 21, of Holly Springs, five years of probation;
- Austin Ruby, 35, of Holly Springs, 10 years;
- Chris Vincent, 20, of Gulfport, five years and two months;
- Trevor Overby, 45, of Jackson, time served of 18 months; and
- Anthony Rouse, 33, of Picayune, 10 years.
The ATF, DEA, the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI Jackson Field Office, the Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states investigated the cases, with valuable assistance from the Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department, and Tippah County Sheriff’s Department.
Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow for the Northern District of Mississippi prosecuted the cases, with valuable assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams for the Southern District of Mississippi.
Southaven man sentenced to prison for lying on the form required to purchase a firearmRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A Southaven man was sentenced in federal court on Wednesday to 20 months in prison for lying on ATF Form 4473 during the purchase of a firearm.
According to court documents, Lavoris Donte McGee, Jr., 22, traveled to a Federal Firearm Licensee (FFL), in Southaven, Mississippi and purchased a Diamondback, Model AR-15, .300 blackout, semi-automatic rifle. McGee filled out the ATF Form 4473 required for the purchase of the gun and stated that he was not currently under felony indictment when, in fact, he was under indictment for assault on a law enforcement officer.
On April 10, 2024, U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced McGee to 20 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
“For the safety and well-being of all citizens, it is imperative that we hold accountable those individuals who illegally obtain and possess firearms,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This office will continue to work alongside our local, state and federal partners to prioritize the prosecution of individuals who provide false information in order to possess guns when they are not legally allowed to do so.”
“Getting guns out of the hands of criminals is an essential element of the fight against violent crime and securing our neighborhoods,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that dishonest individuals like this will be held accountable as we work to keep our neighborhoods safe as a top priority for ATF.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case with the U.S. Marshal’s Task Force, Southaven Police Department, and with assistance from the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Senatobia woman sentenced to 33 months in jail for embezzling from former employerRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A Senatobia, Mississippi woman was sentenced in federal court today to 33 months in prison for embezzling almost a half of a million dollars from her former employer by creating false employees and having salaries for the fake persons deposited into her personal bank accounts.
According to court documents, Julia N. Linck, nee Capriotti, of Senatobia, stole the funds from October 2014 through July 2020 from Memphis Barbecue Company in DeSoto County.
Following a sentencing hearing on Tuesday in Oxford, U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock ordered Linck to serve 33 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Linck was also ordered to pay back the stolen funds, with the court ordering her to pay $462,874.05 in restitution.
The U.S. Secret Service and DeSoto County, Mississippi Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Roberts prosecuted the case.
Former police officer sentenced to 10 years in prison for possession of child sexual abuse materialsRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A former policeman from Bruce, Mississippi and part-time volunteer firefighter was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison on Tuesday morning for possessing child sexual abuse materials. Following a sentencing hearing in Oxford, U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock ordered Corey Harrelson to serve 121 months in prison, followed by a term of supervised release of 5 years. Harrelson was also ordered to make restitution payments of $3,500 to each of eight known victims, for a total of $28,000.
According to court documents, Harrelson of Bruce, Mississippi, possessed computer files containing images and videos of minors, including prepubescent children, engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Harrelson possessed files of more than 80 known child victims.
“Today’s sentence should serve as a stark reminder that those who possess images of the sexual abuse of children will face significant punishment in federal court, regardless of their job or status,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “I would like to thank the FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office for their assistance in this investigation, and for their continued commitment to put defendants like this one behind bars.”
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch said, "I am proud of my team for their hard work investigating this horrific crime and grateful to the U.S. Attorney's Office for securing this sentence. While this conviction does not turn back the clock, it prevents this predator from inflicting more harm, and it is my hope and prayer that the closure of this case helps these victims find peace and healing."
“Safeguarding our society's future begins with protecting underage citizens in our community from vile individuals like, Corey Harrelson,” remarked Jackson Mississippi Resident FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Maher Dimachkie. “Those who commit these heinous crimes against our youth will not be tolerated. The FBI and the DOJ maintain a commitment to protect our communities by aggressively investigating and protecting the innocence of our minors, assuring offenders are brought to justice. “
The FBI and Mississippi Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Roberts prosecuted the case.
Corinth man sentenced to 30 years for producing and distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, Miss. – A Corinth, Mississippi man was sentenced in federal court today to 30 years in prison for producing sexually explicit images with minors and posting them on the dark web.
According to court documents, Paul Burk, III, 36, recorded child sexual abuse videos using minors under the age of 10 years old and posted them on forums on the dark web. The victims were identified through Operation Rescue Me, a strategic partnership between the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which focuses on determining the identity of child victims depicted in child exploitation material.
Following a sentencing hearing on Wednesday in Greenville, Chief U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown ordered Burk to serve 360 months in prison, followed by a term of supervised release for the remainder of his life.
“The depraved conduct of this defendant inflicted horrific damage upon innocent lives, for which he was appropriately sentenced to the maximum possible penalty in this case,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Our office will always remain committed to protecting children from such abhorrent conduct, and we are proud of the partnership between the FBI, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, and our prosecutor who worked together to see justice done for the victims in this case.”
"Safeguarding our society's future begins with protecting the youth in our community from criminals like, Paul Burk III,” remarked FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Maher Dimachkie “Those who commit these heinous crimes against our youth will not be tolerated. The FBI maintains a commitment to support our DOJ partners in aggressively investigating and protecting the innocence of our minors, assuring offenders are brought to justice. "
“The suffering these children have endured is unimaginable,” stated Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “I am grateful for our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI. Working together across agencies we were able to ensure justice is served here. We cannot give these children back what their abuser has taken from them, but we have at least started them on the road to healing.”
The FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case.
Justice Department Finds Conditions at Three Mississippi Prisons Violate the ConstitutionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today its findings that conditions of confinement at three Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) facilities violate the 8th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
The Department’s 60-page report details its findings from a thorough investigation of the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, South Mississippi Correctional Institution, and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility. These three prisons currently house about 7,200 people.
The report concludes that MDOC routinely violates the constitutional rights of people incarcerated at all three facilities by failing to protect them from widespread physical violence. The state does not adequately supervise the incarcerated population, control the flow of contraband, adequately investigate incidents of serious harm, or provide adequate living conditions. These problems are exacerbated by chronic understaffing that has allowed gangs to exert improper influence inside the prisons.
The report also concludes that Mississippi unconstitutionally subjects persons at Central Mississippi Correctional Facility and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility to prolonged restrictive housing under harsh conditions that places them at substantial risk of serious physical and psychological harm.
“People living in prisons and jails have a constitutional right to safe and adequate living conditions,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “Our investigation uncovered that people in these three facilities were subjected to violent and unsafe conditions, in violation of the Constitution. We look forward to working with Mississippi officials to remedy these violations and improve safety and living standards for people incarcerated in the state of Mississippi.”
“Every state is constitutionally obligated to protect the people it incarcerates from known, pervasive and deliberately unchecked violence, and to house people in conditions that do not pose a serious risk of physical and psychological harm,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Our investigation uncovered chronic, systemic deficiencies that create and perpetuate violent and unsafe environments for people incarcerated at these three Mississippi facilities. The unconstitutional conditions in Mississippi’s prisons have existed for far too long, and we hope that this announcement marks a turning point towards implementing sound, evidence-based solutions to these entrenched problems. The Justice Department stands ready to enforce the dictates of the Constitution that protect the safety and human dignity of all people housed at state prison facilities. Our work makes clear that people do not abandon their civil and constitutional rights at the jailhouse door.”
“Ensuring constitutional and humane conditions of confinement in our prisons is a key part of public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “By allowing physical violence, illegal gang activity, and contraband to run rampant, Mississippi not only violates the rights of people incarcerated at these facilities, but also compromises the legitimacy of law enforcement efforts to protect our communities. Our office remains committed to upholding the rights of all our district’s residents. We look forward to working with the Mississippi Department of Corrections to protect the constitutional and civil rights of those incarcerated at these three Mississippi prison facilities.”
“The conclusion of the investigation and the issuance of findings is only the start of the work necessary to ensure that the state of Mississippi and the Mississippi Department of Corrections fulfill their constitutional obligations to the people it incarcerates,” said U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi. “The minimum remedial measures outlined in this report create the framework for what the state must do to reasonably protect people in these facilities from violence and prevent deprivation of fundamental physical and psychological needs. While this report makes clear that there is much work for the state to do, we are committed to working with state officials to ensure that Mississippi abides by its constitutional obligations.”
Today’s announcement follows the Department’s April 2022 report finding that conditions at the Mississippi State Penitentiary (known as Parchman) violated the constitutional rights of persons incarcerated there by subjecting them to violence, failing to provide adequate care for serious mental health needs, or adequate suicide prevention measures and using prolonged restrictive housing in a manner that poses a risk of serious harm.
The Justice Department launched its investigation of Parchman, Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, South Mississippi Correctional Institution, and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility in February 2020, under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA). As required by CRIPA, the department provided the State of Mississippi with written notice of the supporting facts for its conclusions and the minimum remedial measures necessary to address the alleged violations.
The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi conducted the investigation.
For more information about the Civil Rights Division and the Special Litigation Section, please visit www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section. You can also report civil rights violations to the section by completing the complaint form available at civilrights.justice.gov/. To provide information related to the Department’s investigation of the four Mississippi prisons, please call 1-833-591-0288 or email the department at [email protected].
Justice Department Finds Conditions at Three Mississippi Prisons Violate the ConstitutionRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today its findings that conditions of confinement at three Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) facilities violate the 8th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
The Department’s 60-page report details its findings from a thorough investigation of the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, South Mississippi Correctional Institution, and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility. These three prisons currently house about 7,200 people.
The report concludes that MDOC routinely violates the constitutional rights of people incarcerated at all three facilities by failing to protect them from widespread physical violence. The state does not adequately supervise the incarcerated population, control the flow of contraband, adequately investigate incidents of serious harm, or provide adequate living conditions. These problems are exacerbated by chronic understaffing that has allowed gangs to exert improper influence inside the prisons.
The report also concludes that Mississippi unconstitutionally subjects persons at Central Mississippi Correctional Facility and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility to prolonged restrictive housing under harsh conditions that places them at substantial risk of serious physical and psychological harm.
“People living in prisons and jails have a constitutional right to safe and adequate living conditions,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “Our investigation uncovered that people in these three facilities were subjected to violent and unsafe conditions, in violation of the Constitution. We look forward to working with Mississippi officials to remedy these violations and improve safety and living standards for people incarcerated in the state of Mississippi.”
“Every state is constitutionally obligated to protect the people it incarcerates from known, pervasive and deliberately unchecked violence, and to house people in conditions that do not pose a serious risk of physical and psychological harm,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Our investigation uncovered chronic, systemic deficiencies that create and perpetuate violent and unsafe environments for people incarcerated at these three Mississippi facilities. The unconstitutional conditions in Mississippi’s prisons have existed for far too long, and we hope that this announcement marks a turning point towards implementing sound, evidence-based solutions to these entrenched problems. The Justice Department stands ready to enforce the dictates of the Constitution that protect the safety and human dignity of all people housed at state prison facilities. Our work makes clear that people do not abandon their civil and constitutional rights at the jailhouse door.”
“Ensuring constitutional and humane conditions of confinement in our prisons is a key part of public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “By allowing physical violence, illegal gang activity, and contraband to run rampant, Mississippi not only violates the rights of people incarcerated at these facilities, but also compromises the legitimacy of law enforcement efforts to protect our communities. Our office remains committed to upholding the rights of all our district’s residents. We look forward to working with the Mississippi Department of Corrections to protect the constitutional and civil rights of those incarcerated at these three Mississippi prison facilities.”
“The conclusion of the investigation and the issuance of findings is only the start of the work necessary to ensure that the state of Mississippi and the Mississippi Department of Corrections fulfill their constitutional obligations to the people it incarcerates,” said U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi. “The minimum remedial measures outlined in this report create the framework for what the state must do to reasonably protect people in these facilities from violence and prevent deprivation of fundamental physical and psychological needs. While this report makes clear that there is much work for the state to do, we are committed to working with state officials to ensure that Mississippi abides by its constitutional obligations.”
Today’s announcement follows the Department’s April 2022 report finding that conditions at the Mississippi State Penitentiary (known as Parchman) violated the constitutional rights of persons incarcerated there by subjecting them to violence, failing to provide adequate care for serious mental health needs, or adequate suicide prevention measures and using prolonged restrictive housing in a manner that poses a risk of serious harm.
The Justice Department launched its investigation of Parchman, Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, South Mississippi Correctional Institution, and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility in February 2020, under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA). As required by CRIPA, the department provided the State of Mississippi with written notice of the supporting facts for its conclusions and the minimum remedial measures necessary to address the alleged violations.
The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi conducted the investigation.
For more information about the Civil Rights Division and the Special Litigation Section, please visit www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section. You can also report civil rights violations to the section by completing the complaint form available at civilrights.justice.gov/. To provide information related to the Department’s investigation of the four Mississippi prisons, please call 1-833-591-0288 or email the department at [email protected].
Mississippi Delta Grain Elevator Owner Pleads Guilty to FraudRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – John R. Coleman, age 47, of Greenwood, Mississippi, appeared today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills in Oxford and pled guilty to wire fraud.
According to court documents, Coleman, an owner and operator of Express Grain, altered the company’s audited financial statements in order to receive a State warehouse license, lied about the amount of debt he owed on grain held at the Express Grain facility, and claimed to farmers that Express Grain was financially healthy when the company was actually on the brink of bankruptcy. Express Grain eventually filed bankruptcy in 2021 causing widespread financial hardship for farmers all over the Mississippi Delta.
Coleman faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. Judge Mills set Coleman’s sentencing hearing for June 13, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. and will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“The fraud committed by the defendant in this case has directly and adversely impacted a large number of farmers and it is important that he be held accountable for his actions,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “I am extremely grateful for the state and federal law enforcement partnership that has made this prosecution possible.”
“This case is an example of the impact that we can make when we work together,” said Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “I am grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for securing this federal conviction. My office will continue to fight on behalf of the taxpayers and the hardworking farmers defrauded here until justice is fully served.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton A. Dabbs is prosecuting the case.
Clarksdale resident sentenced to prison for assaulting a postal carrierRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Clarksdale, Mississippi resident was sentenced today to serve the statutory maximum sentence of eight years in prison following his conviction for assaulting a U.S. Postal carrier.
According to court documents, John Scott, 21 years old, assaulted a U.S. Postal carrier and attempted to force the carrier to perform oral sex on February 11, 2023. Scott was arrested that day and has remained in Federal custody since.
On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills ordered Scott to serve 96 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He also recommended that the U.S. Bureau of Prisons evaluate Scott for sexual dangerousness under Federal law.
“Postal employees and all gainfully employed people should be able to do their jobs without being victimized by violent individuals,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We hope that today’s sentence will send a message that this type of violence against unsuspecting, hard-working individuals in the workplace will not go unpunished.”
“The safety and security of Postal Service employees is core to the mission of the Postal Inspection Service. While assaults against our employees are rare, when they do occur, we will aggressively investigate to find those responsible and bring them to justice,” said Scott Fix, Inspector-in-Charge of the Houston Division. “The severity of the sentencing handed down to John Thomas Scott shows that the Judge has also taken the physical assault against our Letter Carrier seriously. We extend our appreciation to the Clarksdale Police Department that assisted with this investigation.”
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Clarksdale, Mississippi Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Roberts prosecuted the case.
Former Booneville Basketball Coach Sentenced for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A former Booneville High School assistant basketball coach was sentenced to serve ten years in prison on Wednesday following his conviction for online enticement of a minor.
According to court documents, Kenny Paul Geno, 28 years old, used a minor to make and produce child sexual abuse materials, and enticed minor students to self-produce “nudes” to send to him. The investigation commenced in October of 2022, when the FBI received a complaint alleging that Geno, an assistant basketball coach at Booneville High school, was sending minors at BHS inappropriate Snapchat communications. Several current and former female students subsequently reported that Geno solicited images of sexually explicit conduct over Snapchat. At least one former student advised that she engaged in sexual contact with Geno that he recorded on his cell phone. During the ongoing investigation, several videos of child sexual abuse material involving minor victims were recovered on Geno’s cell phone hidden within an encrypted application used to store the media.
On Wednesday, Chief U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown ordered Geno to serve 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Geno will also be required to register as a sex offender.
“Today’s sentence is an important reminder that no one is above the law and that we will always seek to hold accountable individuals who abuse the trust of the public and children who are entrusted to their care,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We appreciate the work of law enforcement in this case to see that this defendant spends the next ten years where he belongs, in prison.”
“Mr. Kenny Paul Geno’s actions violated the innocence and trust of many young children,” said FBI Acting Special Agent In Charge Maher Dimachkie. “The FBI is committed to combating crimes against children and will continue to engage with law enforcement partners and community leaders to protect children. The FBI will hold individuals like Mr. Geno accountable for their actions.”
The FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker King prosecuted the case.
DeSoto County Residents Arrested for Payroll Protection FraudRead the Press Release
Oxford, Mississippi – Three DeSoto County residents were arrested today on criminal charges related to their involvement in a conspiracy to fraudulently obtain government funds intended to protect employees of endangered businesses during the COVID pandemic through the Payroll Protection Program of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
According to court documents, Zipora Hudson, Montreal Hudson, and Deandre Jones, all of Olive Branch, are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud for their involvement in the fraudulently application of PPP loans. The defendants are charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering by participating in wire transfers involving proceeds of the fraud scheme.
If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 30 years for the conspiracy and wire fraud violations and 20 years for the money laundering charges. A federal district court judge would determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The alleged scheme in the instant case was initially uncovered during the course of a civil investigation. The federal investigative agencies that assisted with this investigation emphasized their ongoing commitment to hold accountable those citizens who seek to fraudulently and unfairly profit from federal pandemic relief programs.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi is prosecuting the case. The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
SCR gang leader sentenced for racketeering conspiracyRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Mississippi man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for racketeering (RICO) conspiracy, including murder, related to his participation in the Simon City Royals (SCR) gang.
According to court documents, from 2016 until 2022, Allen Posey, 49, of Hazlehurst, Mississippi oversaw all of the criminal activities of the Simon City Royals, a violent national prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prisons throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, and elsewhere. Through an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang and with a sophisticated structure, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud. Court records reflect that Posey personally ordered the murders of rival gang leaders and was involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.
The Simon City Royals engaged in widespread drug trafficking, including smuggling large quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, heroin, and benzodiazepines into dozens of Mississippi state prison facilities. The gang distributed these dangerous substances, including nearly 100% pure crystal methamphetamine, to inmates throughout the prison system.
Throughout the course of the conspiracy, Posey and other Simon City Royals members and associates carried out financial transactions in furtherance of the gang’s activities; these included the collection of dues, the pooling of criminal proceeds, and the clandestine distribution of funds to incarcerated members, as well as a system of “investment” loans whereby members could borrow money for revenue-generating purposes such as purchasing a supply of narcotics.
The Simon City Royals engaged in a complex and sophisticated money laundering and fraud operation. Members committed their money laundering and fraud activities using contraband cellular telephones and encrypted applications like Telegram and Protonmail.
On October 3, 2023, Posey pled guilty to Count One of an indictment which charged him with RICO Conspiracy. During a sentencing hearing on Thursday, U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills called the gang a “diabolical organization” and sentenced Posey to 240 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
“This defendant was responsible for countless crimes, and now he will spend functionally the rest of his life in prison,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Safeguarding our communities from violent gangs will always be a top priority for our office, and we commend the state/federal investigative partnership that made this case possible.”
“Our neighborhoods deserve to exist without fear and intimidation inflicted by violent gangs like the Simon City Royals,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today is another example of our commitment to seek the maximum prosecution for criminals who have posed such grave danger to our neighborhoods.”
“Nothing matters more than the safety of our communities,” declared Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “This repeat offender’s conviction exemplifies DEA’s tireless partnership with local, state and federal law enforcement to dismantle drug trafficking rings that endanger Mississippians and citizens across the country.”
This case has been investigated by ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, FBI Jackson Field Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow from the Northern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the DOJ’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Gang member sentenced to 35 years for racketeering conspiracyRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Mississippi inmate and gang member was sentenced today to 35 years in prison for racketeering (RICO) conspiracy, including murder, related to his participation in the Simon City Royals (SCR) gang.
According to court documents, Dillon Heffker, 33, of New Orleans, Louisiana participated in the criminal activities of the Simon City Royals, a violent national prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prisons throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, and elsewhere. Through an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud. The Simon City Royals were responsible for murders, attempted murders, and other violent acts committed in the state prison system and throughout the state of Mississippi.
Court records reflect that Heffker stabbed another subordinate gang member, B.F., to death and was involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. More specifically, beginning in 2016, SCR leaders and Heffker began planning the murder of B.F., a SCR member who they believed was involved in murdering another SCR member.
On January 31, 2018, B.F. was released from solitary confinement (at Wilkinson County Correctional Facility) and into the prison pod where SCR members were located, including Heffker. A SCR leader passed down orders from other SCR members to Heffker to attack and kill B.F. Subsequently, B.F. was attacked and stabbed to death by Heffker and another SCR member. According to court documents, the two inmates attacked the victim on the second floor of the housing unit and continued stabbing him as the altercation went to the first-floor shower area. The incident was video recorded. Responding medical personnel found the victim, covered in blood and lying in a fetal position, on the shower floor. Witnesses then saw one of the inmates pass the homemade shanks to a SCR leader who hid the murder weapons. The investigation revealed the organization paid Heffker and the other SCR member for the murder.
On October 5, 2023, Heffker pleaded guilty to Count One of an indictment charging him with RICO conspiracy. At a sentencing hearing on Thursday, U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills remarked that this violent crime is “one of the more serious crimes I have had to deal with on this bench,” and sentenced Heffker to 420 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
“Several years ago, the Simon City Royals, a violent criminal gang, were the driving force behind an explosion of violence in Mississippi prisons,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Today’s sentence, as well as the almost 50 other recent prosecutions of the gang and its affiliates, should send a clear message that we will use every tool at our disposal to prosecute those who commit such heinous acts from behind bars or elsewhere.”
“Sending a career criminal like this to prison is another example of our commitment to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that violent gang members will be held accountable as we work to keep our neighborhoods safe as a top priority for ATF.”
“Today’s sentence underscores DEA’s dedication to dismantling violent drug trafficking organizations,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw . “We’re sending a clear message to criminal gangs: Mississippi has zero tolerance for their illegal activities. Your time here is up.”
This case has been investigated by ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, FBI Jackson Field Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow from the Northern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the DOJ’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Winona man sentenced to prison for distributing drugsRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A Winona man was sentenced today to ten years in prison for distribution of a controlled substance.
According to court documents, William Earl Murray, aka “Big Earl,” 48, previously pled guilty to one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Murray was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown to 120 months imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release. Murray was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals following the sentencing hearing.
“We will continue to use all available resources to pursue those who spread the scourge of illegal drugs in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Today’s sentencing will hopefully deter other methamphetamine traffickers who contribute to our nation’s drug crisis and destroy lives and I commend the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Winona Police Department for bringing this defendant to justice.”
"I am proud of the work done by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Northern District of Mississippi - U.S. Attorney's Office, and Winona Police Department on this case," said Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. "When we work together to combat crime, we not only strengthen our law enforcement partnerships but also create a safer environment for our communities."
The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Winona Police Department investigated the case. AUSA Robert Mims prosecuted the case.
Greenville man sentenced for possessing a machinegunRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A Greenville man was sentenced today to 2 1/2 years in prison for illegal possession of a machinegun.
According to court documents, Johnny Watkins a/k/a Lil Munk, 19, committed a string of violent crimes in the Greenville-area leading to the execution of a search warrant at his residence. Watkin’s social media account showed that Watkins bragged about gang activity, posed with numerous firearms and illicit narcotics, and threatened rival gang members. Based on the pictures posted on social media and the recent string of crimes committed by Watkins, law enforcement officials obtained authorization to search Watkin’s residence. During the search of his residence, law enforcement recovered a Glock 10mm pistol with a 23-round magazine. Attached to the Glock pistol was a machinegun conversion device (“MCD”) commonly referred to as a “switch.” In addition to possession of a machinegun, the district court considered Watkins use of firearms in other related crimes including the shooting of a Greenville Police Department officer’s residence.
Following a sentencing hearing, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Watkins to 30 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
“The proliferation of these devices presents a clear and present danger to Mississippians,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We hope that this sentence sends a clear message that those who engage in criminal activity will be held accountable for their illegal acts and for their use and possession of automatic weapons.”
“The illegal possession of machinegun conversion devices, that readily convert firearms into machineguns, are a significant threat to our communities and remain a top priority for ATF,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that the law enforcement community will hold offenders accountable, and ATF will remain focused on reducing violent gun crime while disrupting access to these illegal machineguns by the criminal element.”
“The Greenville Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of the community,” said Greenville Police Chief Marcus Turner. “We will continue our efforts to rid out countless acts of violence, specifically done by altered weapons. We are actively out daily fighting to reduce crime and gun violence.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives as well as the Greenville Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow prosecuted the case.
Starkville man sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Starkville man was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years in prison for selling pounds of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Willie Saul Dean III, a/k/a “Buck Dean”, 45, of Starkville, Mississippi pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District to Mississippi to one count of distribution of methamphetamine. Dean was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown to 121 months. He was further sentenced to 5 years supervised release following his release from prison. As a part of the sentence, Dean was also ordered to forfeit $16,500.
“Citizens should have an expectation that drug dealers who peddle poison in their communities will be held accountable for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This office will continue to join with DEA and our state and local partners to combat the distribution of illicit drugs that destroy lives in our communities.”
“Drug trafficking organizations use every method they can to distribute their poisoning,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley. “The sentencing of this offender should be a warning to anyone selling methamphetamine in Mississippi. The DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, is watching and you will be held accountable.”
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program in partnership with state and local law enforcement. Agencies assisting with the investigation included the United States Marshal’s Service and Clay County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
Prior sex offender sentenced for new crimesRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, Miss – A Nettleton, Mississippi man was sentenced today to more than 13 years in prison for possession of child sexual abuse materials.
According to court documents, Clyde Lee Hall, 49 years old, was originally charged with failure to register as a sex offender in the Northern District of Mississippi after absconding from the Dismas Charities Residential Reentry Center while on federal supervised release. A later Cybertip revealed that Hall had been transporting and viewing child pornography on his mobile device following his release from prison. Hall had over 180 videos stored in his Google account, many of which portrayed the sexual abuse of victims under the age of 12. Hall’s prior child pornography conviction enhanced the penalties available to the Court.
On Wednesday, Chief U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Hall to 162 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office will do everything possible to see that criminals who victimize children or who take pleasure in watching children being victimized are held accountable for their abhorrent crimes,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We applaud the work by the United States Marshals Service and the FBI in helping to bring this offender to justice and hope that this sentence will serve as a deterrent to others who would consider transporting or viewing child pornography.”
The United States Marshals Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case.
Mississippi man sentenced in Minnesota for multiple gun crimesRead the Press Release
St. Paul, Minn. – An Indianola man was sentenced today in St. Paul to serve more than a dozen years in prison for the armed robbery of a Backyard Burgers restaurant in Cleveland, Mississippi, and other gun crimes he committed in Minnesota.
According to court documents, Ladarius Snipes, 27, previously pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota to one count of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence pertaining to the armed robbery of the Backyard Burgers restaurant in Cleveland, Mississippi, on August 7, 2021. Snipes further pled guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm and to possession of a stolen firearm, both arising in the State of Minnesota. Snipes was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank to serve a total of 155 months in prison, including 120 months in prison for the robbery of the Backyard Burgers and 35 months for the Minnesota firearms charges, to be served consecutively. Upon release from prison, Snipes will be on supervised release for a period of five years. Following sentencing, Snipes was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals.
“This case clearly demonstrates why we endeavor to keep guns out of the hands of violent criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We thank ATF and the Cleveland, Mississippi Police Department for their work on this case and will continue to work alongside our federal, state and local partners to combat violent crime and help keep our communities and citizens safe.”
“Sending a repeat offender like this to prison is another example of our commitment to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms will be held accountable as we work to keep our neighborhoods safe as the top priority for ATF.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Cleveland Police Department investigated the case. AUSA Robert Mims assisted in prosecution of the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Former Teacher Convicted of Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
Greenville, Miss. – A former Amory High School teacher was convicted by a federal jury today for sexually exploiting at least seven students over a ten-year period.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Toshemie Wilson, 48 years old, of Wren, Mississippi, was found guilty of eight counts of using students to produce sexually explicit material while he was a teacher at Amory High School. Wilson used his position as an advisor for the student group Technology Students of America to groom students to eventually produce child sexual abuse videos and pictures in exchange for money and drugs.
The investigation began when one former student reported the abuse to a counselor. That counselor reported the statement to law enforcement. From there, investigators with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation uncovered at least 10 other former students who alleged similar conduct and payment for sexually explicit videos.
Eight unnamed witnesses testified that Toshemie Wilson approached them to make masturbation videos in exchange for pay between 2005 and 2014. The witnesses identified a number of places Wilson had them make the videos – the school bathroom, an office space rented specifically for this purpose, and the Amory WalMart bathroom. Several of the witnesses stated they were induced to make videos while on out-of-town school trips with the Technology Students of America, a group that Wilson served as advisor.
After he was indicted, agents met with Toshemie Wilson and his attorney where Wilson admitted to having a collection of student sexual abuse materials on a hard drive that he threw away.
Wilson is also under state indictment in the Circuit Court of Monroe County, where charges remain pending.
“Once again, hard work and perseverance by federal, state and local investigators and prosecutors has removed from society an individual with a demonstrable sexual interest in children,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “I am extremely proud of Assistant United States Attorneys Parker King and Clyde McGee for their trial work on the case, and thankful for the investigative work of the FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office…we must all continue to prosecute these offenders to the fullest extent of the law.”
"Preying upon vulnerable students and exploiting their trust and innocence is abhorrent," said Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch. "I am grateful justice is being served, and I hope my team's hard work in investigating and prosecuting this case alongside the FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office demonstrates to these victims that the community values and cares for them and longs to help them on their healing journey."
The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and the FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Parker S. King and Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
Louisiana man sentenced to ten years for transportation of a minor across state lines for sexual purposesRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Louisiana man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for transporting a minor across state lines with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ronald Latiolais, III, age 28, met a Mississippi teen online and began chatting with her using an online application. In April of 2019, Latiolais drove from Louisiana to Mississippi to meet the 13-year-old girl. During their conversations, the minor revealed to Latiolais that she was underage. Despite knowing she was underage, Latiolais went to the teen’s house during the middle of the night, cut the screen on the minor’s bedroom window, and escaped undetected with the teen. Latiolais admitted to committing sexual acts with the minor during a stop on the drive from Mississippi to Louisiana. The minor was recovered at Latiolais’ house the next day.
At the conclusion of the March 2022 trial of this case, a jury found Latiolais guilty of transporting a minor in interstate commerce with the intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity, a charge requiring a mandatory minimum sentence of 120 months in prison. Latiolais has remained in jail since August of 2022, and was sentenced on Thursday to serve 120 months in prison. Upon release from prison, Latiolais will remain on supervised release for five years and must register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi announced the sentence on Thursday afternoon.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation with assistance from local law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Parker S. King and Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
Rienzi Man Sentenced in Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Rienzi man was sentenced today to twelve and a half years in prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, William Leonard, 40, of Rienzi, Mississippi, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Leonard was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Glen Davidson to 151 months for the conspiracy as a career offender. He was further sentenced to 3 years of supervised release following his release from prison.
Leonard was involved in a drug trafficking organization responsible for transporting large quantities of methamphetamine from Texas and distributing it throughout the Northern District of Mississippi. Leonard participated in the conspiracy by making multiple purchases of methamphetamine from the head of the drug trafficking organization for distribution throughout North Mississippi. The investigation of this drug trafficking organization and its participants spanned more than one year. Leonard was indicted along with sixteen (16) other individuals.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program in partnership with state and local law enforcement. Agencies assisting with the investigation included the United States Marshal’s Service, the United States Postal Inspector’s Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly M. Hampton and Feleica L. Wilson prosecuted the case.
Former Elementary School Principal Sentenced to 30 Years for the Attempted Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – A former school principal will spend 30 years in prison after he secretly videotaped and photographed students in the bathroom and locker room of the school where he was the principal.
Norman Keith Aycock, 56, was sentenced today to 30 years in prison for the attempted production of child sexual abuse material. U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Aycock to 360 months in federal prison for the offense to be followed by five years of supervised release. Aycock was also ordered to pay restitution to victims and will be required to register as a sex offender.
The investigation began in January of 2022, after a student discovered a hidden camera in the bathroom of the girls’ locker room at Bayou Academy, located in Cleveland, Mississippi. Law enforcement determined Aycock placed the camera along with others throughout the school, including the office where he met with students. At the time, Aycock was employed as the principal of the Academy’s elementary school. Ultimately, investigators discovered that Aycock’s hidden camera footage in the school spanned over six years.
On August 10, 2023, Aycock pled guilty to two counts of attempted production of child sexual exploitative material. Aycock is also under state indictment in the Circuit Court of Bolivar County, Mississippi, where the charges remain pending.
“I can think of few things more despicable than a school official betraying the trust of parents, children and the community in the most profound way possible – the sexual exploitation of students in his care,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “The sentence imposed by Judge Mills in this case will mean that this defendant will spend the rest of his life in prison and should serve as a stern warning to anyone entrusted with the care and protection of our kids who would ever consider violating that trust. I appreciate the investigative work of our partners at the Attorney General’s Office of the State of Mississippi and the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office in helping to bring this abhorrent conduct into the light.”
"Safeguarding our children from predators is one of my top priorities," said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. "I am proud of my team's efforts investigating this case with the Bolivar County Sheriff's Department, and I grateful for the work of the U.S. Attorney's Office to secure this federal sentence. While we cannot undo the harm that has been done to these victims, we can work together to ensure justice is served."
The Mississippi Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Division investigated the case, with assistance from the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
Tennessee Man Sentenced in Covid Relief FraudRead the Press Release
OXFORD – A Memphis, Tennessee man was sentenced today to 62 months imprisonment following his conviction for his role in a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) by submitting fraudulent loan applications to the SBA for over $11 Million.
According to court documents, Norman Beckwood, 29, of Memphis, recruited individuals to submit fraudulent loan applications to the SBA. Beckwood and his co-conspirator, Lakeith Faulker, who was an employee of the SBA and used his position at the SBA to assist borrowers, helped submit over $11 Million in fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”). In return for their assistance in the fraudulent loans, the borrowers paid Beckwood and Faulkner $2.3 Million.
On January 17, 2023, Beckwood entered a plea of guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Today, U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Beckwood to serve 62 months imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release. In addition to prison time, Faulkner was ordered to pay $10,620,452.26 in restitution to the SBA. In connection with his guilty plea, Beckwood also forfeited $700,147.74, a 2018 Mercedez Benz C Class and a 2020 Mercedes Benz G63.
On December 7, 2022, Faulkner entered a plea of guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On May 24, 2023, United States District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Faulkner to serve 62 months imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release. Faulkner was also ordered to pay $10,620,452.26 in restitution to the SBA.
Twenty-one (21) individual borrowers have also been charged in connection with the same scheme. In the case of United States v. Raven L. Brown, et al, (Case No. 3:23CR23), eight individuals have changed their plea to guilty and been sentenced by United States Senior District Judge Glen H. Davidson, Raven L. Brown (24 months incarceration, 3 years supervised release, $1,802,800 in restitution); Gerald Pegues (12 months + 1 day incarceration, 5 years supervised release, $173,200 in restitution); Gregory Shields (12 months + 1 day incarceration, 5 years supervised release, $206,000 in restitution); Shunequa Shields (6 months incarceration, 5 years supervised release, $177,100 in restitution); Devin Booker (6 months incarceration, 5 years supervised release, $211,000 in restitution); Tommie L. Spencer, Jr. (6 months incarceration, 5 years supervised release, $250,600 in restitution); Adonis Golden (12 months + 1 day incarceration, 3 years supervised release, $199,900 in restitution); and Jemarious Fair (22 months incarceration, 5 years supervised release, $199,600 in restitution). A remaining defendant is currently set for trial on February 12, 2024.
“Norman Beckwood and his cohorts stole millions of dollars from American taxpayers while taking advantage of programs designed to help keep businesses afloat during a national crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring those who committed pandemic benefit fraud to justice and will use all available tools to recover the stolen funds.”
“Abusing SBA’s pandemic relief programs intended to provide critical relief to small businesses is unconscionable.” said SBA OIG’s Central Region Special Agent-in-Charge Brady Ipock. “This sentencing further showcases that OIG will relentlessly pursue fraudsters and bring them to justice. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”
This scheme was initially uncovered during a civil investigation, led by the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Harland Webster.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton A. Dabbs, Parker King and Sam Wright of the Northern District of Mississippi are prosecuting the criminal case.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.
Nine Plead Guilty to Impaired Driving on the Natchez TraceRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Nine defendants pled guilty on Wednesday, November 29th, 2023, to impaired driving offenses on the Natchez Trace Parkway in the Northern District of Mississippi. These convictions stemmed from the defendants operating motor vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The defendants were all sentenced to serve a term of probation.
United States Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi said, “Driving under the influence is a choice that needlessly endangers the lives of innocent people traveling on the Natchez Trace; we are thankful that these defendants were arrested before they could harm others or themselves.”
The National Park Service Rangers assigned to the Natchez Trace Parkway made the arrests in each case and prepared these matters for prosecution by the United States Attorney’s Office. “We are grateful for the work of the Rangers in helping to keep our roadways safe from impaired drivers” Joyner said.
Chief Ranger for the Natchez Trace Parkway Prashant Lotwala said “The law enforcement park rangers at the Natchez Trace Parkway are a dedicated group of individuals who ensure the parkway is as safe as possible for park visitors to enjoy a scenic, leisurely drive.”
The defendants who pled were:
- Caleb Agnew, Saltillo, Mississippi
- Geoffrey Allen, 30, McCool, Mississippi
- Daphne Barr, 27, Houston, Mississippi
- Derrick Brister, 32, Tylertown, Mississippi
- Angel Clements, 29, Tupelo, Mississippi
- Nathan Frank, Booneville, Mississippi
- Jocelyn Grimes, 21, Terry, Mississippi
- Fantasia Judon, 29, Pontotoc, Mississippi
- Asa Sewell, 36, El Dorado, Arkansas
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Herzog Jr. prosecuted these offenses.
With the holiday season approaching, the Rangers of the National Park Service will be continuing their enforcement efforts to apprehend impaired drivers before they can endanger the public at large.
Impaired driving led to the deaths of more than 13,000 people in 2021, the latest year that statistics were available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Southaven man sentenced for fishing violationsRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Southaven man was sentenced today to a total of $3,500 in fines and restitution for the illegal harvest of crappie from the Enid Lake Spillway.
According to court documents, Fu Chen, 52, of Southaven, Mississippi, pled guilty to one count of taking more than the daily creel limit of crappie from the Enid Lake Spillway on January 1, 2023. Chen caught a total of 90 crappie from the spillway, which is 75 more fish than the allowed creel limit of 15 crappie.
U.S. Magistrate Judge David A. Sanders ordered Chen to pay a fine of $1,000 as well as restitution to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks in the amount of $2,500. In addition to the fine and restitution, Chen was placed on probation for a period of one year, during which time he will be prohibited from fishing anywhere in the world and banned from all Corps of Engineers property in the Northern District of Mississippi as a condition of his probation.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement Special Agent in Charge Stephen Clark stated, “We are committed to conducting criminal investigations with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats. The Office of Law Enforcement takes these federal violations . . . very seriously and remains committed to ensuring that these violations are fully investigated and prosecuted.”
MDWFP Colonel Jerry Carter stated, “We appreciate the collaborative investigative efforts of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and prosecution of this case by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We will continue to work with our federal partners to conserve and protect Mississippi’s natural resources by utilizing all investigative tools available to ensure that those who choose to violate the laws of this state are investigated and prosecuted accordingly.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service encourages members of the public to report allegations of wildlife crimes to the Service’s Office of Law Enforcement via the Wildlife Crime Tips page at https://www.fws.gov/wildlife-crime-tips or via phone at 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477).
Simon City Royals gang member sentenced to 30 years for racketeering conspiracyRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS - A Chattanooga, Tennessee man has been sentenced to more than 30 years in prison for a racketeering (RICO) conspiracy involving him and other members of the Simon City Royals gang.
On Thursday afternoon, U. S. District Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Jonathan Davis, 39, to 365 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Davis was a leader and organizer of the Simon City Royals, a violent prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prisons throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, and elsewhere. Through an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang and with a sophisticated structure, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud. Court records reflect that Davis personally ordered two murders, which were attempted at his request, and was involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.
The Simon City Royals engaged in widespread drug trafficking, including smuggling large quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, heroin, and benzodiazepines into dozens of Mississippi state prison facilities. The gang distributed these dangerous substances, including nearly 100% pure crystal methamphetamine, to inmates throughout the prison system.
“Our citizens have every right to expect that criminal gangs will be held accountable for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “The sentence imposed on Thursday on one of the leaders of the Simon City Royals is one step towards making our communities safer. Our office will continue to work with local, state and federal partners to see that violent gang members pay for their crimes.”
“ATF and its federal and local partners are dedicated to pursuing and combating those career criminals whose violent criminal activities threaten and severely detract from the welfare of our communities,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “This is another example of our commitment to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety.”
This case has been investigated by ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, FBI Jackson Field Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states. The Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department, and Tippah County Sheriff’s Department provided valuable assistance.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow from the Northern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the DOJ’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
Vaiden man sentenced to prison for identity theftRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A 38-year-old Vaiden man has been sentenced to serve six years in federal prison for aggravated identity theft and possessing fraudulent identity documents. At a sentencing hearing on Monday, Senior U.S. District Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Marcus D. Brown to a 72-month term of incarceration, followed by 3 years of court-supervised release.
Brown plead guilty on August 7, 2023, to possession of fraudulent identification documents with intent to use them in criminal activities and aggravated identity theft. Court records show that Brown was in possession of a fraudulently obtained vehicle which contained the actual identification documents of approximately 40 individuals who lived in Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas.
The Court had previously ordered Brown into custody after he attempted to escape the custody of state authorities.
“In this case, the lives of dozens of innocent citizens have been damaged and disrupted by the acts of one dishonest individual who sought to unjustly enrich himself at their expense,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We applaud the sentence and the work by officers and investigators who brought this fraudulent conduct to light.”
“The United States Secret Service is committed to investigating and pursuing those who aim to take advantage of victims while trying to exploit our nation’s financial systems,” said Kyle Smith, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Jackson Resident Office. “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, this individual will be held responsible for these crimes.”
The United States Secret Service and Winona Police Department investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul D. Roberts.
Tennessee Men Sentenced for Illegal Harvest of Crappie in MississippiRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Two Tennessee men were sentenced today to a total of $10,550 in fines and restitution for the illegal harvest of crappie from the Enid Lake Spillway.
According to court documents, Jian Wu Huang, 50, and Qiu M Huang, 44, both of Lakeland, Tennessee, pled guilty to one count of taking more than the daily bag limit of crappie from the Enid Lake Spillway on January 1, 2023. While fishing together, the two men caught a total of 171 crappie, which is 141 more fish than the allowed creel limit of 15 crappie each. The men were also using over-sized hooks and in excess of the maximum number of hooks allowed per line.
U.S. Magistrate Judge David A. Sanders ordered each defendant to pay a fine of $1,000 as well as restitution to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks in the amount of $4,275. In addition to the fine and restitution, each defendant was placed on probation for a period of one year, during which time each defendant will be prohibited from fishing anywhere in the world and banned from all Corps of Engineers property in the Northern District of Mississippi as a condition of their probation.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement Special Agent in Charge Stephen Clark stated, “We are committed to working collaboratively with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. The illegal take and interstate transport of a state trust species is a violation of federal law and will be investigated and prosecuted. We will continue to work closely with our state partners to conduct these criminal investigations.”
MDWFP Colonel Jerry Carter remarked, “We appreciate the collaborative investigative efforts of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and prosecution of this case by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We will continue to work with our federal partners to conserve and protect Mississippi’s natural resources by utilizing all investigative tools available to ensure that those who choose to violate the laws of this state are investigated and prosecuted accordingly.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service encourages members of the public to report allegations of wildlife crimes to the Service’s Office of Law Enforcement via the Wildlife Crime Tips page at https://www.fws.gov/wildlife-crime-tips or via phone at 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477).
Thirty-Seven Gang Members Plead Guilty to Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The 37th and final defendant charged as part of the case against members and associates of the Simon City Royals gang – a gang aligned with the Gangster Disciples – pleaded guilty today to racketeering (RICO) conspiracy.
“The Simon City Royals terrorized Mississippi prisons and communities for far too long,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These convictions underscore the Justice Department’s dedication to disrupting and dismantling violent criminal enterprises, regardless of where they operate.”
“Our communities have every right to expect that violent criminal gangs will be held to account and incarcerated for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “Thanks to the extraordinary work of our law enforcement partners and career federal prosecutors led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow, 37 members of the Simon City Royals, a violent gang acting outside as well as inside our prisons as a criminal enterprise, have been arrested, incarcerated, or are currently awaiting sentencing. There will be no compromise in protecting our citizens, and every criminal gang operating in the Northern District of Mississippi can consider itself to be on notice.”
According to court documents, the Simon City Royals were a violent prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prison throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, and elsewhere. Through an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang and with a sophisticated structure, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud.
“These convictions mean that the Simon City Royals’ time is over,” said Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) New Orleans. “Protecting the safety of our communities is one of the cornerstones of what our agency seeks to accomplish every day. To anyone damaging our streets with gun violence and drugs – law enforcement is here. No matter how long it takes, no matter if you are on the streets or in prison, we will bring the full weight of the federal government down on the violent gangs terrorizing our communities, neighborhoods, and institutions.”
“This investigation demonstrates the significant impact multiple agencies can achieve when they work together,” said Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Division. “We are committed to continuing our collaboration with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who threaten our communities through criminal activities. This final conviction should send a clear message to others engaged in organized crime that this type of activity will not be tolerated.”
The Simon City Royals were responsible for the brutal murder of a prison inmate in 2018, when a Simon City Royals leader issued a “kill on sight” order, directing any gang member who encountered the targeted inmate to murder him. In January 2018, Dillon Heffker and Robert Williams acted on the order, stabbing the victim dozens of times with improvised prison knives. Leaders of the Simon City Royals rewarded Heffker and Williams for the murder by arranging for hundreds of dollars to be directed to their prison commissary accounts.
“The U.S. Marshals Service, along with our federal, state, and local partners, strive daily to protect our communities from violent criminal organizations such as the Simon City Royals,” said U.S. Marshal Daniel R. McKittrick for the Northern District of Mississippi. “The final guilty plea ended a reign of terror for 37 career criminals, who were responsible for a tremendous amount of criminal activity in our local communities.”
“The Secret Service is committed to investigating and pursuing those who aim to exploit our nation’s financial systems in order to further a criminal enterprise,” said Resident Agent in Charge Kyle Smith of the U.S. Secret Service’s Jackson Resident Office. “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, a violent gang was dismantled and the individuals involved can now be held responsible for their crimes.”
Simon City Royals were also responsible for the savage kidnapping and torture of a former member for perceived violations of the gang’s code of conduct. In 2015, a member of the Simon City Royals kidnapped the victim at knifepoint and forced him into a hotel room. There, Simon City Royals members and associates tied the victim to a chair, interrogated him, tortured him, and burned off his Simon City Royals tattoo.
"These convictions demonstrate the steadfast commitment of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to protecting the public from violent gangs that terrorize and poison our communities,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “As a result of our collective efforts, this destructive criminal enterprise has been dismantled and the members who have been operating both in and out of the prison system are being held accountable.”
In addition, the Simon City Royals engaged in widespread drug trafficking, including smuggling large quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, heroin, and benzodiazepines into dozens of Mississippi state prison facilities. The gang distributed these dangerous substances, including nearly 100% pure crystal methamphetamine, to inmates throughout the prison system.
Below are the defendants and the charges to which they pleaded guilty:
- Allen Posey, 48, of Jackson, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jonathan Davis, 39, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jeremy Holcombe, 43, of Meridian, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jonathan Burnett, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama, racketeering conspiracy;
- Hank Chapman, 38, of Riply, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jason Hayden, 42, of Picayune, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Joshua Miller, 41, of Jackson, racketeering conspiracy;
- Gavin Pierson, 33, of San Diego, racketeering conspiracy;
- Justin Shaw, 36, of Holly Springs, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Bobby Brumfield, 44, of New Orleans, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jordan Deakles, 31, of Gulfport, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Bryce Francis, 43, of Columbus, Ohio, racketeering conspiracy;
- Anthony Murphy, 30, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Chancy Bilbo, 31, of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Dillon Heffker, 32, of Bay St. Louis, racketeering conspiracy;
- Douglas Jones, 34, of Jackson, racketeering conspiracy;
- Cody Woodall, 31, of Gulfport, racketeering conspiracy;
- Michael Muscolino, 43, of Phoenix, racketeering conspiracy;
- Valerie Madden, 54, of Chicago, drug conspiracy;
- Samuel Conwill, 45, of Tupelo, Mississippi, money laundering conspiracy;
- Jason Collins, 40, of Loraine, Ohio, money laundering conspiracy;
- Justin Leake, 43, of Meridian, racketeering conspiracy;
- Michael Dossett, 42, of Carriere, Mississippi, felon in possession of a firearm;
- Angel Labauve, 43, of Picayune, Mississippi, drug conspiracy;
- Bruce Floyd, 42, of Senatobia, Mississippi, drug conspiracy;
- Jacquelyn Harmon, 33, of Senatobia, drug conspiracy;
- Cody Myrick, 33, of Grenada, Mississippi, unlawful transport of firearms;
- Craig Thomas, 36, of Grenada, unlawful transport of firearms;
- Arvis Tolbert, 43, of Hurley, Mississippi, violent crime in support of racketeering activity;
- Preston Edwards, 36, of Jackson, drug conspiracy;
- Catherine Perry, 41, of Tupelo, interstate transportation in aid of racketeering;
- John Brooks, 37, of Greenwood, Mississippi, drug conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy;
- Alana Dickey, 21, of Holly Springs, interstate transportation in aid of racketeering;
- Austin Ruby, 35, of Holly Springs, drug conspiracy;
- Chris Vincent, 20, of Gulfport, drug conspiracy;
- Trevor Overby, 45, of Jackson, drug conspiracy;
- Anthony Rouse, 33, of Picayune, drug conspiracy.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, FBI Jackson Field Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states investigated the cases. The Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department, and Tippah County Sheriff’s Department provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stringfellow for the Northern District of Mississippi are prosecuting the cases, with valuable assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams for the Southern District of Mississippi.
Thirty-Seven Gang Members Plead Guilty to Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The 37th and final defendant charged as part of the case against members and associates of the Simon City Royals gang – a gang aligned with the Gangster Disciples – pleaded guilty today to racketeering (RICO) conspiracy.
“The Simon City Royals terrorized Mississippi prisons and communities for far too long,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These convictions underscore the Justice Department’s dedication to disrupting and dismantling violent criminal enterprises, regardless of where they operate.”
“Our communities have every right to expect that violent criminal gangs will be held to account and incarcerated for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “Thanks to the extraordinary work of our law enforcement partners and career federal prosecutors led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow, 37 members of the Simon City Royals, a violent gang acting outside as well as inside our prisons as a criminal enterprise, have been arrested, incarcerated, or are currently awaiting sentencing. There will be no compromise in protecting our citizens, and every criminal gang operating in the Northern District of Mississippi can consider itself to be on notice.”
According to court documents, the Simon City Royals were a violent prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prison throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, and elsewhere. Through an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang and with a sophisticated structure, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud.
“These convictions mean that the Simon City Royals’ time is over,” said Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) New Orleans. “Protecting the safety of our communities is one of the cornerstones of what our agency seeks to accomplish every day. To anyone damaging our streets with gun violence and drugs – law enforcement is here. No matter how long it takes, no matter if you are on the streets or in prison, we will bring the full weight of the federal government down on the violent gangs terrorizing our communities, neighborhoods, and institutions.”
“This investigation demonstrates the significant impact multiple agencies can achieve when they work together,” said Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Division. “We are committed to continuing our collaboration with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who threaten our communities through criminal activities. This final conviction should send a clear message to others engaged in organized crime that this type of activity will not be tolerated.”
The Simon City Royals were responsible for the brutal murder of a prison inmate in 2018, when a Simon City Royals leader issued a “kill on sight” order, directing any gang member who encountered the targeted inmate to murder him. In January 2018, Dillon Heffker and Robert Williams acted on the order, stabbing the victim dozens of times with improvised prison knives. Leaders of the Simon City Royals rewarded Heffker and Williams for the murder by arranging for hundreds of dollars to be directed to their prison commissary accounts.
“The U.S. Marshals Service, along with our federal, state, and local partners, strive daily to protect our communities from violent criminal organizations such as the Simon City Royals,” said U.S. Marshal Daniel R. McKittrick for the Northern District of Mississippi. “The final guilty plea ended a reign of terror for 37 career criminals, who were responsible for a tremendous amount of criminal activity in our local communities.”
“The Secret Service is committed to investigating and pursuing those who aim to exploit our nation’s financial systems in order to further a criminal enterprise,” said Resident Agent in Charge Kyle Smith of the U.S. Secret Service’s Jackson Resident Office. “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, a violent gang was dismantled and the individuals involved can now be held responsible for their crimes.”
Simon City Royals were also responsible for the savage kidnapping and torture of a former member for perceived violations of the gang’s code of conduct. In 2015, a member of the Simon City Royals kidnapped the victim at knifepoint and forced him into a hotel room. There, Simon City Royals members and associates tied the victim to a chair, interrogated him, tortured him, and burned off his Simon City Royals tattoo.
"These convictions demonstrate the steadfast commitment of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to protecting the public from violent gangs that terrorize and poison our communities,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “As a result of our collective efforts, this destructive criminal enterprise has been dismantled and the members who have been operating both in and out of the prison system are being held accountable.”
In addition, the Simon City Royals engaged in widespread drug trafficking, including smuggling large quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, heroin, and benzodiazepines into dozens of Mississippi state prison facilities. The gang distributed these dangerous substances, including nearly 100% pure crystal methamphetamine, to inmates throughout the prison system.
Below are the defendants and the charges to which they pleaded guilty:
- Allen Posey, 48, of Jackson, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jonathan Davis, 39, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jeremy Holcombe, 43, of Meridian, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jonathan Burnett, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama, racketeering conspiracy;
- Hank Chapman, 38, of Riply, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jason Hayden, 42, of Picayune, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Joshua Miller, 41, of Jackson, racketeering conspiracy;
- Gavin Pierson, 33, of San Diego, racketeering conspiracy;
- Justin Shaw, 36, of Holly Springs, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Bobby Brumfield, 44, of New Orleans, racketeering conspiracy;
- Jordan Deakles, 31, of Gulfport, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Bryce Francis, 43, of Columbus, Ohio, racketeering conspiracy;
- Anthony Murphy, 30, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Chancy Bilbo, 31, of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, racketeering conspiracy;
- Dillon Heffker, 32, of Bay St. Louis, racketeering conspiracy;
- Douglas Jones, 34, of Jackson, racketeering conspiracy;
- Cody Woodall, 31, of Gulfport, racketeering conspiracy;
- Michael Muscolino, 43, of Phoenix, racketeering conspiracy;
- Valerie Madden, 54, of Chicago, drug conspiracy;
- Samuel Conwill, 45, of Tupelo, Mississippi, money laundering conspiracy;
- Jason Collins, 40, of Loraine, Ohio, money laundering conspiracy;
- Justin Leake, 43, of Meridian, racketeering conspiracy;
- Michael Dossett, 42, of Carriere, Mississippi, felon in possession of a firearm;
- Angel Labauve, 43, of Picayune, Mississippi, drug conspiracy;
- Bruce Floyd, 42, of Senatobia, Mississippi, drug conspiracy;
- Jacquelyn Harmon, 33, of Senatobia, drug conspiracy;
- Cody Myrick, 33, of Grenada, Mississippi, unlawful transport of firearms;
- Craig Thomas, 36, of Grenada, unlawful transport of firearms;
- Arvis Tolbert, 43, of Hurley, Mississippi, violent crime in support of racketeering activity;
- Preston Edwards, 36, of Jackson, drug conspiracy;
- Catherine Perry, 41, of Tupelo, interstate transportation in aid of racketeering;
- John Brooks, 37, of Greenwood, Mississippi, drug conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy;
- Alana Dickey, 21, of Holly Springs, interstate transportation in aid of racketeering;
- Austin Ruby, 35, of Holly Springs, drug conspiracy;
- Chris Vincent, 20, of Gulfport, drug conspiracy;
- Trevor Overby, 45, of Jackson, drug conspiracy;
- Anthony Rouse, 33, of Picayune, drug conspiracy.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, FBI Jackson Field Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states investigated the cases. The Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department, and Tippah County Sheriff’s Department provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stringfellow for the Northern District of Mississippi are prosecuting the cases, with valuable assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams for the Southern District of Mississippi.
West Point Man Sentenced in Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A West Point man was sentenced on Wednesday to 100 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Bobby Earl Brownlee, 44, of West Point, Mississippi, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi to one count of conspiracy to possess and distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. Brownlee was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown to 100 months in prison. He was further sentenced to three years of supervised release following his release from prison.
Court records show that Brownlee was involved in a drug trafficking organization responsible for transporting large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine and distributing them throughout the Northern District of Mississippi. The investigation of this drug trafficking organization and its participants spanned over a year. Brownlee was indicted along with fourteen other individuals.
“The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of individuals who choose to illegally sell dangerous and unlawful drugs in our towns and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We hope that this sentence will make other individuals think twice before they choose to seek quick profits from distributing illicit drugs.”
“Bobby Brownlee’s sentence is a victory for law enforcement and the people of Mississippi. Brownlee was a major player in a drug trafficking organization that was responsible for bringing dangerous drugs into our state,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw. “His conviction and sentence should send a clear message to other drug traffickers that they will be held accountable for their crimes. We will continue to work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program in partnership with state and local law enforcement. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Multiple agencies assisted with the investigation including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, U.S. Postal Inspector’s Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Mississippi Highway Patrol, Starkville Police Department, Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Department, Clay County Sheriff’s Department, Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Department and the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly M. Hampton and Sam Stringfellow prosecuted the case.
Starkville Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Possession of a GunRead the Press Release
Oxford, Mississippi – A Starkville man was sentenced on Friday to more than 5 years in prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Antonio Hill, 38, previously pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. On September 15, U.S. District Court Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Hill to 65 months imprisonment followed by a 3-year term of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi, and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the FBI made the announcement.
This matter was investigated by the FBI and the Starkville Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
California Company Sentenced for Illegally Discharging Wastewater from Olive Branch Manufacturing PlantRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A California company operating a manufacturing facility in Olive Branch, Mississippi, was sentenced today for discharging wastewater into a Publicly Owned Treatment Works without obtaining a valid state permit.
According to court documents, View, Inc., headquartered in Milipitas, California, previously plead guilty to a charge of negligently discharging wastewater into a Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) without making an application for and obtaining a valid state permit, in violation of 33 U.S.C. § 1319(c)(1)(A). View, Inc.’s, sole manufacturing facility is located in Olive Branch, Mississippi. As part of its manufacturing process, View, Inc., discharges wastewater from glass cutting, grinding, washing, and polishing directly to two discharge points connected to the city’s sewer system. View, Inc., is a Significant Industrial User discharging approximately 248,000 gallons per day to the city’s POTW accounting for more than 38% of the POTW’s designed and permitted capacity of 537,000 gallons per day. From on or about December 11, 2018, to on or about June 28, 2021, View, Inc., by and through its employees, negligently violated a requirement of a pretreatment program approved under 33 U.S.C. § 1342(b) by discharging without a permit.
U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced View, Inc., today to a three-year term of probation and ordered View, Inc., to pay a fine in the amount of Three Million dollars ($3,000,000.00). The court further ordered View, Inc., to make a community service payment to DeSoto County Regional Utility Authority in the total amount of Four Hundred Fifty Thousand dollars ($450,000.00) to be used for the sole purpose of expanding wastewater treatment capacity in DeSoto County. As part of the resolution of the criminal charges, View, Inc., has also entered into a separate, but related, civil Agreed Order with the Mississippi Commission on Environmental Quality by and through the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, which has assessed a civil penalty in the amount of One Million Five Hundred Thousand dollars ($1,500,000).
“When companies place profit and convenience above public safety, we will do all we can to punish that behavior and protect the public,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This illegal discharge of wastewater into the public treatment facility demonstrated a blatant disregard for the safety and wellbeing of citizens in our District and we applaud the stiff fines imposed by the court in this case.”
“Unpermitted discharges of industrial wastewater can pose a serious threat to our nation’s wastewater treatment systems,” said Charles Carfagno, Special Agent in Charge of EPA's Southeast Area Branch. “This prosecution and today’s sentencing demonstrates that EPA and its partner agencies are committed to protecting the environment and pursuing those who chose to ignore environmental laws.”
The Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality investigated this case. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
Starkville Man to Serve 5 Years in Prison for Possessing a Glock SwitchRead the Press Release
Oxford, Mississippi – A Starkville man was sentenced on Thursday to 5 years in prison for possession of a Glock handgun with a fully automatic conversion device.
According to court documents, Tyquerius Doss, 20, previously pled guilty to possession of a machinegun, that is, a Glock, model 19C, 9mm handgun with a fully automatic conversion device commonly referred to as a “Glock switch.” On August 10, U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Doss to 60 months imprisonment followed by a 3-year term of supervised release.
“Federal law prohibits anyone from possessing an unlicensed machine gun, which is what a Glock with a switch becomes,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “The potential for deadly violence increases exponentially when criminals possess automatic weapons, and we will continue to do all we can to remove the criminals and the illegal machine guns from the street. We commend the FBI, ATF, and the Starkville Police Department for their joint efforts to make our streets safer.”
“The FBI is committed to ensuring the safety of the public,” remarked FBI Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby. “When individuals, like Mr. Doss, deliberately alter the firing ability of otherwise-legal firearms to change their intended use, this becomes a danger to society. It is imperative the FBI partners with the U.S. Attorney's Office and our local partners to investigate and prosecute these violations to the fullest extent of the law.”
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the FBI, and the Starkville Police Department. AUSA Robert Mims prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Oxford Man Sentenced in Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – An Oxford man was sentenced today to 80 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, Jeremy Fondren, 41, of Oxford, Mississippi, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi to one count of conspiracy to possess in excess of five kilograms of cocaine. Fondren was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock to 80 months in prison. He was further sentenced to five years of supervised release following his release from prison.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner announced the sentence following Fondren’s sentencing hearing on Tuesday afternoon.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program in partnership with state and local law enforcement. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Multiple agencies assisted with the investigation including the Tupelo Police Department and Lee County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.