Southern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lincoln County Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Brookhaven man pled guilty today to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Richard Butler, 42, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Jackson. According to court documents, on September 25, 2019, following an investigation into sources of methamphetamine, ATF special agents and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics agents conducted a controlled purchase of 54 grams of methamphetamine from Butler in Brookhaven. Following this purchase, agents, using a cooperating person, purchased additional methamphetamine from Butler. Butler, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm when he was arrested.
Butler is scheduled to be sentenced on September 28, 2022, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway is prosecuting the case.
Kiln Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for COVID-Related Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Kiln man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for Covid-related wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge David Denton.
According to court documents, on August 3, 2020, Trevon Evans, 25, was arrested by the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office in relation to two stolen vehicles. At the time of his arrest, Evans was in possession of multiple identification cards with different names. Further investigation found that Evans had taken advantage of elderly neighbors by convincing them to give him their personal identifying information so that he could help them to receive benefits related to the COVID pandemic. Evans then used that information to apply for unemployment insurance under the Economic Security (CARES) Act benefits in the victims’ names and had the benefits sent to him at his residence. These benefits totaled over $7,000 and were used by Evans at casinos along the Gulf Coast.
Evans pled guilty to wire fraud on February 16, 2022, in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act is the authorization that expands states’ ability to provide unemployment insurance for many workers impacted by COVID-19, including for workers who are not ordinarily eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.
Anyone with information about 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.
Florida Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. - A former Florida resident, who moved to Mississippi, was sentenced to 30 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for failure to register as a sex offender, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and U.S. Marshal Mark B. Shepherd.
Jason Marvin Kent, 43, was sentenced after pleading guilty on February 16, 2022, to failure to register as a sex offender, which is a federal felony under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), commonly known as the Adam Walsh Act.
On July 22, 2021, Kent was arrested by the Jackson County Sheriff's Department in Moss Point on a failure to register arrest warrant issued out of Walton County, Florida. Investigation revealed that Kent relocated from Florida to Mississippi in early 2021 to avoid being arrested on the Florida warrant. Kent and his girlfriend had been working and living at a local motel. Kent was convicted in 2002 of lewd or lascivious conduct in Walton County and was sentenced to three years’ probation and classified as a sex offender. Florida is a lifetime registration state and, in 2015, Kent was convicted of failure to register in Florida, for which he was sentenced to three years’ probation.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Walton County Florida Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Former Chancery Clerk Sentenced for Civil Rights ViolationRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss.- Tommy Joe Harvey, the former Chancery Clerk of Simpson County, was sentenced to 2 years’ probation and a $5,000 fine for depriving a person of their civil rights under color of law, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Field Office.
Tommy Joe Harvey, 74, was the Simpson County Chancery Clerk from 2004 through May 31, 2022. According to court documents, on April 28, 2017, A.R. was in court for a child custody hearing. During the hearing, A.R. became upset and left the courtroom before the hearing was over. A.R. was ordered back to the courtroom. Tommy Joe Harvey overheard the disruption. Moments later, Harvey found A.R. in her vehicle which was parked across the street. Harvey told one of his employees to bring him a can of pepper spray from inside his office. Harvey told A.R. to compose herself and not drive away or she would be pepper sprayed. Harvey pepper sprayed her while she was trying to drive away. Harvey then told two Simpson County Sheriff’s Deputies to handcuff A.R. After she was handcuffed, and while being escorted to the courthouse by the deputies, Harvey pepper sprayed A.R. several more times.
Harvey pled guilty on February 23, 2022, to deprivation of civil rights under color of law.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Terrill and Deputy Criminal Chief Erin Chalk.
Forest Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by an Unlawful User of a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Forest man pled guilty to possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
According to court documents, Braxton Lee McCann, 32, possessed a 9 mm caliber pistol while using methamphetamine daily. Officers of the Scott County, Mississippi Sheriff’s Office recovered the firearm on March 25, 2022. Further investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) revealed evidence of McCann’s daily use of methamphetamine. As an unlawful user of a controlled substance, it is contrary to federal law for McCann to possess any firearm.
McCann pleaded guilty to a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(3) and 924(a)(2) which criminalize the possession of firearms by unlawful users of controlled substances. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 29, 2022 and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Scott County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham 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.
Tylertown Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Natchez, Miss. – A Tylertown man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony crime, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
According to court documents, Jahadd Allen, 24, was arrested on October 18, 2020, after McComb, Police officers responded to a complaint of individuals violating the city noise ordinance. Upon arrival, an officer observed Allen jumping on another person’s car, with a handgun protruding from his pocket. Allen refused to obey the officer’s instruction to get off the car and was taken into custody. A Taurus handgun was removed from Allen’s pocket. Allen was convicted of armed robbery in 2018 and prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Allen was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He pled guilty on January 18, 2022.
The McComb Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway prosecuted 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 works 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.
Taylorsville Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – A Taylorsville man was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to court documents, in April of 2020, DEA agents intercepted communications among Harold Keyes, Jr., 29, and his co-defendants conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. Specifically, on April 24, 2020, agents intercepted methamphetamine related communications occurring in and around a residence in Hattiesburg. Keyes was stopped by Hattiesburg Police Department for a traffic violation and officers discovered over a kilogram of methamphetamine wrapped in 3 bundles hidden in the front of Keyes’s pants.
In addition to the prison sentence, Keyes was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed “Don’t Tell on Me Bro,” which began as an operation targeting illegal drug trafficking in the Hattiesburg, Mississippi area. “Don’t Tell on Me Bro” is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Hattiesburg Police Department, Forrest County Sheriff’s, and Columbia Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Fraud Involving a Social Security CardRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Mexican national was sentenced to 12 months in prison for fraud or misuse of a social security card.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector, and Special Agent in Charge David L. Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to court documents, Jesus Alberto Charqueno-Hernandez, 26, was arrested on October 25, 2021, by Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputies after they received a 911 call for assistance. Deputies responded to the location of the 911 call near the intersection of Interstate 10 and Highway 57. Charqueno-Hernandez was placed under arrest for driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance.
In trying to identify him, officers found several forms of identification in Charqueno-Hernandez’ possession, including a Florida state identification card bearing another person’s name with a photo of Charqueno-Hernandez. Officers and agents also found a Social Security Card which bore the name and Social Security Number of the person named on the Florida Identification Card who was determined to be a victim of identity theft. Knowing that the name and SSN were not his own, he unlawfully used the victim’s information for the purpose of gaining employment.
Immigration records checks revealed that Carqueno-Hernandez had been previously removed from the U.S. to Mexico and had illegally returned to the United States.
Carqueno-Hernandez pled guilty on January 25, 2022. After serving his prison sentence, he is subject to Department of Homeland Security proceedings to remove him from the United States.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Jackson Man Sentenced for Escape from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to serve 11 months in federal prison, to run consecutive to a prior federal felony sentence, for escape from federal custody, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca.
According to court documents, on or about January 19, 2022, Henry Steverson, 51, failed to report to a halfway house in Jackson as a condition of his pending release from federal custody with the Bureau of Prisons. Steverson had been serving a prior federal felony conviction for drug distribution when he failed to report to the halfway house. His failure to report resulted in his classification as an escapee from federal custody.
The United States Marshal’s Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Murray prosecuted the case.
Two Plead Guilty to Conspiracy in Nigerian Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Natchez, Miss. – Two defendants in a Nigerian fraud scheme pled guilty today to conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to court documents, Edafe Onoetiyi, 34, of Nigeria, but living in Dallas, Texas; and Susan Johns, 54, of Bothwell, Washington, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Natchez. The defendants conspired with each other and other individuals to defraud American citizens by transferring bank account information, personally identifiable information, and other access devices to create and transfer fraudulent loans and perpetrate other forms of theft, resulting in the fraudulent transfer of hundreds of thousands of dollars both internally within the United States as well as to locations abroad, including Canada and Nigeria. Many of the victims of the fraud were romance scheme victims, wherein fraudsters concealing their true identities duped innocent victims into either sending money or allowing the fraudsters to use their bank account to move fraudulently obtained money.
“The United States Attorney’s office for the Southern District of Mississippi will prosecute those who prey upon American citizens by fraud and deceit,” said U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca. “The efforts of Homeland Security Investigations led to this prosecution and we are grateful.”
“Perpetrators of fraud and romance schemes are using technology to their advantage to target new audiences and cause devastating financial impacts on unsuspecting victims,” said HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge David Denton. “HSI special agents and our law enforcement partners are committed to investigating fraud and protecting our citizens from the damage that can occur when our personal information falls into the wrong hands.”
Onoetiyi and Johns will be sentenced on September 6, 2022, in Natchez. They each face a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Today’s convictions are the result of a multi-year investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section assisted with preparation of the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Chalk and Andrew W. Eichner are prosecuting the case.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to court documents, beginning as early August 1, 2017, and continuing until April 2019, communications between Elbert Silas, 44, and his codefendants were intercepted wherein they negotiated and conducted sales of methamphetamine throughout the state of Mississippi, from as far as Aberdeen to Biloxi. Surveillance, confidential source information and additional intercepted communications revealed that Silas and his codefendants also distributed heroin.
The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed “Drama Queen,” which began as an operation targeting illegal drug trafficking in the central Mississippi area. “Drama Queen” is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Hinds County Sheriff’s Department, Richland Police Department, Biloxi Police Department, Jones County Sheriff’s Office and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Pascagoula Man Pleads Guilty to being a Convicted Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. -- A Pascagoula man pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
According to court documents, Johnny Elliott Washington a/k/a Johnnie Elliot Washington, 54, sold two firearms to an individual at a residence in Moss Point, Mississippi on July 13, 2020. Washington was previously convicted on drug charges in Harrison County and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Washington is scheduled to be sentenced on August 31, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., in Gulfport. He faces a maximum penalty of not more than 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team.
The case was being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Newton Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Newton man pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
According to court documents, William Eric Chapman, 41, was found in possession of a firearm by officers of the Meridian Police Department on January 30, 2020, during an investigation into an alleged assault. Chapman had a .556 caliber rifle and a sawed-off shotgun in his motel room. Chapman has four prior felony convictions. As a convicted felon, it is contrary to federal law for Chapman to possess any firearm.
Chapman pleaded guilty to a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) which criminalize the possession of firearms by convicted felons. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 1, 2022 and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Meridian Police Department and the ATF are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham 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.
Mexican Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Illegally Reentering the United States after Having Been Previously RemovedRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Mexican National was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for illegal reentry by a removed alien, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Rirearms and Explosives.
According to court documents, Marco Antonio Aviles-Aviles, 35,was arrested by officers of the Scott County Sheriff’s Office after a traffic stop on Interstate 20 in June, 2021. Aviles-Aviles could only produce a Mexican passport as a form of identification. Further investigation determined that Aviles-Aviles had been previously deported, on two prior occasions, after illegally crossing the border from Mexico into the United States. After a citizen of a foreign country has been removed from the United States it is unlawful for them to return to the United States without the permission of the United States Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
Aviles-Aviles pled guilty on February 17, 2022, to illegal reentry after removal.
The Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the ATF, and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham prosecuted 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.
Two El Salvadoran Men Sentenced for Transporting an Illegal AlienRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Two El Salvadoran nationals were sentenced for the federal felony offense of unlawful transportation of an alien within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, and Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
Jairo Levi Rivera-Ayala, 27, and Herberth Anton Rodriguez-Ayala, 34, were each sentenced to 15 months in federal prison. Both Rivera-Ayala and Rodriguez-Ayala had previously pled guilty to the unlawful transportation of an alien within the U.S.
The defendants were also sentenced to three-year terms of supervised release (TSR) to begin after completion of their prison sentences. Finally, after completion of their sentences, both men are subject to U.S. Department of Homeland Security proceedings to remove them from the United States. While their TSRs would be non-reporting while residing outside the U.S., if either man were to unlawfully return to the U.S. during the three-year TSR, he could receive additional prison time for violating the TSR in addition to separate prosecution for unlawful return after removal
According to court documents, Rivera-Ayala and Rodriguez-Ayala were arrested on September 14, 2021, on Interstate 10 (eastbound) in Harrison County. A Harrison County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a vehicle stop of an SUV and identified the driver as Jairo Levi Rivera-Ayala. Rivera-Ayala’s brother, Herberth Anton Rodriguez-Ayala, was the front seat passenger, and later was identified as a co-driver. The vehicle also contained ten additional passengers for a total of twelve persons in a vehicle designed, and with seatbelts, for only seven people.
The U.S. Border Patrol responded to the scene and determined that all twelve occupants of the SUV were illegally present in the United States.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Jackson Man Sentenced to over 14 ½ Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 175 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base, also referred to as “crack”, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court documents, Kenneth Lofton, 44, and his co-defendants negotiated and conducted the sale of cocaine base in the Jackson area in January 2020. Surveillance, confidential source information and additional intercepted communications also revealed that Lofton and his co-defendants distributed various quantities of other controlled substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana.
In addition to his prison sentence, Lofton was ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
Lofton pled guilty on June 22, 2021, in U.S. District Court in Jackson.
The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed “Hailstorm,” which began as an operation targeting illegal drug trafficking in the Jackson, Mississippi area. “Hailstorm” is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jackson Police Department and the Ridgeland Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Union Man Pleads Guilty to Soliciting a Minor in Connection with Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Union man pleaded guilty today to sex trafficking of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
According to court documents, Hubert Lee Horton, 43, communicated with another individual by cell phone for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex with a minor. Horton asked for and received images of the minor and negotiated the price that he would pay for various sexual acts.
Horton pleaded guilty to a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1591(a)(1) which criminalizes the trafficking of a minor child for purposes of engaging in sexual intercourse for money. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 1, 2022 and faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Union Police Department, Mississippi Bureau of Investigations, and the FBI are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
According to court documents, Don Cornelius Ward, 38, was found in possession of a firearm by officers of the Jackson Police Department on February 3, 2020. Ward has five prior felony convictions. As a convicted felon it is contrary to federal law for Ward to possess any firearm.
Ward pleaded guilty to a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) which criminalize the possession of firearms by convicted felons. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 7, 2022 and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Jackson Police Department and the FBI are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham 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.
Jackson Man Sentenced to over 6 Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 73 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
According to court documents, on November 22, 2019, while FBI agents were conducting surveillance on Robinson Road and Ellis Avenue, law enforcement officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Akoyea Jamere Clayton, 29, of Jackson. Clayton refused to stop and fled through several residential areas. A semi-automatic styled rifle was tossed from the passenger window loaded with several live rounds of ammunition. Police units were able to bring the vehicle to stop, but the passenger fled. Clayton was apprehended on scene.
Clayton pled guilty on February 2, 2022, to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed “Hailstorm,” which began as an operation targeting illegal drug trafficking in the Jackson, Mississippi area. “Hailstorm” is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Husband and Wife Sentenced to Almost 20 Years in Prison for Meth, Heroin, and Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Purvis husband and wife were sentenced to prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroine, and fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Jeremy Graham, 32, and Harley Graham, 26, were both sentenced to 236 months in prison.
According to court documents, beginning in 2020, Jeremy Graham and Harley Graham conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing meth, 100 grams or more of a mixture containing heroin, and a mixture of fentanyl. The investigation showed the Grahams dealt large amounts of the serious drugs to numerous individuals in Lamar and Harrison counties, including individuals that overdosed. The Grahams were aware of the overdoses. The conspiracy also involved the Grahams using a gun and flashlight to beat someone associated with the conspiracy. Although the conspiracy involved several individuals, the Grahams were at the top of the pyramid.
Jeremy Graham pled guilty on February 10, 2022, and Harley Graham pled guilty on February 14, 2022, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the Long Beach Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney LaMarca Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Darren LaMarca recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“I am honored to express my appreciation and heart-felt thanks to all law enforcement across the nation and especially within the State of Mississippi,” said Darren J. LaMarca, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi. “I am humbled at the sacrifices made in this profession and in the fulfillment of the need for policing. For without our law enforcement community, there is no peace.”
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.
Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19. Three officers died in the line of duty in the Southern District of Mississippi in 2021.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks[1] were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
[1] An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender. Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.
Texas Pharmacist Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Liberty, Texas woman pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey A. Breen of the Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Inspector General, South Central Field Office.
According to court documents, Jada Gilbert, 51, a Texas pharmacist, was charged by criminal Information with conspiring with others to participate in a scheme whereby Gilbert, as pharmacist-in-charge at Blue Ribbon Pharmacy, in Harris County, Texas, submitted or caused to be submitted fraudulent claims for high-adjudication pharmaceutical products that were not ordered or dispensed by her pharmacy to health care benefit programs and facilitated, together with others, the fraudulent concealment of these false claims by submitting fraudulent purchase documentation to pharmacy benefit managers as part of an audit to prevent the claw back of at least $330,000.00 paid due to the fraudulent submissions.
Gilbert is scheduled to be sentenced on August 1, 2022, and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI, VA-OIG, and FDA-OCI are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk and Trial Attorney Sara Porter of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
Vicksburg Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Vicksburg man pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana.
U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Todd Damiani of the Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Transportation made the announcement.
According to court documents, John Travis Ross, 34, flew a drone carrying approximately 60 grams of marijuana, lighters, a cell phone, and various cell phone cables over a fence onto the grounds of the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility in Pearl, Mississippi during the early morning hours of August 6, 2020. Ross’s actions were captured on surveillance video. Ross has felony convictions for burglary of a building and sale of methamphetamine.
“Among the various intended uses of drone technology, illicit distribution of contraband, particularly inside a correctional facility, is not one,” said Todd Damiani, Special Agent-In-Charge, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Southern Region. “We continue to diligently work with our Federal and State partners in identifying, investigating, and disrupting criminal drone activities.”
Ross pleaded guilty to a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D). He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 4, 2022 and, due to the relatively low amount of marijuana involved, faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Mississippi Department of Corrections and the DOT OIG are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham 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.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentry by an Alien Removed After Conviction of a FelonyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. - A Mexican national pleaded guilty to the federal felony offense of unlawful reentry by an alien deported or removed after conviction of a felony.
U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector, and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha L. Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
According to court documents, Guillermo Ivan Ramirez-Saucedo, 41, of Mexico, was arrested on November 22, 2021, on Interstate 10 in Hancock County. Following a “Be On the Lookout” Alert, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent conducted a vehicle stop and identified the driver as Guillermo Ivan Ramirez-Saucedo, who was illegally present in the United States. Officials learned that he had a significant criminal history, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation assisted in the investigation.
In addition to other criminal history, official records revealed that in 2008, Ramirez-Saucedo was lawfully removed from the U.S. to his home nation of Mexico. He was arrested again and removed in 2010 and 2017. In 2018, he was convicted in the Southern District of Texas of unlawful reentry by a deported or removed alien and sentenced to 24 months in federal prison followed by another removal in 2020.
Ramirez-Saucedo is scheduled to be sentenced on July 27, 2022, at 11:00 am, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. After completing any sentence of incarceration, Ramirez-Saucedo also is subject to Homeland Security proceedings to remove him from the United States. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Moss Point man was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
According to information presented to the Court, on February 8, 2021, Bayliss Morris Jenkins, 44, was taken into custody by Moss Point Police officers after a traffic stop for operating a vehicle with a switched tag. Jenkins possessed two handguns in his vehicle.
Jenkins had prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance, aggravated assault, and a felon in possession of a firearm. He was indicted on June 15, 2021, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He pled guilty on November 17, 2021.
The Court sentenced Jenkins to 120 months, which is the statutory maximum sentence for his offense.
The ATF and Moss Point Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner prosecuted the case.
Louisiana Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Natchez, Miss. – Jordan Rashard Thomas, 24, of Vidalia, Louisiana, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of felony crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Jackson Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
According to court documents, on April 12, 2020, Adams County Sheriff’s deputies stopped a car for a traffic violation. Due to the odor of marijuana coming from the car, deputies asked the occupants to step out of the car. The passenger was identified as Jordan Rashard Thomas who possessed a firearm concealed in his waistband under his sweatshirt. Thomas had previously been twice convicted of burglary and convicted of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances in Concordia Parish, Louisiana.
Thomas pled guilty on January 11, 2022, to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The Adams County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway prosecuted 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.
Gulfport Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Gulfport man was sentenced to 120 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on August 8, 2021, Decorie Deshun Bates, 33, was arrested after the Gulfport Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance 911 call. Prior to officers’ arrival at the scene, Bates left the residence on foot. However, the caller took photos of Bates while he was leaving the residence. The photos depicted Bates carrying a firearm.
Bates was apprehended nearby unarmed. However, a firearm, matching the firearm depicted in the photographs, was found along his suspected route of travel. After being taken into custody, Bates admitted to purchasing the firearm approximately two weeks before the incident. Bates had prior felony convictions for Aggravated Assault, Credit Card Fraud, and Burglary of a Dwelling.
Bates was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm by a federal jury on January 20, 2022.
At sentencing, the court enhanced Bates’s sentence for his attempts to obstruct justice by asking the 911 caller to lie about his possession of the firearm. The court also varied upwards based upon Bates’s criminal history, and because he was released from parole the day before he committed the offense. The 120 months sentence was the statutory maximum sentence that the court could have imposed.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Gulfport Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Buckner and John Meynardie prosecuted 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.
Columbia Woman Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – A Columbia, Mississippi woman was sentenced to 57 months in prison for defrauding health care insurance providers.
Joy Beth Harden, 51, pled guilty on August 10, 2021, to executing a scheme to defraud Medicare and other health care benefit programs. Specifically, Harden submitted fraudulent bills for durable medical equipment on behalf of her business, BZB LLC doing business as Duracare Home Medical Equipment in the Hattiesburg area. As a result, Medicare and other benefits programs paid Harden for durable medical equipment that was never prescribed for patients and for medical equipment that was never delivered to the patients.
United States District Judge Taylor B. McNeel sentenced Harden on April 15, 2022, to serve a term of 57 months in federal prison, followed by a term of 3 years of supervised release. Harden was also ordered to pay full restitution to all of the health care insurers she defrauded.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi, Special Agent in Charge Tamala Miles of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS OIG) Atlanta Regional Office, Special Agent in Charge Cynthia A. Bruce of the DoD OIG, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Southeast Field Office, and Inspector General Martin J. Dickman of the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General (RRB OIG).
“Submitting claims for unsubstantiated services threaten the integrity of the Medicare program and increases the financial burden on taxpayers,” stated Tamala Miles, Special Agent in Charge with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Working closely with our partners, HHS-OIG will continue to safeguard the integrity of federal health care programs by investigating individuals who seek to exploit them.”
“Health care fraud threatens the most vulnerable of our citizens by endangering the programs which provide care for them," stated Jermicha Fomby, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “It is imperative we proactively root out such acts as this fraud which erode the fabric of our healthcare system upon which our citizens depend. I want to commend the investigators and prosecutors who worked together on this case. We look forward to continued partnerships such as this among the law enforcement community in Mississippi.”
“There are no victimless crimes. Stealing money from the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and Medicare is stealing money from all taxpayers,” stated Special Agent in Charge Cyndy Bruce, Office of the Inspector General (DoD-OIG), Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “DCIS and our investigative partners will continue to come after those who seek to illegally enrich themselves and hold them accountable for their actions.”
“The U.S. Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General (RRB-OIG) is committed to fighting Medicare fraud, waste, and abuse and is proud to be part of this collaborative effort with the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DoD-OIG,” said Inspector General Martin J. Dickman. “The sentencing of Joy Beth Harden sends a loud and clear message that combating Medicare fraud is a top federal law enforcement priority and unscrupulous Medicare providers will not be tolerated.”
This case was investigated by the HHS-OIG, FBI, DCIS, and RRB-OIG. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Criminal Chief Dave Fulcher.
Harrison County Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Provide False Statements to MedicareRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Biloxi man was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison and pay restitution in the amount of $1,537,326.14 for providing false statements in connection with the delivery of payments for health care benefits to Medicare beneficiaries.
U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Special Agent in Charge Tamala Miles of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement.
According to court documents, Douglas Christopher Gorman, 41, conspired with others between January 2016 through March 11, 2019, to provide fraudulent statements to Medicare for reimbursements of claims for patient treatment and prescriptions. Gorman was also ordered to pay $1,537,326.14 in restitution. Gorman held himself out as a licensed physician and treated patients, ordered diagnostic testing, ordered laboratory work, and prescribed medications while employed at Coast Neurology in Biloxi, Mississippi. Gorman was not licensed to practice medicine in Mississippi or any other state in the United States. Gorman, through his co-conspirators, submitted documents seeking reimbursement for the provided services under another co-conspirator’s Medicare identification number. Medicare reimbursed for the services and prescriptions believing the services were provided by a licensed physician.
Gorman pled guilty on December 20, 2021.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and HHS OIG investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk prosecuted the case.
Mexican Man Sentenced to over 3 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – A Mexican citizen was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge David L. Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
Martin Ruiz-Amayo, 41, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today. In addition to his term of imprisonment, he was ordered to pay $5,100 in fines and special assessment, and to serve 3 years of supervised release after completion of his prison sentence. Additionally, after completion of his prison sentence, Ruiz-Amayo will be subject to removal proceedings by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Ruiz-Amayo pleaded guilty and was convicted of the offense on November 4, 2021.
According to court records, on June 3, 2021, the Homeland Security Investigations, Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) and Jones County Sheriff’s Office agents conducted a controlled purchase from Ruiz-Amayo, for approximately one ounce of methamphetamine for $800 in Laurel, Mississippi. Ruiz-Amayo said he could provide additional meth at lower prices and noted the quality of the methamphetamine.
Record checks revealed that Ruiz-Amayo is an alien who is unlawfully present in the United States with a prior removal history. Ruiz-Amayo also has been known as Martin Ruiz.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Jones County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Unlawful Return After RemovalRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Mexican national was sentenced for unlawful return after deportation or removal, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
Fernando Hernandez-Zavala, 39, of Mexico, was sentenced to “time served” (effectively 6 months and 7 days). Hernandez-Zavala also was sentenced to one year of supervised release upon release from prison. He is subject to removal proceedings by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to remove him from the U.S. and return him to his home nation of Mexico. Hernandez-Zavala pleaded guilty and was convicted of this federal offense on January 12, 2022.
According to court documents, Hernandez-Zavala was arrested on October 8, 2021, on Interstate 10 in Harrison County. A Harrison County Sherriff’s Department Interdiction Patrol Deputy conducted a vehicle stop near Mile Marker 29 on Interstate 10 eastbound for speeding.
The passenger in the vehicle was identified as Fernando Hernandez-Zavala, a citizen and national of Mexico with no legal right to enter or remain in the United States. Record checks revealed that he had been lawfully removed from the United States in 2004 and again in 2010.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for this case.
Hattiesburg Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Hobbs Act RobberyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Hattiesburg man was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for using actual force or violence to steal a firearm from Academy Sports + Outdoors, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to information presented to the Court, on November 6, 2021, Cody Jerome Cooley, 23, visited Academy Sports + Outdoors in Gulfport. Cooley approached the gun counter and asked to see one of the handguns, a Springfield Armory XDM Elite. The clerk gave Cooley the firearm to examine. Cooley later motioned towards another handgun in the display case. When the clerk turned his head to look at the gun, Cooley looked both ways, struck the clerk in the face with the Springfield Armory handgun, and fled from the store. This was all captured on surveillance footage.
After he fled from the store with the stolen handgun, armed civilians apprehended Cooley in a nearby restaurant parking lot. Post Miranda, Cooley admitted to taking the gun and striking the clerk. The clerk that was struck by Cooley had to receive medical care for his injuries.
Cooley pled guilty on January 11, 2022, to unlawfully obstructing, delaying, and affecting interstate commerce by robbery.
“The United States Attorney’s Office along with its federal, state and local partners is dedicated to prosecuting those who commit violent crimes in our communities. In this case, justice was swift. The residents of Gulfport deserve no less,” said United States Attorney Darren J. LaMarca.
Gulfport Police Deputy Chief Craig Petersen stated: “We at the Gulfport Police Department are committed to reducing gun violence in our city. Because of the partnerships with the Drug Enforcement Agency and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we successfully took a violent individual off the streets who could have participated in callous acts with a stolen firearm in our community. Continued efforts such as the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative are essential in making Gulfport a safer place to live and work.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Gulfport Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner prosecuted the case.
This case was 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.
Florida Man Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi – A Florida man was sentenced to 62 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
Ross Alger Medlin, 30, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today after having previously pled guilty to the offense.
According to information presented to the Court, on February 24, 2021, law enforcement officers stopped a vehicle driven by Vincente Aguirre in Jackson County, Mississippi. Ross Alger Medlin was a passenger in the vehicle. The vehicle was stopped for following too closely. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of over 400 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Aguirre and Medlin were taken into custody.
The FBI’s investigation revealed that Aguirre and Medlin had traveled to Texas from Florida to obtain the methamphetamine and were returning to Florida at the time of the traffic stop. The suspected methamphetamine was sent to the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Lab for analysis. The analysis indicated that the substance was in fact methamphetamine.
Vincent Aguirre was sentenced on February 4, 2022, to 107 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The FBI and Ocean Springs Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner prosecuted the case.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Unlawful Return by an Alien Removed After Conviction for a FelonyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Mexican national was sentenced to “time served” (178 days or about 6 months) in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release for unlawful reentry by an alien deported or removed after conviction of a felony, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector, and Special Agent in Charge David L. Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
Francisco Alvarado-Zacarias, 49, of Mexico, pleaded guilty and was convicted of the crime on December 15, 2021, before U.S. District Court Judge Taylor B. McNeel. Alvarado-Zacarias is also subject to Department of Homeland Security proceedings to remove him again from the United States.
According to court documents, Alvarado-Zacarias was arrested on October 12, 2021, on Interstate 10 in Harrison County. The U.S. Border Patrol conducted a vehicle stop on a white Ford panel van with a Texas license plate based on a Border Patrol “Be on the Lookout” (BOLO) Alert. Three passengers fled the van on foot, including the defendant in this case, Francisco Alvarado-Zacarias. A Supervisory Agent had arrived to assist, and two of the three fleeing passengers were apprehended. One of the three was not apprehended and remains at-large. Inspection of the van revealed two aftermarket bench seats were placed in rear of the van. The bench seats each seated three passengers, however, there were no seatbelts available for passengers in the bench seats. All vehicle occupants (except for the one who escaped) were transported to the Gulfport Border Patrol Station for processing.
One of the passengers was identified as Francisco Alvarado-Zacarias. Agents confirmed that Alvarado-Zacarias is a citizen of Mexico who was previously ordered removed from the U.S. on multiple occasions, including in 1992, 2006, 2007, and 2020. Agents also confirmed through official records that Alvarado-Zacarias had been convicted in 2005 in the District Court for the First Judicial District of Wyoming, for the felony offense of conspiracy to deliver methamphetamine. He had been sentenced to a term of not less than 22 months and not more than 36 months in the custody of the Wyoming Department of Corrections. After his release from prison, Alvarado-Zacarias had been removed from the United States.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Arkansas Man Sentenced for Being a Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – An Arkansas man was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca, Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi, and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in New Orleans.
According to court documents, on October 6, 2020, Victor Cody Rosillo, who had been traveling in Mississippi, committed a drive-by shooting from a nearby street onto Keesler Air Force Base near the Military Hospital Emergency Room. While no firearm was recovered, two shell casings and a fired bullet were recovered from the scene by Biloxi Police and Keesler Security Forces. The recovered projectile was analyzed by a forensic examiner and was determined to be a 9mm bullet consistent with the 9mm shell casings recovered. The forensic examiner also noted that the 9mm projectile would have been fired from a 9mm HiPoint firearm, which investigators learned was the same type of firearm possessed by Rosillo during the Keesler shooting incident.
Rosillo, who was serving a term of state felony probation in Arkansas at the time of the shooting in Mississippi, was indicted by a federal grand jury and pled guilty on December 28, 2021.
U.S. Attorney LaMarca praised the investigation and coordination of the FBI, the ATF, Keesler Security Forces and the Biloxi Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris prosecuted the case as part of the federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. The centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s crime reduction efforts, PSN is an evidence-based program proven effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together and develop comprehensive solutions. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Two Men Sentenced Regarding Unlawful Transportation of Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Two Mexican nationals were sentenced for unlawful transportation of an alien within the United States (aiding and abetting), announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector, and Special Agent in Charge David L. Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
Ricardo Ortega-Garcia, 43, of Mexico, was sentenced to 17 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. Rigoberto Montoya-Landaverde, 27, also of Mexico, was sentenced to “time served” (effectively 8 months and 23 days) followed by 3 years of supervised release. Both men pleaded guilty on December 17, 2021. Upon completion of their prison sentences, both men are subject to Homeland Security proceedings to remove them from the United States. If either man were to return unlawfully to the U.S., within his period of supervised release, he would be subject to additional prosecution and penalties both for violating supervised release as well as for unlawful return-after-removal.
According to court documents, the two men were arrested on July 15, 2021, on Interstate 10 (eastbound) in Harrison County. Following a U.S. Border Patrol investigation, a Border Patrol Agent conducted a vehicle stop and identified the driver as Rigoberto Montoya-Landaverd. He did not have a valid driver’s license, but was a Legal Permanent Resident of the U.S. who had been living in Texas. Ortega-Garcia, the registered owner of the vehicle, was the front-seat passenger and was determined to be illegally present in the U.S. In addition to Ortega-Garcia and Montoya-Landaverde, there were four other adult passengers in the vehicle, all of whom were illegally present in the U.S.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Picayune Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Producing Video of Minor Engaging in Sexually Explicit ConductRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Picayune man was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to a victim, for producing a video of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
According to court documents, Joshua Christopher Stockstill, 29, enticed a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct with his cell phone camera in Pearl River County in November of 2018. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) became aware of the video and other images. On July 14, 2021, with the assistance of NCMEC, the FBI in Gulfport identified then Picayune Police Sergeant Joshua Christopher Stockstill as the producer of the video.
Stockstill pled guilty on November 30, 2021 to producing a video of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
At sentencing, Stockstill was also ordered to pay a $10,000 assessment under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case with the assistance of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Cyber Crimes Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Meridian Man Sentenced to over 22 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Meridian, Miss. – A Meridian man was sentenced to 270 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court documents, on December 20, 2019, FBI agents intercepted communications of Carnell Denman, 43, and a co-defendant discussing the purchase of methamphetamine. As planned, surveillance observed Denman arrive at the buy location and ultimately leave the location after a short visit. Denman subsequently was involved in a traffic stop revealing his possession of 325.20 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, a semi-automatic pistol and four loaded pistol magazines.
Denman pled guilty on December 22, 2021, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed “Hailstorm,” which began as an operation targeting illegal drug trafficking in the Jackson area. “Hailstorm” is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Honduran Smuggler Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Honduran national was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for the federal crime of transporting an illegal alien within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector, and Special Agent in Charge David L. Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to court documents, Jose Andres Acensio-Lopez, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Taylor McNeel in Gulfport. He also may face Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings. If removed from the U.S. following his prison sentence, Acensio-Lopez could face additional penalties if he were to unlawfully return to the U.S., and further prosecution. Acensio-Lopez was convicted after pleading guilty on December 14, 2021, before Judge McNeel.
On September 12, 2021, following a U.S. Border Patrol investigation, a Border Patrol Agent conducted a vehicle stop and identified the driver as Jose Andres Acensio-Lopez. Acensio-Lopez did not have a driver’s license and was found, along with his ten passengers, to be illegally present in the United States. The vehicle was overloaded by three persons over its design, with seat belts for only eight persons. All vehicle occupants were transported to the Gulfport Border Patrol Station for processing.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Honduran Man Sentenced for Fraud Involving a Permanent Resident Alien CardRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. - A Honduran national was sentenced to 11 months in federal prison for fraud involving a visa, permit or other document, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Chief Patrol Agent Jason E. Schneider of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
According to court documents, Angel Orlando Vasquez-Flores, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Taylor McNeel in Gulfport. Vasquez-Flores may also face Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings. If removed from the U.S. following his prison sentence, Vasquez-Flores could face additional penalties if he were to unlawfully return to the U.S., and further prosecution. Vasquez-Flores was convicted after pleading guilty on December 16, 2021, before Judge McNeel.
On September 6, 2021, Vasquez-Flores fled from Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputies and dropped his wallet together with what appeared to be a U.S. Legal Permanent Resident Identification Card. While the card initially appeared legitimate, and bore the defendant’s photo and name, it was found to have been fraudulently produced and to bear a stolen Alien Identification Number which belonged to a different person living in the U.S. who was contacted by the U.S. Border Patrol. The wallet also contained a card which appeared to be a Social Security Card, bearing the Vasquez-Flores’ name and a number that was determined to not belong to him. Both a Legal Permanent Resident Card and a Social Security Card are documents authorized by federal statute to show that a person may lawfully stay and be employed in the U.S.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pled guilty to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court documents, Waddah Farah, 42, of Jackson, was arrested and indicted for brandishing a firearm during the robbery of a Dollar General store in Jackson on October 1, 2018.
Farah is scheduled to be sentenced on July 7, 2022, and faces a penalty of not less than seven years to life in prison. A federal district judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Jackson Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Murray prosecuted the case.
Biloxi Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murdering Three Employees of Hinds County BusinessRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Biloxi man was sentenced to three life sentences for discharging a firearm during the commission of a robbery that killed three people, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Joshua Michael Garcia, 42, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Jackson. Garcia was further ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $35,070.40.
According to court documents, Garcia and co-defendant Jamison Layne Townsend went to Bill’s Coin & Jewelry on December 17, 2016, to rob the business by firearm. During the robbery, Garcia shot and killed the owner and two co-workers. He and Townsend emptied the display cases of watches, rings, necklaces, bracelets, coins, and other items. Later that day, Garcia and Townsend entered a pawn shop in Mobile, Alabama, and pawned five items that were stolen from Bill’s earlier that day.
On December 19, 2016, a trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol attempted to stop Garcia and Townsend who were traveling in a red Dodge Charger on Interstate 24. A chase ensued and Garcia and Townsend escaped at a high rate of speed. Two days later, Garcia and Townsend were arrested in Geary County, Kansas. Officers searched the Charger and found numerous items that were stolen from Bill’s, including coins, watches, trays of jewelry, and many items that still contained the sales tags from Bill’s. Additionally, four firearms, including a Les Baer. 45 caliber handgun (determined to be the murder weapon by the Mississippi State Crime Laboratory), ammunition, a cell phone, and numerous items of clothing were also recovered from the Charger.
Garcia pleaded guilty on December 15, 2021, to discharging a firearm that resulted in the murder of three persons during the commission of a robbery.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department with assistance from Geary County, Kansas, Sherriff’s Department, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Mississippi State Crime Laboratory, the United States Marshal’s Service, the Gulfport Police Department, and the Biloxi Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Erin Chalk.
Jackson Man Sentenced to over 8 Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 97 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court documents, John Willie Henderson, Jr. a/k/a Dirt, 48, was indicted for aiding and abetting in the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine to an individual on February 23, 2018. He was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2019, and pled guilty on December 7, 2020.
The case is the result of an extensive Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation, “Fire and Ice,” which began as an operation targeting illegal methamphetamine distribution in central Mississippi. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Jackson Police Department, Madison Police Department, Ridgeland Police Department, and Rankin County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Keesha Middleton prosecuted the case.
Biloxi Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss.– A Biloxi man pled guilty to conspiring to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Malyk Harveston, 20, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, in 2020, the DEA and Gulfport Police Department began investigating a local drug trafficking organization involved in the distribution of oxycodone, marijuana, alprazolam (“Xanax”), methamphetamine, and pressed fentanyl pills. During the investigation, law enforcement learned that various members of the organization, like many drug traffickers, possessed firearms to protect themselves, their drugs, and the proceeds from their drug sales.
Through their investigation, officers determined that Harveston was a member of the drug trafficking organization. Officers determined that he was principally a street level trafficker of marijuana and alprazolam, which he would obtain from other members of the conspiracy and then redistribute. However, he also had a source for fake oxycodone pills. The investigation also revealed messages between Harveston and other members of the conspiracy in which they discussed the acquisition of firearms. Furthermore, another member of the conspiracy advised Harveston to invest the proceeds from his drug sales in firearms.
Ultimately, in late May of 2021, local law enforcement officials arrested Harveston. Harveston subsequently admitted to purchasing an American Tactical Rifle which was found in a vehicle registered to his mother. During the investigation, officers were able to determine that Harveston had acquired at least 5 different firearms.
Harveston is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17, 2022. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
The DEA, Gulfport Police Department, and Biloxi Police Department investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
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.
Meridian Man Sentenced to over 7 Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Meridian man was sentenced to 92 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
According to court documents, Lakennth J’Darrious Smith, 30, was found in possession of a firearm by officers of the Meridian Police Department on August 28, 2019, during the execution of a search warrant. Smith had a 7.62x39mm caliber pistol in his bedroom. Smith has two prior felony convictions. As a convicted felon, it is contrary to federal law for Smith to possess any firearm.
The Meridian Police Department and the FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham prosecuted 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.
Lucedale Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Lucedale man pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to court documents, Scott Randall Harris, 49, received through the mail firearms suppressors at his residence in Lucedale. The deliveries dated back to June of 2019. Agents obtained a search warrant and served it in January of 2020 at the Lucedale residence of Harris. Agents recovered multiple firearms and miscellaneous ammunition. Harris was a previously convicted felon as a result of a narcotics conviction in George County.
A federal grand jury indicted Harris on April 14, 2021. Harris is scheduled to be sentenced on June 16, 2022, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case, with assistance from U. S. Customs and Border Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones is prosecuting the case.
Jefferson Davis County Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of Firearms While Under Domestic Violence Protection OrderRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – A Jefferson Davis County man pled guilty to illegally possessing firearms while under a domestic violence protection order, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Victor Joseph Schexnayder, 49, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Hattiesburg.
According to court records, on September 8, 2021, a firework was placed inside of an AT&T Digital Transmission Site, blowing up a hub of Digital Subscriber Lines internet and phone connectivity in Jefferson Davis County. A subsequent investigation led agents to a search of Victor Joseph Schexnayder’s residence where they discovered multiple firearms. At the time, Schexnayder was the subject of a domestic violence protection order, issued in the Chancery Court of Harrison County, which prohibited him from possessing firearms. Overall, seventeen firearms were collected during the course of the investigation.
Schexnayder will be sentenced on June 23, 2022, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Eichner 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.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Discharging a Firearm During a Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Inspector in Charge Scott Fix of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
According to court documents, Marco Darby, 26, was indicted for discharging a firearm during the assault and robbery of a United States Postal Service mail carrier in Jackson on June 2, 2021.
Darby pled guilty on December 9, 2021.
The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Murray prosecuted the case.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Escape from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pled guilty to escape from federal custody, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca.
According to court documents, Henry Steverson, 51, was indicted for failing to report to a halfway house in Jackson as a condition of his pending release from federal custody with the Bureau of Prisons. His failure to report resulted in his classification as an escapee from federal custody.
Steverson is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2022, and faces a sentence of not less than five years in prison. A federal district judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The United States Marshal’s Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Murray prosecuted the case.
Former Hattiesburg Resident Sentenced to 13 Months in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – A former Hattiesburg resident was sentenced to 13 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
According to court records, in 2017, ATF agents learned that Donston Lamar Noel, 41, was selling narcotics and firearms in the Hattiesburg area. Agents conducted a sting operation netting several grams of cocaine and methamphetamine from Noel on July 27, 2017. Again, on September 7, 2017, agents obtained sold several dosage units of oxycodone and hydrocodone as well as a Palmetto State Armory PA-15, 5.56 mm caliber pistol from Noel.
Noel pleaded guilty on December 2, 2021, to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris prosecuted the case.
The case was prosecuted as part of the federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. The centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s crime reduction efforts, PSN is an evidence-based program proven effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together and develop comprehensive solutions. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.