Northern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Starkville Man plead guilty to a scheme involving more than $6 million in COVID-Relief FraudRead the Press Release
STARKVILLE, Miss. – A Starkville man pleaded guilty today to one count of wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) of more than $6 million in COVID-19 relief loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
According to court documents, Christopher Paul Lick, 47, of Starkville devised a scheme to defraud, and to obtain PPP funds, by filing false and fraudulent loan applications with banks providing loans as part of the Paycheck Protection Program. Lick admitted to overstating the number of employees and payroll expenses of his purported businesses to receive PPP funds. Rather than use the PPP funds for his businesses, Lick admitted to purchasing a home valued at more than $1 million and to using the PPP funds for personal investments in the stock market.
“The amount of PPP fraud and EIDL loan fraud committed in this district and nationwide is staggering,” stated United States Attorney Clay Joyner. “The CARES Act loan programs were intended to help small businesses and families struggling to survive during a difficult pandemic. Unfortunately, far too many individuals like the defendant abused these programs for their own personal benefit. Today’s guilty plea is a significant step in bringing to justice those who abused these programs, but it is only the first step. Our office will continue to prosecute violations of the CARES Act—large or small—in an effort to recover as many stolen taxpayer dollars as possible.”
Lick is scheduled to be sentenced on August 12, 2022, before Senior District Judge Glen Davidson and faces up to 30 years in federal prison.
The FBI’s Oxford Resident Agency is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Levy and AUSA Sam Wright are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Tupelo Man Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Tupelo man was sentenced today to 262 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Samuel Wilson, III, 32, was convicted following a trial in December of conspiring with members of a drug trafficking organization led by Jeremy Mairidith to sell and distribute methamphetamine and marijuana. Wilson was also convicted of being a convicted felon in possession of two firearms. On Tuesday morning, U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Wilson after hearing arguments and comments from Wilson, his counsel, and prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner stated: “Today’s sentence has removed from the streets an individual who has supported himself by distributing illicit drugs in our community and elsewhere. I commend our local, state and federal partners who worked on this investigation for years to see that the individuals involved in the violent and illegal activities of this drug trafficking organization were finally brought to justice.”
“ATF is committed to the disruption of violent gun crime. As with this joint effort, we will continue to focus on violent offenders who possess a firearm in conjunction with narcotics violations,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “Reducing firearm related crimes and keeping our communities safe is the top priority for ATF.”
Wilson is one of nine defendants convicted for his role in the drug trafficking organization.
The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and FBI Jackson Division’s Oxford Resident Agency investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods programs in partnership with state and local law enforcement. Multiple agencies played critical roles in the investigation, including the Tupelo Police Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, North Mississippi Narcotics Unit, DEA, Corinth Police Department, Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Highway Patrol, United States Postal Inspection Service, Mississippi Department of Corrections and the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad M. Doleac, Jay Hale and Scott Leary prosecuted the case.
This operation was one of many parts of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
More than 700 Arrested in Joint Law Enforcement Operation in North MississippiRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A month long joint federal, state and local law enforcement initiative organized in response to an increase in violent crime in the area has resulted in the arrests of more than 700 individuals in North Mississippi on a variety of charges including homicide, aggravated assault, aggravated domestic assault, child abuse, child sexual assault, drug distribution, unlawful gun crime, DUI, and failure to register as a sex offender. “Operation MPACT” (Mississippi Partnering Agencies Coming Together), a U.S. Marshals led initiative, brought together federal, state and local law enforcement partners from four areas of North Mississippi including Panola, Lee, Lowndes and Grenada Counties to target known offenders, deter crime and improve community and safety relations.
In addition to the 700 arrests for felony and misdemeanor offenses, Operation MPACT resulted in the seizure of $134,180 worth of narcotics, $50,720 worth of cash, and 38 firearms. Of the total arrests made during the operation, 350 were for felony offenses and 56 were gang-related. The announcements concerning the MPACT results were made on Wednesday in Oxford by Danny McKittrick, U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Mississippi and Clay Joyner, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District along with state and local law enforcement partners.
Operation MPACT was organized in response to an increase in crime in the participating areas in recent months after several organized criminal groups operating out of Memphis and Chicago migrated to Mississippi via Interstate 55. The operation commenced on March 1 in Panola County led by the U.S. Marshal Service’s Gulf Coast Regional Task Force with assistance from Sheriff Shane Phelps and members of his Department before moving to Grenada County on March 7 where Sheriff Rolando Fair and his Department assisted federal and state partners. On March 14, the Operation moved to Lee County, where Sheriff Jim Johnson and Tupelo Police Chief John Quaka and their departments played key roles in the operation. Operation MPACT finished at the end of March in Lowndes County with assistance from Sheriff Eddie Hawkins and his Department.
In addition to the Sheriff’s Offices and U.S Marshals, other key partners in Operation MPACT included ATF, the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the U.S. Probation Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
In announcing the results of Operation MPACT, U.S. Marshal Danny McKittrick commended the participating law enforcement agencies for their combined efforts to reduce crime in the District. “I would like to personally thank all of our partners for their relentless support in making this operation a success,” stated McKittrick. “I believe the historical results of this operation combined with the community policing efforts of our local partners will have a lasting effect on these communities here in the Northern District of Mississippi.”
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner praised the efforts of the U.S. Marshals Service along with those of state, federal and local law enforcement partners. “The success of this operation and the resulting arrests and seizures of criminal contraband directly result from the outstanding leadership demonstrated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the hard work of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners who saw a need to combat rising crime rates and took action to strategically address the problem. Arresting those who would commit violent crimes, drug crime and gun crimes in our District and those who are wanted for such crimes is key in making the Northern District of Mississippi safer for the citizens who live here.” Joyner remarked.
This operation was one of the many efforts linked to Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Mississippi Doctor Convicted of Hospice FraudRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – A federal jury convicted a Cleveland, Mississippi doctor on Monday of Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud following a two week trial for his role in referring and certifying patients to hospice who were not terminally ill and should not have been placed on hospice care.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Dr. Scott Nelson, of Cleveland was a medical director for numerous hospice organizations in the Mississippi Delta. At least four of the hospice owners associated with Dr. Nelson had been convicted of healthcare fraud prior to Dr. Nelson’s trial. Hospice employees routinely transported prospective patients to Dr. Nelson’s office in Cleveland, sometimes transporting three or four patients at a time. Dr. Nelson saw the patients in his office and then referred them for hospice, claiming to be their primary care physician, or attending physician. In almost all cases, the patients had no idea they were being placed on hospice and multiple patients testified at trial that Dr. Nelson did not explain hospice to them and did not tell them he was referring them to hospice care. Dr. Nelson also certified patients as terminally ill who were not actually terminally ill and he “robosigned” numerous medical records, allowing hospice owners to bill Medicare and Medicaid for hospice services that were not medically necessary. From 2009 through 2014, Dr. Nelson served as medical director for as many as 14 hospice providers and received approximately $442,000 in medical director fees from those hospices.
During the course of the conspiracy charged in the indictment, hospice owners received over $15 Million in Medicare funds based on Dr. Nelson’s patient referrals and certifications.
Prior to the trial, co-defendants Charline Brandon, Wendell Brandon, and Annette Lofton all pled guilty to the conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.
“This type of fraud drives up medical costs for those who truly need care and jeopardizes our entire healthcare system.” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with all federal, state and local partners to do everything in our power to eradicate it.”
"Just to enrich himself, Dr. Nelson fraudulently prescribed hospice care for a steady stream of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who he knew were not dying, ignoring the fact that under this end-of-life status they would not be eligible for curative services,” said Special Agent in Charge Tamala E. Miles of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS OIG). “The guilty verdict in this case shows that our investigators and our law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue irresponsible practitioners who put their greed for profits above the well-being of their patients.”
“Healthcare fraud is not just about the dollars these medical professionals have taken, but also the trust they have violated,” said Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “Patients put their faith in their doctors. They should not have to worry about being pawns in a get-rich-quick scheme. My Office is pleased to work with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect patients and defend the sacred trust so essential to our healthcare system.”
The HHS-OIG and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit are investigating the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clay Dabbs and Kim Hampton.
Three Men Will Serve Time in Prison for Smuggling Drugs into PrisonRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – Three Puerto Rican men have been sentenced to prison for conspiring to distribute illegal narcotics.
According to court documents, Christian Jose Collazo Torres, 28, of Ponce, Puerto Rico, Neftali Santiago, 28, of Ponce, Puerto Rico, and Jean Carlos Flores Santiago, 32, of Caguas, Puerto Rico, conspired with each other to possess with the intent to distribute illegal narcotics, including Fentanyl, a schedule II controlled substance, for the purpose of smuggling the illegal narcotics and other contraband into CoreCivic Prison in Tutwiler, Mississippi. On April 24, 2021, the three individuals were found in close proximity to CoreCivic Prison in possession of two drones, narcotics, cigarettes and cell phones, packaged in a manner consistent with smuggling items into a prison. Each of the three individuals involved plead guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.
On February 2, 2022, Torres was sentenced by Chief U.S District Judge Debra M. Brown of the Northern District of Mississippi to 18 months incarceration followed by 3 years of supervised release. On February 23, Judge Brown sentenced Neftali Santiago to 34 months incarceration followed by 3 years of supervised release. On March 9, Jean Carlos Santiago was sentenced by Judge Brown to24 months incarceration followed by 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi and Don Douglas, Resident Agent in Charge of DEA, made the announcement.
“The prosecution of illegal drug trafficking is a priority in the Northern District of Mississippi, and we work closely with DEA, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and local law enforcement to ensure that those individuals and organizations who traffic and distribute drugs in our District are held accountable,” remarked Joyner. The actions of these individuals and their attempts to smuggle illegal narcotics into a prison facility make them extremely deserving of the prison sentences they received in this case.”
The DEA, Tutwiler Police Department, and Tallahatchie County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Mims prosecuted the case.
Louisiana Man Convicted of Traveling Across State Line to Engage in Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A federal jury convicted a Louisiana man this week of traveling from one state to another with the intent to engage in sexual conduct with a minor.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ronald Joseph Latiolais, III, age 26, met a Mississippi teen online and drove from Louisiana to Mississippi to meet the 13-year old in April of 2019. Despite knowing she was underage, Latiolais went to the teen’s house during the night, cut the screen on the minor’s bedroom window, and escaped with the teen. Latiolais admitted to committing sexual acts on the minor during a stop on the drive from Mississippi to Louisiana. The jury considered the testimony of the minor and her parents, as well as a Special Agent from the FBI and a Special Agent with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. Latiolais was found guilty of transporting a minor in interstate commerce with the intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity. He will be sentenced by Judge Michael P. Mills in June of 2022.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi; and FBI Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby made the announcement concerning the jury’s guilty verdict.
The FBI and MBI investigated the case with assistance from local law enforcement agencies.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Parker Kline and Julie Addison are prosecuting the case.
Emergency Room Doctor Convicted of Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A federal jury convicted a Mississippi man of tax evasion after a three-day jury trial in Oxford this week before District Judge Sharion Aycock. According to the indictment and evidence presented at trial, Dr. Kevin L. Crandell of Golden, Mississippi, was an emergency room physician making a monthly salary of approximately $30,000 to $40,000 who stopped paying personal income taxes in 2007. During the years 2006 through 2012, Crandell accrued approximately $972,493 in tax debt, including penalties and interest.
At trial, the Government presented evidence that in 2014 Crandell submitted a false and fraudulent IRS Form 433-A to the Internal Revenue Service in an attempt to negotiate a payment plan for his outstanding tax liabilities. The Form 433-A misrepresented to the IRS that Crandell could not make tax payments because his personal income was lower than his expenses. The Form 433-A also failed to list assets and business bank accounts, which Crandell was using for personal expenses. Though Crandell attempted to blame a tax resolution service he hired in 2010, the evidence at trial showed that Crandell intentionally manipulated his pay stubs to show a decrease in his 2014 annual income before submitting the pay stubs to the tax resolution service.
Crandell is scheduled to be sentenced on June 7, 2022 and faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment. Crandell also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and a fine.
“Millions of Americans pay their income taxes every year,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Those who intentionally attempt to mislead the IRS and fail to pay income taxes that they legitimately owe will face the consequences.”
The IRS investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clay Dabbs and Philip Levy are prosecuting the case.
21 Alleged Gang Members and Associates Charged in RICO IndictmentRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A federal indictment was unsealed yesterday charging 18 alleged members of the Simon City Royals gang with a racketeering conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, narcotics trafficking, witness tampering, obstruction of justice, wire fraud, and money laundering.
The indictment charges Allen Posey, 47; Jonathan Davis, 38; Jeremy Holcombe, 42; Jonathan Burnett, 38; Hank Chapman, 37; Jason Hayden, 41; Joshua Miller, 40; Gavin Pierson, 32; Justin Shaw, 35; Bobby Brumfield, 42; Jordan Deakles, 30; Bryce Frances, 42; Anthony Murphy, 29; Chancey Bilbo, 30; Dillon Heffker, 31; Douglas Jones, 33; Cody Woodall, 30; and Michael Muscolino, 42, with racketeering conspiracy. The indictment also charges those individuals and Valerie Madden, 53; Samuel Conwill, 43; and Jason Collins, 38, with narcotics conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. Nine of the defendants – Shaw, Posey, Brumfield, Jones, Pierson, Deakles, Davis, Frances, Heffker and Murphy – are additionally charged with murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, or assault in aid of racketeering.
“The Criminal Division is committed to dismantling gangs, like the Simon City Royals, that use violence and intimidation to damage our communities and interfere with our justice system,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This indictment demonstrates that the Department of Justice is dedicated to protecting people victimized by these gangs and holding the alleged offenders accountable.”
“This case is an example of ATF’s dedication and commitment to combating violent crime in our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) New Orleans Field Division. “ATF is proud to work with our law-enforcement partners to bring violent criminals to justice and to help make our neighborhoods safer.”
According to the indictment, the Simon City Royals are a national criminal gang whose dealings include extortion, narcotics, identity-theft, money laundering, and violent crime. The gang has a formalized hierarchy involving numerous “boards” and “teams,” including a team dedicated to carrying out violent gang punishments, and a “money team” responsible for earning revenue through fraud, illegal gambling, and identity theft.
According to the indictment, the defendants murdered or attempted to murder numerous individuals, including a suspected law-enforcement cooperator, a rival gang leader, and individuals perceived to have shown disrespect to the gang. The defendants employed various methods to conceal their activities and finances, including communicating via encrypted messages and filing articles of incorporation to establish a fraudulent nonprofit organization with the State of Mississippi.
If convicted, the defendants face penalties ranging from 10 years and life for narcotics conspiracy; up to 20 years for money laundering conspiracy; 20 years to life imprisonment for the racketeering conspiracy; up to 10 years in prison for attempted murder in aid of racketeering; and up to 20 years for assault in aid of racketeering; and a mandatory life in prison sentence for murder in aid of racketeering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The defendants were arrested yesterday, March 3, and are scheduled to make their initial court appearances today at 2 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Roy Percy of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the U.S. Marshals Service; the U.S. Secret Service; the FBI’s Jackson Field Office; the Mississippi Department of Corrections; and local law enforcement agencies across multiple states are investigating the case. The Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department, and Tippah County Sheriff's Department provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorneys Brendan Woods, Christopher Taylor, and Conor Mulroe of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow for the Northern District of Mississippi 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.
21 Alleged Gang Members and Associates Charged in RICO IndictmentRead the Press Release
A federal indictment was unsealed today charging 21 alleged members and associates of the Simon City Royals gang with a racketeering conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, narcotics trafficking, witness tampering, obstruction of justice, wire fraud and money laundering.
The indictment charges Allen Posey, 47; Jonathan Davis, 38; Jeremy Holcombe, 42; Jonathan Burnett, 38; Hank Chapman, 37; Jason Hayden, 41; Joshua Miller, 40; Gavin Pierson, 32; Justin Shaw, 35; Bobby Brumfield, 42; Jordan Deakles, 30; Bryce Frances, 42; Anthony Murphy, 29; Chancey Bilbo, 30; Dillon Heffker, 31; Douglas Jones, 33; Cody Woodall, 30; and Michael Muscolino, 42, with racketeering conspiracy. The indictment also charges those individuals and Valerie Madden, 53; Samuel Conwill, 43; and Jason Collins, 38, with narcotics conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. Nine of the defendants – Shaw, Posey, Brumfield, Jones, Pierson, Deakles, Davis, Frances, Heffker and Murphy – are additionally charged with murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, or assault in aid of racketeering.
“The Criminal Division is committed to dismantling gangs, like the Simon City Royals, that use violence and intimidation to damage our communities and interfere with our justice system,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This indictment demonstrates that the Department of Justice is dedicated to protecting people victimized by these gangs and holding the alleged offenders accountable.”
“This case is an example of ATF’s dedication and commitment to combating violent crime in our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) New Orleans Field Division. “ATF is proud to work with our law-enforcement partners to bring violent criminals to justice and to help make our neighborhoods safer.”
According to the indictment, the Simon City Royals are a national criminal gang whose dealings include extortion, narcotics, identity-theft, money laundering and violent crime. The gang has a formalized hierarchy involving numerous “boards” and “teams,” including a team dedicated to carrying out violent gang punishments, and a “money team” responsible for earning revenue through fraud, illegal gambling, and identity theft.
According to the indictment, the defendants murdered or attempted to murder numerous individuals, including a suspected law-enforcement cooperator, a rival gang leader, and individuals perceived to have shown disrespect to the gang. The defendants employed various methods to conceal their activities and finances, including communicating via encrypted messages and filing articles of incorporation to establish a fraudulent nonprofit organization with the state of Mississippi.
If convicted, the defendants face penalties ranging from 10 years and life for narcotics conspiracy; up to 20 years for money laundering conspiracy; 20 years to life imprisonment for the racketeering conspiracy; up to 10 years in prison for attempted murder in aid of racketeering; and up to 20 years for assault in aid of racketeering; and a mandatory life in prison sentence for murder in aid of racketeering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The defendants were arrested yesterday, March 3, and are scheduled to make their initial court appearances today at 2 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Roy Percy of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the U.S. Marshals Service; the U.S. Secret Service; the FBI’s Jackson Field Office; the Mississippi Department of Corrections; and local law enforcement agencies across multiple states are investigating the case. The Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department and Tippah County Sheriff's Department provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorneys Brendan Woods, Christopher Taylor and Conor Mulroe of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow for the Northern District of Mississippi 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.
Gulfport Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Gulfport man pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, on December 4, 2021, Adrin Maurice Murphy, 27, was stopped for a traffic violation by officers working with the Gulfport Police Department. Officers searched the vehicle and located marijuana, packaged for resale, and a Glock Model 27 handgun. Murphy was taken into custody and admitted to possession of the marijuana and the handgun. Murphy had two prior felony convictions.
Murphy is scheduled to be sentenced on May 19, 2022. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment. However, if he is determined to be an armed career criminal, he faces from 15 years to life imprisonment.
The DEA and Gulfport Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Greenville Felon Sentenced to Prison for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Oxford, Mississippi – A Greenville man was sentenced today to over 3 years in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Kordarial Hughes aka “Yao Ming”, 33, of Greenville, Mississippi, plead guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills to serve 40 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Hughes, who was detained pending trial, was remanded into custody of the U.S. Marshals following sentencing.
“The prosecution of individuals who illegally possess and use firearms is a continued priority for this office,” stated U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We will continue to work alongside our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to ensure that those who commit gun-related crimes are held accountable.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby also commented on the sentence, stating “Getting guns out of the hands of felons and off the streets is one of our top priorities. The FBI is committed to working hand-in-hand with our state and local partners to ensure violent criminals are held accountable and brought to justice. We will continue to work diligently to keep the citizens of Mississippi safe.”
The FBI and the Greenville Police Department investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Greenville Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun Possession and Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Greenville man was sentenced on Friday to 9 years and 2 months in prison for selling illegal narcotics and for possession of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense.
According to court documents, Danny Thomas, 49, of Greenville, Mississippi, was charged in two separate indictments with one count of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and four counts of distribution of cocaine, as well as one count of possession of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Thomas plead guilty to one count of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, one count of distribution of cocaine, and to possession of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense. U.S. District Court Judge Glen Davidson sentenced Thomas to a total of 110 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Thomas, who was detained pending trial, was remanded into custody of the U.S. Marshals following sentencing.
This office is committed to working alongside our local, state and federal partners to see that those individuals who commit gun crimes and distribute drugs in our communities are held accountable for their actions,” stated U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Today’s sentence is one more step towards making our neighborhoods safer.”
Following the sentencing, FBI Special Agent in Charge Jermicha L. Fomby commented: “Drugs are one of the driving forces of violent crime. We will not relent in our efforts to make Mississippi a safer place for all who live in or visit our great State. This sentencing should serve as a reminder that the FBI, as well as our state and local partners, will bring violent criminals to justice.”
The FBI, Greenville Police Department, and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
FBI Makes Arrest in Alleged Child Exploitation CaseRead the Press Release
On January 28, 2022, FBI Special Agents from the Jackson Field Office, together with Agents from the Memphis, Tennessee Field Office, arrested ANDREUS T. SHANNON in Dickson, Tennessee. Clay Joyner, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, and Jermicha Fomby, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the FBI in Mississippi, stated that ANDREUS T. SHANNON, age 41, of Savannah, Tennessee, was arrested based on allegations made in a complaint filed in federal court by the FBI, following an investigation conducted by the FBI.
The complaint alleges that SHANNON was acting as a basketball coach when he allegedly transported a minor female that he coached across state lines between Mississippi and Tennessee to engage in sex acts. SHANNON is also accused of extorting and cyberstalking the same victim once she became an adult.
SHANNON made his initial appearance in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee in Columbia, Tennessee, on January 28, 2022, and was subsequently extradited to Oxford, Mississippi. On February 14, 2022, SHANNON appeared in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi, for a detention hearing. SHANNON was released on bond with a number of special conditions, including home confinement and electronic monitoring, pending further judicial proceedings.
Individuals with information concerning this investigation are encouraged to contact the FBI at 601/948-5000.
U.S. Attorney Joyner and SAC Fomby stressed that complaints and arrests are accusations only and there is a presumption of innocence prior to any judicial proceeding.
Illinois Woman Sentenced to Prison for Aiding Boyfriend Who Engaged in Shoot-out with Law Enforcement in OxfordRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – An Illinois woman was sentenced Monday to 84 months in federal prison for her role in a shoot-out that occurred on South Lamar Boulevard in Oxford in May of 2020 and resulted in a Deputy U.S. Marshal being shot when law enforcement officers attempted to arrest her boyfriend on an outstanding murder warrant out of Arkansas.
According to court documents, the defendant, Xaveriana Cook and Hunter Carlstrom were in a romantic relationship in May of 2020 when Carlstrom told Cook he was going to murder an individual by the name of James Sartorelli, a/k/a “Caveman” in order to steal money, drugs and guns from Sartorelli. Following that conversation, Carlstrom went to Sartorelli’s Smithville, Arkansas home, murdered Sartorelli, and then informed Cook that he had killed Sartorelli. Testimony established that law enforcement officers in Arkansas located the body of James Sartorelli, who suffered a gunshot wound to the head, on May 7, 2020, and an Arkansas County Circuit Court issued a warrant for the arrest of Hunter Carlstrom for that murder on May 11, 2020. However, by that time, Cook and Carlstrom had fled to Mississippi in Cook’s car, where they stayed with acquaintances from May 7, 2020, until May 15, 2020.
The U.S. Marshals Service Gulf Coast Fugitive Task Force began searching for Carlstrom after the warrant was issued for his arrest for the murder of James Sartorelli. Carlstrom, a previously convicted felon who had served time in prison, and Cook were together in Cook’s vehicle in Oxford, Mississippi on May 15, 2020, when members of the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle in an attempt to arrest Carlstrom on the outstanding murder warrant. During the lunch-hour traffic stop on South Lamar Boulevard, Carlstrom shot a Deputy U.S. Marshal, who sustained severe internal injuries as a result of the gunshot wound and required emergency surgery. Carlstrom was shot by return fire from law enforcement and died on scene. Cook, who had been driving the vehicle, was taken into custody by law enforcement.
After Carlstrom engaged in the shoot-out with officers, investigators found a stolen Glock 9mm handgun in Cook’s vehicle. In addition, officers searched the residence where Carlstrom and Cook had been staying for the previous week and located two firearms that had been stolen from James Sartorelli’s house. Testimony and court documents presented during the case established that Cook admitted Carlstrom had told her on multiple occasions that he would not go back to prison and that he would have a shoot-out with the cops if he and Cook were ever stopped by law enforcement.
Cook was subsequently charged in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi with multiple counts of criminal conduct for her role in the offense and ultimately pled guilty to being an Accessory After the Fact to Robbery and Murder and Aiding and Abetting the Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Following Monday’s sentence, U.S. Marshal Danny McKittrick spoke about the case and Deputy Marshal Bob Dickerson who was shot during the attempted arrest of Carlstrom. “The U.S. Marshal’s Service is proud of Deputy Marshal Bob Dickerson and his family for the way they have handled a very difficult chapter in their family’s life, and they are thankful to finally close it. On behalf of Bob’s family, the U.S. Marshal’s Service and the Fugitive Task Force, we would like to thank all of our law enforcement partners and the Federal Court family for all of their prayers and support during the process. We thank again the Baptist Hospital administration, nursing staff and Doctors Lovelace, Kirk and Hamilton for saving our friend Bob’s life,” McKittrick said.
U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner also commented following the sentence. “Individuals who assist and facilitate the criminal conduct of others are accountable for harm that results,” stated Joyner. “In this case, the defendant chose to help a self-confessed murderer flee the state where he had brutally murdered and robbed another individual. Even though this defendant knew her boyfriend was armed and intent on engaging in a shoot-out with any law enforcement who attempted to arrest him, she continued to assist him, facilitating his interstate travel and attempt to avoid arrest and prosecution. This defendant should not have been surprised that Carlstrom made good on his threats to open fire on law enforcement, resulting in his own death and life-threatening injuries to a Deputy U.S. Marshal who was simply trying to do his job. Today’s sentence was an important step towards protecting our communities and achieving justice for those harmed by this conduct.”
“The FBI is committed to working with our state and local partners to reduce violence in the community and keep the citizens of Mississippi safe,” remarked FBI Special Agent in Charge Jermicha L. Fomby. “That safety is eroded when illegally obtained firearms are used against those sworn to keep the community safe. We want the public to know the FBI does not tolerate this behavior and will continue to hold those who violate the law accountable.”
The case was investigated by FBI and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Lawrence County Arkansas Sheriff’s Department and ATF. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Clyde McGee and AUSA Clay Dabbs.
Felon in Possession Gets Max TimeRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – An Arkansas man was sentenced on Tuesday to the statutory maximum 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, Antonio Leshun Johnson, Age 44, of Elaine, Arkansas, was found in possession of a firearm by Hernando City police officers in May of 2018. Officers initially made contact with Johnson because his vehicle was obstructing traffic on Commerce Street. During that contact, an officer patted Johnson down for safety and found a loaded Taurus Model PT 845 .45 caliber handgun in his pants pocket. Officers subsequently found a loaded .45 caliber magazine in the driver’s door and a loaded .45 caliber magazine in the trunk. A duffel bag on the back seat of the vehicle contained an Olympic Arms Model K23P 5.56 mm pistol with added vertical foregrip, laser, rail light, and ammunition casing catcher.
Johnson had a lengthy criminal history with felony convictions dating back to the 1990’s. In 1998, Johnson was convicted in California of two counts of robbery and assault with a firearm. In 2004, he was again convicted in the Northern District of California of Armed Robbery and Felon in Possession of a Firearm and received a ten-year sentence for those offenses. More recently, in 2019, Johnson was convicted in the Western District of Tennessee for three counts of Bank Robbery, Using a Firearm in a Crime of Violence and Kidnapping. Johnson received a sentence of 432 months for those offenses.
In announcing the maximum ten-year sentence in the instant case, U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock acknowledged that the sentence was intended to help promote respect for the law, deter criminal conduct, and protect the public.
“Removing violent armed criminals from our streets is a key goal of the Project Safe Neighborhoods program and a priority for this office,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “As always, we appreciate the cooperation and assistance of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to help meet this goal and make our communities safer.”
“The collaborative effort of federal and local law enforcement, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, has led to the lengthy sentencing of this career criminal and is another example of our commitment to fight gun violence,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “ATF will continue to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety.”
Tupelo Man Convicted of Drug Trafficking and Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A federal jury has convicted a Tupelo, Mississippi man of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Samuel Wilson, III, 32, conspired with multiple individuals who were identified as part of a larger drug trafficking organization to sell and distribute methamphetamine and marijuana. The jury also found Wilson guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of two firearms.
Wilson was one of nine defendants charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs, drug distribution, and firearms offenses as part of a drug trafficking organization led by Jeremy K. Mairidith. Eight of the defendants charged, including Mairidith, pled guilty prior to trial. The drug trafficking organization was comprised of defendants from California, Georgia, Illinois and Mississippi and was responsible for distributing methamphetamine and marijuana in the Northern District of Mississippi and elsewhere. The investigation of this drug trafficking organization and its participants spanned multiple years.
Individuals who have been charged and convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in this case include: Jeremy K. Mairidith; Fernando Gonzalez; Kennoris Hughey; Stefanie K. Johnson; Eiko T. Jones; Dimitri R. Kimble; Desmonya Lewis; and Andraea Stovall.
Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner of the Northern District of Mississippi made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and FBI Jackson Division’s Oxford Resident Agency investigated the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods programs in partnership with state and local law enforcement. Agencies assisting with the investigation included the Tupelo Police Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Corinth Police Department, Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office, United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, North Mississippi Narcotics Unit, DEA, United States Postal Inspection Service, Mississippi Department of Corrections and the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad M. Doleac prosecuted the case with assistance from AUSAs Jay Hale and Scott Leary.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Justice Department Awards More Than $17.5 Million to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced today that it has awarded more than $17.5 million in grants to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. Funding will support efforts across the country to address violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety was awarded $184,000 to administer PSN grant funds across the state of Mississippi. This grant award includes $76,912 of PSN funds designated for the Northern District of Mississippi and $107,461 for the Southern District of Mississippi.
The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), part of the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will administer the 88 grant awards, which are being made to designated fiscal agents to support local PSN projects that work in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.
“This latest Project Safe Neighborhoods grant is critical to addressing the violent crime threatening cities and towns all across our country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Ensuring the safety of all Americans is the highest priority for the Department of Justice, but when it comes to violent crime, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We have to work closely with local public safety agencies as well as community organizations to craft individual strategies unique to each community’s needs. Programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods and the funding it provides allow us to do just that.”
“For almost two decades, Project Safe Neighborhoods has been an important part of this District’s efforts to prevent and reduce violent gun crime,” remarked Acting United States Attorney Clay Joyner. “We appreciate the Department of Justice’s commitment to the PSN program and will continue to work alongside our local, state, federal and community partners to positively impact communities throughout our District and make them safer for all of our citizens.”
Grant funds will support community or law enforcement projects and initiatives that help to reduce violent gun crime in Mississippi. With approval from BJA, the Fiscal Agent will begin the process of making subawards for PSN grant projects.
“Investing in our communities, supporting victims and building a justice system that both keeps people safe and earns their trust – these are mutually reinforcing goals that stand at the heart of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Amy L. Solomon for OJP. “The Office of Justice Programs is pleased to join with our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, and with jurisdictions across the country, as we work together to meet the challenges of crime and violence and achieve our shared aspirations of public safety and community trust.”
In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade old evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime issued by Deputy Attorney General Monaco, is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
This fall, U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country have enhanced their violent crime reduction efforts to ensure alignment with the department’s comprehensive violent crime reduction strategy. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices have engaged in outreach to law enforcement and other agencies and organizations serving communities to identify the most significant drivers of violence in their districts. Working together with a broad coalition of stakeholders, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices are addressing the most pressing violent crime issues in their district to make our neighborhoods safer for all.
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies, community stakeholders and other agencies and organizations that work to reduce violent crime.
Federal Officials Close Cold Case Re-Investigation of Murder of Emmett TillRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi announced today that it has closed its investigation into a witness’s alleged recantation of her account of the events leading up to the murder of Emmett Till. The investigation was conducted in conjunction with the Mississippi District Attorney’s Office, Fourth District. Till’s murder is one of the most infamous acts of racial violence in our country’s history.
Today, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner, District Attorney W. Dewayne Richardson and career attorneys and employees from the Civil Rights Division and the FBI met with members of Till’s family, including a family member who had been a witness to the events preceding Till’s abduction and murder. The purpose of the meeting was to explain the reasons for closing the investigation and to give the family an opportunity to ask questions about the department’s investigation and conclusions.
The department conducted the investigation as part of its Cold Case Initiative and pursuant to the passage of the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act (Till Act). The Cold Case Initiative is a comprehensive effort to identify and investigate racially motivated murders committed decades ago. As in all federal cases, the department may only bring a case with laws that were enacted at the time of the crime and are still within the statute of limitations. However, under the Till Act, the federal government is authorized to assist state and local jurisdictions with investigating and, where possible, prosecuting such crimes.
Because there were no federal hate crime statutes at the time of Till’s death, the case was not then opened for federal investigation. In 2004, the department opened an investigation into Till’s murder as part of its Cold Case Initiative, but determined after a thorough review that it lacked jurisdiction to bring federal charges.
The department reopened the matter in 2017 after a professor alleged in a book he had written that a white woman, who was a witness to crucial events leading up to Till’s abduction and murder, had recanted her previous accounts of those events. In response, the department and the FBI examined whether the woman had recanted and, if so, whether she had information that would allow prosecution of any living person.
In the summer of 1955, the 14-year-old Till traveled from Chicago to Money, Mississippi, to visit relatives. He stayed with family members in their home just east of Money. On Aug. 24, 1955, Till and approximately six other youths drove to a store in Money. A witness indicated that, contrary to long-standing belief about the events in and near the store, no one challenged Till to speak to or flirt with a white woman who was at the store. Nor did Till show a photo of a white girl to the men standing outside the store. Rather, Till bought some items in the store and left with one of his companions without incident. According to this witness, the woman then left the store, unhurried and undisturbed, at which time Till whistled at her. Till’s companions, aware of the dangers posed to Black men perceived to have violated the unwritten, racist code prevalent in the Jim Crow South, hurried to get Till away from the store.
A few days later, in the early morning hours of Aug. 28, Roy Bryant, his half-brother John William (J.W.) Milam, and at least one other person abducted Till from the home of his relatives. Three days later, a teenager fishing in the Tallahatchie River discovered Till’s brutally beaten body floating in the river. Till’s assailants had weighed him down with a 75-pound cotton gin fan, which they tied to his body with barbed wire.
State officials charged Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam with murder; they were tried the following month and acquitted by an all-white jury. During the trial, the woman at the store testified under oath, but not in front of the jury, that Till had propositioned her and physically touched her hand, arm and waist while they were both inside the store. Following their acquittals, both Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam confessed to kidnapping and murdering Till in an account published in Look magazine in January 1956.
In early 2017, new information emerged suggesting that the woman may have confessed to a professor, who later wrote a book about Till’s murder, that the account she provided to the state court in 1955 was untrue. Specifically, the professor asserted that, during a 2008 interview with the woman, she handed him a transcript of her sworn 1955 testimony and said, “[t]hat part’s not true.” If credible, the professor’s assertion suggests that the woman lied in state court and confessed to having done so. The alleged recantation raised questions about whether the woman would be willing to acknowledge to federal authorities that her prior versions of events had been untruthful and whether she now would provide new and accurate information relating to the abduction and murder of Till.
The woman however, when asked about the alleged recantation, denied to the FBI that she ever recanted her testimony and provided no information beyond what was uncovered during the previous federal investigation. Although lying to the FBI is a federal offense, there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she lied to the FBI when she denied having recanted to the professor. There is insufficient evidence to prove that she ever told the professor that any part of her testimony was untrue. Although the professor represented that he had recorded two interviews with her, he provided the FBI with only one recording, which did not contain any recantation. In addition, although an assistant transcribed the two recordings, neither transcript contained the alleged recantation. The professor also provided inconsistent explanations about whether the missing recording included the alleged recantation or whether, instead, the woman made the key admission before he began recording the interview.
A federal prosecution of the woman would be complicated by the fact that, according to the professor’s account, when she said “that part’s not true,” she did not expressly reference her state court testimony or refer to any specific part of that testimony. Rather, the professor stated that he understood her to be referring to her allegation that Till physically accosted her in the store from the context of their conversation. It would thus be impossible for prosecutors to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the woman intentionally recanted all or part of her state court testimony, and that she then lied to the FBI when she denied having done so.
Even if the government could prove that she recanted her prior state court testimony, the federal government could not prosecute her for perjury for her 1955 testimony. Perjury in state court is not a federal offense. Moreover, the statute of limitations, a deadline for bringing a prosecution, expired in 1960 on any state perjury offense. Similarly, the five-year statute of limitations has expired on any claim that she lied to the FBI during the 2004 investigation. However, in closing this matter without prosecution, the government does not take the position that the state court testimony the woman gave in 1955 was truthful or accurate. There remains considerable doubt as to the credibility of her version of events, which is contradicted by others who were with Till at the time, including the account of a living witness.
The government’s re-investigation found no new evidence suggesting that either the woman or any other living person was involved in Till’s abduction and murder. Even if such evidence could be developed, no federal hate crime laws existed in 1955, and the statute of limitations has run on the only civil rights statutes that were in effect at that time. As such, even if a living suspect could now be identified, a federal prosecution for Till’s abduction and murder would not be possible. A copy of the memorandum explaining the reasons for closing the investigation is available at: Emmett Till | CRT | Department of Justice.
The Department of Justice remains committed to identifying and investigating racially motivated crimes of violence committed decades ago through its Cold Case Initiative, and through the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act and its reauthorization. Those who have information related to an unsolved or un-vindicated cold case that occurred on or before Dec. 31, 1979, and have reason to believe are hate crimes or crimes that would violate other civil rights law should contact the Civil Rights Division’s Cold Case Unit.
Justice Department Announces $139 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced more than $139 million in grant funding through the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The awards provide direct funding to 183 law enforcement agencies across the nation, allowing those agencies to hire 1,066 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. In the Northern District of Mississippi, the City of Starkville was awarded $276,209 in funding to hire three officers.
“We are committed to providing police departments with the resources needed to help ensure community safety and build community trust,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The grants we are announcing today will enable law enforcement agencies across the country to hire more than 1,000 additional officers to support vitally important community oriented policing programs.”
“We are pleased that the Northern District of Mississippi was included in the national grant award to advance community policing, and we know that the City of Starkville can effectively use this funding to benefit both law enforcement and the community at large,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner.
CHP is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Of the 183 agencies awarded grants today, approximately half will use the funding to focus on building legitimacy and trust between law enforcement and communities; 41 agencies will seek to address high rates of gun violence; 21 will focus on other areas of violence; and 19 will focus CHP resources on combating hate and domestic extremism or supporting police-based responses to persons in crisis. The complete list of awards can be found here.
Since its creation in 1994, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 135,000 officers. CHP, COPS’ flagship program, continues to be in demand today: In FY21, COPS received 590 applications requesting nearly 3,000 law enforcement positions. For FY22, President Biden has requested $537 million for CHP, an increase of $300 million.
To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/.
The COPS Office is the federal component of the Department of Justice responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Department of Justice agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served.
Tennessee Sex Offender Sentenced for Failing to Register in MississippiRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, Miss. – A Tennessee man was sentenced on Thursday to 30 months in prison for failing to register as a sex offender in Mississippi. According to court documents, the United States Marshals Service found that Lafayette McKay, 58 years old, of Holladay, Tennessee, was living in Potts Camp, Mississippi rather than at his registered address in Tennessee. At a sentencing hearing on Wednesday in Greenville, Chief U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced McKay to prison for Failure to Register.
McKay was initially convicted of Aggravated Statutory Rape in Benton County Tennessee in 2012, a conviction which requires him to register as a sex offender wherever he resides, is employed, attends school, or is a temporary resident. He was also recently convicted of sexual battery on a minor victim arising from an incident in September of 2020. Despite living in Potts Camp for over two months, McKay never registered as a sex offender in Mississippi.
“The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act was put into place to help inform and protect the public.” remarked Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “It is extremely important for every sex offender to comply with the law and register as required and this office will continue to aggressively prosecute those sex offenders who fail to comply with their registration duties.”
The United States Marshals Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. Kline prosecuted the case.
Former Bail Bondsman from Bolivar County Sentenced to 121 Months in Prison for Illegal Gun TraffickingRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A former bail bondsman from Boyle, Mississippi was sentenced to more than ten years in federal prison on Wednesday in the United States District Court in Greenville for knowingly selling firearms to a convicted felon.
Joe Crawford, 68, was convicted in June by a jury in Oxford, Mississippi for knowingly selling multiple firearms to a convicted felon on two separate occasions. At least one of the firearms sold by Crawford was stolen. On Wednesday, September 15, 2021, Chief District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Crawford to 121 months in prison for selling the firearms to a convicted felon.
According to court documents and testimony presented at trial, law enforcement began investigating an increase in firearms related violence in the Cleveland, Mississippi area in 2018. FBI and ATF began working with local investigators to identify the individuals responsible for shootings in the area and to identify individuals supplying the shooters with the guns. During the investigation, agents identified Joe Crawford as an individual who supplied firearms to felons. Upon identifying Crawford as a potential source of illegal firearms, law enforcement utilized a confidential informant (CI) to conduct controlled purchases of firearms from Crawford.
During the ensuing investigation, the CI purchased a total of ten firearms from Crawford on two occasions in transactions that were recorded on video and audio. On each of the two occasions that the CI purchased guns from Crawford, the CI repeatedly told Crawford that he was a convicted felon. Among the firearms sold by Crawford were multiple semi-automatic rifles that included 20 and 30 round magazines, a “bump stock” which is a device that can be attached to a firearm to cause it to fire in rapid succession, and several pistols.
After the controlled buys, agents executed a federal search warrant at Crawford’s home. During the search, 379 firearms were found and examined, and approximately fifty firearms were seized. Two of the firearms were stolen, and another two firearms had obliterated serial numbers.
At the time of the illegal gun sales, Crawford owned and operated a bail bonding company in Bolivar County, Mississippi. Evidence presented at trial established that Crawford often met his future firearm customers through the bail bondsman business.
“The illegal sale of firearms often puts guns directly in the hands of criminals and others who are prohibited by law from legally possessing firearms,” noted Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We will continue to work with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute those individuals who choose to fuel violent crime by trafficking firearms.”
“As we continue to combat violent crime with our law enforcement partners, it is imperative that we identify and disrupt the actors who illegally supply firearms for use in the commission of violent offenses against the public,” said Jermicha Fomby, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Jackson.
The FBI Jackson Field Office’s Oxford Resident Agency investigated the case with assistance from the Cleveland Police Department and ATF. The investigation resulted in the prosecution and conviction of 18 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Stringfellow and Philip Levy prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Texas Man Sentenced to Prison for Theft of Firearms in MississippiRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A Killeen, Texas man was sentenced to more than three years in prison for his role in stealing firearms from a pawnshop in Clarksdale, Mississippi.
Dominic Deshawn Turner was sentenced on Monday to 39 months imprisonment by Senior District Court Judge Neal B. Biggers for conspiracy to steal firearms from a federally licensed firearm (FFL) dealer. The sentence marks the conclusion of a two-year long investigation and prosecution of a 2019 robbery of Krosstown Trade & Pawn in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Co-defendants Corey Alonzo Brown of Killeen, Texas, Raheim Trayvon Avery of Grenada, Mississippi, and Corey Kintrell Lewis of Clarksdale, Mississippi have all been previously sentenced to prison for their roles in the robbery.
Court records show that on February 20, 2019, Krosstown Trade & Pawn in Clarksdale, Mississippi was robbed at gunpoint and the owner, who was working in the store at the time, was physically assaulted during the robbery. Five individuals stole 25 firearms and more than $49,000.00 worth of jewelry. The suspects fled the scene and ATF and the Clarksdale, Mississippi Police Department began investigating the incident.
Nine days after the Krosstown robbery, several firearms and jewelry stolen from the business were recovered by detectives from the Killeen, Texas Police Department. As a result of a combined investigation by ATF Agents and local law enforcement agencies in Texas and Mississippi, law enforcement positively identified five individuals as suspects in the robbery in Mississippi and uncovered a conspiracy to traffic firearms from Mississippi to Texas. ATF Agents in Mississippi also located and recovered additional stolen firearms in Clarksdale and Grenada, Mississippi in the possession of individuals who were prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms.
All five suspects from the robbery were identified and prosecuted. One suspect passed away prior to arrest. The remaining four suspects entered guilty pleas to federal charges and were ultimately convicted. Each of the defendants was sentenced to terms of imprisonment and required to pay restitution to the FFL dealer. Corey Lewis was sentenced to 87 months in prison, Raheim Avery was sentenced to 40 months, and Corey Brown was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison.
“Effective collaboration and coordination between ATF Agents and local law enforcement officers across multiple states was critical to the success of this investigation and prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Not only were they able to bring justice to the victim of this crime, but they were able to recover many of the firearms stolen, preventing future violent crimes.”
“The sentence imposed today lets gun traffickers know that they will pay a price for their crimes,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “ATF will continue to investigate firearm thefts to cut the pipeline of crime guns. This was good teamwork with our law enforcement partners and an example of ATF’s dedication to investigate individuals that feed violent gun crime.”
The following agencies participated in the investigation: ATF Waco, TX Satellite Office, ATF Austin, TX Field Office, ATF Oxford, MS Field Office, Killeen, TX Police Department, Clarksdale, MS Police Department, Grenada, MS Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Hampton and Philip Levy for the Northern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Mississippi Prison’s Deputy Warden Charged with Civil Rights Offense for Beating InmateRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that a federal grand jury indicted Melvin Hilson, 49, currently a Deputy Warden at the Mississippi State Penitentiary, for repeatedly striking an inmate and knocking him to the ground, resulting in injury to the inmate. The indictment charges Hilson with a felony civil rights offense for assaulting the inmate in 2016, when Hilson was a member of the K-9 Unit at the prison, which is also known as Parchman. The indictment also alleges that Hilson wrote a false report to conceal his unlawful assault and, later, lied to investigators from the Mississippi Department of Corrections when questioned about the assault.
Today’s indictment was announced by Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi and FBI Jackson Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin.
This case was investigated by the Jackson Division of the FBI. Special Litigation Counsel Samantha Trepel and Trial Attorney Cameron Bell of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Mims of the Northern District of Mississippi are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Starkville Physician Sentenced for Receipt and Distribution of Misbranded DrugsRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A Starkville physician was sentenced today to three years of probation for receiving misbranded drugs in interstate commerce and distributing them with the intent to defraud his patients. In addition to the term of probation, the defendant was ordered to forfeit $105,322.53, to pay a fine of $95,000 and to pay restitution in the amount of $377,545.20.
According to court documents, Benjamin Franklin Sanford, Jr., 69, of Starkville, Mississippi, is a physician who operated Starkville Internal Medicine. From April 2013 to June 2018, foreign versions of prescription drugs, including versions of Prolia, Boniva, and Aclasta, which had not been approved by the FDA, were shipped from overseas to Dr. Sanford’s clinic in Starkville. These drugs were administered to patients of Starkville Internal Medicine without their knowledge that the drugs were foreign versions of the subject drugs which were not FDA approved.
“U.S. consumers rely on FDA oversight to ensure that the drugs they receive are safe and effective. Health care providers who obtain foreign unapproved medicines and then dispense and administer those drugs to their patients put the health of those patients at significant risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin C. Fielder, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who choose to put the public’s health at such risk.”
“For medical care, patients rely on safe and approved drugs from their doctors”, said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General in Atlanta. “This sentence and financial penalties will deter other medical providers from seeking non-FDA approved imported medications”.
The FDA Office of Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
Starkville Man Charged with more than $6 million in COVID-Relief Fraud, False Statements and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
STARKVILLE, Miss. – A Starkville man was arrested Thursday by FBI Special Agents after being indicted by a federal grand jury on criminal charges related to his alleged fraud scheme exceeding $6 million in federal COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program loans.
According to court documents, Christopher Paul Lick, 45, of Starkville devised a scheme to defraud, and to obtain PPP funds, by filing false and fraudulent loan applications with banks providing loans as part of the Paycheck Protection Program, including Customers Bank and Cross River Bank. Lick is alleged to have overstated the number of employees and payroll expenses of his purported businesses to receive the funds.
Rather than use the PPP funds for his businesses, Lick is alleged to have purchased a variety of luxury items for personal use, including a home valued at more than $1 million and a Tesla valued at nearly $100,000. Lick also is alleged to have used the PPP funds to invest in the stock market.
Lick is charged with four counts of wire fraud, one count of false statements to a financial institution, and eleven counts of money laundering. He is scheduled for an initial court appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David A. Sanders of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison.
The FBI’s Oxford Resident Agency is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Levy is prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss.— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said United States Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“Law enforcement officers are deserving of our gratitude and respect, particularly during this time when we honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” remarked Acting United States Attorney Clay Joyner. “I am constantly humbled to be able to work with these men and women who run towards danger rather than away from it, and by the sacrifices that they and their families make in service to their communities and their country.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Indianola Man Sentenced to Prison for 10 years on Federal Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
Greenville, Miss. – An Indianola man has been sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for burglary of a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) and an unrelated charge of possession of ammunition by a prohibited person.
According to court documents, Jermany Cordel Moton aka “Mookie”, 30, stole 31 firearms from the Mississippi Police Supply Co., Inc., in Ruleville, Mississippi, on August 16, 2018. In a separate incident on July 22, 2019, Moton, who had previously been convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, possessed ammunition, which was used to fire a round through a wall of Moton’s house during an argument with another family member.
On Wednesday, May 6, 2021, United States District Judge Debra Brown sentenced Moton to 10 years imprisonment on the FFL burglary charge and 5 months imprisonment on the possession of ammunition charge, to run consecutively, in addition to 3 years of post-release supervision. Moton was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $16,312.89 in relation to the FFL burglary.
“Thefts of this kind take a great deal of dedication to investigate and prosecute,” remarked Acting United States Attorney Clay Joyner. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of ATF and our state and local partners, this thief, who wanted to profit from illegally distributing guns, is now in prison.”
“The sentence imposed today sends a message to gun traffickers that they will pay a price for their crimes,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “ATF will continue to investigate firearm thefts in order to cut the pipeline of crime guns terrorizing our communities. We will use every available resource to prevent and dismantle the flow of illegal firearms.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated this case, along with Ruleville P.D., Indianola P.D. and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
US Attorney Lamar Resigns After Decades of ServiceRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – After nearly 30 years of service to the United States Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, William C. Lamar, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, announced today that he has tendered his resignation effective February 27, 2021. Lamar’s resignation was submitted at the request of the President of the United States and the Acting Attorney General, who have requested the resignation of all U.S. Attorneys.
Reflecting upon his service, Lamar stated, "It has been a privilege and honor to serve as an AUSA and the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi and in the town where I was raised. While I leave with a bit of a heavy heart, I'm so proud of the accomplishments, past, present and future, of our office. It will be left in good hands." Quoting author A.A. Milne, Lamar further remarked, “I am so lucky to have had a place that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
Lamar graduated from Oxford High School before attending Millsaps College for his undergraduate studies. He completed his law degree at the University of Mississippi School of Law and obtained an LLM in tax from Boston University School of Law. Upon completing his legal studies, Lamar returned to Mississippi and served as a law clerk to U.S. District Judge Neal B. Biggers from 1990-1991.
Lamar joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 1991 where he worked as an AUSA in the criminal division for many years. During his years as a line AUSA in the Criminal Division, Lamar received several awards for his work, including a coveted Director’s Award from the Executive Office for U.S. Attorney’s in 2004. While employed in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lamar served in a variety of capacities, including Senior Litigation Counsel, Chief of the Criminal Division, and as Appellate Chief.
Lamar was nominated to serve as U.S. Attorney by President Donald J. Trump on June 29, 2017. He was unanimously confirmed by the Senate on November 19, 2017, and was sworn in by Chief U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock on Wednesday, November 22, 2017.
U.S. Attorneys in Mississippi Stand Ready to Protect Voting Rights on Election DayRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - United States Attorneys Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi and William C. Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi announced today that they have appointed District Election Officers (“DEO”) in their respective Districts to lead the efforts of their offices in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 3, 2020, general election.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted Cooperstein in the Southern District of Mississippi and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Coleman in the Northern District of Mississippi will be responsible for overseeing their respective District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights concerns in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy, and ensuring free and fair elections is one of the most important responsibilities we have as U.S. Attorneys. Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have their vote counted without it being stolen by fraud. We stand ready to act promptly and aggressively to protect the rights of voters and safeguard the integrity of the election process,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
U.S. Attorney Lamar said, “The fairness of the election process hinges on our citizens’ ability to fully and fairly exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear, resistance or undue outside influence. We will work diligently to insure that the right of our citizens to vote and to participate in the electoral process will not be impeded.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open through Election Day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights concerns during the voting period that ends on November 3, 2020, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEOs Cooperstein and Coleman will be on duty in their respective Districts while the polls are open. Cooperstein can be reached at 601-973-2155 and Coleman can be contacted at 662-816-4304.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 601-948-5000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
Five Alleged Members of the Gangster Disciples Indicted on Federal Racketeering ChargesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Oxford, Mississippi, returned a six-count superseding indictment charging five alleged members of the Gangster Disciples gang, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi.
The superseding indictment charges Latroy Daniels, Gregory Moffett, Michael Willie, Derrick Houston, and Darrell Steele with conspiracy to commit racketeering acts and participating in several violent assaults in aid of a racketeering enterprise for their alleged involvement in violent crimes that occurred across the state of Mississippi, both inside and outside of prison facilities. The indictment additionally charges Steele with using a destructive device in furtherance of a violent crime. The superseding indictment was returned by the grand jury Wednesday and unsealed today in the U.S. District Court of the Northern District of Mississippi.
According to the superseding indictment, the Gangster Disciples is a violent national criminal gang, founded in Chicago, and now active in numerous states across the U.S., including Mississippi. The gang operates under the leadership of a corporate board, which is responsible for gang decisions at the national level. Each state has a state and regional leadership of “governors” and other subordinate gang leaders, who are responsible for the gang’s activities in specific geographic regions and specific substantive areas. The scope of the Gangster Disciples’ crimes is wide-ranging throughout their national operation. The gang protects its power and operation through threats, intimidation and violence, including murder, attempted murder, and arson. Notably, the indictment highlights the firebombing of a state prison official’s car and home by members of the Gangster Disciples in September 2019.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by a multi-agency task force consisting of agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and investigators with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. The case is being prosecuted by the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Mississippi.
DOJ Charges More Than 14,200 Defendants with Firearms-Related Crimes in FY20Read the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 14,200 defendants with firearms-related crimes during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020, despite the challenges of COVID 19 and its impact on the criminal justice process. These cases have been a Department priority since November 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr announced his commitment to investigating, prosecuting, and combatting gun crimes as a critical part of the Department’s anti-violent crime strategy. These firearms-related charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made firearms-related investigations a priority.
“The number one priority of government is to keep its citizens safe,” said Attorney General Barr. “By preventing firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who are prohibited from having them, we can stop violent crime before it happens. Violating federal firearms laws is a serious crime and offenders face serious consequences. The Department of Justice is committed to investigating and prosecuting individuals who illegally buy, sell, use, or possess firearms. Reducing gun violence requires a coordinated effort, and we could not have charged more than 14,000 individuals with firearms-related crimes without the hard work of the dedicated law enforcement professionals at the ATF, our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country, and especially all of our state and local law enforcement partners.”
“Protecting the public from violent crime involving firearms is at the core of ATF’s mission,” commented ATF Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “Every day the men and women of ATF pursue and investigate those who use firearms to commit violent crimes in our communities, many of whom are prohibited from possessing firearms from previous convictions. ATF, in collaboration with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the nation, is committed to bringing these offenders to justice for their egregious and violent criminal acts.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Mississippi has a long history of aggressively prosecuting gun crimes and we will continue to work alongside our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who illegally possess or transfer firearms,” stated U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar. “The partnerships that exist as a part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian initiatives allow us to combine our resources and efforts in order to prevent and reduce violent gun crime and to make all of our neighborhoods safer.”
“Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws are among our highest priorities for ensuring public safety in communities in the Northern District of Mississippi,” said ATF Oxford Field Office Resident Agent in Charge Stephen Bridgmon. “ATF has a long history of strong partnerships in the community to get crime guns off of our streets. ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s office will leverage these partnerships to cut the pipeline of crime guns possessed by those violent individuals who seek to terrorize our communities.”
Under federal law, it is illegal to possess a firearm if you fall into one of nine prohibited categories including being a felon, illegal alien, or unlawful user of a controlled substance. Further, it is unlawful to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense or violent crime. It is also illegal to purchase – or even to attempt to illegally purchase - firearms if the buyer is a prohibited person or illegally purchasing a firearm on behalf of others. Lying on ATF Form 4473, which is used to lawfully purchase a firearm, is also a federal offense. The Department is committed to prosecuting these firearms offenses as well as using all modern technologies available to law enforcement such as the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, known as NIBIN, to promote gun crime intelligence. Keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of violent criminals will continue to be a priority of the Department of Justice and we will use all appropriate, available means to keep the law abiding people of this country safe from gun crime.
For more information on the lawful purchasing of firearms, please see: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atf-form-4473.
Florida Man Sentenced to Prison for Making Threats Against the American Family Association in TupeloRead the Press Release
A Florida man has been sentenced to serve time in federal prison for making threats against individuals at the American Family Association in Tupelo, Mississippi. On Monday, July 20, 2020, U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell in the Middle District of Florida sentenced 21-year old Chase Davis of Pompano Beach, Florida to 6 months incarceration for his May 22, 2019, threat to “to kill every single person” associated with the American Family Association. Judge Chappell ordered Davis to report to prison today, July 21, 2020 to begin serving his sentence. Once he has served the required term in prison, Davis will be under court supervision for three years. Davis was also ordered to pay $1,440 in restitution for costs the American Family Association incurred to protect its employees after the threat.
Davis was indicted for his criminal threats by a grand jury in the Northern District of Mississippi during the Summer of 2019. He pled guilty to those charges before a District Court in Florida pursuant to a rule that allows a defendant to plead guilty to charges in the District where they reside upon agreement by the parties and the Court. As a part of the sentence imposed on Tuesday, the Court also ordered Davis to participate in drug and mental health treatment and perform 400 hours of community service in lieu of a fine.
U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar praised the sentence and said, “It is important to protect free speech, but when it crosses the line and becomes threats to harm others on the basis of race, religious beliefs, political affiliations or other protected reasons, we will use Federal laws to hold those individuals accountable for their actions.”
U.S. Attorneys and FBI in Mississippi Are Partnering with Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement to Ensure Peaceful Protests and Protection of Life and PropertyRead the Press Release
Mike Hurst and Chad Lamar, United States Attorneys for the Southern and Northern Districts of Mississippi, respectively, and Michelle Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Field Office, announced today that their offices have been working with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies throughout Mississippi to protect our communities from violence and destruction while preserving the rights of citizens to freely speak and assemble per the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution during this time.
In a statement on Sunday, May 31, 2020, U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr noted that federal law enforcement resources would be available to assist state and local leaders in their efforts to ensure peaceful protests and to reestablish law and order. Attorney General Barr said that federal resources will be directed at apprehending and charging the violent radical agitators who have taken over peaceful protests and are engaging in violations of federal law.
“What happened to George Floyd in Minnesota was heartbreaking and a travesty, but I am proud of the way Mississippians have responded by exercising their First Amendment rights peacefully. We will continue to protect people’s constitutional rights to speak and assemble. But I want to be very clear – we will not hesitate to prosecute those who break our laws and cause harm and destruction. Law and order will be maintained coequally with the lawful exercise of individual liberties. We took an oath to support and defend the American people and the Constitution, and we will continue to do just that,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“Recent events have hurt and scarred our nation and people have every right to be angry,” remarked U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar. “We share the anger and disgust felt across our Country and the World. People understandably want their voices to be heard in the continued fight for justice and we support that right. We are thankful that so many Mississippians have come together to seek and promote justice in peaceful and productive ways. But, please continue to do so peacefully. As we scratch and claw our way out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the last thing we need is more violence and further loss.”
"The FBI will continue to utilize all of our resources and partnerships, both law enforcement and community, to ensure protection of First Amendment rights and the protection of our communities," said SAC Sutphin.
U.S. Attorney General Barr stated on Saturday, May 30, 2020, that the tragic events surrounding George Floyd’s death in Minnesota were being addressed swiftly through the regular process of the criminal justice system, both at the state and federal levels. Local charges have already been brought against a former Minneapolis police officer, and the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI are also conducting an independent investigation.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years
U.S. Attorneys and FBI in Mississippi Are Partnering with Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement to Ensure Peaceful Protests and Protection of Life and PropertyRead the Press Release
Mike Hurst and Chad Lamar, United States Attorneys for the Southern and Northern Districts of Mississippi, respectively, and Michelle Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Field Office, announced today that their offices have been working with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies throughout Mississippi to protect our communities from violence and destruction while preserving the rights of citizens to freely speak and assemble per the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution during this time.
In a statement on Sunday, May 31, 2020, U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr noted that federal law enforcement resources would be available to assist state and local leaders in their efforts to ensure peaceful protests and to reestablish law and order. Attorney General Barr said that federal resources will be directed at apprehending and charging the violent radical agitators who have taken over peaceful protests and are engaging in violations of federal law.
“What happened to George Floyd in Minnesota was heartbreaking and a travesty, but I am proud of the way Mississippians have responded by exercising their First Amendment rights peacefully. We will continue to protect people’s constitutional rights to speak and assemble. But I want to be very clear – we will not hesitate to prosecute those who break our laws and cause harm and destruction. Law and order will be maintained coequally with the lawful exercise of individual liberties. We took an oath to support and defend the American people and the Constitution, and we will continue to do just that,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“Recent events have hurt and scarred our nation and people have every right to be angry,” remarked U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar. “We share the anger and disgust felt across our Country and the World. People understandably want their voices to be heard in the continued fight for justice and we support that right. We are thankful that so many Mississippians have come together to seek and promote justice in peaceful and productive ways. But, please continue to do so peacefully. As we scratch and claw our way out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the last thing we need is more violence and further loss.”
"The FBI will continue to utilize all of our resources and partnerships, both law enforcement and community, to ensure protection of First Amendment rights and the protection of our communities," said SAC Sutphin.
U.S. Attorney General Barr stated on Saturday, May 30, 2020, that the tragic events surrounding George Floyd’s death in Minnesota were being addressed swiftly through the regular process of the criminal justice system, both at the state and federal levels. Local charges have already been brought against a former Minneapolis police officer, and the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI are also conducting an independent investigation.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years
Arkansas Woman Held Without Bond After Being Charged with Aiding and Abetting the Attempted Murder of a Deputy US MarshalRead the Press Release
Oxford, Miss. – A United States Magistrate Judge has ordered that an Arkansas woman be held without bond following her arrest last Friday for aiding and abetting the attempted murder of a Deputy U.S. Marshal who was acting in the line of duty.
Xaveriana Cook, 23, appeared in U.S. Magistrate Court on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, for a preliminary and detention hearing on multiple charges stemming from a shoot-out that occurred on South Lamar Boulevard in Oxford on Friday, May 15, 2020, when U.S. Marshals attempted to arrest Cook’s boyfriend, Hunter Carlstrom, on an outstanding murder warrant out of Arkansas. The arrest warrant charged Carlstrom with the May 5, 2020, murder of James Sartorelli, a/k/a “Caveman,” who was killed with a gunshot wound to the head in his Smithville, Arkansas residence.
Testimony revealed that Carlstrom and Cook were together in Cook’s vehicle on Friday when members of the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle in an attempt to arrest Carlstrom on the outstanding murder warrant. During the lunch-hour traffic stop, Carlstrom shot a Deputy U.S. Marshal, who sustained severe internal injuries as a result of the gunshot wound and required emergency surgery. Carlstrom was shot by return fire from law enforcement and died on scene. Cook, who had been driving the vehicle, was taken into custody by law enforcement.
Cook is charged by criminal complaint with transportation of stolen firearms, possession of stolen firearms, and aiding and abetting the attempt to kill an officer of the United States while the officer was engaged in the performance of official duties. Evidence was presented at the hearing that Carlstrom told Cook of his plan to kill Sartorelli and rob him of drugs, guns and cash, and that he used Cook’s vehicle to travel to Sartorelli’s house and commit the murder. Upon returning, Carlstrom told Cook he killed Sartorelli, and Cook observed Carlstrom in possession of firearms, cash and drugs. Testimony established that law enforcement officers in Arkansas located the body of James Sartorelli on May 7, 2020, and an Arkansas County Circuit Court issued a warrant for the arrest of Hunter Carlstrom for that murder on May 11, 2020. However, by that time, Cook and Carlstrom had fled Arkansas, traveling in Cook’s car to Mississippi, where they stayed with acquaintances from May 7, 2020, until May 15, 2020.
An investigating agent testified at Cook’s detention hearing that Cook admitted Carlstrom had told her on multiple occasions that he would not go back to prison and that he would have a shoot-out with the cops if he and Cook were ever stopped by law enforcement. On May 15, 2020, after the attempt to arrest Carlstrom and the ensuing shoot-out, law enforcement officers searched the scene and found a stolen Glock, 9mm handgun. In addition, officers searched the residence where Carlstrom and Cook had been staying for the previous week, and located two firearms that had been stolen from James Sartorelli’s house.
After hearing approximately three hours of testimony on Wednesday afternoon, U.S. Magistrate Judge Roy Percy found that Cook presented a risk of flight and ordered that Cook be held in jail without a bond pending trial. The case is being prosecuted by AUSA Clyde McGee and AUSA Clay Dabbs.
The public is reminded that all charges are merely accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Horn Lake Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison for Federal Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. - A Horn Lake man has been sentenced to serve 21 years in federal prison following his convictions for multiple gun and drug crimes. A jury convicted Dan V. Sharp, 39, formerly of Memphis, Tennessee and Horn Lake, Mississippi, of 15 counts of federal gun and drug charges following a four-day trial in Oxford in November of 2019. The charges and resulting convictions stemmed from three separate instances of criminal conduct by Sharp involving drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms committed between September of 2017 and April of 2018. Senior U.S. District Judge Glen Davidson presided over the trial and imposed the sentence of 255 months imprisonment on Friday morning.
During the trial, the jury heard evidence of the three separate criminal investigations involving Sharp. Evidence showed that on September 27, 2017, Horn Lake Police Officers responded to 911 emergency call in Horn Lake at a residence where an individual had allegedly shot herself. When the officers entered the house, they found Dan Sharp in a bedroom with his deceased wife. After the officers secured the scene, they found several controlled substances, including methamphetamine and cocaine, in the bedroom as well as multiple semi-automatic Draco-style firearms in a nearby bedroom closet. They later searched the house and found additional firearms, including a tactical shotgun with a large magazine drum, in the truck of Sharp’s vehicle. The jury concluded that Sharp possessed the drugs found in the bedroom with the intent to distribute them. They also determined that Sharp possessed the firearms located in the closet and vehicle in furtherance of drug trafficking activities. The jury convicted Sharp of six criminal counts stemming from this incident including four convictions for drug trafficking offenses, one conviction for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The jury also heard evidence concerning a February 24, 2018, traffic stop in which a Desoto County Deputy pulled Dan Sharp over at approximately 2:00 a.m. for reckless driving. During the stop, the deputy determined that Sharp was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The deputy questioned Sharp, who admitted that he had a firearm in his vehicle. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, investigating deputies found methamphetamine, cocaine, and three firearms, one of which was stolen. The jury determined that Sharp possessed the drugs found in the vehicle with the intent to distribute them and that he possessed the firearms in furtherance drug trafficking. The jury convicted Sharp of six criminal counts stemming from this incident, including four counts of drug trafficking, one count of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Finally, the jury heard evidence about a narcotics investigation involving Dan Sharp in April of 2018. A Desoto County Investigator received information that Sharp was in Hernando, Mississippi and that he was in possession of drugs that he intended to sell. Based on this information, Desoto County narcotics agents located Sharp near the courthouse in Hernando, where they began conducting surveillance and ultimately followed his vehicle to a tattoo parlor. After one agent witnessed an individual exit the tattoo parlor and reach into Sharp’s vehicle to receive an item that appeared to be narcotics, Sharp was arrested and his vehicle was searched. Agents recovered cocaine and methamphetamine from Sharp’s vehicle, and the jury convicted him of three counts of possession with intent to distribute narcotics.
U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar praised the work of officers, agents and prosecutors who assisted in this investigation. “The sentence imposed today is a direct result of effective, coordinated efforts by multiple law enforcement agencies to remove from the streets a dangerous individual who persisted in dealing in illicit drugs and using firearms that he illegally possessed in order to do so,” remarked Lamar. “This is a key example of our Project Safe Neighborhoods program at work, and our communities in North Mississippi are safer as a result.”
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Horn Lake Police Department, and the Desoto County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Phillip Levy, and AUSA Clay Dabbs of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Mississippi.
Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – U.S. Attorney William C. “Chad” Lamar joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”
“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”
“As federal prosecutors, there are very few goals more important that protecting the public, and insuring that those who have been victimized are given a voice and opportunity to be heard,” remarked U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar. “The act of providing service to and a voice for victims is a key step to achieving justice. The men and women in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Mississippi are committed to these key goals and will always work alongside our local, state, and federal partners to assist crime victims in protecting their rights and seeking justice on their behalf.”
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.
This year’s commemoration began yesterday, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others. The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.
“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”
This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.
Attorney General William P. Barr’s Statement on Religious Practice and Social Distancing; Department of Justice Files Statement of Interest in Mississippi Church CaseRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Attorney General William P. Barr issued the following statement:
"In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the President has issued guidelines calling on all Americans to do their part to slow the spread of a dangerous and highly contagious virus. Those measures are important because the virus is transmitted so easily from person to person, and because it all too often has life-threatening consequences for its victims, it has the potential to overwhelm health care systems when it surges.
To contain the virus and protect the most vulnerable among us, Americans have been asked, for a limited period of time, to practice rigorous social distancing. The President has also asked Americans to listen to and follow directions issued by state and local authorities regarding social distancing. Social distancing, while difficult and unfamiliar for a nation that has long prided itself on the strength of its voluntary associations, has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of American lives from an imminent threat. Scrupulously observing these guidelines is the best path to swiftly ending COVID-19’s profound disruptions to our national life and resuming the normal economic life of our country. Citizens who seek to do otherwise are not merely assuming risk with respect to themselves, but are exposing others to danger. In exigent circumstances, when the community as a whole faces an impending harm of this magnitude, and where the measures are tailored to meeting the imminent danger, the constitution does allow some temporary restriction on our liberties that would not be tolerated in normal circumstances.
But even in times of emergency, when reasonable and temporary restrictions are placed on rights, the First Amendment and federal statutory law prohibit discrimination against religious institutions and religious believers. Thus, government may not impose special restrictions on religious activity that do not also apply to similar nonreligious activity. For example, if a government allows movie theaters, restaurants, concert halls, and other comparable places of assembly to remain open and unrestricted, it may not order houses of worship to close, limit their congregation size, or otherwise impede religious gatherings. Religious institutions must not be singled out for special burdens.
Today, the Department filed a Statement of Interest in support of a church in Mississippi that allegedly sought to hold parking lot worship services, in which congregants listened to their pastor preach over their car radios, while sitting in their cars in the church parking lot with their windows rolled up. The City of Greenville fined congregants $500 per person for attending these parking lot services – while permitting citizens to attend nearby drive-in restaurants, even with their windows open. The City appears to have thereby singled churches out as the only essential service (as designated by the state of Mississippi) that may not operate despite following all CDC and state recommendations regarding social distancing.
As we explain in the Statement of Interest, where a state has not acted evenhandedly, it must have a compelling reason to impose restrictions on places of worship and must ensure that those restrictions are narrowly tailored to advance its compelling interest. While we believe that during this period there is a sufficient basis for the social distancing rules that have been put in place, the scope and justification of restrictions beyond that will have to be assessed based on the circumstances as they evolve.
Religion and religious worship continue to be central to the lives of millions of Americans. This is true more so than ever during this difficult time. The pandemic has changed the ways Americans live their lives. Religious communities have rallied to the critical need to protect the community from the spread of this disease by making services available online and in ways that otherwise comply with social distancing guidelines.
The United States Department of Justice will continue to ensure that religious freedom remains protected if any state or local government, in their response to COVID-19, singles out, targets, or discriminates against any house of worship for special restrictions."
The City has since stated it will drop the fines, but will continue to enforce the order.
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorneys Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi and William C. “Chad” Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi announced today that the U.S. Department of Justice is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“These funds will go directly to our local and tribal governments in order for them to secure essential supplies and equipment necessary to keep our citizens safe,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “I can think of no better way to fight this pandemic than to get this money out quickly and directly to our men and women on the front lines fighting this global crisis in our communities.”
“These funds will aid our state, local, and tribal partners during this pandemic to continue performing the necessary and important work that they do on a daily basis. We appreciate the efforts to make these funds immediately available because we are all in this fight together, and by continuing to work together, we will win,” remarked U.S. Attorney Lamar.
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
The websites for both U.S. Attorney’s Offices in Mississippi now contain a front page button where visitors can quickly report fraud to the office, to the National Center for Disaster Fraud, and/or to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mississippians who believe they may have been the target or victim of a virus-related fraud scheme should visit www.justice.gov/SDMS and www.justice.gov/NDMS and provide detailed information about their experience.
U.S. Attorneys Announce Federal Prosecutors to Fight COVID-19 Fraud, Warn Public Against Fraudsters and Unscrupulous SchemesRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorneys Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi and Chad Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi announced today their appointment of federal prosecutors to lead the fight against fraud in the state of Mississippi relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys nationwide to remain vigilant in detecting, investigating and prosecuting criminal activity related to the crisis. "The pandemic is dangerous enough without wrongdoers seeking to profit from public panic and this sort of conduct cannot be tolerated," Attorney General Barr said.
“In this time of crisis, we are redoubling our efforts to protect Mississippians against fraudsters, and we will bring to justice those who prey upon our fellow citizens in this time of need. Criminals using this pandemic to swindle and defraud others will be met with swift and certain justice,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“I can think of nothing as reprehensible at this critical juncture than to employ this crisis to fraudulently prey upon one’s fellow citizens. Violators will be dealt with severely,” said U.S. Attorney Lamar.
As part of this strategy, U.S. Attorneys Hurst and Lamar have appointed Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lynn Murray of Jackson and Clay Dabbs of Oxford to serve as the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinators for the Southern and Northern Districts of Mississippi, respectively. Together, working with their federal, state and local law enforcement, these federal prosecutors will coordinate and lead investigations and prosecutions of those who attempt to take advantage of people during this time of crisis.
As our nation continues to face the spread of COVID-19, the critical mission of the U.S. Department of Justice must and will continue as we work together to safeguard our justice system and thus the safety and security of the citizens of Mississippi. While there have been reports of individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud, reports of phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and reports of malware being inserted onto mobile apps designed to track the spread of the virus, our offices stand vigilant with our law enforcement to bring these criminals to justice.
In addition the U.S. Attorney’s Offices’ websites now contain a front page button where visitors can quickly report fraud to the office and/or to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mississippians who believe they may have been the target or victim of a virus-related fraud scheme should visit www.justice.gov/SDMS and www.justice.gov/NDMS and provide detailed information about their experience.
Justice Department Announces Investigation into Conditions in Four Mississippi PrisonsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division announced today that it has opened an investigation into conditions of confinement in four of Mississippi’s prisons. The investigation will examine conditions at the Mississippi State Penitentiary (Parchman), Southern Mississippi Correctional Institute, Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, and the Wilkinson County Correctional Facility. The State of Mississippi is responsible for all four facilities. The investigation will focus on whether the Mississippi Department of Corrections adequately protects prisoners from physical harm at the hands of other prisoners at the four prisons, as well as whether there is adequate suicide prevention, including adequate mental health care and appropriate use of isolation, at Parchman.
The Department has not reached any conclusions regarding the allegations in this matter. The investigation will be conducted under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA). Under CRIPA, the Department has the authority to investigate violations of prisoners’ constitutional rights that result from a "pattern or practice of resistance to the full enjoyment of such rights." The Department has conducted CRIPA investigations of many correctional systems, and where violations have been found, the resulting settlement agreements have led to important reforms.
The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section is conducting this investigation, with support from the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Department via phone at 1-833-591-0288 or by email at [email protected].
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
United States Joins Suit Against New Albany Orthopaedic Clinic Alleging False Claims for Medical ServicesRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS - The United States has intervened in a whistleblower suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi against Mitias Orthopaedics, PLLC. Mitias provides orthopedic care in New Albany, MS.
The suit alleges that Mitias knowingly submitted false claims for FDA-approved name-brand knee injectable devices, and received payment at those rates, but actually purchased and utilized a much cheaper product from a compound pharmacy to increase profit margin.
The lawsuit was originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by a pharmaceutical sales representative. Under the acts, a private party, known as a relator, can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery. The act permits the United States to intervene in and take over the action, as it has done here. If a defendant is found liable for violating the act, the United States may recover three times the amount of its losses plus applicable penalties and costs.
“Our office is committed to protect taxpayer dollars from waste, fraud, and abuse and ensure the integrity of our federal healthcare programs like Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and Railroad Medicare,” said U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar for the Northern District of Mississippi. “CMS/Medicare is ready, willing, and able to pay for high-quality products. Any attempt to manipulate the reimbursement system drives up costs for everyone,” Lamar added.
The lawsuit is being handled by the Civil Division within the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi. Investigative support is being provided by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and Office of General Counsel, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the Food and Drug Administration.
The case is captioned United States ex rel. Gray v. Mitias Orthopaedics, PLLC (3:15-cv-127). The claims alleged in the lawsuit are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. The United States will file its own formal complaint as allowed by law.
Justice Department Announces Investigation into Conditions in Four Mississippi PrisonsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division announced today that it has opened an investigation into conditions of confinement in four of Mississippi’s prisons. The investigation will examine conditions at the Mississippi State Penitentiary (Parchman), Southern Mississippi Correctional Institute, Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, and the Wilkinson County Correctional Facility. The State of Mississippi is responsible for all four facilities. The investigation will focus on whether the Mississippi Department of Corrections adequately protects prisoners from physical harm at the hands of other prisoners at the four prisons, as well as whether there is adequate suicide prevention, including adequate mental health care and appropriate use of isolation, at Parchman.
The Department has not reached any conclusions regarding the allegations in this matter. The investigation will be conducted under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA). Under CRIPA, the Department has the authority to investigate violations of prisoners’ constitutional rights that result from a “pattern or practice of resistance to the full enjoyment of such rights.” The Department has conducted CRIPA investigations of many correctional systems, and where violations have been found, the resulting settlement agreements have led to important reforms.
The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section is conducting this investigation, with support from the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Department via phone at 1-833-591-0288 or by email at [email protected].
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
First Annual Mississippi Human Trafficking Summit Held in JacksonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – The U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern and Northern Districts of Mississippi and the Mississippi Department of Public Safety presented the first annual Mississippi Human Trafficking Summit today at the Jackson, Mississippi, Convention Center. More than 400 participants, including local, state tribal, and federal law enforcement officers, prosecutors, victim service providers, nonprofits, policy makers and social workers, attended and participating in the Summit.
“Human trafficking is here in Mississippi, and sadly, it is significantly and adversely impacting the lives of many Mississippians,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “Our intent with the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council and with this summit is to train and raise awareness among the public, our nonprofits, and our law enforcement in order to prevent future trafficking, rescue and protect victims, and swiftly prosecute these evildoers. The Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in Mississippi have made combatting this horrific and reprehensible crime one of our highest priorities in order to keep the public safe.”
“Today has been such a powerful and important day in the fight against human trafficking here in Mississippi,” said U.S. Attorney Lamar. “We have seen a large, diverse and committed group of people come together to hear about the work that has been done so far, to celebrate the successes and milestones of those engaged in the fight, and to make plans for combatting human trafficking crimes in our Stare in the future. With the continued and combined efforts of those present and others who are willing to work together, we can make a difference in the lives of victims and combat these heinous crimes that strike at the heart of basic human dignity.”
The Mississippi Human Trafficking Council was formed in September 2019, and is chaired by an Assistant U.S. Attorney from Northern District of Mississippi, an Assistant U.S. Attorney from Southern District of Mississippi, and the Mississippi Human Trafficking Coordinator, who works for the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. The mission of the Council is to use a victim-centered, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary model to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute criminals in all forms of domestic and international human trafficking, to include commercial sex trafficking and labor trafficking for the protection of both adult and minor victims.
Today’s Summit began with opening remarks from Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves, Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann, Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, Colonel Chris Gillard, Assistant Commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben, U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi, and U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi.
Summit attendees also heard from:
- Bill Woolf, Human Trafficking Programs Director at the Office of Justice Programs within the U.S. Department of Justice;
- Alexandra Perron with A21’s Freedom Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, regarding the upcoming Mississippi Human Trafficking Council Billboard Campaign;
- Council Co-Chairs Kathlyn Van Buskirk - Assistant US Attorney, Southern District of MS, Susan Bradley - Deputy Criminal Chief US Attorney, Northern District of MS, and Ashlee Lucas - Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinator, MS Bureau of Investigation
- Council Subcommittee Chairs:
- Outreach and Public Awareness - Chair: Mandy Davis, Chief of Staff, MSDPS
- Strategic Planning and Trafficking Protocol - Chair: Dr. Tamara Hurst, School of Social Work, University of Southern Mississippi
- Policy and Legislation - Co-Chairs: Angela Cockerham, MS House of Representatives; Lora Hunter, General Counsel, MS Department of Public Safety
- Training - Chair: Paula Broome, MS Attorney General’s Office
- Victim Service - Co-Chairs: Hollie Jeffery, Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi; Heather Wagner, Mississippi State Department of Health, Office Against Interpersonal Violence
- A Human Trafficking Survivor
- U.S. Department of Justice Grantees Relating to Human Trafficking:
- Heather Wagner - Grant - Victim Services
- Ashlee Lucas - Grant - Law Enforcement
- Those Involved in Mississippi Initiatives Addressing Human Trafficking:
- Heather Collins - Statewide Human Trafficking Analyst, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation
- Guy Collins - Master Sergeant, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, Human Trafficking Special Victim’s Unit
- Nick Brown - Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, FBI Task Force Officer
- Mike Hurst - US Attorney, Southern District of Mississippi
- Chad Lamar - US Attorney, Northern District of Mississippi
- Leslie Williams Fisher, Trial Attorney, U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division Child Exploitation & Obscenity Section
The Department of Justice continues to fight human trafficking through investigating and prosecuting traffickers, dismantling transnational human trafficking networks, enhancing victim identification and protection of all victims of trafficking, and funding and providing domestic and international anti-trafficking programs. Information on the Department of Justice’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found here. An update on human trafficking prosecution statistics can be found here.
Information about the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council can be found here.
Prior City Clerk Sentenced to Prison and Ordered to Pay More than $216,000 in Restitution to the Town of ColdwaterRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, Miss. – A man hired as the City Clerk for the Town of Coldwater was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison on Wednesday for Wire Fraud. U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced George Nangah to serve the 21-month prison term consecutive to any state court term of imprisonment imposed in the Tate County Circuit Court and to pay $216,401.28 in restitution to the Town of Coldwater.
Nangah was hired to be the Town of Coldwater, Mississippi City Clerk, and over the course of three years, from 2014 to 2017, Nangah utilized an unauthorized Town of Coldwater debit card to purchase gift cards for airline tickets, hotels, and retail stores, none of which were used for the benefit of the Town of Coldwater. Nangah also used a charge account in the Town of Coldwater’s name at Best Buy, where Nangah purchased electronic equipment and gift cards not used or meant for use by the Town of Coldwater. Nangah made unauthorized payments to himself as well as one other person on the Town of Coldwater’s Clearing and General Fund bank accounts. Overall, $216,401.28 of loss was attributed to Nangah.
U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar noted that this prosecution was important for citizens throughout the State of Mississippi. “The citizens of Mississippi put a great deal of trust in our government employees and elected officials to utilize resources in a way that benefits the State and its residents. When city officials like Mr. Nangah take those resources and use them for their own personal gain, it is a betrayal of our State and every resident that they pledged to serve when they accepted their positions. Our office will continue to work alongside our federal, state and local partners to hold accountable those individuals who betray the public trust, steal our resources and embarrass our State” Lamar remarked.
This case was investigated by both the State of Mississippi Office of the State Auditor and the FBI. Following the sentencing, State Auditor Shad White also expressed the commitment of his office to holding accountable those individuals who betray the citizens that they were hired to serve. "It's good to see Mr. Nangah sentenced in this case that started as a joint investigation between the Auditor's office and federal agencies. Mr. Nangah embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from a small Mississippi town and engaged in multiple fraudulent schemes that hurt taxpayers who could not afford to see their money wasted."
FBI Jackson Division Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin also noted the importance of this prosecution. “Government officials are held to a higher standard and are expected to be good stewards of taxpayer money. When criminals use their position to line their own pockets, it erodes the public’s trust in government. Investigating public corruption in Mississippi continues to be a top priority for the FBI,” commented Sutphin.
The federal case was prosecuted by AUSA Parker S. Kline.
Greenville Lab Director Sentenced to Prison for Falsifying Lab Results Concerning Water QualityRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss.— A Greenville lab operator hired to test water samples to help insure water quality for dozens of towns throughout the Mississippi Delta was sentenced to 18 months in prison on Thursday for submitting false statements and lab results to the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. William C. Lamar, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, together with Charles Carfagno, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Environmental Protection Agency’s criminal enforcement program in the Southeast, announced the sentence.
John H. Couey, 44, of Greenville was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Glen Davidson, in Oxford following a guilty plea to five felony counts of knowingly making false material statements in documents required to be maintained under the Clean Water Act.
Couey is the owner and lab director of Davis Research, Inc., an environmental analytical laboratory located in Avon, Mississippi. Davis Research performed analytical testing services for more than 100 cities, towns, state and federal agencies, and businesses in the Mississippi Delta. Couey, as lab director, falsified over 1000 laboratory reports that were submitted to the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to demonstrate compliance under the Clean Water Act.
Judge Davidson sentenced Couey to 18 months incarceration on each of the five counts of conviction, to run concurrently. Upon release from prison, Couey will be placed on supervised release for a term of one year. Couey is scheduled to report to prison on March 16, 2020.
William C. Lamar, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, said, “One of our top priorities is to protect the environment from those who would disregard our environmental regulations and laws, placing in jeopardy the well-being of our citizens.”
“The defendant in this case is alleged to have falsified thousands of water test results, including results used to confirm the safety of drinking water,” said Charles Carfagno, acting Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Mississippi. “This case demonstrates that EPA will hold accountable those who violate laws designed to protect the health and safety of our communities.”
This case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division, and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.
Joint Statement of Allegations Regarding Mississippi's PrisonsRead the Press Release
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Division Michelle A. Sutphin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi William C. Lamar and United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi Mike Hurst today release the following statement:
"The FBI and United States Attorney's Offices are aware of the allegations regarding Mississippi's prisons. Allegations of the violation and deprivation of civil rights, as well as criminal activity, continue to be taken very seriously by our offices. To report federal criminal violations to the FBI, go to https://tips.fbi.gov. To file a complaint to DOJ’s Civil Rights Division about conditions within the prisons, call 877-218-5228 or 202-514-6255.”
Marshall County Man Convicted of Federal Cyberstalking and Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, Miss. – A Marshall County man was convicted Thursday afternoon of cyberstalking as well as a federal gun violation following a four-day jury trial presided over by United States District Judge Debra M. Brown. Anthony Robinson, 54, of Byhalia, Mississippi, was found guilty of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Cyberstalking, a new federal law which makes it a crime to use email or other facility of interstate commerce to intimidate or harass a person and put them in reasonable fear of serious bodily injury or death. The announcement regarding Robinson’s conviction was made by U.S. Marshal Daniel R. McKittrick and U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar.
Testimony presented during the trial revealed that following his layoff in Desoto County, Robinson began sending emails referencing mass shootings to his former employer and the attorneys representing his former employer. In the emails, sent from October of 2018 until July of 2019, Robinson self-identified with a number of mass shooters, including Dewayne Craddock and Omar Thornton. Three victims testified that the emails put them in reasonable fear of death or serious bodily injury. A search of Robinson’s residence revealed a number of firearms and ammunition.
Following the verdict, U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar noted the importance of this case and commended federal, state and local law enforcement partners for their dedication to helping make our communities safer. “This case marks the first prosecution in our District under the new federal law preventing cyberstalking and the new Project Guardian initiative, implemented by the Department of Justice in the Fall of 2019, remarked Lamar. “Utilizing the framework of Project Guardian alongside our existing efforts through Project Safe Neighborhoods, we will continue to work alongside our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to make our communities safer, one case at a time.”
The investigation and prosecution of Robinson was undertaken as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s longstanding gun violence reduction initiative, and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s new initiative to help reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
The case was prosecuted by AUSA Clyde McGee and AUSA Parker Kline.
Two North Mississippi Men Sentenced for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OXFORD – In two separate cases, an Alcorn County man and a Prentiss County man were each sentenced to approximately 20 years in federal prison for production of child pornography.
Donald H. Hobbs, 39, of Alcorn County pled guilty to one count of production of child pornography on Aug. 21, 2019. Hobbs was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison followed by 15 years of supervised release by District Judge Debra M. Brown in United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Jordan Bridges, 28, of Prentiss County pled guilty on July 24, 2019 to one count of production of child pornography. Bridges was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release by Chief Judge Sharion Aycock in United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi.
On Sept. 20, 2018, the Alcorn County Sheriff's Department received a Cybertip report of possible online activity involving a 14-year-old being enticed to produce sexually explicit images. During an initial investigation by the Alcorn County Sheriff's Department, it was determined that Hobbs had been enticing a minor for the purpose of producing child pornography. Upon determining that there was evidence of online criminal activity, a request was made that the FBI Jackson’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force assist with the investigation.
On Nov. 3, 2018, the Prentiss County Sheriff's Department received a report of possible child molestation and child pornography. During the initial investigation it was determined that Bridges had been sexually assaulting and photographing a minor for the purpose of producing sexually explicit images of a child. The Prentiss County Sheriff's Department has an officer assigned full time to the FBI Jackson’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, and he was contacted to assist with the investigation.
These investigations were worked jointly by the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Department, Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI Jackson’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which is made up of special agents from the FBI and task force officers from the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department, Hinds County Sheriff’s Department and Southaven Police Department. The cases were prosecuted by AUSA Paul Roberts.
Oxford Native Sentenced to 15 years in Prison for Human TraffickingRead the Press Release
OXFORD – A federal judge sentenced an Oxford, Mississippi man to serve 15 years in federal prison on Thursday afternoon for sex trafficking of a minor in Oxford between February and March 2018. Edward Earl Daniels pled guilty on May 19, 2019, to the charge of sex trafficking of a child by force, fraud or coercion. Oxford Police officers initially arrested Daniels on March 1, 2018, for a traffic violation. However, Oxford Police officers and FBI agents investigated the circumstances of a minor in the vehicle, and determined Daniels had operated a prostitution ring with the minor and other victims. An announcement regarding Daniels’ sentence was made by Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI Jackson Division, Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen, Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood, and U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar.
In sentencing Daniels to the 15-year term along with five years of supervised release, U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills reviewed Daniels’ criminal history and remarked, “You have made the decision to lead a life of crime and take advantage of others. The facts you admitted to – you admitted to taking advantage of a young lady, and I can’t think of anything much worse.”
"People, especially children, are not property, and selling or trading them for any purpose is immoral and a criminal act," said SAC Sutphin. “We will continue to work side by side with the United States Attorney’s Office, along with our law enforcement partners, to target predators of children and to bring those who victimize the most vulnerable in our communities to justice.”
U.S. Attorney William C. Lamar reiterated the commitment of his office to combatting human trafficking. Lamar remarked, “Human trafficking in any form is a reprehensible crime and we will devote our full attention and efforts to combat these crimes, hold offenders accountable, and to help provide all necessary services to the victims, especially when our children are preyed upon.”
Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen praised the efforts of those involved in the investigation and prosecution. “We are very proud of the effort and hard work by our officers and our federal partners. This is a perfect example of committed teamwork for the protection of our community. Thankfully, we have a determined team of federal agents and attorneys with the same passion that we have in keeping our children safe!”
Attorney General Jim Hood also praised the joint efforts of federal, state and local investigators and prosecutors in this case and recognized the impact of those efforts. “I offer a job well done to each agency and every hand we had working on this case from local to state to federal levels,” Attorney General Jim Hood said. “With a unified effort we are able to apply incredible pressure on the prevention of human trafficking and protecting our children in Mississippi and that was evident in this case.”
The investigation was a joint federal, state and local investigation with the Oxford Police Department, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, and the FBI. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Paul Roberts.
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